01

Usage Categories

Recreational Use The Raccoon bicycle is intended for recreational riding on paved roads, bike paths, and moderately challenging off-road trails (e.g., gravel). Standard use includes commuting, weekend trips, and light off-pavement riding.

Sport / Performance Use The bicycle may be used for more intensive riding, such as sports training, racing, or riding on more challenging terrain (e.g., mountainous areas). This applies provided that the usage aligns with the intended purpose of the specific bike model (e.g., road bikes strictly on paved surfaces).

Trekking / Touring Use Applies to long-distance bicycle trips with cargo/luggage, provided that the bicycle has been properly equipped for it (e.g., fitted with a rear rack and panniers). The warranty covers use in various weather conditions, provided the bicycle receives regular maintenance.

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Warranty Exclusions

Normal Wear and Tear Components such as tires, inner tubes, brake pads, chain, cassette, cables and housing, pedals, handlebar tape, grips, etc., are not covered by the warranty as they naturally wear out during standard operation.

Mechanical Damage

Improper transport and storage: Improper mounting of the bicycle on a car rack or during transport may result in damage to the frame, fork, or wheels.
Accidents and collisions: Collisions with vehicles, other cyclists, or fixed obstacles (e.g., curbs, trees) can cause severe damage to the frame, wheels, drivetrain, and handlebars. Any damage resulting from accidents, collisions, misuse (e.g., jumps, wheelies, overloading), or neglect is excluded from warranty coverage.
Falls on uneven terrain: Falls during riding on gravel, mountain trails, or slippery surfaces can lead to fractures and deformations.
Misuse / Improper use: Riding on terrain for which the bicycle is not intended—such as extreme downhill riding on a road bike—can result in damage to components like the fork, frame, or suspension units. Jumps or stunts on bicycles not designed for such purposes may cause frame cracks, wheel damage, or drivetrain failures.
Overloading: Exceeding the maximum payload capacity of the bicycle (120 kg total system weight: bike + luggage/baskets/mounts, etc. + rider) can cause damage to the frame, hubs, spokes, and other components. Riding by a user whose weight exceeds the permissible weight limit may result in frame or suspension deformation.
Lack of maintenance and neglect: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as failing to lubricate the chain, can lead to accelerated wear of components, including chainrings, sprockets, and derailleurs. Loose or over-tightened bolts can damage threads and fasteners, or lead to component slippage (e.g., handlebars or saddle). Storing the bicycle in humid conditions or outdoors can accelerate corrosion, particularly on steel parts.
Environmental / Weather-related damage: Extreme temperatures can affect the elasticity and durability of certain materials, such as plastics or rubber elements. Rain, snow, and mud can cause corrosion of metal parts and accelerated wear of the drivetrain.
Damage from modifications and improper repairs: Self-performed modifications without adequate knowledge or the use of non-original parts can lead to damage to components like derailleurs, brakes, or suspension forks. Improperly executed repairs, such as incorrectly torqued bolts, can cause play/looseness, leading to further structural damage.

Modifications and Unauthorized Repairs The warranty does not cover bicycles that have been modified in a manner contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions (e.g., frame geometry alterations, welding, bonding, repainting). The warranty is also voided if repairs are performed by unauthorized service centers or if non-original replacement parts are used.

Corrosion and Paint Finish Damage The warranty does not cover corrosion or changes to the paint coating caused by atmospheric factors, chemicals (e.g., road salt), or improper care. Paint damage resulting from scratches, stone chips, or other mechanical impacts is also excluded from the warranty.

Improper Storage and Maintenance A bicycle stored under conditions that expose it to moisture, extreme temperatures, or other adverse factors may lose warranty coverage. Neglect of regular maintenance—including chain lubrication, derailleur adjustment, and brake tuning—may result in warranty invalidation.

Commercial Use The warranty does not cover bicycles used for commercial purposes, such as rental fleets, courier services, passenger transport (e.g., rickshaws), or cargo delivery, unless explicitly specified in the warranty terms.

03

Bicycle Usage Warnings

Riding Safety

Always wear a protective helmet, appropriate clothing, and proper footwear. Riding without protective gear can lead to severe injuries in the event of an accident.
Before every ride, check the technical condition of the bicycle, paying special attention to the brakes, tires, tire pressure, and derailleur operation.

Proper Fit and Setup

Ensure the bicycle is correctly adjusted for your height and weight. Improper fit can result in loss of control over the bicycle.
Do not use the bicycle for jumps, extreme downhill riding, or any stunt maneuvers unless the model is specifically engineered for such use.

Overloading Warning

Do not exceed the maximum user weight and cargo capacity limit specified by the manufacturer (120 kg total system weight: bike + luggage/baskets/mounts, etc. + rider). Overloading the bike can cause structural failure and void the warranty.
Avoid carrying additional passengers unless the bicycle is explicitly designed and equipped for it.

