Murray mountain bikes were designed in partnership with legendary mountain rider Joe Murray. The bike features a rugged tube steel frame with 29-inch wheels, side-pull caliper brakes and 12-speed gears with a front and rear derailleur. The brakes and shifters are operated using levers on the handlebars. Murray mountain bikes are pre-assembled by distributors. Instructions include adjustments for smooth shifting, optimum brake performance and setting the bike up for most types of terrain.
Riding
Mountain bike riding involves anticipating a situation, as well as maneuvering through immediate obstacles. Gauging your speed, braking and applying power at the precise moments becomes a rhythm that is synonymous with advanced riding. The more you ride, the better you become at implementing the correct inputs efficiently.
Shift Cables
The proper shift cable adjustment is essential to changing gears without delay. Ride the bike and use the shift tabs at the hand lever to shift to the highest gear. Balance the bike on the kickstand and locate the adjuster barrel on the rear derailleur where the shift cable attaches to the derailleur. Locate the adjuster knob at the front derailleur just above and behind the double ring pedal sprocket. Rotate each adjuster knob clockwise by hand in one-half turn increments until the particular derailleur begins to move forward. Rotate the knob counterclockwise one-half turn for the initial adjustment. Fine adjustments are made by cycling through the gears from high to low during a test ride.
Brake Cables
Side pull brakes have barrel adjusters at the front and rear brake hand levers. The cable tension is adjusted by turning the barrels clockwise or counterclockwise by hand. Ideal adjustment is obtained when both brakes operate with the same degree of pressure. Test ride the bike and apply each brake individually using the appropriate hand lever. Turn the barrel knob at either hand lever clockwise or counterclockwise as needed in small increments until both brakes operate in unison.
Tires
The manufacturer's recommended pressure is sufficient for riding in most types of terrain. Note the recommended tire pressure given on a label or the raised letters on the sidewall of the tires. Check the front and rear tire pressure using a tire gauge.
Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure using a tire pump. Deflate the tires to the recommended pressure by lightly applying the tire gauge to the valve stem and allowing air to escape. Similar pressure in both tires ensures consistent performance.
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