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Pag. 11.
3.5.3 Brakes
Visually inspect the brakes for proper cable routing (see fig. 14a).
Squeeze the brake levers. Brake levers should engage brake shoes at approximately half way through their
arc, or within about 2.5 cm. (an inch) of handlebar grip. To check proper brake lever travel, encircle the hand
grip with your thumb and forefinger, then squeeze the brake lever with the remaining three fingers of each
hand. If you can squeeze the levers so that they touch your forefinger, you should have a qualified service
centre adjust your brakes.
Make sure that the brake’s brake shoes are contacting the rim’s braking surface fully (see fig. 14b). Also
check that the shoes are not coming into contact with the tyre’s side wall whilst applying the brake. Riding
the bike with brake shoes contacting the side wall can cause the tyre to be damaged and the inner tube to
puncture, which may cause you to lose control and fall. Do not ride the bike until the brakes are properly
adjusted. See section 6.4: “Brakes” for details.
WARNING:
Riding with improperly adjusted brakes or worn brake shoes is dangerous and can result in serious injury.
3.5.4 Quick-releases
Check to see that the front wheel quick-release lever is properly adjusted and in the locked position.
See section 6.3: “Front wheel quick release” for details.
WARNING:
Riding with an improperly adjusted wheel quick-release can cause the wheel to wobble or disengage from
the bicycle, which can cause damage to the bicycle and serious injury.
3.5.5 Handlebar and saddle alignment
Are the saddle and handlebar stem correctly in line with the bike’s top tube and tight enough so that you
can’t twist them out of alignment?