L A U N A M S ’ R E N OW BICYCLE WARNING THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY, PERFORMANCE AND SERVICE INFORMATION. Read it before you take the first ride on your new bicycle, and keep it for reference.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR PURCHASE OF A CANNONDALE BICYCLE. our products: 1. We think riding a bike is fun! Which means all of us at Cannondale are lucky enough to do what we enjoy. You’ll see that dedication to our craft in every bicycle we make. 2. Our dedication to craft includes dreaming up new ways to pioneer improvements for the industry – things like System Integration and the BB30 Standard. Later, other manufacturers often “borrow” our ideas, but that’s okay.
Use of this manual Other Manuals & Instructions Many of the components on your bike were not made by Cannondale. When available from the manufacturer, Cannondale packages these manuals and/or instructions with our bikes for delivery to you. We strongly recommend that you read and follow all the manufacturer’s specific instructions included with your bike. Cannondale Bicycle Owner’s Manual This manual contains important information affecting your safety and the proper use of bicycles.
CONTENTS PART I PART II GENERAL WARNING..................................... 4 Section A. Important safety info....42-51 A Special Note For Parents.................... 4 3.A Stand Over Height............................................. 15 3.B Saddle Position.................................................. 16 3.C. Handlebar Height and Angle.............................. 18 3.D Control Position Adjustments........................... 19 3.E Brake Reach..................................................
APPENDIX Section C. Mountain Bike Riding.......61-64 Off-Road Riding....................................................... 61 Bike Types................................................................. 61 Inspection and Maintenance Routines..................... 61 Suspension...............................................................62 Jumping....................................................................62 Stay In Control..........................................................
PART I GENERAL WARNING A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS Like any sport, bicycling involves risk of injury and damage. By choosing to ride a bicycle, you assume the responsibility for that risk, so you need to know — and to practice — the rules of safe and responsible riding and of proper use and maintenance. Proper use and maintenance of your bicycle reduces risk of injury. WARNING This manual does not cover Juvenile or BMX bicycles.
section 1. first 1.B - Safety First 1. NOTE: 2. Do you have all the other required and recommended safety equipment? See SECTION 2. It’s your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the laws of the areas where you ride, and to comply with all applicable laws. We strongly urge you to read this Manual in its entirety before your first ride.
PART I 1.C - Mechanical Safety Check Make sure nothing is loose. Lift the front wheel off the ground by two or three inches, then let it bounce on the ground. Anything sound, feel or look loose? Do a visual and tactile inspection of the whole bike. Any loose parts or accessories? If so, secure them. If you’re not sure, ask someone with experience to check. Routinely check the condition of your bicycle before every ride.
Seat post Wheel rims clean and undamaged? Make sure the rims are clean and undamaged at the tire bead and, if you have rim brakes, along the braking surface. Check to make sure that any rim wear indicator marking is not visible at any point on the wheel rim. If your seat post has an over-center cam action fastener for easy height adjustment, check that it is properly adjusted and in the locked position. See Section 4.B.
PART I 1.D - First Ride section 2. safety When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on your new bicycle, be sure to pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other cyclists, obstacles or other hazards. Ride to become familiar with the controls, features and performance of your new bike. WARNING MANY STATES REQUIRE SPECIFIC SAFETY DEVICES.
2.A - The Basics 2. Always do the Mechanical Safety Check (SECTION 1.C) before you get on a bike. 1. 3. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls of your bicycle: brakes (SECTION 4.C.); pedals (SECTION 4.E.); shifting (SECTION 4.D.) Always wear a cycling helmet which meets the latest certification standards and is appropriate for the type of riding you do. Always follow the helmet manufacturer’s instructions for fit, use and care of your helmet.
PART I 2.B - Riding Safety 1. 8. Never ride with headphones. They mask traffic sounds and emergency vehicle sirens, distract you from concentrating on what’s going on around you, and their wires can tangle in the moving parts of the bicycle, causing you to lose control. Obey all rules of the road and all local traffic laws. 2. You are sharing the road or the path with others — motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists. Respect their rights. 9.
2.C - Off-Road Safety 2.D - Wet Weather Riding We recommend that children not ride on rough terrain unless they are accompanied by an adult. Under wet conditions, the stopping power of your brakes (as well as the brakes of other vehicles sharing the road) is dramatically reduced and your tires don’t grip nearly as well. This makes it harder to control speed and easier to lose control. 1. The variable conditions and hazards of off-road riding require close attention and specific skills.
PART I 2.E - Night Riding WARNING Riding a bicycle at night is much more dangerous than riding during the day. A bicyclist is very difficult for motorists and pedestrians to see. Therefore, children should never ride at dawn, at dusk or at night. Adults who chose to accept the greatly increased risk of riding at dawn, at dusk or at night need to take extra care both riding and choosing specialized equipment which helps reduce that risk. Consult your dealer about night riding safety equipment.
WHILE RIDING AT DAWN, AT DUSK OR AT NIGHT: • Ride slowly. • Avoid dark areas, areas of heavy or fastmoving traffic. • Avoid road hazards. • If possible, ride on familiar routes. WARNING ALTHOUGH MANY CATALOGS, ADVERTISEMENTS AND ARTICLES ABOUT BICYCLING DEPICT RIDERS ENGAGED IN EXTREME RIDING, THIS ACTIVITY IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS, INCREASES YOUR RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH, AND INCREASES THE SEVERITY OF ANY INJURY.
