hamax Pluto Medium Trailers Child Bike Seats User Manual

hamax Pluto Medium Trailers Child Bike Seats User Manual

HAMAX Pluto Medium and Pluto Large
Multifunctional bicycle dog trailer including stroller wheel and push bar
IMPORTANT – READ CAREFULLY AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

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Thank you for choosing the Hamax Pluto multifunctional bicycle dog trailer with push bar and stroller wheel.

Congratulations on purchasing the Hamax Pluto multifunctional bicycle dog trailer including push bar and stroller wheel.

You can transport your dog in a safe and comfortable way using the Hamax Pluto as a bicycle trailer and stroller.

Please read the instructions carefully before assembling or using the Hamax Pluto.
Please keep these instructions in a safe place for later use.
We wish you and your dogs many enjoyable trips!

SPECIFICATIONS

Folded dimensions: Pluto Medium 98cm x 58cm x 35cm; Pluto Large 119cm x 93cm x 43cm.
Trailer weight (incl. bicycle arm, excl. push bar and stroller wheel): Pluto Medium 15,0 kg; Pluto Large: 18.8 kg; Stroller wheel and Push Bar 1.7 kg

**To check the drawbar load, measure the weight at the end of the bicycle arm while the trailer is loaded with dog and cargo. You can measure by standing on a scale, remember your own weight. Stand on the scale with the bicycle arm in your hands . Make sure that your hold the bicycle arm at the correct height. Deduct your own weight and the result is the drawbar load.

WARNING

• Important – Read carefully and keep these instructions for future reference

• This product complies to the European standards for child bicycle trailers:
  EN 15918:2011+A2:2017

• This product is not suitable for dogs under 12 weeks of age.

• Do not use with dogs that exceed the weight limitations (see table A)

• Never leave your dog unattended.

• Avoid serious injury from falling or sliding or jumping out. Always use a restraint system.

• Towing a trailer will affect the stability of the bicycle and increases the braking distance.

• This trailer is wider than a bicycle. Allow for extra clearance and be aware of a larger turning circle.

• Before each ride, ensure the attached trailer does not interfere with braking, pedaling, or steering of the bicycle.

• Do not allow the dog’s body or any other items, leashes, clothing or toys to come in contact with moving parts.

• Do not install any other device not approved by the manufacturer.

• Make no modifications to the trailer.

• Never ride a bicycle at night without adequate lighting. Obey all local legal requirements.

• Check tyre pressure before use. Always inflate tyres to the inflation level specified on the outer tyres.

• Do not use cleaning solvents. Clean only with mild soap and water.

• Failure to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions can lead to serious injury or death of the passenger/rider.

• Obey all local legal requirements for bicyle trailers.

• Do not let the children play with this product.

• Do not transport children with this product

• Ensure that all the locking devices are engaged before use.

• Ensure the parking brake is engaged when loading and unloading your dog.

• To avoid injury ensure that the dog is kept away when unfolding and folding this product.

• This product is not suitable for running or skating.

• Do not use any accessories which are not approved by the manufacturer.

• Only replacement parts supplied or recommended by the manufacturer/distributor shall be used.

• Be aware of exposure hazards such as wind chill and heat exhaustion, either by less-active trailer passengers in prolonged exposure in colder temperatures, or by extended periods in warmer temperatures without adequate ventilation or hydration.

• Unintended use could lead to dangerous situations. Hamax is not liable for any damages caused by unintended use. Any unintended use is at the risk of the user.

• Close all the covers when using the bicycle trailer.

• Do not attach any load to the push bar as it will affect the stability of the trailer.

• Do not store luggage in areas inside or outside the trailer other than in the luggage compartment as it affects the stability of the trailer.

• Never cycle with the stroller wheel installed

SAFETY GUIDELINES

See the specifications and weight limitations in table A.
Ensure that the dog is in a lying or sitting position during driving, see table B !

