Each model of bicycle is designed for and intended to be used in a specific set of conditions. Riding a bicycle in a manner other than its intended use can cause the bicycle to fatigue or break. Determine the type of bicycle you have purchased, and avoid conditions beyond the intent of your bicycle, as listed below. Also remember that your skill level must be adequate for a given condition; regardless of the intent of the bicycle design, riding above your skill level is dangerous.
Bicycle Type
Unless specified, weight limits are for the rider without the bicycle or equipment
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Type of Riding
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Condition of Use
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Children's bicycles:
Condition 0
Maximum seat height of 680mm; generally, bicycles with 16" or 20" wheels. Children's bicycles do not have quick-release wheel fastening systems.
Rider weight limit:
80 lbs (36 kg)
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Children riding where parental supervision is always required. Riders shall avoid areas used by automobiles, as well as inclines, curbs, stairs, or areas near dropoffs or pools.
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Condition 1
Bicycles with drop-type handlebars, including these bike types:
· Standard road bike
· but not a cyclocross bicycle, which is Condition 2
In addition, some 'street' bicycles with other styles:
· Cruiser with wide, 26" tires and swept-back handlebar
· Trailer bike, towed behind another bicycle
Rider weight limit:
· Road; cruiser, : 275 lbs (125 kg)
· Trailer bike: not more than the lighter weight of two limits:
· Not more than half the weight of the lead bicycle rider
· 80 lbs (36 kg)
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Riding on a paved surface where the tires do not lose ground contact
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Condition 2
A hybrid bicycle or DuoSport bicycle with 700c wheels, tires wider than 28c, and flat handlebarAlso including these bicycle types:
· City bicycle- a specially-equipped hybrid bicycle
· "Comfort" bicycle with wide 26" tires and mountain-bike style handlebar, but smoother tires designed for riding on pavement.
· Cyclocross bicycle- with drop-type handlebar, knobby 700c tires, and cantilever or disc brakes
Rider weight limit:
300 lbs (136 kg)
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Condition 1 riding plus smooth gravel roads and improved trails with moderate grades where the tires do not lose ground contact
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Condition 3
"Standard," "cross-country," or "race" mountain bicycle with wide, knobby, 24, 26, or 29" tires. Any mountain bike (excluding children's bicycles) that does not have rear suspension is Condition 3. Also including these bicycle types:
· Smaller Fisher mountain bikes with 24" wheels
· Some light-weight, short-travel rear suspension models, such as "Race" or "Trail" models. Condition 3 bicycles from Fisher include the full-suspension Superfly 100.
Rider weight limit:
300 lbs (136 kg)
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Condition 1 and 2 riding plus rough trails, small obstacles, and smooth technical areas, including areas where momentary loss of tire contact with the ground may occur.
Although Condition 3 bicycles can withstand a limited amount of riding over drops and jumps, they are NOT intended as jumping bikes.
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Condition 4
"Heavy-duty" or "All-mountain" mountain bike with wide, knobby, 26 or 29" tires. May include medium-travel rear suspension. Condition 4 bicycles from Fisher include HiFi 29, Rumblefish, and Roscoe models.
Rider weight limit:
300 lbs (136 kg)
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Conditions 1, 2, and 3 riding plus rough technical areas, moderately sized obstacles, and small jumps up to 24" (60 cm).
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Condition 5
"Freeride" or "jumping" bicycle with heavy-duty frame, fork, and components. Fisher does not make a Condition 5 bicycle.
Rider weight limit:
300 lbs (136 kg)
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Jumping, hucking, high speeds, or aggressive riding on rougher surfaces, or landing on flat surfaces.
Although Condition 5 bicycles are built for extreme riding, they are NOT indestructible. This type of riding is extremely hazardous and puts unpredictable forces on a bicycle which may overload the frame, fork, or parts. If you choose to ride in Condition 5 terrain, you should take appropriate safety precautions such as more frequent bicycle inspections and replacement of equipment. You should also wear comprehensive safety equipment such as a full-face helmet, pads, and body armor.
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