Schwinn PACIFICCYCLE ROAD BICYCLE Manual De Uso Y Cuidado página 74

-Which gear should I be in?
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 tightened, 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 warrants it. Never ride in traffic
with your toe straps tight.
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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 upshifting 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, experience will teach you which gear is appropriate
for which condition, and practice will help you shift smoothly and at precisely the optimum moment.