Vision R82 User manual

TT
TT
Tandemandem
andemandem
andem
Owner’s ManualOwner’s Manual
Owner’s ManualOwner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual
Advanced Transportation Products, Inc.
P.O. Box 249
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail] Web: VisionBikes.com
R82 & R85
32
Quick InforQuick Infor
Quick InforQuick Infor
Quick Informationmation
mationmation
mation
Tire & Wheel Information
Rear: 559 bead seat diameter, 1.5"-2.25" wide
Front: 406mm bead seat dia, 1.5" - 2.0" wide
InflationPressures:Inflate to the pressure moulded on tire
sidewall. Do not exceed rated pressure.
Wheel dish: For extra strenght, our rear wheels are built
without traditional dishing, call for exact specs.
Torque specifications
Front Pinch bolts: 45 in-lbs (5N-M)
Frame Pinch bolts: 65 in-lbs (6N-M)
Pinch bolt type: 6mm x 1mm -- 25mm long
Handlebar Stem bolt: 65 in-lbs (6 N-M)
Serial number location:
On back plate of rear main frame, facing the rear wheel
The Advanced TThe Advanced T
The Advanced TThe Advanced T
The Advanced Transporranspor
ransporranspor
ransportation Prtation Pr
tation Prtation Pr
tation Products Inc.oducts Inc.
oducts Inc.oducts Inc.
oducts Inc.
WW
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Warar
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arrantyranty
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Advanced Transportation Products Inc. warrants each new VISION bicycle frame, fork, and seat
frame against defects in workmanship and materials for the lifetime of the original owner. Paint
and decals, seat fabric, and all original parts, are warranted for a period of one year from the date
of purchase. This warranty is expresssly limited to the repair or replacement of a defective
frame, fork, seat or defective parts and is the sole remedy of the warranty. This warranty applies
to the original owner and is not transferable.
Claims under this warranty are to be made through an authorized VISION dealer. Proof of
purchase is required. AWarranty Registration Card must be completed and received by
Advanced Transportation Products Inc. before warranty claims may be processed.
The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, improper assembly or maintenance, or
installation of parts or accessories not originally intended or compatible with the bicycle as
sold.
The warranty does not apply to damage or failure due to accident, abuse or neglect.
Advanced Transportation Products Inc. shall not be responsible for incidental or consequen-
tial damages. Labor charges for part changeovers is not covered by this warranty. The user
assumes the risk of any personal injury or damage to the bicycle or other losses if the bicycle is
used in any competitive event including but not limited to bicycle racing, triathalons, or similar
activities.
MODELS

2
ContentsContents
ContentsContents
Contents
Chapter 1—Read Me First! ...........................................3
Check your bike carefully........................................4
Always Ride Safe!.....................................................6
Anatomy of a Double Vision ....................................8
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment .........................10
The Double VISION main frame.............................10
Adjustment for Leg length.....................................11
Seat Angle Adjustment ..........................................12
The Handlebar ........................................................13
The Seat Fabric ......................................................14
Front Tension Strap attachment ...........................14
Seat Back Fabric Tension......................................15
Timing chain and Tensioner ..................................16
Final Inspection............................................................17
Chapter 3 — General Maintenance ............................19
Chapter 3: Riding your Double VISION .....................20
Chapter 4: Accessories...............................................29
Mirror ......................................................................29
Computer ................................................................29
Pedals/Toeclips .....................................................30
Seat Back Bag ......................................................301
Rear Rack / Panniers .............................................31
Fenders ...................................................................31
Kickstand ................................................................31
Quick Information ........................................................32
31
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: Accessories
Rear Rack /Rear Rack /
Rear Rack /Rear Rack /
Rear Rack /
PanniersPanniers
PanniersPanniers
Panniers
We have an accessory mounting
rack available for the Double
Visions. This unit allows you to
attach standard rear racks, as
well as providing mounting
points for our fender set.
FendersFenders
FendersFenders
Fenders
For wet weather riding your
VISION will accept fenders.
We sell a matched 20”/26” set
of fenders. Part number FEN80
KickstandKickstand
KickstandKickstand
Kickstand
We have a wonderful center-
stand available for your DV.
Solid and sturdy.