Weather Conditions

Avoid riding in hazardous conditions, such as slippery surfaces, heavy rain, snow, or ice. In such conditions, braking efficiency and maneuvering are severely impaired.
Store the bicycle in a dry and sheltered area. Exposure to moisture can lead to corrosion and other damage.

Regular Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubricating the chain, as well as adjusting the brakes and derailleurs. Neglecting maintenance can result in component damage and hazardous riding situations.
Use only original replacement parts and accessories to avoid voiding the warranty.

Modifications and Repairs

Do not undertake independent modifications to the frame or structural components. All major repairs should be carried out by an authorized service center.
Modifications to the braking system, drivetrain, or other core components can void the warranty and pose a serious safety hazard to the user.

Lighting and Visibility

In conditions of reduced visibility (such as dusk, night, or fog), always use front and rear lights and reflectors to increase your visibility to other road users.

Improper Use

Avoid using the bicycle for purposes other than its intended use. The bicycle is not designed for heavy freight transport or commercial operations unless explicitly stated in its specifications.

04

Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist

Brake Check

Ensure both front and rear brakes function correctly. Squeeze the brake levers and check if the brake pads or calipers engage properly with the rims or rotors.
Brake pads should not be excessively worn, and brake cables should be free of fraying or rust.

Wheel and Tire Inspection

Check that tires are inflated to the proper pressure. Tire pressure must comply with the recommended values printed on the tire sidewall.
Inspect tires for visible cracks, cuts, or punctures.
Rims must run true (without wobbles or hops), and spokes should be evenly tensioned.

Chain and Drivetrain

Ensure the chain is clean and properly lubricated. Avoid excessive lubrication, which attracts dirt and grit.
Verify that derailleurs shift smoothly across all gears without hesitation or chain drops.
Check the condition of the cassette sprockets and chainrings—they should not show signs of severe wear (shark-finning) or heavy rust.

Frame and Components

Inspect the frame, fork, and key components (handlebars, stem, seatpost) for cracks, dents, deformation, or structural damage.
Ensure all bolts and fasteners (e.g., handlebar stem, saddle, pedals) are tightened securely to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.

Saddle and Handlebars

Verify that the saddle is set to the correct height and firmly clamped.
Ensure the handlebars are properly aligned perpendicular to the front wheel and cannot twist within the stem. All stem faceplate bolts must be securely tightened.

Lighting and Reflectors

If riding in low-light conditions or after dark, ensure front and rear lights function properly.
Confirm that the bicycle is equipped with all legally required reflectors (e.g., on pedals, front, and rear).

Suspension Systems (if equipped)

Check that the suspension fork and/or rear shock operate smoothly without oil leaks or binding.
Air pressure, sag, and rebound settings should be adjusted according to your weight and riding style.

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Operational Check of Components

Brakes: Check braking efficiency, pad/rotor wear, and cable tension.
Drivetrain: Inspect chain, sprockets, derailleurs, and shifters.
Handlebar & Stem: Check alignment, clamp security, and ensure zero headset play.
Wheels & Tires: Verify tire pressure, tread condition, and rim trueness.
Saddle & Seatpost: Check height adjustment, clamping security, and structural integrity.
Lighting & Reflectors: Verify light functionality and presence of all required reflectors.
Suspension (if applicable): Test stroke smoothness, seal integrity, and check for oil leaks.

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Bicycle Cleaning Instructions

General Cleaning

Use a sponge, soft brushes, and a mild detergent (e.g., dedicated bike wash solution or diluted dish soap) to clean the frame, wheels, and general components.
Avoid high-pressure washers (power washers), which can force water past bearing seals into hubs, bottom brackets, and headsets, causing premature corrosion and failure.
Rinse thoroughly with clean, low-pressure water to remove soap residue, then dry with a soft microfiber cloth.

Drivetrain Cleaning

Clean the chain, cassette, chainrings, and derailleur pulleys using a bike-specific degreaser. Use a drivetrain brush or chain cleaning tool for deep cleaning.
Rinse components with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Brake Cleaning

For disc brakes, clean the rotors using a dedicated disc brake cleaner to remove grime and brake dust. Avoid touching rotor surfaces with bare hands to prevent oil contamination.
Inspect brake pads and clean off any accumulated dirt or debris.

Suspension Stanchion & Seal Care

If equipped with suspension, gently wipe down the upper stanchions and dust seals with a clean cloth to remove dust and dried mud. Never use high-pressure water near suspension seals.

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Bicycle Maintenance

Chain Care

After every wash, lubricate the chain with a bicycle-specific chain lube. Apply lube evenly along the inner chain rollers, allow it to penetrate, and wipe off any excess lube to prevent dirt accumulation.
Use dry lube for dusty/dry conditions or wet lube for wet/muddy conditions.