PART I 2.G - Changing Components Or Adding Accessories (continued from previous page...) There are many components and accessories available to enhance the comfort, performance and appearance of your bicycle. However, if you change components or add accessories, you do so at your own risk. The bicycle’s manufacturer may not have tested that component or accessory for compatibility, reliability or safety on your bicycle.
section 3. fit NOTE: Correct fit is an essential element of bicycling safety, performance and comfort. Making the adjustments to your bicycle which result in correct fit for your body and riding conditions requires experience, skill and special tools. Always have your dealer make the adjustments on your bicycle; or, if you have the experience, skill and tools, have your dealer check your work before riding. WARNING IF YOUR BICYCLE DOES NOT FIT PROPERLY, YOU MAY LOSE CONTROL AND FALL. Figure 2.
PART I 3.B - Saddle Position Once the saddle is at the correct height, make sure that the seat post does not project from the frame beyond its “Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum Extension” mark (fig. 4). Correct saddle adjustment is an important factor in getting the most performance and comfort from your bicycle. If the saddle position is not comfortable for you, see your dealer.
NOTE: If your bicycle is equipped with a suspension seat post, periodically ask your dealer to check it. Ask your dealer for recommended service intervals for your suspension seat post. Small changes in saddle position can have a substantial effect on performance and comfort. To find your best saddle position, make only one adjustment at a time.
PART I (continued from previous page...) If, in spite of carefully adjusting the saddle height, tilt and fore-and-aft position, your saddle is still uncomfortable, you may need a different saddle design. Saddles, like people, come in many different shapes, sizes and resilience. Your dealer can help you select a saddle which, when correctly adjusted for your body and riding style, will be comfortable.
3.D - Control Position Adjustments WARNING The angle of the brake and shift control levers and their position on the handlebars can be changed. Ask your dealer to make the adjustments for you. On some bicycles, changing the stem or stem height can affect the tension of the front brake cable, locking the front brake or creating excess cable slack which can make the front brake inoperable.
PART I section 4. tech WARNING RIDING WITH AN IMPROPERLY SECURED WHEEL CAN ALLOW THE WHEEL TO WOBBLE OR FALL OFF THE BICYCLE, OR suddenly stop the wheel, WHICH CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. THEREFORE, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU: It’s important to your safety, performance and enjoyment to understand how things work on your bicycle.
Your bicycle may be equipped with a different securing method for the front wheel than for the rear wheel. Discuss the wheel securing method for your bicycle with your dealer. It is very important that you understand the type of wheel securing method on your bicycle, that you know how to secure the wheels correctly, and that you know how to apply the correct clamping force that safely secures the wheel.
PART I 1. Front Wheel Secondary Retention Devices 2. Wheels with cam action systems Most bicycles have front forks which utilize a secondary wheel retention device to reduce the risk of the wheel disengaging from the fork if the wheel is incorrectly secured. Secondary retention devices are not a substitute for correctly securing your front wheel. There are currently two types of over-center cam wheel retention mechanisms: the traditional overcenter cam (fig. 8a) and the cam-and-cup system (fig. 8b).
b. Adjusting the cam-and-cup mechanism (fig. 8B) The cam-and-cup system on your front wheel will have been correctly adjusted for your bicycle by your dealer. Ask your dealer to check the adjustment every six months. Do not use a cam-and-cup front wheel on any bicycle other than the one for which your dealer adjusted it. 3.
PART I WARNING (continued from previous page...) (2) With the steering fork facing forward, insert the wheel between the fork blades so that the axle seats firmly at the top of the fork dropouts. The cam lever, if there is one, should be on rider’s left side of the bicycle (fig. 8a & b). If your bike has a clip-on type secondary retention device, engage it.
(3) On a derailleur gear system, pull the derailleur body back with your right hand. (4) With a cam action mechanism, move the quickrelease lever to the OPEN position (fig. 8b). With a through bolt or bolt on mechanism, loosen the fastener(s) with an appropriate wrench, lock lever or integral lever; then push the wheel forward far enough to be able to remove the chain from the rear sprocket. (5) Lift the rear wheel off the ground a few inches and remove it from the rear dropouts. d.
PART I Adjusting The Seat Post Cam Action Mechanism (continued from previous page...) 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.
4.C - Brakes 1. Brake Controls And Features It’s very important to your safety that you learn and remember which brake lever controls which brake on your bike. 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.
PART I (continued from previous page...) Brakes are designed to control your speed, not just to stop the bike. Maximum braking force for each wheel occurs at the point just before the wheel “locks up” (stops rotating) and starts to skid. Once the tire skids, you actually lose most of your stopping force and all directional control. You need to practice slowing and stopping smoothly without locking up a wheel. The technique is called progressive brake modulation.
OPEN Figure 11. Figure 14. OPEN PUSH Figure 12. Figure 15. OPEN Figure 13.
PART I cOaster BrakeS 1. 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 (indicated by arrow above). 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.
