Sidewinder Cycle Inc.
678 Ash Circle
Fillmore, CA 93015
Owners Manual
Pro Cruiser Series
Tel: +1-866-524-3022 Fax: +1-866-524-3021 sales@sidewindercycle.com
Technical Support +1-866-524-3022
Congratulations on your selection of the Sidewinder Cycle, the most innovative
change in cycling in the last 40 years. We have put a great deal of effort into designing
and building a product that will give you many years of trouble free service. There are
units in operation that have logged thousands of miles and actually operate as well or
better today then when they were first built.
This products performance depends on you. It is a mechanical product and needs
the care specified to provide the quality of performance and safety that it can provide.
Like other mechanical devices, it can be abused and misused. Only you can determine your
own ability and operate the Sidewinder within that boundary.
Tight manufacturing tolerances will result in the Sidewinder feeling tight and rough
for the first 10-20 hours of operation. It is of particular importance that you take this
break-in period to learn about the product and to develop your feel for its operation. The
break-in period is particularly critical with regard to the disk brakes. During the first
20 or so hours of operation, the disks pads will wear in for a tight fit and
enhanced performance. Brake cables also can stretch. These need to be adjusted for optimum
performance of the brakes for your safety. It is a sensible and recommended procedure that
the cycle be checked before each use for loose bolts, nuts, screws, and fittings. This is
of particular importance during the break-in period.
If you have any questions, your dealer can assist you. If you are in an area without a
dealer and purchased directly from us, you may call or fax our technical staff for
assistance. Be sure that you have registered your units serial number.
- Always
be aware that your visibility to others, particularly cars and trucks, might
be less than you think.
- Always
give pedestrians the right of way.
- Always
use caution and assume that the other traffic did not see you.
- Always
use regulation bicycle safety equipment-particularly an approved bicycle
safety helmet.
- Always
use the safety flag and reflectors shipped with each unit or provided by your
dealer.
- Always
know local regulations and observe them.
- Always
be safe rather than sorry.
Good Luck and Safe Cycling
Sidewinder Cycle Inc.
CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
This product is being sold on the specific terms and conditions that
are outlined below. If any term or condition is unacceptable, return this cycle in the
original carton to the seller, in a salable condition, freight prepaid for a full refund;
keeping this product signifies your complete and unconditional acceptance of these terms.
This cycle product is very different in many respects from any other
cycle product, even if they appear similar. Because this cycle is a new and innovative
product, it will have operating characteristics that you will not be familiar with. Using
this product beyond its operating envelope will cause it to roll over and can result in
serious injury or death. For this reason, the individual user must accept full and
unconditional responsibility for operating this cycle in a safe and responsible way.
Unlike the bicycle, which is inherently unstable, the Sidewinder is
initially stable and remains stable until its design characteristics, or operating
envelope is exceeded by the operator, often in a sudden manner without prior warning.
Initially, you should use this product at slow and controlled speed on level ground until
you develop a feel for the performance characteristics of the sidewinder cycle and
your own ability to operate and control the cycles performance.
The Operator is also responsible for periodically inspecting the
product for wear and damage, for periodically providing routine maintenance including
lubrication, inspection of nuts and bolts for tightness, tires for wear and damage and
proper inflation, and checking brakes and cables for proper adjustment and operation of
components.
This condition of sale is of particular significance since the
operating envelope is a variable that cannot be predefined in other than the most
theoretical terms. The Sidewinder cycle is a performance machine, although it functions
extremely well as a comfortable and maneuverable alternative to the bicycle or other
tricycles. Characteristics which define the operating envelope are not predictable by the
manufacturer, and for this reason we will only sell the Sidewinder to those recognizing
this fact and accepting personal responsibility for its performance.
Factors that effect the operating envelope include and are not limited
to the:
- weight of the operator
- distribution of the operators weight
- length of the operators leg
- height of the operator
- position of the seat in the triangle described by a line drawn between the points where
each of the three wheels contacts the ground
- pressure, profile, and quality of tires
- weight and distribution of accessories such as water bottles and cargo packs
- speed of the cycle
- turning radius
- grade and texture of the ground upon which it is operating
- Whether the operator is leaning into the curve as with a bicycle or sitting straight and
upright through the curve
These variables and the unlimited combinations they represent are why
we insist on this condition of sale.
