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Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes StairCycle™ Unique? StairCycle™ is the only Human Powered Vehicle with completely independent foot pedals that produce forward motion no matter what size step you take.

What is the Curvilinear Drive System? The CDS includes the pedals and transmission. Each pedal is shaped with a curve that produces 2 functions: to pull chain down and forward in the smoothest fashion. The CDS also includes the unique transmission that allow spring returned pedal action and also produces completely independent functionality. A great deal of time and research went into this patented design and it creates a totally unique riding system.

What is the purpose of the lockdown system? Although not absolutely required, the lockdown system allows you to mount and dismount the bike with the pedals locked into the most downward position for convenience. The lockdown levers work with a twist grip system identical to the shifter system. The lockdown system is located on the left side of the handlebars, the gear shifter on the right side.

Is it Hard to Learn to Ride the StairCycle™? If you can ride a bicycle, you will be able to ride StairCycle™ with only a few minutes of practice. You simply get the StairCycle™ moving just like you would a scooter, stand with both feet on the pedals, twist the lockdown to the OFF position and then start "stepping" normally. When you are coming to a stop, twist the lock down to the ON position and cruise to a stop with both feet flat, stop and get off.

Is StairCycle™ Harder to ride than a bike? Absolutely NOT! Standing and walking are natural motions of the human body. Sitting on a bicycle seat with your legs going in a circular motion is harder to learn that standing upright riding the StairCycle™

What are the real benefits to StairCycle™? Burns more calories than walking, Does not hurt your pelvic area. Does not force you to bend over. Does not impede your breathing. Bicycle riding is very uncomfortable for the abdominal muscles and diaphragm. Increased field of View. Easier to balance than a bike at very low speeds. Allows the selective use of one leg pedaling.

Why does StairCycle™ cost more than many bikes? It is made from the highest quality aluminum and uses very high quality parts. The transmission uses very high quality bearings that insure the smoothest motion of the pedals. The frameset uses more aluminum than any regular bicycle to insure a steady smooth ride. It incorporates the unique Shimano enclosed hub gearing mechanism which is much more costly than typical derailleur systems --- but is maintenance free and much smoother to operate. In short, it costs much more to produce than a 'good bike'. More importantly, it is much, much more than a bike. Compare StairCycle™ only to quality bicycles or quality stair-step exercisers costing $1,500 or more.

What about warranty? Where do I go to service StairCycle™? We are very confident that you will never have a serious problem with your quality StairCycle™. However, if you do, there is a 3 Year Frameset guarantee. One year limited warranty on the transmission and all other components. If it does break, most of the parts are industry standard and can be fixed or replaced at any local bicycle shop. For transmission problems, please consult this website for authorized repair shops near you. There is also online technical data that can be given to your local bike retailer. Most parts can be rush delivered within 3 days.

Can I service StairCycle™ myself? Absolutely! Please remember to lubricate the chains on a regular basis. Remove the dustcover once a month and lubricate the springs. Check your brake pads regularly, tighten any loose screws and bolts. This will ensure your safety and increase the longevity of all your parts.

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