4.D - Shifting Gears Whether upshifting or downshifting, the bicycle derailleur system design requires that the drive chain be moving forward and be under at least some tension. A derailleur will shift only if you are pedaling forward. Your multi-speed bicycle will have a derailleur drivetrain (see 1. below), an internal gear hub drivetrain (see 2. below) or, in some special cases, a combination of the two. CAUTION 1.
PART I d. Which gear should I be in? WARNING The combination of largest rear and smallest front gears (fig. 16) is for the steepest hills. The smallest rear and largest front combination is for the greatest speed. It is not necessary to shift gears in sequence.
Shifting from an easier, “slower” gear (like 1) to a harder, “faster” gear (like 2 or 3) is called an upshift. Shifting from a harder, “faster” gear to an easier, “slower” gear is called a downshift. It is not necessary to shift gears in sequence. Instead, find the “starting gear” for the conditions — a gear which is hard enough for quick acceleration but easy enough to let you start from a stop without wobbling — and experiment with upshifting and downshifting to get a feel for the different gears.
PART I 4.F - Bicycle Suspension (continued from previous page...) Many bicycles are equipped with suspension systems. There are many different types of suspension systems — too many to deal with individually in this Manual. If your bicycle has a suspension system of any kind, be sure to read and follow the suspension manufacturer’s setup and service instructions. If you do not have the manufacturer’s instructions, see your dealer or contact the manufacturer.
Suspension can increase control and comfort by allowing the wheels to better follow the terrain. This enhanced capability may allow you to ride faster; but you must not confuse the enhanced capabilities of the bicycle with your own capabilities as a rider. Increasing your skill will take time and practice. Proceed carefully until you have learned to handle the full capabilities of your bike. WARNING NEVER INFLATE A TIRE BEYOND THE MAXIMUM PRESSURE MARKED ON THE TIRE’S SIDEWALL OR THE WHEEL RIM.
PART I CAUTION (continued from previous page...) Pencil type automotive tire gauges can be inaccurate and should not be relied upon for consistent, accurate pressure readings. Instead, use a high quality dial gauge. WARNING THERE IS A SAFETY RISK IN USING GAS STATION AIR HOSES OR OTHER AIR COMPRESSORS. Ask your dealer to recommend the best tire pressure for the kind of riding you will most often do, and have the dealer inflate your tires to that pressure. Then, check inflation as described in SECTION 1.
2. Tire Valves There are primarily two kinds of bicycle tube valves: The Schrader Valve and the Presta Valve. The bicycle pump you use must have the fitting appropriate to the valve stems on your bicycle. Schrader valve The Schrader valve (fig. 18) is like the valve on a car tire. To inflate a Schrader valve tube, remove the valve cap and clamp the pump fitting onto the end of the valve stem.
PART I section 5. service If you want to learn to do major service and repair work on your bike, you have three options: 1. WARNING Ask your dealer for copies of the manufacturer’s installation and service instructions for the components on your bike, or contact the component manufacturer. 2. Ask your dealer to recommend a book on bicycle repair. TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES HAVE MADE BICYCLES AND BICYCLE COMPONENTS MORE COMPLEX, AND THE PACE OF INNOVATION IS INCREASING. 3.
5.A - Service Intervals 4. AFTER EVERY LONG OR HARD RIDE OR AFTER EVERY 10 TO 20 HOURS OF RIDING: Some service and maintenance can and should be performed by the owner, and require no special tools or knowledge beyond what is presented in this manual. • Squeeze the front brake 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.
PART I WARNING (continued from previous page...) • LIKE ANY MECHANICAL DEVICE, A BICYCLE AND ITS COMPONENTS ARE SUBJECT TO WEAR AND STRESS. DIFFERENT MATERIALS AND MECHANISMS WEAR OR FATIGUE FROM STRESS AT DIFFERENT RATES AND HAVE DIFFERENT LIFE CYCLES. 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.
5.B - If Your Bicycle Sustains An Impact: First, check yourself for injuries, and take care of them as best you can. Seek medical help if necessary. Next, check your bike for damage. After any crash, take your bike to your dealer for a thorough check. Carbon composite components, including fames, wheels, handlebars, stems, cranksets, brakes, etc. which have sustained an impact must not be ridden until they have been disassembled and thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic.
PART II Section A. important safety information Bicycling Inherent Risk WARNING BICYCLING IS AN ACTIVE SPORT WITH INHERENT RISK. A Wide Range Of Bicycling Injuries Are Possible “Inherent risk,“ means that due to the nature of bicycle riding, the situations you encounter while riding expose you to the risk of serious injury, paralysis, or death in an accident. Many hazards are described, and we have attempted to explain how to avoid or minimize the dangers.
Warning Label Riding In Traffic, Commuting We urge you to locate the warning label on your bike. It contains important information that you and anyone else who rides your bike should read and follow. WARNING RIDING IN TRAFFIC (AND COMMUTING) IS HAZARDOUS AND YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED DOING IT. Do not remove it. If you bought an older bike or are refinishing one of our bikes, contact us for a no charge replacement.
PART II Riding At Night, Dusk, Dawn Mountain Biking At Night: Mountain biking at night is risky. Take the challenges outlined in SECTION C. and add another level of difficulty and risk. Seeing the terrain is much more difficult at night. Mountain biking at night is only for skilled mountain bikers, on familiar terrain, with excellent light systems, riding with other skilled mountain bikers, and riding cautiously. WARNING RIDING AT NIGHT/DUSK OR AT DAWN IS VERY HAZARDOUS. Avoid riding at night.
