Operation Manual
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After mounting the wheel and tightening the quick-release pull the brake
lever (a) and spin the wheel. The rotor should not drag on the brake caliper
or on the brake pads.
Before riding again check that you have not let any grease or
other lubricants get on the brake surfaces (b) or rotor while
mounting the wheel.
Check whether the brake pads hit the rotors or braking surfaces
of the rims. Make sure the wheel is properly seated and firmly
fixed in the drop-outs. Always do a brake test as described in
chapter “Before Every Ride“!
7.6 Special Features of Carbon Wheels
As carbon wheels (c) are made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic they come
with particular aerodynamic properties and low weight (d).
Make sure the maximum overall weight of rider, baggage (ruck-
sack) and bicycle does not exceed 100 kg. Carbon wheels are
generally not approved for trailer towing!
Check the condition of the brakes and make sure you only ride
with brake pads that are suitable for carbon rims!
Due to the particular behaviour of carbon wheels in wet condi-
tions, we strongly recommend the usage of conventional alu-
minium rims for riding in the rain or if there is a risk of rain.
In the wet braking on carbon rims is less effective; i.e. the brak-
ing power is severely reduced. Risk of an accident!
a
b
c
d
What to Bear in Mind When Braking With Carbon Wheels
As the braking surfaces are made of carbon, there are some things to keep
in mind. Only use brake pads that are suitable for carbon wheels, e.g. from
Shimano, Campagnolo or the wheel manufacturer, as they are designed to
suit such type of rims. Carbon brake pads usually wear down faster than
conventional brake pads. Keep in mind that the braking response of the rims
needs getting used to, in particular in wet conditions.
Therefore, test your brakes in a place free of traffic until you have full control
of your bicycle (a).
The brake surfaces of the carbon rims are sensitive to heat. Therefore, when
you are riding in the mountains, avoid any drag braking. Riding downhill e.g.
with a permanently activated rear wheel brake may heat up the material and
result in a deformation. The rim may sustain damage and the tyre may burst
or come off, thus causing an accident. Always use both brakes simultane-
ously and release them intermittently to allow the material to cool off.
Check the condition of the brake pads at short intervals, as they
wear down faster than with aluminium rims (b).
Keep the particularities of braking in mind, in particular when
riding in the mountains and in the wet!
a
b