Invented in the 1930s to allow quick, easy wheel removal without the need for tools, the bicycle wheel quick release has become standard equipment on most recreational, sports and competition bicycles. While it looks like a long bolt with a lever on one end and a nut on the other, the wheel quick release uses a cam action to clamp the bike's wheel in place (see fig. 11). Because of its adjustable nature, it is critical that you understand how it works and how to use it properly.
CAUTION: The full force of the cam action is needed to clamp the ! wheel securely. Holding the nut with one hand and turning the lever
like a wing nut with the other hand until everything is as tight as you can get it will not clamp the wheel safely in the dropouts.
closed position
open | closed | closed | open |
turn to adjust
clamping force
36 | fig. 11 Quick Release Cam | open position |
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