Refinishing Modifications WARNING WARNING WE KNOW THAT BIKE OWNER’S REFINISH AND REPAINT BIKES. NO OWNER’S MANUAL OR VOIDED WARRANTY WILL PREVENT THIS. DO NOT MODIFY YOUR BIKE FRAME OR COMPONENTS IN ANY WAY. MODIFICATIONS CAN CAUSE DAMAGE LEADING TO FAILURE AND ACCIDENT. WE CAN’T PREDICT ALL THE THINGS THAT COULD GO WRONG IN THE REFINISHING PROCESS. YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED. Do not physically alter your frame in any way. Don’t sandblast, shot blast or glass bead your frame.
PART II Child Carriers Bicycles Have Sharp Surfaces WARNING WARNING CHILD CARRIERS ADD WEIGHT AND RAISE THE CENTER OF GRAVITY, MAKING BALANCE AND CORNERING MORE DIFFICULT. IF YOU LOOSE CONTROL, YOU AND YOUR CHILD PASSENGER CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED. BICYCLES HAVE EXPOSED SHARP SURFACES. Exercise caution with chainrings and pointed, aggressive platform pedals, as they have sharp and potentially dangerous surfaces. Use caution when working on your bike. If you slip or fall you could be injured.
Aerodynamic Handlebars WARNING Aerodynamic or “Triathlon” handlebar extensions are fitted to some triathlon or racing bikes. They are also added by customers. Understand that when riding on these extensions your steering and braking are adversely affected. When on the extensions, most riders find it hard to look back over their shoulder without swerving, inadvertently steering. Some riders find it harder to move their head/neck to see forward.
PART II About Shimmy Whether or not you have overlap, or how much overlap you have can be changed. Be aware that toe clearance can be increased or decreased by changes in crank arm length, size of pedals or toe clips used, size of tires used, addition of fenders, size/design of shoes worn. Some cyclists have experienced disturbing “shimmy” or “vibration” at certain speeds. This symptom is rarely reported and there is no agreement among experts as to the cause.
TIRE SIZE TIRE & RIM PRESSURE Compatibility WARNING WARNING Mounting the wrong size tires can result in the tires hitting the fork or frame when riding. If this happens, you can lose control of your bike and you can be thrown off, a moving tire can be stopped because it touches the fork or frame. MAXIMUM TIRE PRESSURE MAY BE LIMITED BY RIM DESIGN.
PART II How to Check Wheel Rim Wear UNDERSTANDING DISC BRAKES ON Road BIKES Check the condition of wheel rims wear before every ride. Brake Disc It is important to your safety, that, you also check the surface wear of the wheel rims (in addition to brake pad wear). This is the area of the wheel where the brake pads contact the rim. Rims can wear out. How Can You Check Rim Wear? Some wheels have wear indicators built in.
Brake Power Modulators Aftermarket Brake Systems Your bike may be equipped with a brake modulator, a device installed between the front brake lever and the front brake to reduce initial front braking force. (Brake power modulators are also used on the rear brake of some bicycles.) WARNING DO NOT MODIFY YOUR BIKE IN ANY WAY TO MOUNT BRAKES SYSTEMS. MOD IF CATIONS CAN DAMAGE YOUR BIKE LEADING TO AN ACCIDENT. YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED.
PART II SECTION b. INTENDED USE WARNING UNDERSTAND YOUR BIKE AND ITS INTENDED USE. CHOOSING THE WRONG BICYCLE FOR YOUR PURPOSE CAN BE HAZARDOUS. USING YOUR BIKE THE WRONG WAY IS DANGEROUS. No one type of bicycle is suited for all purposes. Your retailer can help you pick the “right tool for the job” and help you understand its limitations. There are many types of bicycles and many variations within each type. We make many types of mountain, road, racing, hybrid, touring, cyclocross and tandem bicycles.
High-Performance Road MODELS SuperSix EVO, Super Six, System Six, Slice Carbon, Six Carbon, Six, Slice, Synapse Carbon, Synapse, CAAD 10, CAAD9, CAAD 8, CAAD 7, Ironman, CAPO, All Road Tandems (see next page) ASTM Condition 1 ASTM F2043 “This is a set of conditions for the operation of a bicycle on a regular paved or smooth surface where tires may unitentionally lose ground contact.” Suitable for road riding (only) Graphic: “Suitable for road riding (only)” INTENDED To be ridden on paved roads only.
PART II (continued from previous page...) High-Performance Road MODEL All Road Tandems INTENDED Are designed to be ridden on paved roads only. They are not designed for mountain biking or off-road use. Road tandems are designed for touring with racks and panniers. NOT INTENDED Road tandem should not be taken off-road or used as a mountain tandem. Please read your Tandems Owner’s Manual Supplement.
GENERAl purpose riding MODEL Hooligan, Street, Touring, Trekking, Adventure, Comfort, Quick, Quick Full Carbon, Bad Boy, ON All Cyclocross (see next page) All Street and Mountain Tandems (see next page) ASTM Condition 2 ASTM F2043 For off-road riding and jumps less than 12” (30cm) “This is a set of conditions for the operation of a bicycle that includes Condition1 as well as unpaved and gravel roads and trails withmoderate grades.
