Sinclair Research A-bike Plus User manual

Design registered and patented
USER MANUAL
PLEASE READ BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE BIKE

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YOUR
SETTING UPMAINTENANCEREPAIRS
WARRANTY
CONTENTS
Unfolding the bike (photo guide) (inside cover)
Introduction 1
Your A-bike Plus 2
Setting Up 7
Maintenance 19
Repairs 21
Warranty 32
INTRODUCTION

1
INTRODUCTION
The A-bike was designed by
Sinclair Research in London
Sinclair Research is a registered trademark.
Introduction
Congratulations and welcome to the A-bike Plus, the
world’s lightest and smallest folding bicycle. Before
using the bike you must read these instructions.
Designed for short trips and mixed mode transport the A-bike Plus
is unique in concept and design. This booklet will introduce you
to, show you how to use, take care of and to make repairs to your
A-bike Plus. It is vital that you use and maintain the bike correctly
to avoid damaging the product and harming yourself.
Please pay particular attention to notes highlighted in a box as these
are especially important and must be remembered at all times.
The geometry of the A-bike Plus is quite different from any other
bike and hence may feel a little strange at first, after a bit of prac-
tice we are sure you will find the bike easy and comfortable to ride.
Getting to know your A-bike Plus will enable you to get the most
out of it and know the limits, enabling your to use it safely.
INTRODUCTION

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YOUR
A-bike Plus User Manual
• A-bike Plus folding bicycle
• A-bike Plus air cushion saddle cover
• A-bike Plus toolkit
• A-bike Plus user manual
• A-bike Plus pump (optional)
• A-bike Plus Bag (optional)
The inclusion of the A-bike Plus Bag and A-bike Plus Pump may
vary in different countries.
Please note that riding the bike with under inflated tyres will
damage the bike and therefore it is highly recommended that users
use a Schrader pump with a pressure gauge. Also due to the high
pressure and low volume of air it is advised to use the A-bike shock
pump which minimises air loss when dis-attaching the pump.
Box contents Warnings
Rider weight limit
The bike has a maximum weight limit of 85 kg (187 lbs), this includes
the rider and anything the rider is carrying, for example a back pack.
Not a mountain bike
The A-bike Plus is designed for smooth roads and it’s lightweight
construction means it’s not suitable for rough surfaces, off-road riding.
Do not attempt stunts on the bike.
Under inflated tyres
Riding the bike with under inflated tyres will damage the bike, please
ensure the tyres are inflated to 90 psi (6.2 bar).
Quick release levers and locking buttons
When opening the bike ensure that the locking buttons pop out. The
two quick release levers here should be hand tight and firmly secured.
Don’t step on the crosspiece
The crosspiece is not designed to bear any load. Do not stand on or
attach anything to this beam.
!
YOUR

4A-bike Plus User Manual
YOUR
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YOUR
Labelled diagram
Top view
Handle Bar
Bell
Brake Cable
Front Upper Tube
Quick Release Clamp
Main Locking Buttons
(on both side)
Front Lower Tube
Lower Steering Joint
Front Fork
Crosspiece Button
Tyre
Brake Band
Wheel Hub
Pedal (on both sides)
Crank (on both sides)
Crank Case
Rear Lower Tube
Rear Upper Tube
Outer Seat Tube
Seat Clamp
Seat Post
Saddle
Seat Stay
Upper Steering Joint
Handlebar Grip
Brake Lever
Handlebar Locking Buttons
Handlebar stem
Reflectors
Crosspiece
YOUR