Should you accept the terms and conditions of this sale as outlined
above and use the Sidewinder and later seek to void this agreement, then you further agree
to settle your dispute with this company by binding arbitration. The losing party will be
responsible for the winning partys legal fees and liquidated damages. Sidewinder
Remcumbents Inc. estimates its liquidate damages to be $50,000.
It is truly unfortunate that we undertake these actions in order to
provide a quality product at affordable prices in our litigious society.
Remember, if these terms are unacceptable, please return the Sidewinder cycle, PRIOR TO
ASSEMBLY AND IN THE ORIGINAL CARTON, to the point-of-purchase for a full refund.
The following Graph Assumes a center of gravity of 18 inches and represents the
theoretical relationship between velocity and turning radius. If you attempt to turn a
tighter radius then the speed in the graph, the cycle will roll over. However, leaning
into the curve will permit a dramatically tighter turning radius. This graph is presented
only for illustrative purpose and to give the new owner some insight into the dynamics
that he will encounter in developing their handling skills. Always start very slow and
work your way up towards the limit.

Attention!!!!
Sidewinder Recumbents Inc. would like to thank you for purchasing a Sidewinder. As a
"thank you" and a way to let others experience the Sidewinder, we are extending
to you a $200.00 finders fee for each Sidewinder sold direct to an individual that
you were responsible for introducing to the Sidewinder.
To qualify for this rebate the sale must be direct to Sidewinder
Recumbents Inc., and the order must contain your cycle Serial No., found on one of the
seat adjusting rails. For this reason, it is important that you fill out the registration
form in the owner manual, complete with name, address and phone number, and be sure to
give your Serial No. to interested parties for inclusion with their order.
The finders fee will be sent to you or you may choose from the
various accessories that we will be introducing for the Sidewinder Family. Finders
fee will be paid when the new customer cycle is shipped and payment has been received.
Occasionally, we may have a request by persons that would like to talk
with an owner in their area. If you are open to this, and indicate that you would be
willing in the space provided on the registration form, we will put your name on our
referral list.
PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD
(PLEASE SEPARATE AT LINE AND MAIL TO REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT)
This card must be mailed to the Sidewinder Cycle Company within 30 days of purchase to
activate the Warrantee on the Sidewinder Cycle. The cycles serial number is located
on the Seat Adjustment Rail of the Frame.
Serial Number___________________________________
Name
_____________________________________________________________________________
Address
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone
_____________________________________________________________________________
Where purchased
_____________________________________________________________________________
Are you willing to be contacted by a prospective customer in your area?
________________Sign.
Did your dealer explain the difference between the Sidewinder Cycle and bicycles and
how those differences affect operations and safety? Yes No
Did your unit have reflectors and a safety flag? Yes No
Did your dealer explain the basic operations and maintenance? Yes No
Mail this form with a copy of your sales receipt to: Sidewinder Cycle Inc.
Registration, 678 Ash Circle, Fillmore , CA 93015
Each use:
Inspect:
- Cycle frame for signs of physical damage can occur with normal use.
- Seat fabric for signs of wear or tearing.
- Seat adjustment latches to be sure the pins are firmly set into each rail.
- Seat back support tube to be sure the quick-pin is securely inserted through a
hole in both the inner and outer tubes.
- Front crank tube for full extension and the locking latch on the pivot which
should be in its downward most position with the top two screws tightened. The slot
in the locking latch should not be visible.
- Safety flag is installed in the rear head tube.
- All reflectors are in place: white to the front, red to the rear, and either
white or amber to the side.
- Brake cable adjustment; check brake lever for sponginess and test brake
function at slow speed.
- Alternate steering selection lever is fully engaged and the rear pin is firmly
seated in the bell crank.
- Tire pressure is correct for the specific tire installed. Check for tire wear
or damage and replace tires as required.
- After use, particularly in inclement weather or in sandy or dusty conditions,
wipe the cycle down to maximize the life of the Sidewinder and to ensure its continued
reliability and performance.
- If you find a condition that you are not certain about, call your dealer or
the factory. SAFETY FIRST IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!
