11
1.4 After an Accident.
1. Check whether the wheels are still rmly xed in the drop-outs and
whether the rims are still centred with respect to the frame or fork.
Spin the wheels. If the width of the gap changes markedly and you
cannot true the rim where you are, you will need to open the rim
brakes a little so that the rim can run between the brake pads without
touching them. Caution: This will reduce the braking performance.
For more information see chapters “Brake System” and “Wheels
and Tyres”.
2. Check that handlebars and stem are neither bent nor broken and that
they are level and upright. Make sure the stem is rmly xed on the
fork by taking the front wheel between your knees and by trying to
twist the handlebars relative to the front wheel (a). Briey lean on the
brake levers to make sure the handlebars are rmly xed in the stem.
For more information see chapters “Adjusting the Bicycle to the
Rider” and “Headset”.
3. Check whether the chain still runs on the chainrings and sprock-
ets (b). If your bicycle fell over on the chain side, verify the proper
functioning of the gears. Ask somebody to lift the bicycle by the
saddle and gently shift through all the gears. Pay particular attention
when shifting to the small gears, making sure the rear derailleur does
not get too close to the spokes as the chain climbs onto the larger
sprockets (c). If the rear derailleur or the drop-outs are bent, this can
cause the rear derailleur to collide with the spokes and result in an
accident! This in turn can destroy the rear derailleur, the rear wheel or
the frame. Check the front derailleur, as a damaged gear changer can
throw off the chain, thus interrupting the power train of the bicycle
(see chapter “Drive System”).
4. Make sure the saddle is not twisted using the top tube or the bottom
bracket shell as a reference (d).
5. Lift your bicycle up a few centimetres and let it bounce onto the
ground. If this causes any sort of noise, search for loosened bolts or
components.
6. Finally, take a good look at the whole bicycle to detect any deforma-
tions, discolourations or cracks.
Only if your bicycle passed these checks without any problems should
you ride back very carefully, taking the shortest possible route. Do not
brake hard or accelerate and do not ride your bicycle out of the saddle.
If you are in doubt about the performance of your bicycle, have your-
self picked up by car, instead of taking any risk. Back home you need
to check your bicycle thoroughly. If you are in doubt or if you have any
questions, please contact your BMW partner!
Bent parts made of aluminium must not be repaired, i.e.
straightened, as the risk of breakage would still remain. This
applies in particular to forks, handlebars, stems, cranksets and
pedals. Be sure to replace them as a precaution.
b
c
da
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