BICYCLE OWNER’S MANUAL WARNING THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY, PERFORMANCE AND SERVICE INFORMATION.
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Use of this manual Other Manuals & Instructions Many of the components on your bike were not made by GT. When available from the manufacturer, GT 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. GT Bicycle Owner’s Manual This manual contains important information affecting your safety and the proper use of bicycles.
PART I CONTENTS PART I PART II GENERAL WARNING.......................... 4 Section A. Important safety info........................................... 42-51 A Special Note For Parents......... 4 A Wide Range of Injuries Are Possible......................42 Bicycles Cannot Protect You......................................42 Bicycling Inherent Risk..............................................42 Warning Label...........................................................43 Riding in Traffic, Commuting......
APPENDIX Section C. Mountain Bike Riding. 61-64 A. Cable Detangler...................................................90 B. Maximum Fork Length.........................................91 C. Care And Maintenance Of Carbon Fiber Seat Posts.......................................92 D. Care And Maintenance Of Carbon Fiber Forks And Stems............................96 E. Bicycle Racks......................................................100 F. Using Bicycle Trainers........................................
PART I A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS GENERAL WARNING 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.
section 1. first 1.B - Safety First 1. Always wear an approved helmet when riding your bike, and follow the helmet manufacturer’s instructions for fit, use and care. 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 section 2. safety 1.D - First Ride 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. 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. Most serious bicycle injuries involve head injuries which might have been avoided if the rider had worn an appropriate helmet. 3.
PART I 2.B - Riding Safety 1. 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. Never carry a passenger, and before installing a child carrier or trailer, check with you dealer or the bicycle manufacturer to make sure the bicycle is designed for it.
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. IF RIDING IN TRAFFIC: • Be predictable.
PART I 2.G - Changing Components Or Adding Accessories (continued from previous page...) We recommend against this type of riding because of the increased risks; but if you choose to take the risk, at least: • Take lessons from a competent instructor first • Start with easy learning exercises and slowly develop your skills before trying more difficult or dangerous riding.
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. WARNING Figure 5. Interrupted Seat Tube 2. Front and Back Adjustment The saddle can be adjusted forward or back to help you get the optimal position on the bike.
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 • Hex nuts or hex key bolts which are threaded on to or into the hub axle (bolt-on wheel, fig. 10) WARNING It’s important to your safety, performance and enjoyment to understand how things work on your bicycle. 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.
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. Secondary retention devices fall into two basic categories: a. The clip-on type is a part which the manufacturer adds to the front wheel hub or front fork. b.
b. Adjusting the cam-and-cup mechanism (fig. 8b) (2) If your bike has cam action front wheel retention, move the cam lever from the locked or CLOSED position to the OPEN position (figs. 8a & b). If your bike has through bolt or bolt-on front wheel retention, loosen the fastener(s) a few turns counter-clockwise using an appropriate wrench, lock key or the integral lever. The cam-and-cup system on your front wheel will have been correctly adjusted for your bicycle by your dealer.
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. (5) On a single speed or an internal gear hub, replace the chain on the chainring; pull the wheel back in the dropouts so that it is straight in the frame and the chain has about 1/4 inches of up-and-down play. (4) With a cam action mechanism, move the quickrelease lever to the OPEN position (fig. 8b).
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.
pedal. If your bicycle has this type of highperformance pedal, you must take extra care to avoid serious injury from the pedals’ sharp surfaces. Based on your riding style or skill level, you may prefer a less aggressive pedal design, or chose to ride with shin pads. Your dealer can show you a number of options and make suitable recommendations. Shifting from an easier, “slower” gear (like 1) to a harder, “faster” gear (like 2 or 3) is called an upshift.
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 Not all bicycles can be safely retrofitted with some types of suspension systems.
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 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. The following are examples of the type of service you should perform yourself. All other service, maintenance and repair should be performed in a properly equipped facility by a qualified bicycle mechanic using the correct tools and procedures specified by the manufacturer. 1.
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. “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. A Wide Range Of Bicycling Injuries Are Possible The risk cannot be taken away or eliminated.
Warning Label 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. Do not remove it. If you bought an older bike or are refinishing one of our bikes, contact us for a no charge replacement. Riding In Traffic, Commuting WARNING RIDING IN TRAFFIC (AND COMMUTING) IS HAZARDOUS AND YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED DOING IT. As noted in PART I of this manual, you must learn and obey local traffic laws.
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 DO NOT RIDE ON THE AERO HANDLEBAR EXTENSIONS IN TRAFFIC OR ON DIFFICULT ROADS. 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.
