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40
BRAKES
The correct adjustment and operation of your scooter's brakes is extremely important for safe operation. Brakes should be
checked for effective operation before every ride. Frequent checking of adjustment is necessary as the control cables will
stretch and the brake pads will become worn with use.
Never ride a scooter unless the brakes are functioning properly.
There are several of hand operated scooter brakes in common use: sidepull calipers, cantilever calipers, linearpull, Band,
and disc brake. Both utilize a handlebar mounted lever which controls a cable to operate the brake. Sidepull brakes
are mounted to the frame or fork via a single pivot point. Cantilever brakes use two brake pivot arms, each mounted on
separate pivots on either side of the frame/fork.
Inspection
Brake levers should be checked for tightness at least every three
months. They should be set in a comfortable position within easy
reach of the rider's hands, and must not be able to move on the
handlebar. Some brake levers make use of a reach adjustment screw,
which can be altered to the distance between the handlebar grip and
the lever, as required. The brake pads should be checked for correct
positioning and tightness before every ride, and the various bolts and
nuts at least every three months. Squeeze each brake lever to make
sure they operate freely and that the brake pads press hard enough
on the rims to stop the bike. There should be about 1mm - 2mm
clearance between each pad and the rim when the brakes are not
applied. The brake pads must be properly centered for maximum
contact with the rim. Replace the brake pads if they are over worn so
that the grooves or pattern cannot be seen. The brake cable wires
should be checked for kinks, rust, broken strands or frayed ends. The
outer casing should also be checked for kinks, stretched coils and
other damage. If the cables are damaged, they should be replaced.
Cantilever Brakes
Brake Cable
Brake Arm
Straddle Cable
39
HEADSET
Inspection
The headset bearing adjustment should be checked every month.
This is important as it is the headset which locks the fork into the
frame, and if loose, can cause damage or result in an accident.
While standing over the frame top tube with both feet on the ground,
apply the front brake firmly and rock the scooter back and forth; if you
detect any looseness in the headset, it will need adjustment. Check
that the headset is not over tight by slowly rotating the fork to the right
and left. If the fork tends to stick or bind at any point, the bearings
are too tight.
Note: If your bike is equipped with a threadless headset, please see
a qualified specialist for repairs and adjustments.
Adjustment
Loosen the headset top locknut or remove it completely along with the
reflector bracket, if fitted. Turn the adjusting cup clockwise until finger
tight. Replace the lock washer or reflector bracket and re-tighten the
lock nut using a suitable wrench.
Note: Do not over tighten or bearing damage will occur.
Lock Nut
Lock Washer
Adjusting Cup/Cone
Ball Retainer
Top Head Cup
Bottom Head Cup
Ball Retainer
Crown Race
Always make sure that the headset is properly
adjusted and that the headset locknut is fully
tightened before riding.
Warning: Over tightening the stem bolt or headset
assembly may cause damage to the scooter and/or
injury to the rider.
Standard Headset