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YOUR
7
SETTING UP
Adjusting saddle height
Choosing the Correct Saddle Height
With both feet flat on the ground adjust the saddle height so that
you can comfortably sit on the saddle.
1. Unlock the Seat Post quick release
clamp.
2. Slide the Seat Post vertically to
adjust the Saddle position as required.
The minimum insertion line should
NOT be visible, it should be inside the
outer tube.
3. Once the desired Saddle position
has been selected, make sure the
saddle is positioned forward and then
lock the Seat Post quick release clamp
so that you cannot twist the saddle out
of alignment.
If the saddle can twist then unlock the quick release lever and
tighten with an allen key before locking the quick release again and
re-testing.
Unlocked
Locked
Minimum
insertion
line
Riding Safely
When riding the A-bike Plus it is important to remember to abide by
local bicycle riding laws.
Ride defensively and be vigilant of other road users. Always leave
a large enough gap between you and obstacles, slow down and
stop if necessary.
Watch out for uneven surfaces and pot holes.
When riding in the dark you should wear high visibility clothing and
use lights when appropriate.
Wet weather will reduce grip and increase stopping distances;
ride slower if necessary. Icy conditions should be avoided entirely.
Windy conditions can severely effect riding stability.
Always wear a helmet when riding.
Always wear suitable shoes, sandals are not appropriate.
Avoid loose clothing and anything that may get caught in the
mechanisms of the bike.
Become familiar with riding your bike slowly and in a safe environ-
ment before heading into areas with other traffic.
Store you bike securely and safely in a clean and dry area to avoid
damaging the bike.
If there are any broken parts, they must be replaced before riding.
Before riding the bike check the seat height is
adjusted, the tyres are inflated and the brakes work.

8A-bike Plus User Manual
SETTING UP
9
SETTING UP
Checking the tyres
Under inflated tyres make the ride less comfortable and less effi-
cient, turning and pedalling become difficult. It will also damage the
bike and could invalidate your warranty.
Riding the bike with under inflated tyres will damage the bike, please
ensure the tyres are inflated to 90 psi (6.2 bar).
To check the pressure it is possible to visually inspect the tyres
by pushing on the outside of the tyre, they should be very firm.
However for an accurate reading a pressure gauge is required.
Take care when accessing the valve and avoid pulling on it or
using excessive force, as this can cause the valve to tear away
from the innertube.
You should also take this opportunity to check the tyre’s tread, to
check for damage to the tyre and for debris in the tyre. Spotting a
piece of glass and removing it now could prevent a puncture later.
Tyres should be replaced when they become worn.
The tyres of the A-bike Plus contain a special gel that automatically
seals any small holes so hopefully punctures will be minimal.
Adjusting the brakes
If the brake band is knocked it is possible for it to become
misaligned with the braking hub and wheel. If this happens it may
be necessary to gently bend the band back into shape. Care must
be taken not to cause strain around the brake band mounts. If the
brake band rubs against the wheel it can be gently bent away.
Hot brake bands and brake fade
The band brakes will become hot when used, be aware of this when
storing and handling the bike, allow the brakes to cool.
Brake fade may occur when used for long periods of time.
Adjusting brake bands
Only adjust the brakes when the bike is fully unfolded and extended
as this effect the brake cables.
Fine brake cable adjustment
Longer
Looser
Front wheel
Rotate Rotate
Shorter
Front wheel
To loosen
brake band
To tighten
brake band
To adjust the Right Hand brake (Front wheel):
The fine adjustment wheel can be found on the brake handles. Turn it to change
length of the cable accordingly as shown in the diagrams. You may need to hold
the cable still to prevent in rotating.
To adjust the rear wheel, do the same as above but on the left hand brake lever.
N
Front wheel
Tighter
Rear wheel

10 A-bike Plus User Manual
SETTING UP
11
SETTING UP
Relax brake band to reduce braking force.
Fasten nut
M5 wrench
Relax cable tension
Unscrew
Brake lever is close to handlebar AND Brake barrel adjuster is at the longest state.
In longest
state
When the brake is too loose.
To tighten loose brake
M5 wrench
To loosen a tight brake
Major brake cable adjustment
Adjusting the brakes (2)
Wrap the brake band closely around the brake barrel, using pliers to pull the cable end out.
Tighten the nut
Tighten
Unscrew M5 nut by wrench.
Unscrew
M5 wrench
Rotate
Displace
Rotate brake barrel adjuster to move the brake barrel fully in.
Enlarged N
Pull