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.) If a rider applies the front brake too strongly or too suddenly, these devices can help reduce the risk of locking the front wheel or throwing the rider.
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 Tachyon, Traffic, Baller, Gutterball, GTR Alloy, GTR Carbon, GTS, Corsa, Peace Tour, Strike, Attack, Revenge, EdgeTi, Zum 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.
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GENERAl purpose riding MODEL Palomar, Aggressor, Timberline, Chucker, Laguna, Transeo, GTR CX, EdgeCX, Corsa Disc, Grade, Grade Carbon All Cyclocross (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. Contact with irregular terrain and loss of tire contact with the ground may occur.
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 Avalanche, Karakoram, Backwoods, Bump, Karakoram, Peace 9R, Xizang, Zaskar AL, Zaskar LE, Zaskar Carbon, Zaskar 100, Marathon, Helion, Helion Carbon, Sensor, Sensor 9R, Sensor Carbon 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.
PART II All Mountain, Enduro MODELS Force AL, Force Carbon, Force LE, Distortion, Sensor X, Sanction 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, Downhill, Freeride, MTBMX, Dual Slalom, 4X MODELS For extreme riding User caution advised Fury AL, Fury Carbon, Ruckus, Ruckus DJ, La Bomba 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...) Dirt Jump 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. Off-Road Riding Off road riding usually involves many, many variables such as constantly changing traction, obstacles, changes in line of sight, up hill, down hill, soft surfaces, dry surfaces, wet surfaces.
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 GRAVITY, Freeriding & Downhill Riding WARNING Gravity, FREERIDING AND OTHER FORMS OF “EXTREME RIDING” ARE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. Gravity, 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. One can design a part that is so strong that fatigue life is nearly infinite. This requires a lot of material and a lot of weight. Any structure that must be light and strong will have a finite fatigue life. Aircraft, race cars, motorcycles: all have parts with finite fatigue lives.
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: • Unusual Noises: Either a crack or delamination can cause creaking noises while riding. Think about such a noise as a serious warning signal. A well maintained bicycle will be very quiet and free of creaks and squeaks. Investigate and find the source of any noise.
PART II 3. understanding components Discuss your needs and your profile very honestly with your retailer. Take these choices seriously and understand that you are responsible for the changes. 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 ■ Crankset Remove from seat tube and remove from saddle. Disassemble the head/saddle clamp assembly. Clean and inspect all parts carefully for cracks. Remove both sides from the bottom bracket. Clean and inspect all parts carefully for cracks. Examine both inside and outside surfaces. Pay particular attention to edges, shapes and changes of shape that are a part of your particular crankset design. Also check the area around the pedal mounting holes.
PART II Bicycle Lifespan Useful Life of Lightweight Frames Lightweight frames and components usually have shorter lives. For example, all aspects of use being identical, a lightweight frame will have a shorter life than a heavier frame. Nothing Lasts Forever, Including Your Bike When the useful life of your bike or its components is over, continued use is hazardous.
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 Before wiping away dirt, use an ordinary water hose to gently spray off heavy soils and dirt. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ARE IMPORTANT TO YOUR SAFETY AND THE LONGEVITY OF YOUR BICYCLE.
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 Incorrect Never place your bike in a bike stand by clamping the frame. 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 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 GT Dealer about the routing on your bike. Some areas of your bicycle require protection from abrasion. If protection is not in place, damage can result. Please consult with your Authorized GT Dealer about the replacement location and position of these various frame protections.
Right Chainstay Plate Chainstay Protector On mountain or road bikes, the chainstay plate is located on the right chainstay just behind the chainrings. 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.
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. GT limited warranty This limited warranty applies only to bicycles purchased in fully assembled and adjusted condition from Authorized GT Retailers or other outlets specifically authorized by GT to distribute GT bicycles. Damage resulting from normal wear and tear, including the results of fatigue, is not covered. Fatigue damage is a symptom of the frame being worn out through normal use. It is one kind of normal wear and tear, and it is the owner’s responsibility to inspect his/her bicycle.
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. See below. • The serial number should also appear on your original sales receipt.
GT AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS FAROE ISLANDS: Scan Bike APS, Frichsvej 17, DK-8600, Silkeborg, Denmark, tel: +454-056-8068, email: la@gt.dk, www.scan-bike.dk The following lists are subject to change without notice: FINLAND: Oy Sand and Sea, Fredrikinkatu 66 B20, 100 Helsinki, Finland, tel: +348-2072-09280, email: info@ sandsea.fi, www.sandsea.fi ARGENTINA: PG Bikes S.A., Av.Ciudad de Valparaiso 4815 ( X5016HM) Cordoba Argentina, tel: 54 351 4936060, fax: 54 351 4931003, email: carlos@karabitian.com.