PART II (continued from previous page...) MODEL All Cyclocross INTENDED For cyclocross riding, training and racing. Cyclocross involves riding on a variety of terrain and surfaces including dirt or mud surfaces. Cyclocross bikes also work well for all weather rough road riding and commuting. NOT INTENDED For off road or mountain bike use, or jumping. Cyclocross riders and racers dismount before reaching an obstacle, carry their bike over the obstacle and then remount.
Cross-Country, Marathon, Hardtails MODEL Trigger 26, CO2, 29’ER, Rush Carbon, Rush, Taurine, Caffeine, Scalpel, F-Series, Law Enforcement, Flash, Trail, Trail SL ASTM Condition 3 ASTM F2043 For rough off-road riding and jumps less than 24” (61 cm) “This is a set of conditions for the operation of a bicycle that includes Condition 1 and Condition 2 as well as rough trails, rough un-paved roads, and rough technical areas and unimproved trails. Jumps of 60 cm (24 in.) or less are anticipated.
PART II ALL MOUNTAIN, OverMountain MODELS Trigger 29, Prophet, Jekyll, Rize, RZ, Moto, Scarlet, Claymore ASTM Condition 4 ASTM F2043 For extreme off-road riding “This is a set of conditions for operation of a bicycle that includes Conditions 1,2, and 3 and downhill grades on rough trails as speeds in excess of 40km/h (25 mph) or extreme jumping or both. Use of a bicycle in these conditions is strongly dependent on rider experience and skills.
GRAVITY, FREERIDE, DOWNHILL, DIRT JUMP MODELS Gemini, Perp, Judge Includes Chase dirt jump models (see next page) For extreme riding User caution advised CONDITION 5 Bikes designed for jumping, hucking, high speeds, or aggressive riding on rougher surfaces, or landing on flat surfaces. However, this type of riding is extremely hazardous and puts unpredictable forces on a bicycle which may overload the frame, fork, or parts.
PART II (continued from previous page...) MODELS All CHASE dirt jump models INTENDED For man-made dirt jumps, ramps, skate parks other predictable obstacles and terrain where riders need and use skill and bike control, rather than suspension. Dirt Jumping bikes are used much like heavy duty BMX bikes. A Dirt Jumping bike does not give you skills to jump! Read our “Freeride & Downhill” warning. See page 64. The same message is true.
SECTION C. MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDING Bike Types WARNING PICK A MOUNTAIN BIKE FOR HOW YOU WILL RIDE. See also APPENDIX B. Maximum Fork Length. See also SECTION B. Intended Use. There are now many different kinds of “mountain bikes.” Cannondale makes mountain bikes ranging from the light, nimble Rush and Scalpels, designed for cross country (XC) racing, to our rugged, long-travel freeride bikes.
PART II Suspension Stay In Control Suspension will increase the handling capabilities and comfort of your bicycle. This enhanced capability may allow you to ride faster, particularly on rough or bumpy surfaces. As common sense tells you, increased speed brings increased risk. WARNING FAILURE TO RIDE IN CONTROL COULD RESULT IN A FALL LEADING TO SERIOUS INJURY, PARALYSIS, OR DEATH.
Shifting Gears While Pedaling CAUTION Shifting under extreme pedaling pressure puts a great amount of stress on components. While most components can withstand an occasional “power shift,” continual power shifting will most assuredly damage some part of your drivetrain. Whenever possible, ease up on your pedals when shifting.
PART II Freeriding & Downhill WARNING FREERIDING AND OTHER FORMS OF “EXTREME RIDING” RE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. Freeriding, jumping, hucking, dirt jumping, mountaincross, downhill, slalom, slopestyle, urban or street riding or other evolving forms of extreme or hard core mountain biking are inherently dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. Wear all safety gear and be sure your bike is in excellent condition.
(continued from previous page...) Let’s get another thing straight. Buying a Freeride bike does not make you any better. Do not confuse the built-in capabilities of equipment with your own capabilities, which must be learned. Keeping your bike and all its components in good working order is critical, and it’s up to you to maintain and inspect it. Even so, your sweet rig isn’t going to last forever. Nothing does, particularly bikes and parts that are built to minimize weight and then are subjected to abuse.
PART II section d. inspect for safety WARNING FREQUENT INSPECTION OF YOUR BIKE IS IMPORTANT TO YOUR SAFETY. FOLLOW THE PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST BEFORE EVERY RIDE. In this section, we will do our best to outline some material science basics and explain how they relate to your bicycle, some of the trade offs made in designing your bicycle, what you can expect from your bicycle and provide important, basic guidelines on how you maintain and inspect it. See the back cover of this manual.
1. Understanding Metals Metals are subject to fatigue. With enough cycles of use, at high enough loads, metals will eventually develop cracks that lead to breakage. It is very important that you read Metal Fatigue 101 next. Steel is the traditional material for building bicycle frames. It has good characteristics, but in high performance bicycles, steel has been largely replaced by aluminum and some titanium. The main factor driving this change is interest by enthusiast customers in lighter bicycles.