12 A-bike Plus User Manual
SETTING UP
13
SETTING UP
Unfolding the bike
Please also refer to the illustrated photo guide which can be found
inside the front cover of this user manual.
Trapped fingers
Fold and unfold the bike slowly and take care to avoid trapping
fingers, especially when dealing with the pedals.
It is important to follow each step in the correct order, the bike does
not need a lot of force to be unfolded and can be done in as little as
10 seconds.
1. Lift the Left and Right Handle Bar
ends up to the horizontal position and
slide them into the centre portion.
Check that both locking buttons are
fully engaged.
2a. Check BOTH quick release
clamps are unlocked.
2b. Raise seat post to horizontal
position.
Raise seat post to
horizontal position
Check BOTH quick release
clamps are unlocked
3. Grasp handlebar stem and rear leg as shown and extend legs until
all FOUR quick release buttons are locked.
4. Rotate the Handle Bars 180° clockwise
(looking from the top). DO not force it in the
wrong direction as this will wrap the brake
cable around the stem of the hadelbars and
damage the bike.
5. Lock both quick release clamps.
Quick release levers and locking buttons
When opening the bike ensure that the locking buttons pop out. The
two quick release levers here should be hand tight and firm.

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SETTING UP
15
SETTING UP
6. To open out the legs, lower the bicycle down gently onto the
top of your foot with a tyre either side of the foot. As the legs part,
simply push down to fully open out.
7. Press the crosspiece centre down
until the quick release button pops up
and locks.
Unfolding the bike (2)
Crosspiece locking button
The locking button the crosspiece must pop out when the bar is
fully unfolded.
8. Align the Pedal parallel to the Crank,
and fold it outward. Be careful not to
pinch your fingers.
9. Now that the A-bike Plus is fully unfolded, check to make sure
that both Handle Locking Buttons, four Main Locking Buttons
and the Crosspiece Button are fully engaged, the Front and Rear
Clamps are locked and the Crosspiece is straight and locked
before riding.

16 A-bike Plus User Manual
SETTING UP
17
SETTING UP
Folding the bike
To fold the bike
1. Press down the locking button on the Crosspiece and lift it up
into the folding position. Push both sides of the bike firmly together,
you should hear a click as the two sides clip together, this is impor-
tant for the next step to work.
2. Rotate the handlebars 180 degrees counter clockwise viewed
from above.
3. Ensure both clamp levers are
unlocked
4. Press and hold all FOUR buttons and simultaneously push down
on top of the bike.
5. Saddle will drop under its own
weight when legs are fully tele-
scoped down.
6. Press and hold the two Locking
Buttons on the handle, pull the Left
and Right Handle Bars out and flip
them down until both are in vertical
position.
1
2
2

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SETTING UP
19
7. Press inwards to flip both Pedals up
into vertical position. Be careful not to
pinch your fingers.
Please ensure the pedals are aligned
perpindicular to the crank as per
unfolding insturctions.
8. Now that the A-bike Plus is
successfully folded, you are now
ready to carry your portable A-bike
to your next destination.
1
2
Folding the bike (2) Maintaining your bike
Like all bikes the A-bike Plus requires some simple
maintenance to run at it’s optimum and prevent parts
from becoming damaged.
It is vital that you maintain your A-bike Plus!
If you notice in a small change in performance of the bike we recom-
mend you check the bike as this is often a sign of the beginning of a
potentially serious problem.
Weekly checks
• Check your A-bike Plus before every ride. Special attention should
be given to brakes, wheels, tyres and all quick release clamps and
locking buttons.
• Check wheels are securely attached to the frame and forks.
• Check tyres are inflated to 90 psi (6.2 bar) (do not use commercial
air lines) and tread is in good condition.
• Check brakes work effectively and the bands are aligned with the
rim.
• Check pedal cranks and pedals are securely attached.
• Check all four main lock buttons are fully locked.
• Check the Crosspiece button is locked.
• Check both quick release clamps are locked.
• Check both handle bars locking buttons are fully engaged and
locked.
• Check Pedals are unfolded and locked.
• Check Saddle and seat post are secure and adjusted to the correct
height.
• “Listening-check”. Spin both wheels and listen for any rubbing
sounds. Investigate and adjust if brakes are rubbing.
• “Snag-check”. Check for frayed cables that may snag clothes when
riding. Replace worn or damaged cables where necessary.
• Check for any deformed or cracked components which must be
changed before use.
MAINTENANCE

