your dealer or contact the brake manufacturer. 1. Coaster Brake
a. How the coaster brake works
The coaster brake is a sealed mechanism which is a part of the bicycle’s rear wheel hub. The brake is activated by reversing the rotation of the pedal cranks (see fig. 5). Start with the pedal cranks in a nearly horizontal position, with the front pedal in about the 4 o’clock position, and apply downward foot pressure on the pedal that is to the rear. About 1/8 turn rotation will activate the brake. The more downward pressure you apply, the more braking force, up to the point where the rear wheel stops rotating and begins to skid (see paragraph
3.Braking Technique, below).
!CAUTION: Before riding, make sure that the brake is working properly. If it is not working properly, have the bicycle checked by your dealer before you ride it.
b. Adjusting your coaster brake
Coaster brake service and adjustment requires special tools and special knowledge. Do not attempt to disassemble or service your coaster brake. Take the bicycle to your dealer for coaster brake service.
2. Hand Brakes
a. How hand brakes work
A bicycle with hand brakes may have one hand lever which operates a rear brake, or two hand levers, one of which operates on the front wheel and the other on the rear wheel. If your bicycle has two hand brakes, it’s important to your safety that you instinctively know which brake lever controls which brake on your bike. In the U.S., bikes are required to be set up
with the right brake lever controlling the rear brake, and the left lever controlling the front brake.
NOTE: If your bicycle is equipped with both front and rear brakes, most effective braking is achieved by using both brakes and apply them simultaneously. (See also par. 3. Braking technique, below).
!WARNING: Sudden or excessive application of the front brake may pitch the rider over the handlebars, which may result in serious injury or death.
The braking action of bicycle hand brakes is a function of the friction between the brake shoes and the wheel rim or brake disc. To make sure that you have maximum friction available, keep your wheel rims, brake shoes and brake discs clean and free of lubricants, waxes or polishes.
Make sure that your hands can reach and squeeze the brake levers comfortably. If your hands are too small to operate the levers comfortably, consult your dealer before riding the bike. The lever reach may be adjustable; or you may need a different brake lever design.
Some hand brakes have a quick release mechanism (figs.
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