Operation Manual

p. 18
Adjusting the seat post cam action mechanism
The action of the cam squeezes the seat collar around the seat post to hold the seat post securely in place. The
amount of clamping force is controlled by the tension adjusting nut. Turning the tension adjusting nut clockwise while
keeping the cam lever from rotating increases clamping force; turning it counterclockwise while keeping the cam
lever from rotating reduces clamping force.
WARNING: The full force of the cam action is needed to clamp the seat post 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 seat post safely.
WARNING: If you can fully close the cam lever without wrapping your fingers around the seat post or a
frame tube for leverage, and the lever does not leave a clear imprint in the palm of your hand, the tension is
insufficient. Open the lever; turn the tension adjusting nut clockwise a quarter turn; then try again.
C. BrAkes
There are three general types of bicycle brakes: rim brakes, which operate by squeezing the wheel rim between two
brake pads; disc brakes, which operate by squeezing a hub-mounted disc between two brake pads; and internal hub
brakes. All three can be operated by way of a handlebar mounted lever. On some models of bicycle, the internal hub
brake is operated by pedaling backwards.
This is called a Coaster Brake and is described in Appendix C.
WARNING:
1. Riding with improperly adjusted brakes, worn brake pads, or wheels on which the rim wear mark is
visible is dangerous and can result in serious injury or death.
2. Applying brakes too hard or too suddenly can lock up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control
and fall. Sudden or excessive application of the front brake may pitch the rider over the handlebars,
which may result in serious injury or death.
3. Some bicycle brakes, such as disc brakes (fig. 11) and linear-pull brakes
(fig. 12), are extremely powerful. Take extra care in becoming familiar
with these brakes and exercise particular care when
using them.
4. Some bicycle brakes are equipped with a brake force modulator, a small,
cylindrical device through which the brake control cable runs and
which is designed to provide a more progressive application of braking
force. A modulator makes the initial brake lever force more gentle,
progressively increasing force until full force is achieved. If your bike is equipped with a brake force
modulator, take extra care in becoming familiar with its performance characteristics.
5. Disc brakes can get extremely hot with extended use. Be careful not to touch a disc brake until it has
had plenty of time to cool.