Monthly: (more frequently for heavy usage)
In addition to the above routine, these additional checks should be performed:
- Inspect the disk brake disks for wear. Check the adjustment on the brake pads. The
clearance between the pad and the disk should be about the thickness of a dime. Adjust the
pad screw accordingly. Lubricate with grease, the brake lever where it comes in contact
with the ball bearings.
- Inspect the brake cables for stretching. Remove any excessive play. It is important that
there be no excess cable or bends in the cable between the brake lever and the brake.
- Turn the unit on its side and check the 8 allen bolts, holding the drive system to the
frame, for looseness. These bolts should be tight, but not overly tight as it could cause
the bearings to bind.
- Tighten each bolt using moderate hand pressure.
- When the bolt feels tight, loosen it by 1/8th of a turn, approximately 45
degrees.
- When all eight bolts are assembled, rotate the differential by hand. If there is a
rough, sandy drag or if one axle turns and the other does not, then the bolts are too
tight. If both axles turn but feel rough, then loosen each bolt by an additional 1/16th
turn, about half of what you did originally. If one axle turns and the other doesnt,
then the bolts on the side that doesnt turn are too tight. Loosen only these bolts
by 1/16th of a turn, or 22 ½ degrees.
- Check the shifting levers at a slow speed for smooth performance. Adjust the shift
levers as required.
Annually: (more frequently for heavy usage)
The following maintenance should be added to all of the above steps:
- Remove all brake and gear shift cables at the lever or actuating end following the
derailleur manufacturers instructions. Add cable lubricant and reinstall the cables.
Adjust the deraillers and the brakes following the component manufacturers
instructions and the assembly instructions that follow.
- Check all moving components for smooth operation and lubricate where
indicated. Lubricate the latching pins on the seat slide locks. Pull the release cables
several times to distribute the lubrication on the internal sliding components. Add grease
to the beveled ramps cut into the brake actuating lever. Operate the brakes to distribute
the lubrication. CAUTION: Care should be exercised to keep all lubrication off the
brake disk, particularly in the area where the caliper pads will contact the disk. Failing
to do so could result in the failure of the brakes.

SIDEWINDER ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
The Sidewinder is easy to assemble. Although it may look complicated, it is not if you
follow these instructions. The drive assembly contains most of the components that will
have to be installed. By following these instructions in order, assembly will progress
rapidly. Based on your ability to use simple tools, assembly should take between 1 and 3
hours.
TOOLS REQUIRED
2.5 mm hex key wrench
#2 phillips & a large flat bladed screw driver
pliers, 3/8 & 7/16 open ended wrenches
bicycle chain tool
Assistance may be obtained at 805-524-3022 or through the Internet at
sales@sidewindercycle.com
GETTING STARTED
- Find a comfortable surface to work on that will allow easy access to the front of the
frame. Use tape or a blanket or some other means of protecting the finish on the wheel
guard on each side of the frame.
- Place the main frame upside down on this surface.
DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY
Locate the differential and axle assembly (Figure 1). Remove the packing
material.
This assembly is now ready to install in the frame. Brake handles and
shifters have been pre-assembled on the control handles. The brake disks and 4 bearings
along with bushings for the handles have also been assembled. The differential assemble is
inserted through the bottom of the frame. Place the differential
assembly so that the 3/4" bearings fit
between the protrusions on the inside of each differential axle frame clamp (Figure 2).
This positions the differential in the correct location. There should be a minimum of side
play between differential and frame, if this has been done correctly.
With the four bearings between the protrusions, rotate each of the handle control
bushings, until the notch on the outer rim of the bushing fits over the protrusion,
holding the bearing in place. Install the four axle clamps around the bearings using 2 -
1" x 1/4-20 Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS). Two of the 1/4" flat washers provided
must be placed on each side of the clamp in the gap between the axle clamps (Figure 3)
and the frame axle clamp. Tighten the 8- 1" X1/4-20 SHCS. The SHCS should be snug,
but not overly tight. When all eight bolts are tightened, rotate the differential by hand.
If there is a rough, sandy drag or if one axle turns and the other does not, then one or
more of the SHCS on the side that does not turn may be too tight. (Note: An axle clamp
that is too tight will damage the bearing. Loosen each of the SHCS on the side that does
not turn and retighten).