Bicycle safety
Before connecting the bicycle trailer to your bicycle, ensure your bicycle is suitable for towing a trailer according to the bicycle manufacturer’s instruction and is equipped with well functioning brakes. It is recommended that the bicycle to which the trailer will be attached undergoes a safety check by a qualified bicycle mechanic before attaching the trailer. Bicycle trailers pulled by an EPAC (electrically power-assisted cycle) can be restricted by law.

Riding behavior
When towing a trailer, your bicycle behaves heavier and less responsive due to the added weight. Familiarize yourself with this behavior by practicing with a loaded trailer in a quiet area before entering crowded public roads with passengers.

Be aware that due to the weight of the trailer, your bicycle has a longer braking distance. Use caution when driving downhill, as your bicycle will gain speed more rapidly.

Do not exceed the maximum speed specified in this manual and slow down when making turns and riding on rough roads. Avoid riding over rocks, curbs or other obstacles that may cause the trailer to tip over. Using the trailer in unfavorable weather, road or traffic conditions can result in unsafe situations. Always use good judgement when deciding if conditions are safe for using the trailer.

High visibility
For optimal visibility and safety in traffic, the multifunctional carrier has front (white), rear (red) and wheel reflectors. Reflective piping is integrated in the outer fabric. When using the carrier as a bicycle trailer, you also need to apply the orange safety flag [1e] for even better visibility . Use the rear light [1f] that is included (see [17]).

Intended use
The trailer is intended for transportation of dogs as specified in this manual on public roads with light traffic, sidewalks and smooth paths. Hamax considers using the trailer in any other way as unintended use, including but not limited to:

• riding with excessive speed
• riding on rough off-road conditions
• using the trailer for commercial purposes
• transporting children
• storing luggage in areas inside or outside the trailer other than in the trailer’s luggage compartment
• towing the trailer by motorized vehicles other than e-bikes.
• failing to comply with the instructions in this manual

GETTING STARTED – INSTALLATION

[1] Packaging content

• Trailer body with Push Bar [1a]
• Quick release wheel (2x) [1b]
• Stroller wheel [1c]
• Wheel guards with screw (2x) [1d]
• Safety flag [1e]
• Rear light [1f]
• Bicycle arm with hitch [1g]
• Keys (2x) [1h]
• User manual

[2] Product overview

• Pushbar [2a]
• Pushbar height adjustment paddels [2b]
• Mesh doors [2c]
• Suspension [2d]
• Wheel guards [2e]
• Bicycle arm connection [2f]
• Luggage pocket [2g]
• Fold locks [2h]
• Parking Brake [2i]
• Rear Entrance Mesh and Cover [2j]
• Top fabric [2k]
• Bottom fabric [2l]
• Interior Fabric [2m] with bicycle arm pocket [2n]
• Leash attachment Points (inside)[2o]

[3] Unfolding the trailer
Important: Make sure to unfold the trailer correctly!

• Grab the frame [3a] in the middle and pull it upwards you. The trailer now unfolds until the locking pins lock in the fold locks [3b] on both sides automatically with a clicking sound. Push in opposite direction to verify both locks are locked.

[4] Suspension adjustment

• The suspension kan be adjusted to the load of the trailer by fitting the quick release wheels in one of three positions [4c] on the rear suspension arms [4a]
• Each wheel position corresponds to a specific dog weight/trailer load.
• Determine the correct wheel axle hole position [4c] for the weight of your dog using table [4d]
• The suspension arm plugs [4b]can be removed by pinching together the snap hook end from the back of the supension arm.
• (Re)Place the supension arm plugs in the unused wheel axle holes on the left and right suspension arms.
• Make sure the left and right suspension arms [4a] use the same wheel axle positions [4c].

