Even if you perform regular inspections, if you exceed the limit of
strength of a given part, it may fail if overloaded. After any high force
load, thoroughly inspect all the parts of your bike. High force loads
include crashes, but you don't have to crash to put a high force load
on your bike. For example, hitting a large hole in the road or a sharp
bump such as a railroad track can put large forces on your bike.
The manner in which you ride will determine whether your bike and
its parts will last. If you ride hard or aggressively, you should replace
the bike and/or its parts more often than riders who ride smoothly or
cautiously. When evaluating your use of the crankset, there are many
variables: weight, speed, technique, terrain, maintenance, riding envi-
ronment (humidity, salinity, temperature, etc.), and the frame or part
itself—so it is impossible to give a precise timetable for replacement.
But as a rule, it is better to err on the safe side and replace the bike or
parts more frequently. If you aren't sure, ask your dealer.
Unlike metal parts, carbon fiber parts that have been damaged may
not bend, bulge, or deform; a damaged part may appear to be normal to
a cursory glance. Use the following procedures to inspect carbon fiber
parts:
• Check for scratches, gouges, or other surface problems.
• Check the part for loss of rigidity.
• Check the part for delamination.
• Listen for unusual creaking or clicking noises.
These tests may not be conclusive.
The tests are difficult to describe, so as an aid to describing the tests
we provide a movie of inspecting a carbon fiber part in the owner's
manual section of the Bontrager web site. If you have any doubts about
the integrity of a part, do not ride the bicycle.
Lubrication
Once a month clean and oil the chain. Place a rag behind the chain to
avoid getting oil on the rest of the bicycle. Use a synthetic chain lube or
similar lubrication. See your dealer for a recommended oil. After oiling
your chain, wipe off the excess oil with a rag.
When installing a threaded part, apply a small amount of bicycle
grease to the threads, except for aluminum chainring bolts. With alumi-
num chainring bolts apply a drop of Loctite 222 to the threads.
adjustment
The bearings in the bottom bracket of the Race XXX Lite crankset are
permanently sealed. If the bearings are too tight or loose, follow the
instructions in the Installation section. If this does not solve the prob-
lem, replace the bearings.
Maintenance