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Cycle Assembly & Ownership

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Cycle King Bike Assembly Guide

How to safely assemble your new bike from the box.

Thank you for choosing Cycle King. Most of our bikes arrive 85–95% pre-assembled, but some final work is required before you ride. If you are not confident assembling a bike yourself, we strongly recommend using a qualified bike mechanic at your local Cycle King store or independent bike shop.

🧰 What You’ll Need Tools
  • 4, 5 & 6mm Allen/Hex keys
  • 15mm spanner (for pedals & some wheel nuts)
  • Crosshead screwdriver
  • Tyre pump (Schrader or Presta, depending on valve)
  • Basic bike grease (recommended for pedals and seatpost)
  • Torque wrench (recommended for accurate tightening)
πŸ“¦ 1. Unpack Your Cycle King Bike Step 1
  1. Carefully open the box and remove the bike and all loose parts.
  2. Remove all packaging, cable ties and protective foam from the frame and components.
  3. Check that you have:
    • Bike frame with rear wheel fitted
    • Front wheel
    • Handlebars or stem (may be turned or removed)
    • Saddle and seatpost
    • Pedals (marked L and R)
    • Reflectors, bell and any included accessories (e.g. e-bike charger)
  4. Inspect the bike for any obvious transit damage. If something looks wrong, contact Cycle King before continuing assembly.
🚲 2. Fit the Handlebars Step 2

The handlebars usually arrive turned sideways or removed for shipping.

Faceplate (Ahead) Stem

  1. Loosen and remove the four bolts from the front of the stem faceplate.
  2. Position the handlebars in the centre of the clamp area.
  3. Refit the faceplate and lightly tighten each bolt.
  4. Align the handlebars so they are straight and at a comfortable angle.
  5. Tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern (top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left).
  6. Where possible, use a torque wrench to manufacturer spec (commonly 5–6Nm).

Quill Stem (Common on Some Kids’ Bikes)

  1. Insert the stem into the steerer tube to at least the minimum insertion mark.
  2. Align the handlebars with the front wheel.
  3. Tighten the top bolt until the stem is secure and cannot twist.
🚴 3. Install the Front Wheel Step 3

Quick-Release Front Wheel

  1. Ensure the quick-release skewer is fitted through the axle with springs on either side.
  2. Place the wheel into the fork dropouts, making sure it sits fully home.
  3. If the bike has disc brakes, carefully guide the rotor between the brake pads.
  4. Tighten the quick-release nut, then close the lever so it is firm to push and leaves a light imprint on your palm.

Bolt-On / Nutted Front Wheel

  1. Place the wheel fully into the fork dropouts.
  2. Fit any supplied washers and thread on the wheel nuts.
  3. Use a 15mm spanner to tighten each nut evenly and firmly.
πŸ”§ 4. Fit the Pedals Step 4

Important: Pedals are side-specific and will be marked R (right) and L (left).

  • Right pedal (R): screws in clockwise into the right crank arm.
  • Left pedal (L): screws in anti-clockwise into the left crank arm.
  1. Apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads.
  2. Start each pedal by hand to avoid cross-threading.
  3. Once hand-tight, use a pedal spanner or 15mm spanner to fully tighten.
πŸͺ‘ 5. Fit and Adjust the Saddle Step 5
  1. Lightly grease the seatpost (for metal frames/seatposts).
  2. Insert the seatpost into the frame and set an initial height.
  3. Ensure the saddle is straight and level.
  4. Tighten the seat clamp bolt or quick-release so the saddle cannot twist or slide.

A good starting height is where the rider has a slight bend at the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke.

πŸ›‘ 6. Set Up the Brakes Step 6

V-Brakes / Rim Brakes

  1. Ensure the brake pads line up with the metal rim and do not touch the tyre.
  2. Reconnect the brake cable or noodle if it was disconnected for packing.
  3. Adjust cable tension using the barrel adjuster or by loosening and re-anchoring the cable.
  4. When applied, both pads should contact the rim at the same time.

