Gear changing, Tyres and inner tubes

6.5 Gear changing

Lafree Twist is equipped with internal rear gear hub. The gear changing mechanism on your bicycle consists of a grip shifter on the handle bar and an internal gear hub.

6.5.1 What the gears are for

Lafree Twist’s gearing is a simple yet effective way to help you fine tune your pedal revolutions, also known as cadence. Twist’s gearing is designed for rolling, moderately steep terrain.

Select a gear that is easy to pedal; never push hard on the pedals if there is an easier gear available.

You will find that pedalling with a faster action is more comfortable though most riders will need to practise this. Pushing hard will not make you fitter. The optimum pedalling speed is between 60 and 90 pedal revolutions per minute.

Lafree Twist’s electric power assists your cadence by giving you a boost when you are pedalling. However, you should still use the gears to get the most performance from your legs and motor assist. Pedalling in a harder gear will cause the torque sensor to use more energy which can drain the available energy stores more quickly.

6.5.2 Shifting gears

Pedal along easily without putting pressure on the pedals. However, with gear hubs it is possible to shift while freewheeling or standing still.

The numbers on the shifter indicate the degree of pedal resistance: lower numbers mean less resistance at higher pedalling rate (easier pedalling); higher numbers mean more resistance at lower pedalling rate(harder pedalling).

To facilitate smooth gear shifts, always shift gears before you are on a hill. Whenever shifting gears, shift early, before pedal pressure becomes harder. Failure to utilise this technique could cause damage to the drive chain and gear mechanism.

6.6 Tyres and inner tubes

6.6.1 Tyres

Lafree Twist’s tyres are general-purpose in design, made for improved (paved) road surfaces. They are not designed for unimproved roads or trails where dirt, loose rocks, or other loose debris is present. Your dealer can help you select new tyres once they warrant replacement.

The size and pressure rating are marked on the side wall of the tyre (see fig. 36). The part of this information which is most important to you is tyre pressure.

The best way to inflate a bicycle tyre to the correct pressure is with a bicycle pump. Your dealer can help you select an appropriate pump.

6.6.2 Tyre air valves

Lafree Twist tyres are equipped with “French valves”. To inflate a French valve tube, remove the valve cap, loosen the little centre nut a few turns. By pushing the centre nut downwards you can remove air from the tube. Make sure the pump matches the valve type. Contact your dealer if necessary.

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