3
Chapter 1—Read Me First!Chapter 1—Read Me First!
Chapter 1—Read Me First!Chapter 1—Read Me First!
Chapter 1—Read Me First!
ThankyouforchoosingaDoubleVISION Tandem Recumbent!
Here atAdvanced Transportation Products we have tried to
build for you the most advanced, full featured tandem recumbent
available. Please take a few moments now to fill out your
warranty registration card - we want to know what you think
about your new bike.
Before we explore your new VISION's features, we would like
to take a few moments to discuss some important points about
recumbents and bike riding in general:
Always wear anANSI or Snell approved helmet --Yes, with
their lower center of gravity and feet-first position, recumbents
are significantly safer than upright bicycles, but you still need to
protect your most valuable body part. Modern bicycle helmets
are light, cool, and offer lifesaving protection.
30
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: Accessories
to “flip” the toeclip forward with your toe so that it swings
around onto your foot. After a while it becomes second nature!
SeatBack SystemSeatBack System
SeatBack SystemSeatBack System
SeatBack System
The SeatBack system consists of the WaterBack and the
SeatBag.The
WaterBack is designed
tomount permanently
to your seat, and
carries standard
hydration bladders (not
included) as well as
having room for some
tools and money.
For added capacity,
you can add the 800
Cu/in. SeatBag to the
WaterBack.The bag
is ideal as a day
bag, or a touring
companion bag for
carrying valuable
items. Fits on both
the Captain's and
Stoker's seats.

4
Check your bike carCheck your bike car
Check your bike carCheck your bike car
Check your bike carefully beforefully befor
efully beforefully befor
efully before each ridee each ride
e each ridee each ride
e each ride
Spend a few moments before each ride inspecting your
VISION for problems.
*Check all the nuts, bolts and other fasteners to make sure none
are loose.
*The tires should be inflated to the pressure moulded on the
sidewall, and free of cuts or imperfections.
*The wheel quick release skewers should be clamped shut with
at least 20 lbs (14kgf) of force, and a sharp blow to the top of
the tire should not knock the wheel loose. Study the wheel /
seat skewer operation diagram - the skewer handle has a curve
in it that will face the tire when properly closed. Open the
skewer handle, tighten the skewer nut slightly, then close the
skewer handle ( curve facing toward the wheel). It should
take 20-45 lbs of force to close the handle as shown, and the
skewer should emboss the metal of the wheel dropout.
Open
Closed Turn here
to adjust
Skewer
Nut
Close Here
with at least
14kgf
29
Now that you are comfortable riding your new VISION, I’m sure
that you will want to customize it for your particular riding
needs. Your VISION recumbent has been designed to accept a
full range of standard bicycling accessories, as well as some
custom items that have been designed byATP.
MirMir
MirMir
Mirrr
rr
roror
oror
or
If you ride in traffic, a mirror
is a must. We sell the Rhode
Gear mirror, and have models
available for both under and
above seat handlebars.
ComputerComputer
ComputerComputer
Computer
Virtually any small bicycle
computer will fit on your Vision. We recommend that you mount
the computer on the handlebars, although make sure that on
underbar steering models the computer doesn’t interfere with the
seat frame as you turn the handlebars from side to side.
Pedals/TPedals/T
Pedals/TPedals/T
Pedals/Toeclipsoeclips
oeclipsoeclips
oeclips
Your VISION will accept all standard pedaling systems.
Clipless pedals such as the SPD and LOOK work extremely
well on recumbents - just remove your original pedals and
screw in the new (the left pedal is left-hand thread). Toeclips
are also recommended - practice getting in/out of them a while
before hitting the streets. One technique for entering toeclips is
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: AccessoriesChapter 4: Accessories
Chapter 4: Accessories

5
Check your bike beforCheck your bike befor
Check your bike beforCheck your bike befor
Check your bike before each ridee each ride
e each ridee each ride
e each ride
*Squeeze each brake lever to make sure there is no binding and
the brake pads press hard enough on the rims to stop the bike.
The brake pads should be adjusted so they are 1/16" (2mm)
away from the rim when not applied. The brake pads should be
centered on the rim and not touching the tire itself.
*The seat quick release skewers should be closed with at least
20 lbs (14kgf) of force (see the skewer diagram).
*Check the tightness of the boom and main frame pinch bolts,
and make sure the frame anti-rotate pin has engaged.
Do not ride a Double VISION without the anti-
rotationpinlockedinposition!.
*If you are unsure of the condition of your VISION recumbent,
Do Not Ride It until the problem has been corrected. If you
have any questions at all, see your VISION dealer.
28
smooth and predictable.You shouldn’t feel like you have to do
everything in one session. Many novice riders actually do much
better working up to the open road in several short training
sessions, often days apart.
With some practice, the captain and the stoker become a team,
involved in the joy of cycling together. Enjoy your bike, and
have a world of fun with it!
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION

6
Always Ride Safe!Always Ride Safe!
Always Ride Safe!Always Ride Safe!
Always Ride Safe!
Wear gloves — with its low center of gravity, you don't fall
very far on a recumbent, but you will touch down with your hand
first! A set of bicycling gloves will protect your skin.
Wear eye protection — Riding down the road at speed is no
time to get a bug or dirt stuck in your eye! Goggles, glasses or
both will save your sight and protect against a crash.
Practice riding your VISION — before you mix it up with
traffic, spend enough time on your recumbent on a parking lot,
driveway or other open area to get used to its unique riding
position. We also recommend that a new Captain ride the
VISION Tandem solo for a while before adding the Stoker.
Chapter 3 has some important information about riding your
VISION.
Never ride at night without a front and rear light!
Experiment with different seat positions, seat angles, and
boom lengths during your practice period --Your VISION
recumbent has many adjustments and special features that fit the
bike to you. Try them all!
Be careful when riding in wet conditions — All brakes,
whatever their design, loose effectiveness in wet weather.
Stopping distances and brake lever pressures all will increase.
Practice!
27
the bike, we’ve found a favorite technique. The captain holds the
bike and allows the stoker to mount.
Once the stoker is comfortable, they support the bike and allow
the captain to mount and clip into the pedals. Once the captain is
ready, they signal their intention to ride, and start pedaling away.
The stoker then lefts their legs and clips into the pedals. At
stops, the captain signals the stoker to “prepare to stop” and the
stoker releases their feet from the pedals and gets ready to drop
their feet. When the captain brings the bike to a halt, the stoker
drops their feet and supports the bike, allowing the captain to
remain in the pedals, ready to accelerate away.
If the stoker is much lighter than the captain, you might be better
off reversing this procedure, but it is so easy to support the
Double Vision from the stoker’s position that this method is
usually the most comfortable. If your bike is equipped with the
I.P.S., then it is even easier to start and stop; the stoker’s and
captain’s cranks are independent of each other, so one won’t be
spinning madly with the other.
It’s important for the captain and the stoker to understand their
own responsibilities to the other. The captain should always
advise their stoker of starting and stopping intentions, warn of
potholes or bumps, and in general keep their stoker informed of
their plans. The stoker should acknowledge all communications
with the captain, and try to sit still without a lot of moving about.
It’s OK to turn your head and look at the scenery, just try to not
shift your upper body about, and keep all your movements
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION

7
Keep your pedal cadence high —You can overstress your
knees with the tremendous leverage you have on a recumbent.
We recommend that you pedal in the 80-90 RPM range. If you
experience knee pain, spin faster and check your leg length
setting. It is probably too short - see Chapter 2 for leg length
adjustment. You might also change your seat back angle.
Communicate — The key to successful tandem riding is
teamwork between the captain and the stoker. Captains - tell
your stoker when you are shifting, stopping, and if there are any
bumps comming. Stokers - become part of the bike; don't make
sudden movements that startle your Captain. One of the best
parts of tandem riding is being able to talk to each other -- Do
it!
26
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION
The last thing you should practice before hitting the open road is
your shifting.You really need to be work on being aware of how
the gears work. While the modern shifting systems work
wonderfully, it’s best to only shift with a light load on the
pedals. That is, you should ease up on the pedaling pressure
before you shift. This does take some practice, typically you
only think to shift when it’s almost too late; like when you’re
right in the middle of a monster hill.
Try to anticipate what gear you will need , and when. Typically,
the front derailluer (your left handlebar control) with it’s three
positions controls a bigger “jump” in the gearing, but shifts
slower and is more prone to pressure-induced miss-shifts. The
rear derailler (controlled by your right hand control) operates
over a range of seven or eight gears, shifts faster and cleaner
when you need it, but each shift is a smaller “jump”. The most
important thing to remember is to practice shifting back to a nice
starting gear BEFORE you come to a stop.
Try to start the bike in a high gear (like starting your car in
fourth) and you will see why it’s so important to remember to
shift back to your favorite start gear. With a little practice, you
will know what gear you want for different condition starts
(uphill, level terrain, etc.) and be able to quickly dial in that
gear.
Now it’s time to add your partner. While everyone will
probably find their own favorite method of mounting and starting