[5] Mounting the quick release wheels

• For first time assembly, remove the cap that is protecting the wheel axle.
• Ensure that the parking brake [2i] is not engaged and that the wheel axle is clean.
• Press the push button [5a] and insert the wheel axle into the wheel axle hole on the suspension arm, then release the button.
• Verify that the wheel is securely fastened by pulling the wheel without pusing the push button [5a]
• Note that there is a left and a right wheel for the trailer. The rotation direction is indicated on the side of the tires. Mount the wheels with the rotation direction matching the driving direction according to the arrow in the picture.

[6] Mounting the stroller wheel (see point 13 to remove the stroller wheel)

• Insert the stroller wheel [6a] into the central connection point [6b] until it clicks in place. Verify that the stroller wheel is securely fastened by pulling the stroller wheel.
• Do not use the stroller wheel indoors as it could leave marks on the floor.

[7] Assembly of the wheel guards

• The trailer has a left and right wheel guard [7a] that are both required to assemble for safety.
• Insert the wheel guard screw [7b] into the hole in the wheel guard as shown.
• Position the left wheel guard against the left frame tube with the narrow part to the front of the trailer and the cavities facing down. The two pins on the wheel guard should fall into accomodating holes on the frame.
• Tighten the screw [7b] using a Philips head screw driver by turning clockwise until tight.
• Repeat the above procedures for the right wheel guard.

[8] Attaching the hitch on your bicycle

• Remove quick-release or nut [8a] from the left side of your bicycle’s rear wheel axle. If your bicycle has a dropout, place the rotation-lock washer [8c] with the bend of the washer fitting inside the drop out. This helps keeping the hitch at the correct angle, but the hitch can also be attached without it.
• Place hitch [8b] between quick-release or nut and frame. If rotation-lock washer [8c] was installed, match the ribs on the washer, to the grooves on the hitch. Make sure the hitch orientation [8b] is simlar as shown.
• Tighten the quick-release or nut [8a] back on the axle according to the bicycle manufacturer’s instructions.

BEFORE USE

Make sure the dog is completely accustomed to the trailer.
If necessary, practice at home with your dog until he/she feels comfortable in the trailer and is willing to enter it voluntarily (see QR code for more info).
TIP: Inside the house the wheels can be detached to provide more stability
TIP: Start with stationary training then strolling and then bicycling.
TIP: Reward the dog for going inside the trailer each time with a small treat.
TIP: Open all the mesh panels when letting the dog get accustomed to the trailer.

Check before using the trailer (see below instructions):

• The wheels and/or bicycle arm are properly locked to the trailer.

• The tires are inflated according the specified tire pressure.

• The trailer is completely unfolded and the mechanism is locked on both sides.
  Do not forget to lock the push bar.

• The safety flag and lights are in place correctly whenever required.

• The drawbar load is within the limits and the trailer is not overloaded.

• The trailer is not overloaded according to table [A].

• All openings are closed securely.

• The dog is lying or sitting down comfortably and centrally in the trailer.

USE

[9] Trailer openings

• The trailer has a zippered opening in the rear through which the dog can enter the trailer [9a].
• In warm weather the rear cover can be stored under the top fabric [9b] to leave the rear ventilation mesh uncovered.
• The trailer also has two zippered side openings [9c] and a front opening [9d] that can be used to allow the dog to exit the trailer without having to turn around inside.
• Keep all openings zipped securely closed during driving with the trailer to prevent the dog from jumping out or sticking out paws, tail or head.

[10] Using the parking brake

• To engage the parking brake: rotate the parking brake lever [10a] back and downwards until it locks in place. You may need to move the trailer slightly back and forth for the brake to engage. Always be sure to check if the brake is engaged by pushing the trailer.
• To disengage: Press the light grey button [10b] on the brake lever and ensure the brake lever returns all the way to the position parrallel to the frame tube. You may need to move the trailer slightly back and forth for the brake to disengage.

[11] Adjusting the push bar height

• Adjust the pushbar height by pushing down the pushbar adjustment paddles [11a] on both sides simultaneously and then rotate the pushbar [11b] to the desired height.
• Let the pushbar adjustment paddles go and push or pull the pushbar untill both sides lock well into position.