ASSEMBLY FORK & STEERING
- The fork assembly is similar to that used on a bicycle with the exception that a bell
crank and extra bearing are used to facilitate the alternate steering mode. The Sidewinder
is shipped with brake steering mode installed. CAUTION !!! BRAKE STEERING IS FAST
AND REQUIRES OPERATOR SKILL AND EXPERIENCE. YOU MAY LOSE CONTROL RESULTING IN SERIOUS
INJURY. IF YOU INTEND TO USE BRAKE STEERING, IT SHOULD ONLY BE ENGAGED WHEN YOU ARE AT A
COMPLETE STOP, AND IT SHOULD ONLY BE USED IN A LOW SPEED OPERATION. ONLY THE OPERATOR
KNOWS HIS OWN SKILL LEVEL AND MUST ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS OPERATION. THE SIDEWINDER
CYCLE COMPANY CANNOT PREDICT THE SKILL OF THE OPERATOR AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH BRAKE
STEERING WILL BE USED AND CONSEQUENTLY WILL NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR ITS OPERATION.

Place a bottom bicycle race onto the fork next to the round disk. See (Figure 4),
Next lubricate the bearing and place it on the fork. (Balls should be facing away from the
race). Locate the bell crank and place a race cup into the center hole on the side
opposite the two round linkage connection balls. Place this over the end of the fork tube.
Place a second race into the recess on the top surface of the bellcrank, (the side with
the two linkage connection ball). Lubricate the bearing and install it facing with balls
up, the same direction as the first bearing installed.
The top and bottom race cup have been installed in the head tube at the factory.
Place the fork with the bellcrank into the head tube; insert the last bearing with balls
facing toward the other two bearings already installed. Secure the fork with the head tube
retaining race.
- Before tightening the head tube nut, attach the steering rod quick releases over the
balls on the bellcrank.
- Adjust tightness of the head tube nut the same as a regular bicycle. Tighten the head
tube retaining nut, until tight, then back the nut approximately Ό turn.
- Test the fork movement. It should turn easily, but it should not be sloppy and have
excessive play beyond turning smoothly. Adjust the nut accordingly.
- Thread the lock ring against the head tube nut and tighten.
- Place the rear reflector bracket over the fork tube, and insert the flag pole holder
into the head tube.
- Secure these last two items with the hex head tube nut.
- The quick release steering rod ends may now be engaged between the bell-crank and the
steering control rods. If the steering handles are not aligned across from each other,
screw the ball ends in or out to adjust the handles position. Make sure that there is a
minimum of 5 complete turns of threads inside the quick connector.
- Steering control arms have a steering sensitivity adjustment. On the bottom of the
steering control there are two positions. The inside holes closest to the axle give more
control and more sensitive steering. The outside hole give faster response with less hand
movement for high performance steering. WARNING: STEERING CONTROLS IN THE HIGH
PERFORMANCE MODE CAN BE DANGEROUS BECAUSE OF INCREASED AGILITY AND WILL INCREASE
THE LIKELIHOOD OF ROLLING THE UNIT, IF THE OPERATOR IS UNSKILLED. USE OF THE CYCLE
SHOULD ONLY BE ATTEMPTED BY AN OPERATOR WILLING TO ACCEPT FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE HIGH
PERFORMANCE AND ANY INJURY RESULTING THEREFROM.
- The outside sheathing that the control rods pass through might need to be adjusted to
give smooth operation. This will be particularly true if the steering sensitivity has been
changed. The end of the tube nearest the control rod can be bent by using a non-marring
rubber mallet and sharply striking the end of the sheathing in an up or down direction,
away from the control rod. CAUTION: the control rod must be disconnected from the
steering rod before attempting this adjustment (Figures 5).
CHAIN INSTILATION
- The front tube has been pre-assembled at the factory (Figure 6). Turn the Sidewinder
frame over for the next part of the
assembly.
- Move the sliding latch key to the side and tighten the front pivot tube, quick release
handles to hold the front tube in place.
- Install the chain through the front and rear derailleur around the differential chain
cogs, and secure the end with the master link. The chain has been cut to length and is
ready to install.
