Bicycle Safety & Care Guide

Please Read Before Riding

Thank you for choosing AB Bikes.

For your safety and to keep your bicycle in good working condition, please read this guide carefully before riding. Proper use, regular checks and maintenance can help prevent accidents, damage and unnecessary repairs.

1. Check Your Bicycle Before Every Ride

Before every ride, always check:

· Both wheels are securely attached.

· The brakes are working properly.

· The tyres are properly inflated and free from visible damage.

· The handlebars and stem are securely tightened.

· The pedals are correctly installed and tightened.

· The seat and seat post are securely tightened.

· The gears are working correctly.

· There are no loose, broken or damaged parts.

· For e-bikes, the battery is securely locked in place and all electrical connections appear normal.

Do not ride the bicycle if you notice any safety issue, unusual noise or damaged component.

2. Bicycle Assembly

If your bicycle is supplied boxed or partially assembled, it must be correctly assembled before riding.

If you are not experienced with bicycle assembly, we strongly recommend having the bicycle assembled and checked by a qualified bicycle mechanic.

Particular attention should be given to:

· Front and rear wheel installation;

· Brake adjustment;

· Handlebar and stem installation;

· Pedal installation;

· Seat and seat post;

· Gear adjustment; and

· All bolts and safety-critical components.

Incorrect assembly can cause serious injury or damage to the bicycle.

3. Wear a Helmet

Always wear an approved and properly fitted bicycle helmet when riding.

Make sure the helmet is securely fastened and fits correctly.

Never ride without a properly fitted helmet.

4. Ride Safely

Always ride according to the road conditions and your own ability.

· Follow New Zealand road rules.

· Keep both hands available for safe control of the bicycle.

· Keep a safe distance from vehicles, pedestrians and other cyclists.

· Slow down before turning, stopping or riding over uneven surfaces.

· Be particularly careful on wet, slippery or loose surfaces.

· Avoid riding through deep water.

· Use appropriate lights and reflectors when riding in low-light conditions.

· Do not use a mobile phone while riding.

· Do not ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

· Always maintain a safe speed appropriate for the conditions.

5. Gear Changing

Correct gear changing helps protect the bicycle’s drivetrain and provides a smoother and safer ride.

· Avoid changing gears under heavy load or while applying strong pressure to the pedals.

· When approaching a hill, shift to a lower gear before starting the climb whenever possible.

· If you need to change gears while climbing, reduce your pedalling pressure before changing gear.

· Avoid shifting multiple gears suddenly while putting strong pressure on the pedals.

· Avoid using extreme gear combinations that place the chain at a severe angle.

For e-bikes, avoid changing gears while applying maximum pedal pressure or maximum motor assistance. Reduce your pedalling pressure before changing gears.

Incorrect gear changing under heavy load may place excessive stress on the chain, cassette, chainrings, derailleur and other drivetrain components.

6. Weight Limits

Do not exceed the maximum rider or total load weight specified for your particular bicycle.

The total load may include:

· Rider;

· Backpack;

· Basket;

· Child seat;

· Luggage; and

· Other accessories.

Exceeding the recommended weight limit may affect braking, handling and the structural integrity of the bicycle.

7. Children’s Bicycles

Children should always be supervised by a responsible adult when riding.

Make sure the bicycle is suitable for the child’s:

· Height;

· Weight;

· Age; and

· Riding ability.

Children should always wear a properly fitted helmet and ride in a safe area away from traffic.

E-Bike Safety

8. E-Bike Battery Safety

For e-bikes:

· Only use the charger supplied or approved for your e-bike.

· Do not use a damaged charger or battery.

· Do not open, modify or repair the battery yourself.

· Keep the battery and charger away from water.

· Charge the battery in a dry and well-ventilated area.

· Do not cover the charger while charging.

· Keep the battery away from excessive heat and direct sources of fire.

· Stop using the battery if it becomes unusually hot, swollen, leaking, damaged or produces an unusual smell.

· Never attempt to repair a damaged battery yourself.

· Make sure the battery is securely locked in place before riding.

If the battery is damaged, swollen, leaking or overheating, stop using it immediately and contact AB Bikes.

Always follow the specific charging and storage instructions supplied with your e-bike.

9. Battery Charging

When charging an e-bike battery:

1. Use the correct charger supplied or approved for the e-bike.

2. Check the charger, cable and battery before connecting them.

3. Place the battery on a stable, dry and safe surface.

4. Keep the charging area clear of flammable materials.

5. Keep the charger and battery away from children and pets.

6. Do not cover the charger while it is charging.

7. Disconnect the charger when charging is complete, unless the manufacturer’s instructions state otherwise.

Never charge a damaged battery.