PART II When all metal bikes are crashed you will usually see some evidence of this ductility in bent, buckled or folded metal. It is now common for the main frame to be made of metal and the fork of carbon fiber. See the composites 101 section below. The relative ductility of metals and the lack of ductility of carbon fiber means that in a crash scenario you can expect some bending or bucking in the metal but none in the carbon.
A few things to think about: ONCE A CRACKS STARTS IT CAN GROW AND GROW FAST. Think about the crack as forming a pathway to failure. This means that any crack is potentially dangerous and will only become more dangerous. SIMPLE RULE 1: If you find crack, replace the part. CORROSION SPEEDS DAMAGE. Cracks grow more quickly when they are in a corrosive environment. Think about the corrosive solution as further weakening and extending the crack.
PART II Fatigue Is Not A Perfectly Predictable Science Aluminum Frame Inspection Fatigue is not a perfectly predictable science, but we can give you some general factors to help you determine how often you need to inspect (or have your retailer inspect) your bicycle. The more you fit the “shorten product life” profile, the more frequent your need to inspect. The more you fit the “lengthen product life” profile, the less frequent your need to inspect. 2. Inspect the whole frame carefully for cracks.
Other Suspension Forks WARNING If you have a fork made by a third party, please read and follow the inspection instructions contained in the manual that covers that fork. If you do not have the third party’s manual, get one now. DO NOT RIDE A FRAME OR FORK WITH ANY CRACK, EVEN A SMALL ONE. RIDING A CRACKED FRAME OR FORK COULD LEAD TO YOUR FRAME/FORK BREAKING, WITH RISK OF ACCIDENT, SERIOUS INJURY, PARALYSIS OR DEATH.
PART II 2. Understanding Composites (Carbon Fiber) What Are The Limits Of Composites? Well designed “composite” or carbon fiber bicycles and components have long fatigue lives, usually better than their metal equivalents. All riders must understand a fundamental reality of composites. Composite materials constructed of carbon fibers are strong and light, but when crashed or overloaded, carbon fibers do not bend, they break.
Composite Frame, Fork, and Component Inspection • Cracks: Inspect for cracks, broken, or splintered areas. Any crack is serious. Do not ride any bicycle or component that has a crack of any size. Delamination: Delamination is serious damage. Composites are made from layers of fabric. Delamination means that the layers of fabric are no longer bonded together. Do not ride any bicycle or component that has any delamination. These are some delamination clues: • • A cloudy or white area.
PART II 3. understanding components A great slogan to discuss with your retailer as you consider changing components: “Strong, Light, Cheap – Pick two.” It is often necessary to remove and disassemble components in order to properly and carefully inspect them. Most customers will use this component list as a checklist. The intention here is to tell you what parts, and what area of each part, most need inspection. Insist that your mechanic do such inspections.
■ Seat Post ■ Pedals Remove from seat tube and remove from saddle. Disassemble the head/saddle clamp assembly. Clean and inspect all parts carefully for cracks. Remove both from the crankset. Clean and inspect carefully for cracks. Pay particular attention to the pedal axle. See clipless pedal manufacturer’s instructions for information on cleat wear and replacement. Pay particular attention to the bolt (or bolts) that clamp the saddle in place.
PART II Bicycle Lifespan Useful Life of Lightweight Frames Nothing Lasts Forever, Including Your Bike When the useful life of your bike or its components is over, continued use is hazardous. Every Cannondale bicycle frame and the components attached to the frame have a finite, limited useful life.
Section E. Maintenance Cleaning Use only water and dishwashing liquid. On suspension forks and shocks, cover adjustment knobs and air filter (if equipped) with a clean plastic bag secured temporarily with a rubber band or masking tape. WARNING INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ARE IMPORTANT TO YOUR SAFETY AND THE LONGEVITY OF YOUR BICYCLE. Before wiping away dirt, use an ordinary water hose to gently spray off heavy soils and dirt.
PART II Lubrication Tightening Torques After cleaning your bike you should lubricate it. The chain should be lubricated. Consult with your retailer to choose among the many types of chain lubes best suited to your climate and riding conditions. The pivot points on your derailluers should be lubricated. Apply a small drop of oil to each pivot point and wipe off the excess. Correct tightening torque for the fasteners (bolts, screws, nuts) on your bicycle is very important to your safety.
Bicycle Repair / Work Stands The clamping jaws of a bike stand can generate a crushing force strong enough to seriously damage your frame. See next figure. CAUTION Never place your bike in a bike stand by clamping the frame. Incorrect Place your bike in a stand by extending the seat post and positioning the stand clamp on the extended seat post. Don’t extend beyond the MINIMUM INSERT line marked on the seat post.
PART II APPLYING FRAME PROTECTION Some areas of your bicycle require protection from abrasion. If protection is not in place, damage can result. Please consult with your Cannondale Dealer about the replacement location and position of these various frame protections. Also, adhesive frame guards are not a fix for incorrectly installed or routed cables or lines. If you find that applied guards are wearing out very quickly, consult with your Cannondale Dealer about the routing on your bike.
Right Chainstay Plate Chainstay Protector On mountain or road bikes, the chainstay plate (1) is located on the right chainstay (2) just behind the chainrings (3). This plate protects the carbon (composite) chainstay from damage in the event the chain is dropped from the chainring. On mountain or road bikes, the chainstay protector is a clear, adhesive film applied to the upper surface of the right chainstay. This protector can prevent damage to the chainstay caused by the chain. Figure 27. Figure 25.