[12] Attaching the bicycle arm to the trailer

• Slide the bicycle arm [12a] fully into the bicycle arm connection [12b] and then pull the end of the bicycle arm upwards. The bicycle arm connection button [12c] slides forward automatically and clicks into place, fixing the bicycle arm.
• Pull on the bicycle arm to verify a good connection.
• The bicycle arm can be locked in the bicycle arm connection with the supplied key [12d].

[13] Removing the stroller wheel from the trailer

• Push the grey button [13a] and pull the stroller wheel out of the central connection point [13b].
• When cycling you can store the stroller wheel inside the front luggage compartment (see 14).

[14] Luggage compartment

• The luggage compartement in the front of the trailer can be used to store the stroller wheel or other small items.
• The items stored in the luggage compartement may not cause the trailer to exceed the maximum load as descibed in table A
• Note that stability of the trailer can be affected when overloading the luggage compartment.
• Always close the luggage compartment before driving with the trailer

[15] Attaching the trailer to the bicycle

• Place the bike and trailer on a horizontal surface before connecting the trailer to the bike.
• Remove the stroller wheel while holding the trailer by the bicycle arm (if applicable) (see 13). On the bicycle arm, pull the safety sleeve [15a] back and keep pushing the grey button [15b]. Then push the bicycle arm all the way onto the hitch [15c] . Release the button and let the safety sleeve return.
• Verify that the bicycle arm is securely fixed by pulling on the bicycle arm.
• Wrap safety cable [15d] around bike frame and fasten the hook to the ring [15e].
• Make sure that you put the safety strap around the chain stay [15f] or seat stay [15g] of your bicycle frame.
• Important! Always use the safety flag when you go cycling.
• Connect the two pieces of the safety flag together and place the safety flag [15h] in the flag pocket [15i] next to the side window. Place the safety flag on the side of the bicycle trailer nearest the middle of the road.

[16] Letting the dog into the trailer

• Ensure that the trailer is stable on a flat horizontal surface.
• Ensure that the trailer cannot move by holding it and applying the parking brake.
• Open the rear mesh panel by undoing the zipper all around
• Guide the dog into the trailer patiently
• To prevent the dog from jumping out of the trailer we recommend restraining the dog with a short leash to the leash attachment points inside the trailer[2o].
• Close the zippers of all the openings.
• Make sure the dog is laying or sitting down according to Table B and comfortable before starting off.

[17] Rear light

• Attach the red light [17a] on the pushbar by pulling the rubber elastic around the pushbar and attaching it to the tracks on each side of the light.
• Place the light on the side of the trailer nearest to the middle of the road and facing rearward.
• To turn the light on and off slide the on off button to the desired position.
• About the light: Name: Presto 2; K-mark: K1180; Batteries: 2x AG13/LR44 1.5 V. (included).
• To change the batteries press each side and remove the front cover.

[18] Detaching the trailer from the bicycle

• To detach the trailer from the bicycle detach the safety strap [18a] first. Pull the safety sleeve [18b], press the grey button [18c] and pull the bicycle arm off the hitch [18d]. The safety strap can be pushed back into the bicycle arm.
• Insert the stroller wheel [6a] into the central connection point [6b]. Verify that the stroller wheel is securely fastened by pulling the stroller wheel.
• To detach the bicycle arm[18f] from the trailer slide the bicycle arm connection button [18e] backwards. The end of the bicycle arm will drop down and then the bicycle arm can be pulled out.
• When using the stroller wheel, the bicycle arm should be stored in the pocket [2n] inside the trailer.

[19] Folding the trailer

• WARNING: Before folding always make sure the trailer is empty!
• Before folding, the safety flag must be removed, all compartments closed and the pushbar adjusted to the folding position.
• To unlock the folding mechanism: push forward against the grey safety button [19b] on both sides of the trailer and at the same time pull the fold lock triggers [19a] upwards.
• Push the pushbar forward and the trailer will start to fold.
• When feeling resistance, make sure the fabrics are folded neatly into the trailer to avoid damaging the fabrics.

