Schwinn Tango Tandem Seven IPS Schwinn Owner's Manual - Page 24

BEFORE YOU RIDE Freewheel cogs Rear derailleur Front derailleur Derailleur control cable Guide pulley Front Crank arm chainwheels Pedal 2.15 External Gears (derailleur equipped bicycles) Derailleur equipped bicycles all have a rear derailleur. Some may also have a front derailleur offering more gear choices. The right side shifter will operate the rear derailleur, and the left side (if equipped) will operate the front derailleur. On derailleur equipped bicycles, it is important to be pedaling forward when shifting gears. This allows the chain to "derail" from one gear to the next. Operating the shifter while sitting still or not pedaling can cause damage to the system, and can be dangerous, as the chain may jam and cause the bike to become unstable. (Fig. 2.15) Avoid back pedaling on any bicycle with derailleurs. Backpedaling can derail the chain and cause it to jam or fall off the gears. When shifting gears, make sure you pedal forward until the gear has completely changed. (At least one full rotation of the pedals.) Failure to do so, may result in the chain not engaging properly the next time you pedal forward, or falling off altogether causing a possible danger when you attempt to pedal again. Remember always pedal through the gear change on a derailleur equipped bicycle. Rear Shifter The rear shifter (right) will have an indicator that reads either "low to "high" or a series of numbers from 1 up. Low or "1" is the lowest gear. This is used for slower riding, hill climbing, or to allow for easier pedaling. It is recommended to start off in this gear and move through the gears as speed increases as needed, or comfortable. It is OK to ride the whole time in only one gear if this is comfortable. Shift only while pedaling forward and seated. When shifting, lessen the pressure exerted on the pedals during the shift. Once you have successfully shifted gears, it is OK to start to pedal hard if desired. Pedaling hard while shifting can cause the chain to skip and not engage the appropriate gear. Backpedaling should be avoided on derailleur bikes because the chain can jam and cause the bike to become unstable. See Assembly and Maintenance for further information on proper gear adjustment. (Fig. 2.16) 2.16 24 ©2010