Hi Kathryn,
I received mine and thought I had the same problem. The instructions and decals are in a thin cardboard box that I didn't initially see. Also I too was confused by the nuts/handlebar situation but once I discovered the instructions for the 1/2bike 3, (thin cardboard box about the size of a big hersheys bar) it all became clear. In case you can't find your instructions I imaged mine so hopefully it'll help you. Happy riding!