PART II MALTA: Pedal Power, 56 Triq Is-Stazzjon, B’Kara BKR 12, Malta, tel: +356 212 27265, email:pedpower@go.net.mt, http://www.pedpowermalta.com SLOVAKIA: Aspire Sports s.r.o.. Karasek 11, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic, tel: +420 532 199 540, info@bikecentrum. cz, email:aspire@aspire.cz MONGOLIA: CMGTS Co., Ltd, Khan-Uul District, 1-r khoroo, Odod Khothon, 37B Building,Flat #0, Mongolia, tel: + 97 6113 28317, fax: + 97 6113 28277, email: noojorgil@ gmail.com SLOVENIA: Factory store d.o.o.
Australian Consumer Law Frame Warranty (frame, fork structure, swing arms) GT frames (except frames for Freeride, and Dirt Jumping bikes- see below) are warranted by Monza Imports Bicycle against manufacturing defect (defined as a defect in materials or workmanship as delivered with the product) for the lifetime of the original owner. Limited Warranty Statement for Australia (applies to goods sold after 1 January 2012) GT frames for Freeride and Dirt Jumping bikes (such as Fury, Sanction, Distortion.
PART II If a frame is replaced under these provisions, the warranty period applicable to this replacement expires at the expiry date applicable to the original frame’s warranty time limit. (continued from previous page) For frame replacement under the limited warranty, please contact the Authorized GT Dealer from which the bicycle was purchased and that Authorized GT Dealers will contact us to initiate a warranty claim on your behalf.
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. Cable Detangler Single cable casing Cable adjuster Cable splitter Upper cable (long casing) Barrel end Upper cable (short casing) Adjusting barrel Locknut Upper plate Minimum 3mm (3/32”) Bearing Set for maximum travel Keyed washer Football ends Lower plate Minimum 1mm (1/32”) Locknut Lower cable Lower cable until the bearing unit sits about 1mm above the lower plate. This is the correct position for the bearing unit.
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 4. Insert the seat post and tighten the seat binder to the specified torque with an accurate torque wrench. Consult the seat post manufacturer’s instructions for torque information. 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.
Periodic Seat Post Inspection 4. KEEP THE SEAT POST’S “MINIMUM INSERT” BELOW THE TOP OF THE SEAT TUBE. 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. 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. Do not use solvents. 2 Carefully inspect the seat post for damage (e.g.
PART II Seat Post Insert Limit 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. 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 GT DEALER ABOUT THIS SPECIFICATION.
PART II 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 What You Have To Know When Installing Or Adjusting Any Handlebar Stem (continued from previous page) Oem vs. Aftermarket Fork Parts Compatibility The steerer tube length for any GT carbon fiber fork with a carbon steerer is limited to the MAXIMUM STACK HEIGHT of 55mm. This affects the height adjustment of the stem. No spacers may be used on top of a stem. The stack measurement method is shown on the following page.
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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. FLOATING FORK MOUNT & REAR WHEEL TRAY This design functions exactly as a quick release on your bike. The rear wheel is clamped in a tray. No other clamps are used on any other part of the frame.
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. This kind of damage is not covered by the GT Limited Warranty.
APPENDIX G. Pegs Some models may come equipped with 2 or 4 pegs. To install pegs, DO NOT loosen or remove axle nuts. Check to make sure axle nuts are properly tightened before installing and tightenings the pegs. Thread the pegs on the axle over the axle nut, and insert a screwdriver or similar tool through the peg holes and tighten by turning the peg with the tool.
PART II Owner NOTES/RECORD Space for recording information about your bike (maintenance, set-up, free-form) 104
GT AMERICAS Cycling Sports Group, Inc. 172 Friendship Road, Bedford, Pennsylvania, 15522-6600, USA (Voice): 1-800-BIKE-USA (Fax): 814-623-6173 custserv@cyclingsportsgroup.com GT EUROPE Cycling Sports Group Europe, B.V. mail: Postbus 5100 visits: Hanzepoort 27 7570 GC, Oldenzaal, Netherlands (Voice): +41 61.4879380 (Fax): 31-5415-14240 servicedeskeurope@cyclingsportsgroup.
WARNING If you have any reason to suspect that your bicycle is not functioning properly do not ride it. Have it inspected by an authorized GT dealer. Failure to follow this checklist and have any problem inspected could lead to an accident, with risks of serious injury, paralysis or death.