8
Anatomy of aAnatomy of a
Anatomy of aAnatomy of a
Anatomy of a
Double VDouble V
Double VDouble V
Double Visionision
isionision
ision
Kickstand
(Optional)
Rear
Derailleur
25
You should really try to master turning slowly in as tight a curve
as possible quite a few times, this gets you ready for the real
world of poor directions and detours. If you find yourself
wobbling or jerking the handlebars around, you are probably too
tense. Relax, let your hands grasp the bars in a light but firm
manner. Let your shoulders droop, relax your neck, don’t “death-
clench” your teeth. Once you relax you will have more control
over the bike.
Next, you should practice using the brakes. Stop and take off a
few times, getting a feel for how much pressure on the lever it
takes to slow down or stop the bike. Remember to always use
both brakes together, with gentle pressure at first to stop the bike
smoothly. Drop both your feet to the pavement while giving the
brakes the final squeeze to stop the bike. Lean forward a bit and
stand up, while reaching behind you for the seat frame to steady
the bike.
Practice stopping and dismounting, then starting off again.You
should also practice stopping by dropping only one leg,
typically your non-dominant leg. This exercise will help you
deal with momentary stops, such as at stop signs and traffic
lights. It does take a little practice to balance the bike leaning
onto a single leg. Remember to keep one hand clamped on a
brake to prevent the bike from rolling, it really helps. I usually
immediately cock my “crank-bound” leg for the start, and then
hold pressure against the brake until I’m ready to go.You should
also carefully investigate what happens to the bike with
gradually increasing brake lever pressure, so you will be
comfortable with quick decisions on the road.
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION

9
Handlebar
(above seat handlebar shown)
Anatomy of aAnatomy of a
Anatomy of aAnatomy of a
Anatomy of a
Double VDouble V
Double VDouble V
Double Visionision
isionision
ision
Nose Boom
Captain’s
Crank
(IPS)
Tensioner
Assembly
Underseat
Handlebar
Attachment
Tube
24
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION
Once you’re riding smoothly in a straight line, it’s time to
practice looking around. Now don’t laugh, I’m not being funny
nor condescending. Compared to a traditional bike you will find
yourself looking at the world from a whole new perspective, a
comfortable one. The biggest problem you will face is keeping
your mind on the road. Since you are riding in a relaxing
reclined position it’s all too easy to forget about everything
except the scenery in front of you.
Looking behind you is not difficult, but it does take practice. As
you ride in a straight line—and are sure you’re not about to take
a long ride on a short pier—practice swinging your head to the
left and right, taking quick glances behind you. The first time you
do this you will inevitably shift your weight and hand position,
causing the bike to swerve. Don’t panic, this is why we are
practicing in the park instead of a congested street.
While many riders like to use a helmet or bicycle mounted
mirror—and we sell a beautiful unit that mounts onto the
handlebar, see the accessories section of this manual—it’s
important to be able to actually look around behind you. This not
only gives you options on checking out traffic, but practicing this
will increase your skills and confidence on the bike.
At this point you should be feeling pretty good about life,
zooming along nice and comfortable, relaxed and thinking about
how much fun you are going to have on this thing. Well don’t get
too cocky yet. Before you hit the open road there are a some
more exercises you should do. Practice circling, both to the right
and to the left. Start out with gentle curves, and progress to
tighter and tighter radius “U” turns.

