I just followed the instructions, really. Before I rode it hard, I took it for a couple easy rides, 6-8 miles each, easing it up to 40MPH or so, then backing down, and so on, after which I let it cool completely (just went inside for a couple hours instead of removing it). I still haven't seen confirmation that back-bending them will cause problems, seems like more of a "better safe than sorry" than a definite killer. I'd think Gates would mention it if it were all that bad. In fact, mine was bent back when I sent it in with the clutch to set clearance, and so far (300 miles or so later) I've had no problems. Just a 600 though.