Kmart 50cm Bella Cruiser Bike Owner's Manual

Product Information

Item No.: 43034857

Item Name: 50CM BELLA CRUISER BIKE

Important: It is important to read this manual thoroughly before assembling, riding, or performing maintenance on this bicycle. Keep this manual for future reference.

Parts Identification

The following are the main components of the bicycle:

• Handlebar Assembly: Includes grips, brake levers, bell, stem, and handlebar.
• Frame: Composed of the top tube and down tube.
• Seating: Saddle, seat post, and seat clamp.
• Wheels: Front hub, rear hub, spokes, rim, tyre, front reflector, and rear reflector.
• Drivetrain: Pedals, chain guard, chain wheel, and chain.
• Accessories: Basket, front mudguard, rear mudguard, rear carrier.
• Brakes: Front caliper brake or V-brake, rear coaster brake, brake shoes.

Safety Precautions

Owner's Safety Information and Responsibility

To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, read the instructions in this manual carefully. Pay attention to all WARNING instructions.

WARNING: This bicycle is made for one rider at a time for general transportation and recreational use. It is not designed for stunting or jumping.

1. The bicycle is supplied partially assembled. The owner is responsible for reading and following all assembly and adjustment instructions. A vehicle mechanic may be consulted for assembly.
2. Know how to operate all standard and accessory equipment.
3. This bicycle conforms to relevant Australian Standards. Local bicycle regulations may apply; check with your retailer.

Rules of the Road

WARNING: Read through the following Rules of the Road to reduce injury.

1. Obey road rules, traffic signals, signs, and yield to pedestrians.
2. Always wear a bicycle helmet that meets local safety standards.
3. Ride in the same direction as traffic; never ride against traffic.
4. Avoid hazards: drain grates, soft road edges, gravel, sand, potholes, ruts, wet leaves, or uneven paving.
5. Cross railroad tracks at a 90-degree angle to prevent loss of control.
6. Do not carry packages or objects that obstruct vision or control.
7. Do not carry passengers.
8. Do not ride with both hands off the handlebars.
9. Use hand signals for intended actions like turning or stopping.
10. If equipped with a front brake, apply the rear brake first, then the front brake. The front brake is strong and can cause loss of control if used incorrectly.
11. Do not use items that impede hearing, such as headphones.
12. Ride predictably and in a straight line.

Wet Weather Riding

1. Use extra caution in wet weather.
2. Avoid sudden braking.
3. Apply brakes sooner, as stopping distance increases.
4. Slow riding pace and approach corners more carefully.

Night Riding

If riding at night:

1. Purchase, install, and use front and rear bicycle lights.
2. Ensure reflectors are correctly positioned.
3. Use a flashing rear light for visibility.
4. Wear light-colored reflective clothing.

WARNING: Always wear a correctly fitted and fastened helmet when riding your bicycle.

(Diagram shows correct and incorrect helmet wearing.)

Sizing and Tools

Determining Correct Bicycle Size

The correct frame size allows the rider to straddle the bicycle with feet flat on the ground and 25mm (1 inch) clearance between the crotch and the top frame tube. Minimum leg length is the highest part of the top frame tube plus 1 inch. Girls can use boys' bicycles to determine size. Rider must have at least 1 inch (2.54cm) clearance above the horizontal bar when standing.

(Diagram shows a rider straddling a bicycle with measurements indicating clearance.)

Tools Required (Not Included)

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench (or 8mm, 10mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm open/box end wrenches)
• Allen Keys
• Pliers with cable cutting ability
• Air pump

A torque wrench is recommended for assembly.

Keep a Record of Your Bicycle

Each bicycle has a Serial Number stamped on the frame. Record this number for future reference. Take a color photograph and write the serial number on the back. Keeping a record increases the chance of recovery if lost or stolen. Remember to lock your bicycle; a good lock is cheap insurance.

Safety Check List

Before riding, perform these safety checks:

1. Nuts and Bolts: Check and tighten any loose nuts, bolts, and straps. Consult your retailer if unsure.
2. Brakes: Check that brakes operate effectively.
3. Wheels and Tyres: Check tyre inflation by pressing down. Tyres should depress slightly. Replace damaged tyres. Spin wheels to check brake clearance and side-to-side wobble. If a wheel wobbles or hits brake pads, consult your retailer.
4. Handlebar and Saddle: Tighten so they are secure and horizontal. Check handlebar condition and ensure bar ends are plugged. Verify the bell is fitted and working. Warning: Replace damaged handlebar grips and tube end plugs; bare ends can cause injury.
5. Chain: Ensure the chain is oiled, clean, and runs smoothly.
6. Accessories: Ensure all reflectors are properly fitted and not obscured.

