Whether you're going on a vacation, a Spartan Race, a long hike, or just want to be prepared for anything that comes your way, read more below!
Tools
- Phillips screwdriver. The first tool in adjusting chain tensioning. Tip size #2 will work, but tip size #3 is best. A 3” shank or longer will allow you to access the tension screws.
- Adjustable wrench. This is the second tool you'll need for chain tensioning (A dedicated 13mm wrench is best, but pliers can also work).
- Allen (hex) keys. Common sizes: 5mm (to tighten the headset and adjust parking brakes), 7/32” (to tighten top-mount Trail Handles). Check if you need these less-common sizes: 6mm (to tighten clamping Trail Handles), 4mm (to remove parking brake handles)
- Bike pump. Always make sure your air is filled to the correct pressure for the terrain you are riding (40 psi is a safe number to remember for all three tires). Hand or CO2 pumps are portable, whereas floor pumps are easier to use. Some pumps are more versatile and work on both Presta and Schrader valves, but Schrader valves come standard on the Freedom Chair (the same valve as automobile tires).
- Backup tube (or tubes). Rear tires: 3.0/Push/Hemi Models (Standard Mountain Bike Tires) – 26" x 1.75” (ISO 559) Sparta Model (Beach and Snow Tires) – 26" x 2.25” (ISO 559). Front tire: 2.80"/2.50"-4".
Note: Tire levers can help make tire removal and tube change even easier, and patches can help if you don’t have a tube
- Electrical tape. If your levers are wrapped in tape (not lever sleeves) a strip of electrical tape will keep them from unraveling.
- Lubricants. These keep your chain and other parts moving extra smoothly. GRIT commonly uses “Tri-Flow” brand PTFE lubricant on the chain and seat back.
- Water/snacks. Using the Freedom Chair is a workout! Make sure you stay hydrated and energized. Carry these in a small bag on you with your other tools. Some bike bags and water-bottle cages work well, too.
Maintenance
- Always: Keep your Freedom Chair out of the rain when not in use. The frame is zinc-plated and covered with a high-quality powder-coat, but excessive exposure to rain and moisture will decrease the life of the frame. If it gets wet, dry it with a clean towel. Keep the bearings and other moving parts free of sand and fine particles.
- Before every ride: Check to make sure the tires are not flat. Make sure the chains are greased and not sagging. If there is dirt on your chains, clean and re-grease them. Confirm that parking brakes are adjusted for your tires.
- Every two weeks: Inflate your tires. 40 psi is a safe number to remember for all three tires.
- Every month: Make sure the chains are greased and tighten them if necessary. Actuate the wheels and drivetrain to confirm everything is moving smoothly.
- After a beach trip: If you ride your GRIT Freedom Chair at the beach or near the ocean, hose it down with fresh water to clean off the salt and sand from the frame, chain, and wheels. Grease the chain after hosing it down. Dry your chair with a clean towel. Submersing or pressure-washing the Freedom Chair can displace the grease in bearings, so take care to inspect rotating parts if this has occurred.
If you have any questions about any of the above, feel free to email us at support@gogrit.us or give us a ring at 877-345-4748!