STORAGE, CARE AND MAINTENANCE

[20] Storage

• It is highly recommended to store the Pluto bicycle trailer indoors, in a dry and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
• Do not store the trailer in a place that can reach a temperature above 50 degrees Celsius like the trunk of a car ]21] Maintenance
• The interior fabric [2m] can be removed from the trailer for cleaning purposes (see washing label) or replacement by undoing the zipper [21a]
• The top fabric [2k] can be removed for replacement or cleaning. Undo the zipper [21b] all around the trailer. Then unscrew the fold lock pins on both sides of the trailer [21c] with an allen key while holding the nut on the inside with a spanner. Now the top fabric [2m] can be removed. Assembly in reverse order. Warning! Always make sure both fold lock pins [21c] are securely fastened!
• Bicycle arm connection [2f]; If there is dirt inside the bicycle arm connection, rinse it with water.
• Do not use cleaning solvents. Clean only with mild soap and water.
• Wash the fabrics by hand using a mild detergent and do not tuble dry.
• If you ever need to replace the brake cables on your trailer, please contact Hamax customer support for instructions.
• Allow the trailer fabric to dry completely before storing it to prevent it from becoming moldy.
• If the trailer is involved in an accident or is damaged, contact your dealer to check if it can still be used.
• All important components such as: drawbar, connecting device, frame, safety belts, lighting equipment, tires, and wheels, etc. should be verified regularly whether bolted assemblies are well tightened.

WARRANTY

The Hamax Pluto Multifunctional Dog Carrier is warranted from the date of purchase. The warranty period depends on the law of the country in question. The warranty applies to defects in materials or workmanship, and does not cover damage due to improper use, lack of maintenance, failure to follow the user manual, use of force or normal wear and tear. The warranty is valid for the original user only. Please read the use and maintenance recommendations carefully. Conditions that may cause premature wear of the carrier may not be covered by the warranty. Should the carrier require service or you want to make a warranty claim, please contact your local dealer from whom you purchased your carrier.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR BATTERIES (REAR LIGHT)

• Non-rechargeable batteries must not be charged.
• Remove rechargeable batteries from the item before charging them.
• Different types of batteries as well as old and new batteries must not be used together on the same item.
• Only batteries of the same or equivalent type as specified should be used.
• Please make sure that the batteries are inserted with the correct polarity.
• The supply terminals must not be short-circuited.
• Remove empty batteries from the item.
• It is not allowed to burn empty batteries as they might explode or leak.

Information concerning the disposal of exhausted batteries

The pictured symbol on the left side on batteries, the packing or the enclosed documents signifies that the batteries should not be disposed of at the end of their life cycle together with the domestic waste. Possible added letters under the waste bin signify that the battery contains lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) or mercury (Hg). You as consumer are obliged by law to render all kind of batteries (both rechargeable as well as non-rechargeable) inclusive button cells at local places of collection or at the retail market. This is at no charge. The proper disposal enables the recycling of valuable resources and avoids possible negative effects on humans and the environment.

Information concerning the disposal of old electric and electronic products

The pictured symbol on the product, the packing or the enclosed documents signifies that the product should not be disposed of after the end of its life cycle together with the domestic waste. You as consumer are obliged by law to render electric and electronic products at a local place of collection for electronic equipment. This is at no charge. Please take out the batteries before disposal of the product. The proper disposal enables the recycling of valuable resources and avoids possible negative effects on humans and the environment. For further information please contact your local authority or the vendor of the product.

Hamax AS
Vålerveien 159
N-1599 Moss
Norway

Tel.: +47 69 23 38 38
email: [email protected]
www.hamax.com

References

• Bike trailers, child bike seats, helmets and snow sleds

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