Assembly

1. Front Wheel

Assemble the front wheel to the fork as shown (bike shown upside-down).

WARNING: If a brake shoe was removed for installation, return it to the correct position as per the "Brake and cable adjustment" section.

• Ensure the tab of each security washer is in the fork hole.
• Use the two axle nuts with serrations to attach the front wheel. WARNING: Do not use nuts without serrations.

Center the wheel in the fork and tighten both nuts to the recommended torque of 25-28 N.M.

(Diagrams illustrate hub insertion, front caliper brake, and security washer placement.)

2. Training Wheel

(Not applicable on this bike)

Attach legs to the bicycle frame:

• Place alignment insert (1), leg (2), and axle nut (3) on each end of the rear wheel axle (4).
• Ensure the alignment insert tab (5) is to the rear of the axle and in the frame slot (6).
• Make sure both training wheels are the same distance from the ground.
• Tighten axle nuts securely. WARNING: Before each ride, ensure both nuts are tight.

As the child's ability improves, raise or remove training wheels. To move them, loosen the nut, slide the leg, and retighten. To remove, take off the nut, leg, and alignment insert.

(Diagram shows training wheel assembly components.)

3. Install Pedals

Pedals are marked L (left) or R (right) on the spindle.

1. Thread the R pedal clockwise into the right (chain wheel) side of the crank arm.
2. Thread the L pedal counter-clockwise into the left side of the crank arm.

NOTE: Hand-thread pedals to ensure threads are not crossed, which can damage the crank arm. Ensure spindles are firmly seated against the crank arm when tightening with a wrench.

(Diagrams show right and left pedal installation.)

4. Install Saddle

• Insert the seat post into the frame tube with the swaged end up. Ensure it is inserted to at least the minimum insertion mark.
• Tighten the seat post clamp nut or quick release securely (recommended torque: 12-17 N.M).
• Loosen saddle clamp nuts/quick release to fit the saddle clamp fully onto the top swaged end of the seat post.
• Tighten the seat post bolt (recommended torque: 12-17 N.M).

Note: If a rear reflector is included, install it on the seat post before inserting it into the seat tube.

(Diagram shows saddle adjustment components.)

Handlebar and Stem

1. Assemble Stem to Fork

Assemble stem bolt (4), washer (5), and wedge nut (2) to the stem (1) if needed. Turn the stem bolt four revolutions into the wedge nut (2). Point the stem forward and insert into the locknut (7). Position the stem at a comfortable height.

WARNING: To prevent steering damage and loss of control, the MIN-IN (minimum insertion) mark on the stem must be inside the locknut. Ensure the MIN-IN mark (3) is not visible above the locknut. Tighten the stem bolt enough so the stem doesn't fall into the locknut.

(Diagram shows stem assembly components.)

2. Assemble Handlebar to Stem

Place the handlebar (8) into the stem, but do not tighten the clamp (6) yet. Align the stem with the front wheel and tighten the stem bolt.

3. Tighten Handlebar Clamp

Tighten the stem bolt onto the handlebar clamp. WARNING: Do not overtighten the stem bolt, as it can damage steering and cause loss of control. Ensure the stem is aligned with the front wheel and tighten the stem bolt.

Handlebar and Stem (Continued)

Position the handlebar for rider comfort.

WARNING: An insufficiently tight handlebar clamp can cause the handlebar to slip, leading to loss of control. Tighten the clamp bolts equally if there is more than one.

4. Test Stem Tightness

Straddle the front wheel, holding it between your legs. Try to turn the front wheel by turning the handlebar. If the handlebar and stem turn without the wheel, realign the stem with the front wheel. Tighten the bolt slightly (about half a revolution) and re-test. Repeat until the handlebar and stem do not turn independently of the wheel.

Test Handlebar Tightness

Hold the bicycle stationary and try to move the handlebar ends forward or backward. If movement occurs, loosen the handlebar clamp bolts, reposition the handlebar, and retighten the bolts. Repeat the test until the handlebar does not move.

(Diagram shows stem and headset assembly.)

Assemble Accessories

1. Assemble Basket

Check the steel plate, washer, bolt, and nut. Fix the basket to the pre-assembled bracket on the stem using the bolt and washer from inside the basket. Tighten with a Phillips screwdriver (recommended torque: 25-28 N.M).

