Operating Principles
Although the number of gears present on multispeed bicycles varies greatly, how the gears function remains the same. The right shifter works the rear derailleur and the left shifter works the front derailleur. If the pedals are stationary or rotating backwards, gears cannot be changed. They can only be altered when pedalling forward. To achieve a successful gear change, either moving up or down in gears, the pedalling pressure must be relaxed. Failure to ease the pressure when changing gears may result in bicycle damage or could even cause the rider to lose control. If a rubbing sound is detected after attempting to alter gears, adjust the shifter until the sound ceases. Generally the lower gears are for ascending hills and the higher gears are for descending. To extend the life of your chain avoid using extreme gear combinations as shown in the diagrams below.
1 2 3 4 5 6
b
a
12
High Medium
c
3
Low
1 2 3 4 5 6
b
a
12
High Medium
Recommended Chainwheel/Rear Sprocket Gear Combinations
19
Updated 23/05/07 | RAOM0507 | Apollo Bicycle Company Pty. Ltd. ABN: 60 001 914 469 |