Mechanical Disc Brakes

  1. Check the rotor runs centrally between the brake pads when the wheel spins.
  2. If rubbing, loosen the caliper mounting bolts slightly, squeeze the brake lever, then retighten the bolts.
  3. Fine-tune using the barrel adjuster until the brake bites firmly without constant rubbing.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

  • Ensure the rotor runs freely between the pads with minimal rubbing.
  • Do not pull the brake levers if the wheel is removed.
  • Any spongy feel or fluid leaks should be checked by a trained mechanic.
βš™οΈ 7. Check and Fine-Tune the Gears Step 7
  1. Lift the rear wheel or place the bike in a stand.
  2. Turn the pedals and shift through each gear.
  3. If the chain hesitates to move to a larger cog, turn the barrel adjuster anti-clockwise slightly to increase cable tension.
  4. If it hesitates going to a smaller cog, turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to reduce tension.
  5. Ensure you can access all gears smoothly without the chain coming off.
🎈 8. Inflate the Tyres Step 8

Inflate both tyres to the pressure printed on the tyre sidewall (shown in PSI or Bar).

  • Kids’ bikes: typically 35–50 PSI
  • Hybrid bikes: typically 45–65 PSI
  • Mountain bikes: typically 30–45 PSI
  • Road bikes: typically 80–110 PSI
βœ… 9. Final Cycle King Safety Check Step 9

Before your first ride, run through this quick checklist:

  • Wheels: Secure in the frame/fork and spin freely.
  • Brakes: Firm at the lever, stop the bike when pushed forward, no heavy rubbing.
  • Steering: Handlebars aligned with front wheel, no side-to-side play.
  • Gears: Smooth shifting across the range.
  • Pedals & Cranks: Tight with no wobble.
  • Tyres: Correctly inflated, no cuts or bulges.
🧴 10. Aftercare & First Service Step 10

New bikes will “bed in” over the first few rides as cables stretch and components settle. We recommend:

  • Re-checking all bolts, wheels, brakes and gears after the first few rides.
  • Booking in for a 6–8 week service (as required for many warranties).
  • Keeping the chain lightly lubricated and the tyres at the correct pressure.
πŸ’¬ Need Help from Cycle King? Support

If you are unsure about any part of the assembly, please contact your local Cycle King store or a qualified mechanic before riding. We’re here to help you get the best and safest start with your new bike.

E-Bike Ownership & Care Guide

Your essential guide to getting the best from your electric bike – how to charge, store, clean and maintain it, plus key UK legal and safety information.

🚴‍♀️ 1. Before Your First Ride Getting Started

Read your manufacturer’s manual
Every model has specific instructions for battery care, charging, display settings and torque recommendations.

Familiarise yourself with assist modes
Eco/Low → Longest range
Normal/Medium → Balanced
High/Turbo → Best performance, lowest range

Check the basics before you set off:

  • Tyre pressure (usually printed on the tyre sidewall)
  • Brakes working correctly and smoothly
  • Battery correctly fitted and locked in place
  • Lights functioning (if fitted)
πŸ”‹ 2. Charging Your E-Bike Safely Charging

Use only the original charger.
Third-party chargers can damage batteries and may invalidate warranties.

Charging tips:

  • Charge indoors on a hard, non-flammable surface.
  • Avoid leaving the battery charging overnight or completely unattended.
  • Do not charge in damp, cold sheds or garages – lithium batteries prefer room temperature.
  • Keep battery contacts clean and dry.

Best practice for battery life:
Try to keep your battery between 20%–80% for everyday use. Top up little and often rather than running it completely flat where possible.

🧊 3. Battery Care & Storage Battery

Your battery is the most valuable part of your e-bike, so it’s worth looking after.

General care:

  • Store the battery between roughly 10°C–20°C where possible.
  • Avoid extreme cold or heat, as both will reduce battery lifespan.
  • If your model allows, you can remove the battery in very heavy rain and store it indoors afterwards.

Long-term storage (e.g. winter):

  • Charge the battery to around 50–70%.
  • Store it indoors, away from damp and direct heat sources.
  • Top up for around 30 minutes every 6–8 weeks.
🧽 4. Cleaning Your E-Bike Cleaning

You can clean an e-bike much like a normal bike, but avoid anything that can force water into electrics.