(Images show basket assembly steps.)

2. Assemble Rear Mudguard

The rear mudguard attaches to the end bracket of the chainstay. Tighten the screw to the frame bracket.

(Images show rear mudguard attachment.)

3. Assemble Front Mudguard

Assemble the front mudguard after the front wheel is on the fork. Insert the mudguard, fix it onto the front fork, and tighten the screw. Fix the mudguard bracket onto the fork leg and tighten the screw.

(Images show front mudguard assembly steps.)

4. Rear Carrier

Attach the top end of the carrier to the bracket on the Seat Stay with an M5x10mm bolt and 5mm washer (Fig. A). Attach the lower end to the bracket on the Chainstay with an M6x10mm bolt and 6mm washer (Fig. B).

(Diagrams Fig. A and Fig. B show carrier attachment points.)

5. Front Reflector

Warning: Install the clear reflector correctly for proper operation. Assemble the clear reflector onto the handlebar, ensuring it is vertical and points forward. Tighten the screw.

(Image shows front reflector installation.)

6. Rear Reflector

Assemble the red reflector onto the rear mudguard, ensuring it is vertical and points toward the rear of the bicycle.

(Image shows rear reflector installation.)

Brake Installation

Brake Cable Installation

1. Attach the upper cable to the brake lever, ensuring the adjusting barrel is fully tightened.

2. Pull the rear brake link wire until brake shoes touch the rim wall, then tighten the brake bolt.

3. Ensure brake shoes are positioned evenly with the rim's side surface.

(Diagram shows brake cable installation.)

Attaching the Front Brake Cable (For Bicycles with Front Brake)

1. Open the brake lever and place the cable barrel end into the lever.
2. Feed the brake cable through the cable adjuster and anchor bolt. Secure the anchor bolt.
3. Fasten the brake caliper to the fork by sliding the brake mount bolt through the center hole. Secure the bolt firmly.
4. Refer to the next section for Braking System Adjustment.

(Diagram shows brake and cable adjustment.)

Adjustment

Brake System Adjustments

WARNING: Adjust front and rear brakes as written before riding.

1. Put Brake Shoes in Correct Position

Loosen the nut (1) of each brake shoe. Adjust so the shoe is flat against the rim and aligned with its curve. Ensure brake shoes do not rub the tyre. If shoes have arrows, they should point towards the rear of the bicycle. Hold shoes in position and tighten the nut. If a shoe is worn, replace it.

(Diagram shows brake shoe adjustment.)

2. Test Tightness of Each Brake Shoe

Try to move each brake shoe out of position. If it moves, repeat Step 1 and tighten the nut more. Continue until shoes do not move.

3. Stretch the Cable

Hold both brake shoes against the rim. Loosen the cable clamp. Pull the cable tight and tighten the cable clamp. WARNING: Do not overtighten the cable clamp, as it can cut the cable and cause injury.

Squeeze each brake lever 20 times. Hold shoes against the rim, loosen the cable clamp, pull cable tight, and tighten clamp.

(Diagram shows brake lever adjustment.)

1. Check Tightness of Caliper Brake Mounting Nut or V-Brake Mounting Bolts (1)

Ensure all mounting nuts/bolts are tightened securely.

2. Center Brake Shoes on Rim

For V-brakes, turn the cable anchor bolt (6) on the brake arm (4) to adjust shoe distance from the rim (3). For caliper brakes, lightly tap the return spring (2) of the shoe further from the rim. Ensure spring ends are hooked correctly. Squeeze the brake lever twice and repeat until shoes are equidistant from the rim.

(Diagrams show caliper brake and V-brake centering.)

3. Put Brake Shoes the Correct Distance from the Rim (5)

Position each brake shoe 1/16 inch away from the rim. Use the brake lever adjusting barrel or caliper brake adjusting barrel. If shoes cannot be positioned correctly, hold them against the rim and loosen the cable anchor bolt (6).

Pull or loosen the cable wire slightly. Tighten the cable clamp.

WARNING: Do not overtighten the cable clamp.

Repeat Step 3 until shoes are correctly distanced. Turn the locknut(s) against the brake lever and caliper brake.

WARNING: Do not move brake shoes away from a rim that is not true (straight). This can make the brake less effective and unsafe. For safe adjustment, consult a bicycle service shop to true the wheel.

