Cannondale Bicycle Corp. 2000 OM Page 40
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Invented in the 1930s to allow quick, easy wheel removal without the
need for tools, the bicycle wheel quick release has become standard
equipment on most recreational, sports and competition bicycles. While
it looks like a long bolt with a lever on one end and a nut on the other,
the wheel quick release uses a cam action to clamp the bike's wheel in
place (see fig. 11). Because of its adjustable nature, it is critical that
you understand how it works and how to use it properly.
CAUTION: The full force of the cam action is needed to clamp the
wheel securely. Holding the nut with one hand and turning the lever
like a wing nut with the other hand until everything is as tight as you
can get it
will not clamp the wheel safely in the dropouts.
!
closed
fig. 11 Quick Release Cam
turn to adjust
clamping force
closed
open
open
open position
closed position