Avoid:

  • Jet washers / pressure washers
  • Spraying directly into bearings, bottom brackets or electrical ports
  • Submerging the bike or battery in water

How to clean properly:

  • Use dedicated bike cleaner and warm water.
  • Apply with a sponge or soft brush.
  • Dry the frame and components with a clean cloth.
  • Lightly lubricate the chain afterwards and wipe off any excess oil.
πŸ› οΈ 5. Regular Maintenance Maintenance

E-bikes need routine checks, sometimes a little more often because of the extra weight and power.

Weekly:

  • Check tyre pressure.
  • Test front and rear brakes.
  • Ensure the battery is locked securely.
  • Inspect the chain for dryness or rust.

Monthly:

  • Lubricate the chain.
  • Check that key bolts (stem, handlebars, wheels, seatpost) are tight (but don’t overtighten).
  • Inspect tyres for cuts, cracks or heavy wear.

Every 6–8 weeks:
Book a service check, especially during the bike’s settling-in period.

Annually:

  • Full service including brake pads, wheel truing and gear adjustment.
  • Software or firmware updates if your system supports them.
  • Battery health check where available.
πŸ“ 6. Maximising Your Riding Range Range

You can increase how far you travel on a single charge with a few simple habits:

  • Use Eco or lower assistance modes where possible.
  • Keep tyres properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
  • Avoid carrying unnecessary weight on the bike.
  • Pedal consistently – let the motor assist rather than do all the work.
  • Use your gears correctly and avoid labouring the motor in very high gears at low speed.
βš–οΈ 7. Riding in the UK – Legal Requirements Legal

Most e-bikes sold as standard in the UK are classed as EAPCs (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles).

To be treated as a normal pedal cycle, an e-bike must:

  • Have a motor with a maximum continuous rated power of 250W.
  • Provide assistance only up to 15.5mph (25 km/h).
  • Require you to pedal for the motor to work (no throttle-only above walking pace).

If your e-bike meets these rules:

  • You do not need a licence, insurance or registration.
  • You must be at least 14 years old to ride it on public roads and cycle paths.
🦺 8. Safety Tips Safety

Ride safely and protect your investment:

  • Wear a properly fitted cycle helmet.
  • Check your brakes regularly – e-bikes are heavier and faster than standard bikes.
  • Use front and rear lights in low light or poor weather.
  • Consider mudguards if you ride all year round.

Security:

  • Use at least one Sold Secure Gold or Diamond rated D-lock.
  • Add a heavy-duty chain or cable to secure wheels and frame.
  • Lock the bike through the frame to a fixed, immovable object.
  • Remove the battery and display (if easily detachable) when leaving the bike for long periods.
🧩 9. Troubleshooting Guide Issues

Bike won’t power on?

  • Check the battery is correctly fitted and locked in place.
  • Make sure the battery is charged.
  • Try the power button on both the battery (if fitted) and the display.

Assistance cuts out earlier than expected?

  • Tyres may be under-inflated.
  • You may be riding in too high a gear.
  • Strong headwinds or hills will reduce range.
  • The battery may be nearing the end of its charge.

No motor power at all?

  • Check all visible connectors and cables.
  • Ensure wheel speed sensor and magnet are aligned and clean (if fitted).
  • Switch the system off and on again after a short pause.

If problems continue, Cycle King is here to help. Many issues are simple to diagnose and may be covered under warranty if within your guarantee period.

πŸ“‘ 10. Warranty & Aftercare Warranty

To keep your warranty valid and ensure the best long-term performance of your e-bike:

  • Register your e-bike within the time stated (usually within 60 days).
  • Bring your bike in for its 6–8 week settling-in service.
  • Use only approved chargers and electrical parts.
  • Do not modify the motor, controller or speed settings.

Cycle King is your local e-bike retailer and we’re here to help you look after your bike throughout its life. Whether you need routine servicing, motor diagnostics, firmware updates, brake adjustments, or general maintenance advice, our friendly in-store mechanics and experts are always ready to assist you.

We’re here for every mile — from your first ride to many years of confident cycling.

πŸ“ 11. Quick Checklist (Print & Keep) Checklist

Before every ride:

  • Battery charged.
  • Tyres inflated to the recommended pressure.
  • Brakes working and not rubbing.
  • Chain lubricated if it looks dry.
  • Display securely fitted and visible.

After wet or muddy rides:

  • Wipe down the frame and components.
  • Dry and relubricate the chain if needed.
  • Avoid storing the battery in damp or very cold places.

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