GT BICYCLES OWNERS MANUAL 131515 (04/15)
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST
Are you wearing a helmet and other appropriate
equipment and clothing, such as protective glasses
and gloves? Do not wear loose clothing that could become
entangled in the bicycle (See PART I, Section 2.A The Basics).
Are your seatpost and stem securely fastened? Twist
wheel between your knees. The stem must not move in the
steering tube. Similarly, the seatpost must be secure in the seat
tube (See PART I, Section 3. Fit).
Are you visible to motorists? If you are riding at dusk,
dawn or at night, you must make yourself visible to motorists.
clothing (See PART I, Section 2.E Night Riding and PART II,
A. Important Safety Information).
Is it raining or wet? If so, be more cautious. Your braking
distances will increase, and your tires’ grip on the road will
decrease. Remember that motorists’ visibility decreases with
bad weather (See PART I, Section 2.D Wet Weather Riding
and PART II, A. Important Safety Information).
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).
Are your wheels’ quick-releases properly fastened? Be
sure to read the section on proper operation of quick-release
skewers (See PART I, Section 4.A Wheels).
Are your front and rear brakes functioning properly?
With V-brakes, the quick release “noodle” must be properly
installed. With cantilever brakes, the quick release straddle
cable must be properly attached. With caliper brakes the quick
release lever must be closed. With any rim brake, the brake
levers hitting the handlebar grip (See PART I, Section 4.C
Brakes).
does not move too close to the handlebar grip, and there is
close to the handlebar grip. With any disc brakes, the brake
levers hitting the handlebar grip (See PART I, Section 4.C
Brakes).
How do your clipless pedals work today? Clip in and
out of your pedals before you begin. Experienced cyclists do.
of factors including dirt, mud, lubrication, spring tension and
wear. By clipping in and out you will check the function and
have a fresh memory of how they feel (See PART I, Section
4.E Pedals).
How recently were your frame, fork and components
inspected? Never ride a frame, fork or components with any
crack or damage. (See PART II, Section D. Inspect For Safety).
