first time you work on something and before you ride the bike, just to make sure that you did everything correctly. Since that will require the time of a mechanic, there may be a modest charge for this service.
A. Service Intervals
Some service and maintenance can and should be performed by the owner, and requires no special tools or knowledge beyond what is presented in this manual.
The following are examples of the type of service you should perform yourself. All other service, maintenance and repair should be performed in a properly equipped facility by a qualified bicycle mechanic using the correct tools and procedures specified by the manufacturer.
1.
Mechanical Safety Check (Section 1.C) will help you identify some things that need readjustment. But even if everything seems fine to you, it’s best to take your bike back to the dealer for a checkup. Dealers typically suggest you bring the bike in for a 30 day checkup. Another way to judge when it’s time for the first checkup is to bring the bike in after three to five hours of hard
2.Before every ride: Mechanical Safety Check
(Section 1.C)
3.After every long or hard ride if the bike has been exposed to water or grit, or at least every 100 miles: Clean the bike and lightly oil the chain. Wipe off excess oil. Lubrication is a function of climate. Talk to your dealer about the best lubricants and the
recommended lubrication frequency for your area.
4.After every long or hard ride or after every 10 to 20 hours of riding:
• Squeeze the front brake (if you have one) and rock the bike forward and back. Everything feel solid? If you feel a clunk with each forward or backward movement of the bike, you probably have a loose headset. Have your dealer check it.
• Lift the front wheel off the ground and swing it from side to side. Feel smooth? If you feel any binding or roughness in the steering, you may have a tight headset. Have your dealer check it.
• Grab one pedal and rock it toward and away from the centerline of the bike; then do the same with the other pedal.
Anything feel loose? If so, have your dealer check it.
• Take a look at the brake pads. Starting to look worn or not hitting the wheel rim squarely? Time to have the dealer adjust or replace them.
• Carefully check the control cables and cable housings. Any rust? Kinks? Fraying? If so, have your dealer replace them.
• Squeeze each adjoining pair of spokes on either side of each wheel between your thumb and index finger. Do they all feel about the same? If any feel loose, have your dealer check the wheel for tension and trueness.
• Check the frame, particularly in the area around all tube joints; the handlebars; the stem; and the seatpost for any deep scratches, cracks or discoloration. These are signs of
• Check to make sure that all parts and accessories are still secure, and tighten any which are not.
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