4. Check Sheath Position

Ensure sheath ends are fully recessed in the brake lever and brakes. If not, reposition the sheath and repeat Step 3.

5. Test Tightness of Cable Clamp

Squeeze each brake lever firmly. Ensure the cable does not move in the clamp. If it moves, repeat Steps 3 and 4, tightening the clamp more. Repeat test until cable does not move.

6. Adjust Brake Lever Reach

Adjust the brake lever reach for rider comfort using the adjustment screw. The back of each grip should be no more than 3 inches from the front of each brake lever.

7. Test Travel of Each Brake Lever

Squeeze each brake lever with strong pressure. If the lever touches the grip, repeat Steps 1-7. WARNING: If levers still touch grip or don't work well after repeating, consult a bicycle service shop.

Reducing Caliper Brake Noise (Caliper Brake Only)

Caliper brakes may squeak, which is usually not a problem. To reduce noise:

Ensure caliper brakes are adjusted correctly. Using an adjustable wrench, bend each caliper arm slightly so the front edge of the brake shoe touches the rim first. WARNING: Bend caliper arms only slightly; bending too far can damage the brake.

Brake System Operation

To operate brakes: Squeeze the handlebar brake lever. The lever pulls a cable attached to the brake, which squeezes the rim between two brake shoes.

Operate brakes by slowly squeezing levers until braking action is felt. Make a habit of using both brakes to stop. Using both brakes provides the shortest stopping distance.

WARNING: Failure to obey instructions can result in injury. Before riding for the first time, check and adjust brakes. Test them at low speed in a clear, level area. If brake blocks are worn, replace them as per "Brake System Adjustment" (Page 15).

The brake system is effective when used correctly. Applying the front brake too strongly can cause the rider to be thrown off. Always use both brakes to stop.

Brake in a straight line. Apply brakes earlier in wet conditions, on sand, gravel, or when turning. To reduce skidding, apply brakes intermittently.

In wet conditions, brake earlier due to increased stopping distance. When riding downhill or at high speed, braking distance increases. Slow for curves.

Keep wax, oil, or grease off rims and brake shoes, as this reduces performance and increases stopping distance.

Check and adjust brakes if they don't stop the bicycle smoothly, or if a brake lever touches the grip.

Coaster Brake

APPLY PRESSURE TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP

The coaster brake is a sealed mechanism in the wheel hub, activated by reversing pedal crank rotation. Start with cranks nearly horizontal, front pedal at 4 o'clock. Apply downward foot pressure on the rear pedal. More pressure increases braking force, potentially causing the rear wheel to skid.

(Diagram shows a bicycle's rear wheel indicating the coaster brake mechanism.)

CAUTION: Ensure the brake is working properly before riding. If not, have the bicycle checked by your dealer.

Adjusting Your Coaster Brake

Coaster brake service and adjustment require special tools and knowledge. Do not attempt disassembly. Take the bicycle to your dealer for service.

Repair and Service

WARNING: Inspect the bicycle frequently. Failure to inspect or make necessary repairs/adjustments can result in injury. Ensure all parts are correctly assembled and adjusted per this manual.

Rear Wheel and Chain Adjustment

Maintenance: The chain must be at the correct tightness. Too tight makes pedaling difficult; too loose can cause the chain to come off sprockets. WARNING: The chain must remain on the sprockets; if it comes off, the coaster brake will not operate.

Correct tightness: Pull the chain one-half inch (2) away from a straight edge (3).

(Diagrams show chain tension measurement.)

To adjust tightness:

• Loosen rear wheel axle nuts (4).
• Loosen the brake arm clamp (5), but do not remove the nut/screw.

NOTE: Ensure the rear wheel is centered in the frame.

Move the rear wheel forward or backward until the chain has the correct slack. Hold the wheel in position and tighten axle nuts to the recommended torque of 25-28 N.M.

(Diagrams show axle nut and brake arm adjustment.)

Tyre Removal

1. Deflate the tyre by pressing the valve core.

2. Separate the tyre bead from the rim sides using thumbs, working around the tyre.

(Figure A shows pressing the tyre bead.)

3. Stand the wheel up, valve stem down. Grasp the upper tyre and roll it off the far side of the rim.

4. Use tyre tools (spoon handles) to lift the bead on one side off the rim. Avoid pinching the inner tube. Once a section is off, the rest can be pulled by hand.

(Figure B shows lifting the bead with tools.)

