Ascend Cruiser Manuel Du Propriétaire page 45

Use
❺
WARNING!
Failure to follow all local and state regulations and laws
pertaining to bicycle use as well as the safety warnings in this
manual may result in serious injury or death. Always follow all
local and state regulations and laws pertaining to bicycle use,
follow the safety warnings in this manual and use common
sense when riding the bicycle. Always conduct a pre-ride
check of the bicycle condition before riding.
BRAKE OPERATION
There are two types of braking systems for bicycles; foot
operated and hand operated.
Foot Operated Brakes
Foot operated brakes allow the rider to pedal forward to
accelerate the bicycle, and pedal backwards to brake. The
harder you push back on the pedals, the more braking force is
applied to the rear wheel. Figure 5.1
In most cases a foot operated brake is strong enough to lock up
(stop the wheel from turning) the rear wheel and cause the tire
to skid. While this will decelerate the bicycle quickly, it will also
cause unnecessary wear on the tire, and terrain, and can cause a
loss of steering control.
It is recommended to practice braking so that you have control
over how quickly the bicycle comes to a stop. It is also important
to know the environment that you are riding on. For example, a
dry paved road is very predictable when stopping. But if you add
rain, gravel, snow or anything else, the rider needs to be extra
careful, and allow extra stopping distance, and slow down
before turning. The rider should also be careful as terrain
changes to keep the bicycle at a controllable speed.
Some models may have a combination of foot and hand
operated brakes. It is OK to operate them at the same time or
independently. However, if the bicycle is equipped with a front
wheel hand brake, be careful to use front and rear brake
simultaneously, and avoid locking up the front wheel, as this can
cause a loss of steering control, and cause a crash. See hand
operated brakes on the next page for more detail.
Push backwards
to brake
Use 5
Figure 5.1
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