BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Trek has issued a staggering recall for what could be more than one million bikes equipped with a specific QR axle and front disc, sold in worldwide between 2000 and 2015.
Though used by several manufacturers, Trek is thus far the only firm to issue a recall on the axle, which when undone can extend beyond the normal 180-degree range. The issue only occurs when left open, which itself presents a considerable danger on any bicycle.
Trek’s UK media manager Chris Garrison told BikeBiz: "The general industry name for the design of the QR is QR11. It could be black or silver, and might have a brand name stamped on the lever. But, this is an industry standard design.
"In the UK the credit amount we’re issuing to affected customers is £15, which can be put towards towards Bontrager goods. The customer will also receive a replacement skewer, which we’ve begun to ship to Trek dealers already. There’s a number of bikes sold across the EU between 2000 and 2008 that may carry QR11. The maximum impact in Europe is 692,000, but that is a worst case scenario. Anyone who has any brand of bike should perform a quick check on the range of their axle, just to be sure. This is simple to do, just pop the skewer open and see if lever can swing beyond 180-degrees. It’s only front wheel skewers affected."
Following three reported incidents, including one in which a rider was left paralysed when a quick release skewer enterred a moving disc rotor, the manufacturer has stated:
"Consumers should stop using the bicycles immediately and contact an authorized Trek retailer for free installation of a new quick release on the front wheel. Trek will provide each owner who participates in the recall with a $20 coupon that is redeemable by December 31, 2015 toward any Bontrager merchandise. (The coupon has no cash value.)"
The recall applies to around 900,000 bikes sold in the US and a further 98,000 in Canada, retailing between $480 to $1,650.
Further details can be found here.
