Setup & installation
Getting it installed, configured, programmed or started
14 answers, most asked first
How do I install full fenders on the Northwind Commuter 5, and where do the struts attach?
Attach the fenders
Front fender: Bolt it under the fork crown.
Rear fender: Bolt it to the frame behind the seat tube.
Attach the struts
The struts run from the fender down to the threaded eyelets next to each axle, on both sides of the wheel.
Fasten them with the small bolts from the bag.
Adjust and tighten
Put the bolts in loosely at first.
Adjust the struts so the fender sits evenly around the tire without touching it.
Tighten all the bolts.
Spin the wheel and check that nothing rubs.
How do I install the rear rack on the Northwind Commuter 5?
Where it mounts: The rack attaches at four points, all threaded eyelets on the frame:
Two on the seat stays (the thin tubes running from the seat down to the rear wheel)
Two near the rear axle, one on each side
Before you start: You don't need to remove anything from the bike.
Steps:
Use the M5 bolts that come in the bag with the rack.
Start all four bolts loosely by hand.
Once all four are in, tighten them snugly. Don't over-tighten, because the eyelets are threaded into the frame.
Check that the rear light wire isn't pinched between the rack and the frame.
How much assembly does the Northwind Commuter 5 need out of the box, and do I need my own tools?
The Commuter 5 arrives in a large box, about 85% assembled. You only need to finish a few steps:
Attach the handlebar to the stem.
Install the front wheel.
Screw in the pedals.
Mount the front light.
Pump up the tires.
Time: Usually 20 to 30 minutes.
Tools: You don't need your own. The tools you need are in a small bag in the box, with the manual.
Help: A step-by-step video is in the Northwind Ride app and on the Northwind website. If you'd rather not do it yourself, a service center can assemble the bike by appointment.
What assembly does the Northwind Trail 2 e-bike need, and what do I need to do it?
Yes, it's normal for the Trail 2 to arrive partly assembled. It ships about 85% assembled.
What you need to do:
Handlebar: It clamps onto the stem. Remove the face plate (four bolts), center the bar, reattach the face plate, and tighten the bolts a little at a time in an X pattern.
Front wheel: Fit it into the fork so the brake rotor slides between the brake pads, then tighten the axle snugly.
Pedals: Screw them in. The left pedal threads backwards.
Front light: Bolt it onto the bracket under the handlebar.
Tires: Pump them up before riding.
Tools: A small bag in the box contains the hex keys and a pedal wrench.
Time: Most people finish in about 20 to 30 minutes.
Video guide: A step-by-step video is available in the Northwind Ride app and on the Northwind website.
Can I register my Trail 2 in the app if it doesn't connect to the app?
Yes. The Trail 2 display has no Bluetooth, but you can still register in the app without connecting the bike. You can also register on the website.
Do new brake pads need to be broken in after installation?
Yes. Do about ten firm stops from a moderate speed in a safe spot to bed them in. They may squeal until bedded in, which is normal.
Does the Cargo 7 come assembled, and what do I need to put it together?
Mostly assembled. The Cargo 7 arrives about 85% assembled. You only need to:
Attach the handlebar to the stem
Put the front wheel in
Screw in the pedals
Mount the front light
Pump up the tires
Tools: You don't need your own. The tools needed for assembly come in the box.
Time and guide: Assembly usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. A step-by-step video is available in the Northwind Ride app and on the Northwind website.
Prefer not to do it yourself? You can book an appointment at a Northwind service center, and they will assemble it for you.
How do clip-on fenders install on the Trail 2?
They strap onto the down tube and the seat post. No tools are needed. They can be removed for trail riding.
How do I install the kid seat on the Cargo 7?
The seat clamps onto the rails of the rear deck with four quick-release brackets. Set it on the deck facing forward toward the rider, line up the four brackets on the rails, and close each quick release, which should take some effort. Pull hard on the seat side to side, up and back to confirm it doesn't move. Adjust the harness and footrests so the rider's feet rest on them away from the wheel, and test it with the child in the seat. Put the center kickstand down when loading the child.
How do I make sure the rear rack doesn't pinch the tail light wire on the Commuter 5?
Route the rear light wire so it is clear of the rack struts and the rack is not pinching it.
How tight should the rear rack bolts be on the Commuter 5?
Tighten them snug, not cranked. Going too hard can strip the threads in the frame.
Is the Commuter 5 display easy to swap?
It plugs into the connector under the handlebar. A service center can install it for you if you prefer.
Is there anything tricky about installing the pedals on the Cargo 7?
Yes. The left pedal threads on backwards, so it tightens counterclockwise. The pedals are marked L and R.
Which Trail 2 pedal threads backwards and how do I tighten it?
The left pedal threads on backwards, so it is tightened counterclockwise. The pedals are marked L and R on the end of the spindle. The right pedal tightens normally. If a pedal seems to fight you, stop and check that you have the correct side.