Schwinn none - Manual (Page 86)

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3. Shifting an internal gear hub drivetrain
If your bicycle has an internal gear hub drivetrain, the gear changing mechanism will consist of:
• a 3, 5, 7 or possibly 12 speed internal gear hub
• one, or sometimes two shifters
• one or two control cables
• one front sprockets called chainrings
• a drive chain
a) Shifting internal gear hub gears
Shifting with an internal gear hub drivetrain is simply a matter of moving the shifter to the indicated position for the desired gear.
After you have moved the shifter to the gear position of your choice, ease the pressure on the pedals for an instant to allow the
hub to complete the shift.
b) Which gear should I be in?
The numerically lowest gear (1) is for the steepest hills. The numerically largest gear (3, 5, 7 or 12, depending on the number of
speeds of your hub) is for the greatest speed. Shifting from an easier, “slower” gear (like 1) to a harder, “faster” gear (like 2 or 3)
is called an upshift. Shifting from a harder, “faster” gear to an easier, “slower” gear is called a downshift. It is not necessary to
shift gears in sequence. Instead, find the “starting gear” for the conditions -- a gear which is hard enough for quick acceleration
but easy enough to let you start from a stop without wobbling -- and experiment with up-shifting and downshifting to get a feel
for the different gears. At first, practice shifting where there are no obstacles, hazards or other traffic, until you’ve built up your
confidence. Once you’ve learned the basics, ex-perience will teach you which gear is appropriate for which condition, and prac
tice will help you shift smoothly and at precisely the optimum moment.
E. Toeclips & Straps
Toeclips and straps are the traditional means which experienced cyclists use to keep their feet correctly positioned and engaged with the
pedals. The toeclip positions the ball of the foot over the pedal spindle, which gives maximum pedaling power. The toe strap, when tight-
ened, keeps the foot engaged throughout the rotation cycle of the pedal. While toeclips and straps give some benefit with any kind of
shoe, they work most effectively with cycling shoes designed for use with toeclips. Your dealer can explain how toeclips and straps work.
WARNING: Getting into and out of pedals with toeclips and straps requires skill which can only be acquired with practice. Until it
becomes a reflex action, the technique requires concentration which can distract the rider’s attention, causing you to lose control and fall.
Practice the use of toeclips and straps where there are no obstacles, hazards or traffic. Keep the straps loose, and don’t tighten them
until your technique and confidence in getting in and out of the pedals war-rants it. Never ride in traffic with your toe straps tight.