After its own investigation showed improper use of a front wheel quick release it used on its bikes since 1999 could result in dangerous crashes, Trek Bicycle Corporation last week initiated the largest voluntary recall in its history in unit terms.
The privately owned Waterloo, WI company voluntarily began recalling nearly 1 million bikes with front wheel disc brakes after discovering the quick release mechanism can get caught in the front wheel if not properly closed. (See illustration below.)
“At the center of the notice is the discovery that certain quick releases with a lever that opens greater than 180 degrees can become caught in a front disc brake while riding if improperly adjusted or left open,” Trek said in a notice emailed April 21 to customers, dealers and the trade media.
While Trek has been shipping bikes equipped with the quick release for nearly 16 years, it only became aware of the problem a few months ago when it learned of three separate incidents that resulted in injuries to riders, company spokesman Eric Bjorling told The B.O.S.S. Report last week. One incident resulted in quadriplegia, one resulted in facial injuries and another in a fractured wrist, according to a recall notice distributed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
“We investigated all three and found the improperly adjusted quick release to be consistent,” said Bjorling. “As soon as we discovered this, we took it to the CPSC, which led us to take the action that we did today. Before we brought the findings of our investigation to the CPSC, they were totally unaware, as were we, that this was even possible.”
As part of its voluntary safety recall, Trek will provide through its local authorized retailers a free replacement quick-release, including free installation, a process that takes a certified mechanic less than five minutes. For every cyclist who brings in an affected bike with the quick release and disc brake combination, Trek will also issue a $20 coupon that can be used to purchase product from Bontrager, a Trek subsidiary that makes a wide range of bicycle components, accessories, apparel and footwear. The coupon is redeemable through Dec. 31, 2015, at authorized Trek retailers.
Trek is also encouraging Trek owners to review proper quick release usage at Trekbikes.com, which includes instructional videos, or to consult their local retailer.
Asked Friday if the recall is potentially the costliest in Trek’s history, Bjorling said he did not know.
“Our main concern at this moment is ensuring that we service as many affected bikes and help as many people as we possibly can,” he said. “We are not concerned with how this will affect the company financially. In terms of units affected, it is our largest.”
