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Adjusting the seatpost quick release mechanism. The action of the quick release cam squeezes the seat collar around
the seat post to hold the seat post securely in place. 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. Less than half a turn
of the tension-adjusting nut can make the difference between safe and unsafe clamping force.
WARNING: The full force of the cam action is needed to clamp the seatpost 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 sea tpost safely.
WARNING: If you can fully close the quick release without wrapping your fingers around 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
1. How Brakes Work. It’s very important to your safety that you learn and remember which brake lever controls
which brake on your bike. The braking action of a bicycle is a function of the friction between the brake
surfaces - usually the brake pads and the wheel rim. To make sure that you have maximum friction available,
keep your wheel rims and brake pads 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.
Most brakes have some form of quick-release mechanism to allow the brake pads to clear the
tire when a wheel is removed or reinstalled. When the brake quick release is in the open
position, the brakes are inoperative. Ask your dealer to make sure that you understand the
way the brake quick release works on your bike (see figs. 11. 12, 13 & 14) and check each
time to make sure both brakes work correctly before you get on the bike.
fig. 10
fig. 11