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21
Maintenance
Clean the bike - dirt is the enemy of a smooth running bike and can
eventually cause parts to seize in addition to causing corrosion.
Carry out regular cleaning and corrosion protection of all parts of
your A-bike Plus.
We recommend washing the A-bike Plus with a gentle flow of
water, or from a bucket, using a damp cloth. This is also a great
opportunity to visually inspect your bike.
Inspect the bike for damage
Damage to parts can result in sudden failure of that part. The bike
should be regularly inspected, looking for cracks, discolouration of
material, scratches and loose fastenings. If damage is found you
should contact the vendor and seek advice before attempting to ride
the bike.
Check your brakes - you should be able to stop the wheel from
turning without the brake lever touching the handle grip. Test this
when stood by the bike, NOT while riding it! If you need to adjust it
look at the Repairs section of this user guide.
Clean the chain and lubricate regularly, this is vital to reducing
wear to the bike and efficiency.
MAINTENANCE
REPAIRS

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REPAIRS
A-bike Plus User Manual
23
Adjusting chain tension
The A-bike Plus chain tension is preset in the manufacturing
process. If the chain needs to be replaced it should be referred to a
bicycle mechanic or an A-bike Plus dealer.
If the chain is too slack it may be noisy and if too tight it may make
it difficult to turn the wheel. When viewed the chain should have
some slack.
The
A-bike Plus has a two-chain drive system. Put the unfolded bike
upside down on a clean surface. One chain can be obviously
viewed, cleaned and lubricated through the gap in the crank casing
where the wheel is. The other chain can be lubricated through a
small inspection hole in the centre of the crank casing.
High chain tension
Low chain tension
Medium chain tension
Bearing Holder
To adjust chain tension, unscrew and then rotate the Bearing Holder
and the opposite one at the same time.
Fixing a puncture
If you get a puncture you can repair this using a puncture repair kit
suitable for high pressure applications.
Removing the front wheel from your A-bike Plus.
1. Remove the nut on the front wheel.
2. Pull the bolt out remembering the
order of the spaces and washers for
re assembly.
3. Hold the brake band out of the way
to drop the wheel out. Take care not
to stress the brake band mounting
bolts.
4. Refitting is the reverse of removal. Check that the brake band is
correctly aligned on the wheel and that the fasteners are tightened.
Screw Nylon Insert Nut
WasherSpacer Spacer
REPAIRS

24
REPAIRS
A-bike Plus User Manual
25
REPAIRS
Removing the rear wheel from your A-bike Plus.
This is a two stage operation. First the brake band is moved out of
the way. Then the wheel is removed.
1. Place bike in folded position. (this
slackens the brake cable)
2. Remove two Brake Assembly bolts.
3. With the bike folded, use the slack in
the brake cable and withdraw the Brake
Assembly out of the crank casing. Do
not remove cable from Brake band.
4. Remove rear axle bolts. Please
note that the bolt on the right hand
side of the bike (also highlighted by a
red mark) is Left-hand threaded and
therefore can be undone by turning
clockwise, standard bolts are undone
by turning them counter-clockwise.
To undo both bolts you must firmly hold
the wheel still while turning each bolt.
5. Slightly spread open crank casing to
allow the Drive Axle to drop out, take
the chain off the sprocket and drop the
wheel out.
6. Refitting is the reverse of removal. Check that the brake band is
correctly aligned on the wheel and that the fasteners are securely
tightened. When refitting Brake Assembly fasteners make sure that
the anti-vibration washers are refitted too.
Fixing a puncture (2)