10
Your VISION dealer will have assembled your tandem and set
the adjustments for you. Refer to the "Anatomy of a VISION"
section for part names and locations. This section is intended to
helpyouwith making adjustments yourself.
The Double VISION main frameThe Double VISION main frame
The Double VISION main frameThe Double VISION main frame
The Double VISION main frame
The main frame comes in two parts - start by sliding the rear
frame section into the front frame section. Do not grease the rear
frame! Slide the sections together and adjust them until the anit-
rotate pin pops into place. Then tighten the pinch bolts to 65 inch
pounds.
WARNING!-Ridingwithoutthe frame anti-rotatepin
engagedcanresultintheframefoldingunderneathyou. A
crashandseriousinjurycould result! Do not ride a Double
VISIONwithouttheframeanti-rotatepininplace,andthe
pinchboltstightened properly.
Pinch Bolts
Anti-Rotate
Pin
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
23
forward on the seat, not being used to the relaxed, laid back
position. Sit back! Enjoy the comfort!
Now pick a dominant leg. For most people this is your right leg,
but go with whatever is most comfortable for you. Pick your leg
up and swing the crank arm around so you can easily reach the
pedal. If you are using toe straps, flip the pedal clip over your
foot, but keep the strap nice and loose to start with. Swing the
crank around until your foot is in a “cocked” position;
somewhere close to the top of the pedal stroke. This spot is
different for everyone, the key is to find the spot where you feel
best about putting a lot of power into the pedal. It helps to hold
the bike from rolling with either brake.
When you’re ready, release the brake, and push forward firmly
on the pedal. As you start moving, lift your other foot up and
keep peddling. At first you probably will wobble a little, but
don’t panic and tense up! Just relax and concentrate on making
small corrections with the handlebars. The most common
beginners’ error is to over-control the bike, ending up steering a
set of “S” curves down the lane. If you relax and let your hands
sit lightly on the handlebars, you will find it easier to avoid this
syndrome. Lean back! You are probably trying to lean forward,
to mimic that “other” type bike you’ve been riding. Another
common first time mistake is to stare at your feet — after all,
you’ve never seen them before! Look ahead, see the scenery
you’ve been missing.
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION

11
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Adjustment for Leg lengthAdjustment for Leg length
Adjustment for Leg lengthAdjustment for Leg length
Adjustment for Leg length
The nose boom is how the bike is adjusted for the captain’s leg
length. Set the boom so the rider’s leg reaches full extension
when at the far end of the pedal stroke. The rider’s knee should
not lock. When the boom is in position, align it square, and lock
it into place with the pinch bolts. Tighten to 45 inch pounds. See
the section on “Captain’s Chain Tensioner” to check chain length
after any adjustments are made—and BEFORE you ride.
The stoker’s leg length is accommodated by sliding the rear seat
on it’s track. Loosen both quick release skewers and slide the
seat to an appropriate position, and re-tighten both skewers
completely. Do not attempt to do this while in the seat!
Note:Replacethe boom pinch and/or mainframepinchbolts
after every 10 adjustments to prevent the bolt shearing off
in the frame!
22
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION
can spin the cranks and shift the gears. Don’t forget that you
should only shift when pedaling!
As you gain experience you will find yourself thinking ahead
and shifting into your favorite “start-up” gear before you come
to a stop.Your VISION’s gears are shifted with “push-button”
type shifters - they’re right under your hands, and are very easy
to use. Practice shifting a few times before you get into traffic!
Now let’s get on the bike. I tend to always mount from the left,
like on a horse, but the important thing is to establish a pattern
and do it the same way every time so it becomes a habit. Starting
on the left side, hold the seat back with your right hand. Standing
in front of the handlebar and facing the bike, swing your right leg
over the front boom. You are now looking forward, straddling
the bike.
Now reach down and grab the handlebar grips, apply the brakes,
and sit down. Settle yourself into the seat and get comfortable,
remember, let’s try this alone for the first couple of rides. The
Double Vision rides beautifully with only a captain, and you can
spend some time getting comfortable with the bike without
having to worry about what the stoker is doing.
Sit awhile, rock back and forth and from side to side. Notice
how the seat cradles you, and how comfortably close to the
ground you are. Grasp the handlebars and rock the front wheel
from side to side. Squeeze the brake levers. Yodel a few times.
Do whatever it takes to relax. Many first time riders try to sit

12
Seat Angle AdjustmentSeat Angle Adjustment
Seat Angle AdjustmentSeat Angle Adjustment
Seat Angle Adjustment
Both the captain’s and the stoker’s seat angle can be adjusted to
suit you. Loosen the quick release skewers and slide the seat
frame back or forward on it’s track to the desired position, and
then re-tighten the skewers. Changing the seat angle does effect
theleglength adjustment.
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Angle
Adjustment
Track
21
wear gloves when you ride. If you do have an accident and fall
over, you’ll probably catch yourself with your hands, so save
your palms and wear gloves. You should also wear protective
eyewear; road grit and flying insects do not make for happy
eyes. Wearing cycling shoes, shorts and jerseys can help you be
more comfortable, but they are not as essential as the helmet,
gloves and glasses.
Now you’re all set to hop on your Vision and pedal away into
the sunset, right? Wrong! The key to riding smoothly and in a
controlled fashion on any bicycle, recumbent or not, is to be
comfortable enough to relax. If you are nervous and tense, you
will tend to ride in a jerky, over-controlling fashion. Not only
does this make you more uncomfortable, which leads to even
worse riding, but it doesn’t look cool.
So you need to approach the bike as your friend, someone you’ll
enjoy spending the day with. The intent here is to spend some
relaxed time getting to know your bike before you get 20 miles
into nowhere, or involved with city traffic. Pack a lunch and
head for the park, relax and enjoy the day for a bit, and then set
yourself up to ride in the parking lot, or any open space with no
traffic.
Before you start to ride, look at your gears and make sure that
you are set in a good gear to start in. On a flat surface this
usually is in the middle chainring (up front) and in one of the
three largest cogs (on the back). If the bike is not in one of these
gears, have someone hold the rear wheel off the ground so you
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION

13
Chapter 2- Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2- Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2- Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2- Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2- Set-Up & Adjustment
The HandlebarThe Handlebar
The HandlebarThe Handlebar
The Handlebar
Your VISION handlebar has been installed on your bike at the
shop. The underseat handlbar is attached to the bike at the stem
tube on the back of the fork. The above seat handlebar is in-
serted into the fork steerer tube. This bar does fold forward to
facilitate mounting and dismounting the bike. There is an adjust-
able stop that limits it’s rearward travel. Set this stop so when
you pull the bars back toward you they stop at a comfortable
distance from your body. The resistance of the above bar’s fold
can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the hex headed bolt at
the bottom of the riser. Do not leave this adjustment too loose.
The Seat FabricThe Seat Fabric
The Seat FabricThe Seat Fabric
The Seat Fabric
For the first few weeks of use, the seat fabric will stretch a bit
and appear loose. Simply tighten the fabric as needed — it will
stabilize after about 100 miles or so. The back tension is set
with the Velcro straps, and the seat base tension is set with a
web strap. Check the seat before each ride for abrasions, tears
andtightness.
20
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISIONChapter 3: Riding your VISION
Chapter 3: Riding your VISION
Riding a Vision recumbent tandem is no more difficult than
riding a traditional diamond frame tandem, or a single rider
recumbent. If you are new to cycling, you’ll find it easy to learn
to ride on a Vision. If you are an experienced rider, you’ll have
to learn some new habits, but the benefits of riding a recumbent
far outweigh the small learning curve involved. Either way, it’s
important to spend a little time adjusting to your new bike before
riding in traffic or committing to a long ride.
In this chapter I’m going to discuss some things that will make
the transition to recumbents, or learning to ride on a recumbent,
easier. We recommend that the captain take the Double Vision
out solo for the first few rides, to get adjusted to the handling
characteristics of the bike.
First of all, be sure to read the previous chapter about set up of
the bike. To ride well you have to be comfortable, and to be
comfortable you need to be sure that your Vision is adjusted to
fit you properly. The seat angle is adjustable, and really affects
how you feel on the bike. If you’re just starting out with
recumbents you will probably want to set the seat as upright as
possible. Later you can recline the seat incrementally until you
find your own ideal position.
If you’re comfortable on your bike, it’s time to go riding. First
and foremost, the most important part of riding any bike is to
wear proper safety equipment. We discussed safety equipment in
Chapter 1, but I will repeat it here. It is essential to wear a
helmet, all the time, anytime you ride. It’s also very important to

