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other hazards and distractions. Everything changes when you ride on loose surfaces or in wet weather. Tire
adhesion is reduced, so the wheels have less cornering and braking traction and can lock up with less brake
force. Moisture or dirt on the brake pads reduces their ability to grip. The way to maintain control on loose or
wet surfaces is to go more slowly to begin with.
WARNING:
• Riding with improperly adjusted brakes or worn brake pads is dangerous and can result in serious
injury or death.
•
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.
•
Some bicycle brakes, such as disc brakes (fig. 10) and linear-pull brakes (fig.11), are extremely
powerful. Take extra care in becoming familiar with these brakes and exercise particular care when
using them.
•
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.
•
See the brake manufacturer’s instructions for installation, operation and care of your disk brake. If
you do not have the manufacturer’s instructions, see your dealer or contact the brake manufacturer.
D. Shifting Gears
Your multi-speed bicycle will have a derailleur drivetrain (see 2. below), an internal gear hub drivetrain (see 3. below)
or, in some special cases, a combination of the two.
WARNING: Never shift a derailleur onto the largest or the smallest sprocket if the derailleur is not
shifting smoothly. The derailleur may be out of adjustment and the chain could jam, causing you to lose
control and fall.