INSTALLING CONTROLS
The controls have been pre-assembled on the handles; you need only to route the control
lines to their end point.
- Remove the spacer from between the brake pads, (CAUTION DO NOT ACTIVATE THE BRAKE
HANDLES WITHOUT A SPACER OR BRAKE DISK BETWEEN THE BRAKE PADS) and slide the brake caliper
over the brake disk. Adjust and secure brake caliper, using 3/4" x 1/4-20 SHCS.
(Brake pads should not rub brake disk). Make sure that brake lines are routed out of the
way, so they will not be pinched. Brake have been pre-bled. Do not loosen any of the
hoses. Repeat this process for the other side. (See
www.hayes.com for detailed information on the brake)
Run the shifter cable sheath between the right grip shifter and the bottom derailleur.
Leave enough slack in the cable so that it does not bind against the brake disk when the
steering handles are moved.
Install the shifter cable and adjust derailleur for full range of movement over the
freewheel, following the derailleur manufacturers direction.
Run shifter sheathing between the left grip shifter and the front derailleur using the
frame ferrules to route the cable. Install the cable in the sheathing and adjust
derailleur for full range of movement over the chain ring gears, following the derailleur
manufacturers direction.
Differential guard is installed next. Using two Ό - 20 x ½ inch button head screws,
secure the differential housing in place.
OPERATIONS
FOLDING & UNFOLDING PROCEDURES
Note: The sequence in folding and unfolding is of significance. It is designed to
specifically protect sensitive components. Deviating from the recommended sequence can
result in damage to components, particularly the rear derailleur. Note: Start
by placing the chain on the large front ring and the large gear on the cluster. When
folding the boom, this will lift the rear derailleur into a safe parking position.
Folding Sequence:
- Remove quick pin from the seats rear support tube
[Figure 22].
- Lift the seat off of the frame and set aside.
- Release the quick release clamps. Do not loosen the lower screws.
- Slide the front tube latch upward and toward the center of the frame by rocking the
front tube slightly.
- While holding the latch upward, bend the front tube over the frame. Tighten one top cam
lock to hold in place [figure 23].
- Release the rear fork and wheel and turn it 180° placing the wheel
under the frame and re-lock the fork in this position.
- Open the quick release on the rear wheel and remove and set it aside.

Caution: Use a rag or newspaper, when tipping the unit to prevent scratching the
hub. When the side wheels are removed, the bottom derailleur is exposed and care should be
exercised to prevent damage . [Figure 23]
- Tip the unit on its side and remove the wheel hubs noting
whether they are marked right handed or left handed. A right handed thread is tightened by
turning clockwise and loosened by turning counter clockwise [Figure 24].
- Remove the hub and using a small screw driver or hex key, push the pin out of the wheel
hub and free of the axle. Pull the wheel off the axle and set aside. We strongly recommend
replacing the pin in the axle, and screwing the hub on until it covers the pin. This will
keep the pin and hub from getting lost and will protect the axle threads.
- While tipped, release the steering quick connect by
sliding the outer shell towards the rear and lifting the female connector from the male
pin of the steering control rod. The handle can now be folded backward until flat [Figure
25].
- Repeat this procedure for the other wheel and steering control rod.
- The unit can be readily stored in the trunk of many automobiles with the components
nested inside and around the frame.
Unfolding Sequence:
Caution: Use a rag or newspaper, when tipping the unit to prevent scratching the
hub. When the side wheels are removed, the bottom derailleur is exposed and care should be
exercised to prevent damage.
- Carefully tip the unit on end. Remove the wheel hub and the pin from the axle. Place a
wheel on the axle with the hole in the hub facing the outside. Align the hole in the wheel
hub with the hole in the axle and insert the pin. Screw the axle hub on the axle, note
whether it is a right or left handed thread, and screw it on over the pin and make
"hand tight" only.
- While on end, lift the steering control handle to position the male coupling
with the female connector. Slide the outer locking shell backward and engage the female
connector over the male pin on the steering control rod. Slide the outer locking shell
full forward to secure the coupling.
- Repeat this step for the other wheel and steering control rod.
- Place the rear wheel in the fork and tighten the quick release while pressing down
slightly on the fork.