PART II Water Bottles Side impacts to a water bottle or cage can result in damage threaded inserts due to the leverage on a very small area. In a crash, certainly the last thing you should be worried about is saving the threaded inserts in your frame. However, when you are storing or transporting your bike, take steps to prevent situations where a water bottle may be hit or bumped by a strong force that would cause damage. Remove bottle and cage when you are packing your bike for travel.
section F. CANNONDALE limited warranty alteration, modification, an accident or other abnormal, excessive, or improper use. This limited warranty applies only to bicycles purchased in fully assembled and adjusted condition from Authorized Cannondale Retailers or other outlets specifically authorized by Cannondale to distribute Cannondale bicycles. Damage resulting from normal wear and tear, including the results of fatigue, is not covered.
PART II Product Registration Serial Number We encourage you to register your bike with us. The serial number for your bike is located : Registration helps us ensure your continued satisfaction as well as enabling us to contact you with important product recall safety information at a later time. • On the bike’s bottom bracket. It is a 7-character barcoded label like the one shown below. • The serial number should also appear on your original sales receipt.
Authorized Distributors SLOVENIA: Sport trade 2000 d.o.o., Celovska 280, Ljubljana, 1000, tel: +386-15104940, fax: +385-151 82163, email: sandi.gabrovsek@siol.net, http://www.funsports.si The following lists are subject to change without notice: SLOVAKIA: Aspire Sports s.r.o., Karasek 11, Brno, 62100, tel: +420 532 199 540, fax: +420 532 199 554, email: Marian.Materna@aspire.cz, http://www.aspire.cz BELARUS: Sinij Medved, Osipenko 2, 92, 220053, Minsk, tel: +375 29 621 86 07, email: contact@velozona.
PART II CHILE: Inversiones Intercycles Ltda., Av. Neuva Las Condes, 12.270 #101, Santiago, Chile, South America, tel: 562-215-3470, fax: 562-217-3167, email: cycles@cannondale.cl NEW ZEALAND: WH Worrall, 43 Felix Street, Penrose, Auckland, New Zealand; tel: (649) 636 0641; email: office@worrall.co.nz PANAMA: Latin Bikes S.A., Calle 50 Final y Vía Cincuentenario, Edificio Adelina, Local #1, San Francisco, Panama, tel: (507) 60902002 COSTA RICA: Xcesso S.A.
Australian Consumer Law Frame Warranty (frame, fork structure, swing arms) Limited Warranty Statement for Australia (applies to goods sold after 1 January 2012) Cannondale frames (except frames for Freeride, and Dirt Jumping bikes- see below) are warranted by Cycling Sports Group Australia Pty Ltd against manufacturing defect (defined as a defect in materials or workmanship as delivered with the product) for the lifetime of the original owner.
PART II For frame replacement under the limited warranty, please contact the authorised Cannondale dealer from which the bicycle was purchased and that authorised Cannondale dealers will contact us to initiate a warranty claim on your behalf. Frames must be returned for inspection at the customer’s expense and include a copy of the original and dated purchasing receipt.
section G. PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST Are your tires properly inflated? Tires must inflated to the recommended pressure. (See PART I, Section 4.G Tires and Tubes). Are your wheels true? Lift each end of the bike and spin each wheel. Does the space between the rim and the brake pads, or the tire and the frame, remain nearly the same size as the wheel turns? Are your spokes tight? (See PART I, Section 1.C Mechanical Safety Check). WARNING FOLLOW THIS CHECKLIST BEFORE EVERY RIDE.
PART II APPENDIX A. Cannondale BB30 Standard Bicycle Frames Certain Cannondale bicycle frames are manufactured using the BB30 standard. See http://www. BB30standard.com/. It may be possible to convert a BB30 frame for use with standard English/68mm or 73mm bottom bracket cranksets using the appropriate Cannondale frame adapter. Other adapters, ones not specifically approved for use by Cannondale, may void your warranty. Figure 31.
APPENDIX B. Maximum Fork Length (Mountain Bikes) Maximum Fork Length is an important frame safety testing specification for front suspension mountain bikes. You must observe the measurement when installing headset parts, headset adapters, installing and adjusting a fork, and selecting replacement forks.
PART II APPENDIX C. Care And Maintenance Of Carbon Fiber Seat Posts 3 Inserting the Seat Post Check the seat tube (1) opening , and slot (2) carefully for sharp edges or burrs. Anything that can scratch, score, gouge, or cut the seat post can cause serious damage leading to breakage of the seat post. Sharp edges or burrs can be removed by hand by lightly sanding with a very fine sandpaper (400 grit). The should feel very smooth without jagged edges or nicks.
Periodic Seat Post Inspection Frequent seat post checks are necessary to identify the problems that can lead to an accident. Regularly or in conjunction with your regular bike maintenance routine, do the following: 1. 2 4. KEEP THE SEAT POST’S “MINIMUM INSERT” BELOW THE TOP OF THE SEAT TUBE. 5. USE A TORQUE WRENCH TO TIGHTEN SEAT POST BINDER AND ALL SADDLE MOUNTING FASTENERS. Remove the seat binder from the frame seat post. Clean the binder, the seat post, and inside the seat tube. Use a clean dry towel.