26
REPAIRS
A-bike Plus User Manual
27
REPAIRS
Replacing a tyre or puncture repair
1. Remove the wheel as shown in the
previous pages.
2. Remove the dust cap from the
valve and release the remaining air
from it by pushing the centre pin in.
3. Use PLASTIC tyre levers to
remove the tyre.
Take the tube out of the tyre and
repair the puncture with a puncture
repair kit or simply replace inner
tube/tyre. When repairing a puncture,
follow the puncture repair kit’s manu-
facturer’s instructions. Only use tubes
and tyres sourced from your A-bike Plus supplier.
VERY IMPORTANT: When reas-
sembling always make sure the valve
on the tube faces clockwise, and tyre
tread faces the correct direction. Inflate
tyre to 90 psi (6.2 bar).
Note: Using tubes not designed for the A-bike Plus wheel hubs
could result in the valve jamming when riding. This could lead to
serious injury. Only use tubes designed for the A-bike Plus and
ensure these fitting instructions are followed.
Fixing a puncture (3)

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REPAIRS
A-bike Plus User Manual
29
REPAIRS
Enlarged N
N
Enlarged N
Pliers
Cap
Cap
Use M5 wrench to
unscrew the nut.
PULL
Unscrew
4. Unscrew fasteners 'a' and 'b' by using 2.5 mm Allen key.
2.5 mm Allen key
a
b
Cap
Cap
Enlarged N
1. Detach the cap from the cable end by using pliers. (Note: The cap can be reused)
2. Unscrew the nut until the cable can slide freely.
3. Slide the brake band out until the brake
cable is completely withdrawn.
Replacing the brake band
As the brake bands are used they slowly wear, it is important that
they are replaced to maintain brake performance and safety.
b
aScrew x 2pcs
Spring washer x 2pcs
washer x 2pcs
Enlarged N
Take down
Cap
Cap
Worn
brake
band
washer x 2pcs
Spring washer x 2pcs
Screw x 2pcs
a
b
New
brake
band
5. Replace the worn brake band
with a new brake band.
Enlarged N
Screw
Spring washer
washer
Cap
6. Assemble back fasteners 'a' and 'b'. Make sure the screw is passing
thought a spring washer followed by the plain washer.
ab
Cap

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REPAIRS
A-bike Plus User Manual
31
REPAIRS
Cap
Cap
7. Lead brake cable end passing through hole 'C'.
Hole C
d: brake barrel is always
in shortest state.
e: BOTH quick release buttons
are ejected.
Nut
Ejected buttons
In shortest
state
!
Enlarged N
8. Check below 'd' and 'e' before tightening the nut.
Replacing the brake band (2)
Tighten
Cap
Enlarged N
Cap
Pull
10. Tighten the nut
11. Plug in cable cap to protect the cable end.
Enlarged N
Cap
Enlarged N
Pliers
12. Use pliers to clamp the cable cap tight.
13. Adjust brake barrel to
adjust braking force.
Softer
brake.
Harder
brake.
9. Wrap the brake band closely around the brake barrel, using pliers to pull the cable end out.
REMARK: To replace rear brake band, same as step 1 to 12.

32 A-bike Plus User Manual
Warranty
Frame
1 Year warranty on the frame against defects in manufacturing.
Components
1 year warranty against defects in workmanship.
Owner warranty
Your local A-bike Plus distributor warrants all original components
for a period of one year from the date of purchase. This warranty is
expressly limited to the repair or replacement of a defective frame
or defective components.
This warranty applies only to the original owner and is not transfer-
able. Claims under this warranty must be made directly to your
local A-bike Plus distributor, proof of purchase is required. This
warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, follow-up mainte-
nance by non-certified persons, or installation of parts or accesso-
ries not originally intended for the A-bike Plus as sold.
The warranty does not apply to damage or failure due to accident,
misuse, abuse, or neglect. Modification of the frame or components
voids this warranty. Your local distributor is not responsible for
incidental or consequential damages or labour charges associated
with replacing parts not covered by the warranty. This warranty
gives the consumer specific legal rights, and those rights may vary
from place to place.
This warranty does not affect the statutory rights of the consumer.
Please record your serial number here with date of purchase:
WARRANTY