General Lubrication & Cable Care

Inspect cables and housing for fraying, splitting, or rust. Replace if worn.
Apply a small drop of lube to pivot points on derailleurs, shifters, and other moving mechanical parts subjected to friction.

Brake Maintenance

Periodically check brake pad thickness and replace pads when worn down to the wear indicator. Re-adjust brake alignment as necessary.
On disc brakes, check rotor thickness and pad friction material thickness. Replace if below minimum thickness specs.

Tire Pressure Maintenance

Check tire pressure regularly and inflate according to manufacturer guidelines (printed on the sidewall).
Replace tires showing severe wear, cracking, or carcass damage.

Suspension Servicing

If equipped with suspension, monitor operation and follow manufacturer service intervals for lower leg / air sleeve services. Air-sprung suspension requires air pressure adjustment suited to rider weight (sag setup).

Torque & Bearing Inspection

Periodically verify that all critical fasteners are tightened to spec (especially stem, handlebar, seatpost, and axle bolts).
Check for bearing play/looseness in hubs, bottom bracket, headset, and pedals.

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Bicycle Storage

Dry Storage

Store the bicycle in a dry environment sheltered from rain and extreme temperatures to prevent corrosion and premature component aging.
Avoid storing near moisture sources such as car wash bays or damp utility/boiler rooms.

UV Protection

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade paint finishes and degrade rubber and plastic parts. Whenever possible, store the bicycle in a shaded area.

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Bicycle Assembly Instructions

Proper assembly is critical for safe and reliable operation. It is strongly recommended to have the bicycle assembled by a qualified bicycle mechanic. If performing self-assembly, carefully follow the instructions below.

Preparation

Carefully unbox the bicycle. Verify that all components and small parts are present and undamaged.
Remove all protective packaging materials (foam tubing, zip ties, protective film).

Handlebar Installation

Place the handlebar into the stem faceplate and snug the faceplate bolts using an Allen (hex) key. Align the handlebar perpendicular to the front wheel.
Torque faceplate bolts evenly in a cross pattern (X-pattern) to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

Front Wheel Installation

Insert the front wheel into the fork dropouts/thru-axle interface, ensuring correct orientation (e.g., brake rotor seated into caliper).
Secure the quick-release lever or tighten the thru-axle to spec. Verify the wheel spins freely without rubbing against brake pads.

Saddle Installation

Insert the seatpost into the seat tube of the frame and tighten the seat collar bolt or quick-release lever. Set saddle height for proper leg extension.
Ensure the saddle is straight and aligned with the top tube of the frame.

Pedal Installation

Pedals are directional: marked “L” (Left) and “R” (Right). The Right pedal mounts to the drivetrain side (chain side); the Left pedal mounts to the non-drivetrain side.
Thread pedals into crank arms: Right pedal threads clockwise (standard thread); Left pedal threads counter-clockwise (reverse thread). Tighten firmly using a 15 mm pedal wrench or appropriate hex key.

Brake and Derailleur Adjustment

Test brake operation. Ensure brake pads align evenly with rim or rotor. Adjust cable tension or pad positioning as required.
Test shifting performance across all gears. Adjust derailleur cable tension and limit screws (H/L limits) if necessary.

Tire Inflation

Inflate tires to recommended PSI/bar rating printed on the tire sidewall.

Final Fastener Check

Double-check all bolts on the bicycle (stem, handlebars, seatpost clamp, crank arms, axles). Ensure everything is torqued according to manufacturer specifications.

Note: Self-assembly may void the warranty if done improperly or if damage results from incorrect assembly. Professional assembly by a certified mechanic is recommended.

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Final Recommendations & Torque Specifications

Final Recommendations

After completing assembly, perform a short test ride in a safe area to confirm all systems function smoothly.
Maintain a regular service schedule to ensure longevity and safe operation.

Component Torque Specifications Always refer to specific component manufacturer manuals (SRAM, Shimano, Token, Wheels Manufacturing, Zipp, etc.) for exact torque values. The figures listed below are general reference values and may not apply to all installed components.

Stem Steerer Clamp Bolts: 5–6 Nm
Stem Handlebar Faceplate Bolts: 5–6 Nm
SRAM DUB Crank Bolt: 54 Nm
Shimano Hollowtech II Crank Pinch Bolts: 12–14 Nm
Seatpost Clamp Bolt (Frame): 5 Nm
Saddle Rail Clamp Bolt (Seatpost Head): 12 Nm
Thru-Axles (Frame & Fork): 10–12 Nm
Pedals: 30–35 Nm
Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts: 8–10 Nm
Brake Lever / Shifter Clamp Bolts: 3–5 Nm