PART II How does it affect my bike? The seat post must not be forced beyond the limit depth. Attempting to insert the seat post beyond the limit can damage the seat post and/or frame. Seat Post Insert Limit To fit some riders who require a lower seat it may be necessary to cut the seat post.
Minimum Seat Post Insert Depth How Does It Affect My Bike? You must always have at least the required minimum length of seat post inserted inside the frame. WARNING SEAT POST (Saddle not shown) IF YOUR FRAME HAS A MINIMUM SEAT POST INSERT DEPTH, MAKE SURE THE SPECIFIED LENGTH SEAT POST IS INSTALLED INSIDE THE SEAT TUBE AT ALL TIMES. ASK YOUR CANNONDALE DEALER ABOUT THIS SPECIFICATION.
PART II APPENDIX D. Care And Maintenance Of Carbon Fiber Forks & Stem WARNING ALWAYS SEEK PROFESSIONAL SERVICE - Incorrectly installing, adjusting, servicing, or assembling the wrong parts (handlebar stem, compression assembly, brake bolt, spacers and spacer positions) on your bicycle fork can cause serious damage to it. Any failure in the fork, headset, handlebar stem, or compression assembly while riding can cause you to have a serious accident.
PARTS OF A TYPICAL ROAD STEM PARTS OF A TYPICAL CARBON ROAD FORK COMPRESSION ASSEMBLY STEERER TUBE CROWN RACE (A Headset part) BRAKE BOLT STEERER TUBE HANDLEBAR STEM SPACERS 55mm BRAKE MOUNT CROWN HEADSET TOP CAP HEAD TUBE MAXIMUM STACK HEIGHT LEG NOTE: Carbon fiber bicycle forks and stems come in many different shapes. The basic parts common to most carbon forks and handlebar stem systems are shown here. Your fork appearance and shape may vary from what is shown.
PART II (continued from previous page) Oem vs. Aftermarket Fork Parts Compatibility What You Have To Know When Installing Or Adjusting Any Handlebar Stem Your bicycle was shipped by Cannondale with a compatible component specification. The fork, the handlebar stem, the headset parts (i.e. spacers, bearings, crown race), and the compression assembly are parts of the system.
INSTALLED CORRECTLY 48 mm Do not grease. KP017/ REV. 1 6Nm, 53InLbs Expander at lower stem bolt 2 - 3 mm STEERER TUBE Top cap at upper stem bolt STEM 55mm HEADSET SPACERS HEADSET TOP CAP EXPLODED VIEW HEADTUBE MAXIMUM STACK HEIGHT Measure from the top edge of the headtube to the bottom edge of the stem. REV. 2 4Nm, 35InLbs TOP CAP EXPANDER BOLT EXPANDER SI Compression Assembly KP017/ Instructions The following procedure should only be completed by a professional bike mechanic. 1.
PART II APPENDIX E. Bicycle Racks Bicycle automobile racks are available from many different manufacturers and many different rack designs exist. They are convenient devices to transport your bike. However, any bicycle rack has the potential to seriously damage your bicycle. Damage can occur immediately due to some aspect of an incompatible or poor rack design. Damage can occur after repeated mounting, and dis-mounting. Damage can also happen while the the bike is being transported in the rack.
TYPE OF RACK DESIGN RECOMMENDATION & CAUTIONS CLAMPS ON TIRES / WHEELS ONLY Suitable for both carbon and aluminum frames This type does not use clamps on any other part of the frame or fork. This is the best system design because there is no potential cracking or crushing damage to the frame or fork. Chafing wear is avoided. FLOATING FORK MOUNT & REAR WHEEL TRAY Suitable for both carbon and aluminum frames This design functions exactly as a quick release on your bike.
PART II APPENDIX f. USING Bicycle Trainers Trainers: Risk To Children WARNING Potential Damage KEEP CHILDREN AWAY FROM BICYCLES MOUNTED ON STATIONARY TRAINERS, EVEN WHEN THE BICYCLE IS NOT IN USE. CAUTION Improperly mounting a bike in a trainer, or using one that is not compatible with your particular bike frame can cause serious damage. Spinning wheels attract children’s attention and present a serious risk to young fingers.
CANNONDALE AMERICAS Cycling Sports Group, Inc. 761 Main Avenue, Building G 2nd Floor, Norwalk CT, 06851, USA (Voice): 1-800-BIKE-USA (Fax): 814-623-6173 custserv@cyclingsportsgroup.com CANNONDALE EUROPE Cycling Sports Group Europe, B.V. mail: Postbus 5100 visits: Hanzepoort 27 7570 GC, Oldenzaal, Netherlands Tel: +41 61.4879380 Fax: +31 54.1514240 Email: servicedeskeurope@cyclingsportsgroup.
131264 (01/15) WARNING FOLLOW THIS CHECKLIST BEFORE EVERY RIDE. IF YOU HAVE ANY REASON TO SUSPECT THAT YOUR BICYCLE IS NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY, DO NOT RIDE IT. Have it inspected by an Authorized Cannondale Retailer. To locate your nearest Authorized Cannondale Retailer call the 1-800-BIKE-USA. Failure to follow this checklist and to have any potential problem inspected could lead to an accident, with risk of serious injury, paralysis or death.