19
Chapter 3 - General MaintenanceChapter 3 - General Maintenance
Chapter 3 - General MaintenanceChapter 3 - General Maintenance
Chapter 3 - General Maintenance
Take care of your chain and it will take care of you. If your
chain gets really nasty, there are some nice cleaning systems on
the market—boxes that enclose the chain in it's own little
washing machine. We recommend these over removing the
chain from the bike to soak it.You should avoid breaking the
chain any more than is absolutely necessary.
Pump up your tirPump up your tir
Pump up your tirPump up your tir
Pump up your tires.es.
es.es.
es.
It is normal for tire pressure to drop slowly. Check the pressure
every week with a good hand pump. Inflate the tires to the
pressure rating printed on the tire itself. Don't use pumps at gas
stations... you'll be sorry if you do, your tires might blow off the
rim.
Lube your components. Using your chain lube, or better still, a
drip bottle of general bicycle lubricant (NOT "3 in 1" oil),
carefully apply drops of lubricant to all the pivot points of the
components. Do the brakes and the derailleur.As you move
around the bike examine all the cables and casing pieces for
wear and tear.Also examine the components for any damage.
Know your bike.Know your bike.
Know your bike.Know your bike.
Know your bike.
It's simple—just get to know the feel of your bike. If something
feels different, and you can't figure out what it is, bring your
bike to a shop to have it checked out. All of the components on
the Vision Tandem are bicycle standards, and any competent
shop can service it.
The Seat FabricThe Seat Fabric
The Seat FabricThe Seat Fabric
The Seat Fabric
For the first few weeks of use, the seat fabric will stretch a bit
and appear loose. Simply tighten the fabric as needed — it will
stabilize after about 100 miles or so. The back tension is set
with the Velcro straps, and the seat base tension is set with a
web strap. Check the seat before each ride for abrasions, tears
andtightness.
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and AdjustmentChapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and AdjustmentChapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
Step 1. Make a loop in the nose
strap about 6” long.
Step 2. Loop the strap over the
small stub tube in the center of the
seat frame.
Step3. If needed, adjust the lenght
of the loop so the seat fabric is
supported over the top of the stub
tube.
FrFr
FrFr
Front Tont T
ont Tont T
ont Tension Strap attachmentension Strap attachment
ension Strap attachmentension Strap attachment
ension Strap attachment

18
It's important to maintain your bike properly, to keep it in good
running condition. A regular visit to your bike shop is very
important to keep your bike running smooth and safe, but
between trips to the shop your bike will love some simple
attention.
Lube your chain.Lube your chain.
Lube your chain.Lube your chain.
Lube your chain.
This is probably the most important regular maintenance item on
any bike, and just as probably the most ignored.You should lube
your chain at least every month. More if you ride a lot and do it
every time you get rained on. It's simple, if you start when your
ride is finished, rather than 2 minutes before you head out. First,
grab a trashy rag (not a paper towel) and wipe the chain down
completely. I wrap my hand with the rag, grab the lower section
of the chain and turn the pedals backwards.
Do this until the chain has travelled through the rag several
times. Now apply a commercial bicycle chain lubricant (NOT
WD-40!) to the chain. Follow the manufacturers directions, but
what works for me is to drip it lightly onto the inner side of the
chain, first the outer plates and then the inner. Now allow the
bike to sit overnight.
After the lube has had a chance to penetrate the links, it's
important to wipe off all the excess lube. This helps to keep the
chain free of excess road grit. Do this by repeating the wiping
procedure outlined above.
Chapter 3 - General MaintenanceChapter 3 - General Maintenance
Chapter 3 - General MaintenanceChapter 3 - General Maintenance
Chapter 3 - General Maintenance
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and AdjustmentChapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and AdjustmentChapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
Chapter 2 — Set-Up and Adjustment
The Seat (cont.)The Seat (cont.)
The Seat (cont.)The Seat (cont.)
The Seat (cont.)
Seat Back Fabric TSeat Back Fabric T
Seat Back Fabric TSeat Back Fabric T
Seat Back Fabric Tensionension
ensionension
ension
Step 1. Drap the seat fabric over the seat side rails as shown.
Step 2. Thread the long strap through the buckle, laying it back
on itself so the velcro engages.
Step 3.Adjust the tension of the straps to hold the fabric back
firmly, but do not over-tighten.

16
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Fig 2
Fig 1 Fig 3
17
TT
TT
Timing chain and Timing chain and T
iming chain and Timing chain and T
iming chain and Tensionerensioner
ensionerensioner
ensioner
The front chain has a chain tensioner in the loop to keep the
timing chain tight. When the chain is not installed, the idler sits
on the bike as in fig 1. (below). Rotate the idler counterclock-
wise (fig 2), and end up with the idler as shown in fig. 3. Now
route the chain from the bottom of the chainring —heading to
the back of the bike—through the idler, following the arrows.
You should set the chain length so that, after the boom is ad-
justed for the captain, the idler is positioned like fig. 2.
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & AdjustmentChapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
Chapter 2 - Set-Up & Adjustment
IPS UnitIPS Unit
IPS UnitIPS Unit
IPS Unit
Your Vision tandem may be equipped with our Independent
Pedaling System. This system allow for the stoker and captain
to pedal at different intervals. This pedaling system can maxi-
mize the enjoyment of tandem riding, especially if two people
aren’t at the same level of fitness. The IPS requires no extra
effort for maintaining it. Just treat it like any other normal
crankset.