Introduction
The Retrospec Kinney Mixte is a versatile 7-speed city bike designed for comfortable urban commuting and leisure rides. It features a unique, easy-to-mount mixte frame and smooth shifting capabilities. This manual provides essential information for assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Safety Information
- Always wear a helmet when riding your bicycle.
- Ensure all bolts and quick releases are securely tightened before each ride.
- Check brake functionality before each use.
- Ride defensively and obey all traffic laws.
- Do not ride at night without proper lighting.
- Regularly inspect tires for proper inflation and wear.
- Avoid riding in adverse weather conditions if visibility is poor.
Package Contents
Your Retrospec Kinney Mixte bicycle package should include the following items:
- Partially assembled bicycle frame with wheels
- Front wheel
- Handlebars
- Seat post and saddle
- Pedals
- Assembly tools
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Setup and Assembly
Your Retrospec Kinney Mixte arrives approximately 85% assembled. Follow these steps carefully to complete the assembly. Refer to the included assembly tools for tightening components.
1. Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the bicycle and all components from the packaging. Inspect for any visible damage during shipping. Retain all packaging materials until assembly is complete and you are satisfied with the product.
2. Installing the Front Wheel
Align the front wheel with the front fork. Ensure the quick-release skewer is properly installed and tightened. The brake pads should clear the rim without rubbing.
Image: Side view of the Retrospec Kinney Mixte City Bike. This image shows the overall structure of the bike, including the frame, wheels, handlebars, seat, and rear rack.
3. Attaching the Handlebars
Insert the handlebar stem into the fork's steerer tube. Ensure the handlebars are centered and aligned with the front wheel. Tighten the stem bolt securely. Adjust the angle of the swept-back handlebars for a comfortable riding position.
Image: Close-up of the Shimano Revoshift Twist-Grip Shifter and brake lever on the handlebar. This shows the mechanism for changing gears and operating the front brake.
4. Installing the Seat Post and Saddle
Insert the seat post into the frame's seat tube. Adjust the saddle height so that your leg has a slight bend at the knee when the pedal is at its lowest point. Secure the quick-release or bolt on the seat post clamp.
5. Attaching the Pedals
Pedals are marked 'L' for left and 'R' for right. The right pedal tightens clockwise, and the left pedal tightens counter-clockwise. Apply a small amount of grease to the pedal threads before installation. Tighten firmly with a wrench.
6. Brake Adjustment
Ensure both front and rear caliper brakes are properly aligned and the pads make full contact with the rim. The brake levers should engage smoothly and provide firm stopping power without touching the handlebars.
7. Tire Inflation
Inflate the 700x32C commuter tires to the recommended pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. Proper inflation is crucial for safety and performance.
Operating Instructions
1. Shifting Gears (Shimano 7-Speed)
Your Kinney Mixte is equipped with a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain and Revoshift Twist-Grip shifters. To change gears, twist the shifter on the right handlebar forward or backward. Twist forward for higher gears (faster speed, harder pedaling) and backward for lower gears (easier pedaling, good for inclines).
Image: Close-up of the Shimano 7-speed rear derailleur and cassette. This component manages the chain movement across the gears for speed changes.
2. Braking
The bike uses caliper brakes. The right lever controls the rear brake, and the left lever controls the front brake. Apply both brakes simultaneously for effective stopping. Avoid sudden, hard application of the front brake, especially at high speeds, to prevent loss of control.
3. Using the Rear Rack
The integrated rear rack is designed to carry light cargo. Ensure any items are securely fastened and do not interfere with the rear wheel or your pedaling. Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity specified for the rack.
Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Keep your bike clean, especially the drivetrain components, to prevent dirt buildup and wear.
- Chain Lubrication: Lubricate the chain regularly, especially after riding in wet conditions, to ensure smooth shifting and prevent rust.
- Brake Inspection: Check brake pads for wear and replace them when necessary. Ensure brake cables are not frayed and are properly tensioned.
- Tire Pressure: Maintain correct tire pressure for optimal performance and to prevent flats.
- Bolt Check: Periodically check all bolts and fasteners for tightness, including those on the handlebars, seat post, and wheels.
- Professional Servicing: It is recommended to have your bike professionally serviced at least once a year, or more frequently if you ride often.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Gears not shifting smoothly | Derailleur cable tension incorrect, dirty chain, bent derailleur hanger. | Adjust cable tension, clean and lubricate chain, inspect derailleur for damage. |
| Brakes feel spongy or ineffective | Loose brake cable, worn brake pads, misaligned calipers. | Tighten brake cable, replace worn pads, adjust caliper alignment. |
| Tires lose air quickly | Puncture in inner tube, valve stem issue, improper tire seating. | Inspect tire and tube for punctures, replace inner tube if necessary, ensure valve is tight. |
| Creaking noises while pedaling | Loose pedals, bottom bracket issue, seat post not tightened. | Tighten pedals, check bottom bracket, ensure seat post is secure. |
Specifications
- Model Name: Retrospec Kinney Mixte
- Bike Type: City Bike
- Frame Material: High-Tensile Strength Steel
- Number of Speeds: 7-Speed (Shimano)
- Shifters: Shimano Revoshift Twist-Grip
- Brake Style: Caliper Brakes
- Tires: 700x32C Commuter Tires
- Frame Size: 42cm
- Item Weight: Approximately 30 Pounds (13.6 kg)
- Included Components: Bicycle, Instruction Manual, Assembly Tools
- Assembly Required: Yes (85% pre-assembled)
Warranty and Support
The Retrospec Kinney Mixte bicycle comes with a Limited Warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Retrospec website. For technical support, replacement parts, or any other inquiries, please contact Retrospec customer service through their official channels.
You can find more information and contact details on the Retrospec Store on Amazon.