- Release the fork and turn the wheel 180
° from under the frame and re-lock the fork.
Loosen the one screw on the front tube clamp and rotate the front tube into operating
position. While slightly rocking the front tube, slide the front tube latch towards the
right side of the cycle. It should drop down into a locked position with the slots in the
latch no longer visible.
Tighten the two top screws to complete the unfolding and returning the cycle to its
operating position.
Engage the tube on the rear of the seat with the tube on the rear of the frame. Engage
the pins on the side of the seat in the slots in the seat rails. Slide the seat to a
comfortable position. When the seat is secured to the rail, adjust the angle of recline to
your preference and engage the quick pin into the aligned holes in the seat back support.
Be certain that the quick pin is completely inserted up to the ring on the pin and passes
through both the inner and outer tubes.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
The seat can be easily adjusted. First, the quick pin connecting the two support bars
must be removed. Lift the seat out of the slot in the seat support rail and move the seat
to the desired position. Drop the pins on the sides of the seat into the desired slot.
Finally, tip the seat to a recline position of choice and position the two support rods so
that the holes in both are aligned. Insert the quick pin into the aligned holes. It is
very important that the pin pass through both rods and that the pin is full inserted up to
the ring in the pin.
SHIFTING GEARS
As with ordinary bicycles, the gears should be shifted while moving.
STEERING
This unit is very nimble and can turn a tight radius. The steering is shipped with a
less sensitive setting as described in the assembly instructions. It is very important
that this setting be maintained until you become familiar with the feel of the Sidewinder
and gain skill in its control. Please refer to the cautions and warnings in the
beginning of this manual.
SAFETY
Always wear safety equipment as you would on an ordinary bicycle. In addition, you
should always inspect the vehicle before use.
- Check reflectors and safety flag.
- Inspect the chain and deraillers.
- Inspect the steering linkage and be certain that the quick connectors are securely
fastened and that the safety cage is in a full forward position.
- Check both the brake and derailleur cables for looseness or binding.
- At slow speed, check the brakes for effectiveness.
- Listen for unusual or new sounds that could indicate the need for service.
- When in doubt, seek the advice of a competent bicycle mechanic.
SIDEWINDER CYCLE INC. LIMITED WARRANTEE
This Warrantee is provided to the original owner of a Registered Product, exclusively.
If you have not done so already, please take a moment to register your product now. The
Warrantee Registration Period is limited to 30 days from the day you purchased your cycle.
The standard bicycle components used on the Sidewinder Cycle are warranted for a period
of 12 months from the date of purchase against defects in material and workmanship and
covers labor and material. The Differential Drive System, which includes axles and
bearings, Frame, Steering, Brakes, and Wheel Hubs are warranted against defects in
material and workmanship for a period of 12 months from date of purchase, parts and labor
included; and for an additional 48 months, parts only. Corrosion is excluded from the
warrantee. Although the frame is powder coated, the user is responsible for repairing
scratches and chips in the powder coat finish, and for wiping surfaces to remove moisture
and road grit or sand, and for lubricating or otherwise corrosion protecting bare metal
surfaces.
During this period, any part that is judged by the Manufacturer to be
defective will be replaced free of charge. Any failure resulting from accidents, abuse,
neglect, normal wear, or improper assembly or maintenance by the owner is not covered.
Sidewinder Cycle will replace, at no cost to the owner, any covered component providing
this product has not been for rental use and:
- The Sidewinder Cycle was duly registered by the original owner of record during the
Warrantee Registration Period.
- The item has not been altered repaired, or modified in any way.
- The item has not been subject to misuse, negligence, and/or an accident.
- Original ownership is established by copy of a dated sales receipt.
Any parts under this guarantee on which claims are entered shall be returned, to
point-of-purchase, for inspection with transportation prepaid by the claimant. Replacement
parts will be shipped F.O.B. factory.
There are no warranties or guarantees, expressed or implied, written or oral, which
extend beyond the description on the face hereof.
SIDEWINDER CYCLE INC. RETURN POLICY
Return/cancellation policy: Refunds will be made for returned items within 30 days
of purchase. A 15% restocking fee is charged for returned items. Purchaser is responsible
for shipping returned items and they must be in new condition. No refunds will be made for
custom orders.
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