ledhed

I recently bought a used Rans Rocket. I have a few questions about this bike.

1. Should the handlebars lock in place?
There is an aluminum pivot with a clamp at the bottom of the handlebar stem. The clamp will lock down tight but the handlebars will still move back and forth. I'm may try putting a thin shim between the bars and the clamp and see if it locks.

2. Will the earlier models hold the same weight?
The 2008 model lists the maximum weight at 275 lbs., coincidentally where I am right now.
The frame is all red with all round tubing. I tried downloading some information from Rans website but the .pdf file was corrupted and wouldn't open. If anyone could steer me to a site I could get a manual I'd appreciate it.

3.Are there any special concerns about maintenance?
The bike is in good shape is there anything special to a recumbent I should look at before riding it? My cousin jumped on it and took off around the block before I could stop him and it seems like everything worked fine.

Thanks.

Pat.

JanMM

The RANS Owners Bike Manual has general and specific information about all current models. Some of the info will relate to your bike. Try again for a download.
My 2000 Tailwind doesn't have the pivoting stem/riser. Someone else will have to provide info about that.
General maintenance issues are the same as with upright bikes except you have a much loooonger chain to maintain and, of course, the bars/stem/riser and seat are quite different. Keep an eye on whether or not your seat will maintain it's horizontal position. If not, info on how to deal with that is on the RANS site.
I've had good luck getting responses to questions emailed to RANS. Their website has lots of information but is amazingly slow.
Try Googling RANS Rocket for images and information.

vik 

The handle bars don't lock in place - they are designed to fold, but you can adjust how close they come towards you before they stop. I have no idea about the weight ratings of earlier models, but I doubt it has changed recently - the Rocket is an old and proven design. There are no special maintenance needs. If it is shifting and braking properly just lube the chain occasionally and ride it.

I had a Rocket in my fleet for a while....really fun bent - enjoy yours....

jeffh129

...are usually based on what the wheels can withstand, not the frame. You should be fine. If you do have problems, it should be with the wheels, which you may then need to replace with sturdier ones.

The handle bar / stem is called at the "flipit". It does not lock into place. You'll get used to it. It's supposed to make it easier to get on and off the bent.

Happy riding.

BlazingPedals

The Flip-It doesn't lock; which shouldn't be a problem since you shouldn't be pushing on the bars while riding anyway. But it should be wiggle-free. Wiggling is a sign that it's worn and should probably be replaced.

richking1953

The Rocket is a great bike. Good choice! The original frame had square tubes, and then around 2001 or so they switched to round. I don't think the frame's been redesigned since then, so the weight limit for 2008 is probably the same as for your frame.
While you can't lock the flip-it, in addition to adjusting how close it comes to you, you can adjust the amount of friction. It's a great steering arrangement when you get used to it. Very comfortable and responsive.

richking1953

I forgot to mention that Rans customer support is great. If you contact them through ransbikes.com "contact us" I'm sure they'll tell you how to get a manual

gruffydd

I have had a Rocket since 2000. I still love the bike. It is my "in town" bike.

BlazingPedals

The Rocket was square-tube until '96, I think. In 2001 the 1.5" round tubing was changed to 2" round tubing. Most pundits say it made a huge improvement in ride and performance.