5. With one bead off, pull the inner tube out, except near the valve stem.

6. Pull the tyre the rest of the way off the rim, starting opposite the valve stem.

(Figures C, D, F show tyre replacement, rim strip, and valve stem insertion.)

Tyre Inflation

Frequently check tyre pressure. For storage, support the bicycle to keep weight off tyres.

Inflation: Maintain tyre pressure as recommended on the tyre sidewall. (e.g., 40PSI = 275Kpa, 35PSI = 241Kpa).

WARNING: Do not ride with under-inflated inner tubes, as this can damage the tyre and tube. Do not use unregulated air hoses, as they can over-inflate and cause bursting.

Use a hand or foot pump. Service station hoses are acceptable. Ensure tyre bead is seated correctly before inflating. Add air slowly, checking pressure frequently. Replace worn or defective tyres and tubes.

Recommended Torque Requirements

• (A) Front axle nuts: 25-28 N.M
• (B) Rear axle nuts: 25-28 N.M
• (C) Handlebar clamp nut/bolt: 9-13 N.M (4 bolt type); 21-25 N.M (1 bolt type)
• (D) Handlebar stem expander bolt: 17-19 N.M
• (E) Seat pillar clamp nut/bolt: 17-19 N.M
• (F) Brake cable anchor bolt: 7-11 N.M
• (G) Brake mounting bolt: 6-8 N.M
• (H) Seat clamp nuts: 12-17 N.M
• (I) Crank attachment systems: 24-30 N.M

A torque wrench is recommended during assembly.

Inspection of Bearings

Maintenance: Check bearings frequently. Have them lubricated by a service shop annually or if they fail tests.

• Head Tube Bearings: Fork should turn freely and smoothly. With the front wheel off the ground, there should be no up/down or side-to-side movement of the fork in the head tube.
• Crank Bearings: Crank should turn freely and smoothly. Front sprockets should not be loose. There should be no side-to-side movement of the pedal end of the crank.
• Wheel Bearing: Lift each end of the bicycle and spin the wheel. Bearings are adjusted correctly if the wheel spins freely, and a spoke reflector's weight causes it to spin back and forth. There should be no side-to-side rim movement when pushed lightly.

Lubrication/Maintenance

WARNING: Do not over-lubricate. Oil on rims or brake shoes reduces performance and increases stopping distance, potentially causing injury.

Wipe excess oil off the chain. Keep oil off pedals. Wash oil off rims, brake shoes, pedals, and tyres with soap and hot water, then rinse and dry.

Lubrication Guidelines

Normal Repair Kits

Some parts wear down easily. Recommended repair kits include:

• Spare inner tube
• Patch kits
• Pump
• Tyre levers
• Multi tools

Significant mechanical repairs should be done by a skilled bicycle mechanic.

Wheels Inspection

Keep wheels in top condition for optimal braking and stability.

• Dirty or Greasy Rims: Can render brakes ineffective. Clean with a clean rag or soapy water; rinse and air dry. Do not ride when wet. Avoid getting oil on rim braking surfaces.
• Wheels Not Straight: Spin wheels to check for crookedness or being out of round. Adjustment is difficult and best left to a specialist.
• Broken or Loose Spokes: Check spoke tightness; ensure none are missing or damaged. Damage can cause instability and accidents. Specialist handling is recommended.
• Loose Hub Bearings: Lift wheel and try to move it side-to-side. If there is movement, adjustment is required; do not ride.
• Axle Nut: Check tightness before each ride.
• Fork Replacement: If replacing the front fork, ensure it matches the original in size and inner tube diameter.

12 Month Warranty

Thank you for your purchase from Kmart.

Kmart Australia Ltd warrants the product against defects in materials and workmanship for the period stated from the date of purchase, provided it is used according to recommendations. This warranty is in addition to rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

Kmart will offer a refund, repair, or exchange if the product becomes defective within the warranty period. Kmart covers reasonable expenses for warranty claims. The warranty is void if the defect results from alteration, accident, misuse, abuse, or neglect.

Retain your receipt as proof of purchase. Contact Kmart Customer Service on 1800 124 125 (Australia) or 0800 945 995 (New Zealand), or via Kmart.com.au for assistance. Warranty claims and return expenses can be addressed to the Customer Service Centre at 690 Springvale Rd, Mulgrave Vic 3170.

Goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to replacement/refund for major failure and compensation for foreseeable loss or damage. Goods must be repaired or replaced if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure is not major.

For New Zealand customers, this warranty is in addition to statutory rights under New Zealand legislation.