10. E-Bike Battery Storage & Long-Term Non-Use

If you are not going to use your e-bike for an extended period:

· The battery should be charged at least once a month, even if the e-bike is not being used.

· Do not leave the battery completely discharged for a long period of time.

· Store the battery in a cool, dry and safe place, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture.

· Check the battery level regularly during long periods of non-use.

· Do not store a damaged, swollen or leaking battery.

· Before using the e-bike again after a long period of storage, check the battery, charger and electrical connections carefully.

Leaving an e-bike battery unused for a long period while fully discharged may cause deep discharge and may prevent the battery from charging normally.

Always follow the battery manufacturer’s specific storage and charging instructions.

11. E-Bike Display & Electrical Components

To help protect the electrical system:

· Avoid exposing the display/screen to rain or water whenever possible.

· Do not spray water directly onto the display, controls, motor, battery or other electrical components.

· Avoid using a high-pressure water hose or pressure washer to clean the e-bike.

· If the e-bike becomes wet, wipe the display and electrical components dry as soon as possible.

· Keep the display and electrical connections dry when storing the e-bike.

· If water enters the display or an electrical component, stop using the e-bike and contact AB Bikes for advice.

Water damage caused by improper use, cleaning or exposure to water may not be covered by the warranty.

12. Battery Range & Performance

The riding range of an e-bike can vary depending on many factors, including:

· Rider weight;

· Terrain;

· Hills;

· Temperature;

· Riding speed;

· Wind conditions;

· Tyre pressure;

· Assist level;

· Frequency of stopping and starting;

· Battery age; and

· Battery usage and charging history.

A gradual reduction in battery capacity over time due to normal use and charging cycles is considered normal battery ageing and is not necessarily a manufacturing defect.

13. Water & Wet Conditions

Bicycles and e-bikes should not be unnecessarily exposed to heavy rain, flooding or deep water.

For e-bikes, avoid submerging the:

· Battery;

· Motor;

· Display;

· Controller; or

· Other electrical components.

After riding in wet conditions:

· Dry the bicycle as soon as possible.

· Wipe the display and electrical components dry.

· Dry the chain and other metal components.

· Check the brakes before your next ride.

Do not use a high-pressure water hose or pressure washer on your bicycle or e-bike.

14. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps keep your bicycle safe, reliable and operating properly.

We recommend regularly checking:

· Tyre pressure;

· Tyre condition;

· Brake pads and brake performance;

· Chain condition and lubrication;

· Gear shifting;

· Wheel security;

· Bolts and fasteners;

· Pedals;

· Handlebar and stem;

· Seat and seat post;

· Lights and reflectors; and

· Battery and electrical connections on e-bikes.

For bicycles that are used frequently, professional servicing is recommended.

15. Storage

When storing your bicycle:

· Keep it in a dry and secure location.

· Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, rain and extreme temperatures.

· Keep the bicycle away from corrosive chemicals.

· Keep electrical components dry.

· For e-bikes, store the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

· If the battery is removed for storage, keep it in a safe, dry location.

· Do not store a damaged, swollen or leaking battery.

16. Stop Riding If You Notice a Problem

Stop riding immediately if you notice:

· Unusual noises;

· Loose components;

· Brake problems;

· Steering problems;

· Cracks or structural damage;

· A damaged wheel or tyre;

· Gear problems;

· Electrical faults;

· Battery swelling, leaking or overheating;

· Water entering electrical components; or

· Any other condition that makes you feel the bicycle is unsafe.

Have the bicycle inspected by AB Bikes or a qualified bicycle mechanic before riding again.

17. Regular Servicing

Regular servicing is recommended to keep your bicycle safe, reliable and performing properly.

The frequency of servicing depends on:

· How often you ride;

· Riding conditions;

· Terrain;

· Weather conditions; and

· The type of bicycle.

Bicycles used frequently, in wet conditions, on rough terrain or for commuting may require more frequent servicing.

Regular servicing can help identify worn or loose components before they become a safety issue.

18. Important Safety Reminder

A bicycle is a vehicle and riding involves risks.

Always:

· Ride responsibly;

· Wear appropriate protective equipment;

· Follow New Zealand road rules;

· Check your bicycle before riding; and

· Stop riding if you believe the bicycle is unsafe.

Your safety is your responsibility.

If you have any questions about the operation, assembly, maintenance or safety of your bicycle or e-bike, please contact AB Bikes before riding.

AB Bikes
A&B Bicycle Warehouse Limited
4D Titoki Place, Albany, Auckland 0632
New Zealand

Phone: +64 284 736 109
Email: info@abbikes.co.nz
Website: abbikes.co.nz

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