The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Razor USA recalled about 246,000 electric scooters due to a weld which can break, causing the handlebar to detach from the scooter. Razor USA has received 261 reports of handlebar welds breaking or bending with reports of 16 injuries.

The recall involves models E300, E300S, E200 and E200S Razor Electric Scooters which are powered by battery motors. The model numbers appear on the down tube attaching the handlebars to the deck. The scooters are collapsible for storage, and are equipped with a stepping plate and kickstand attached to the base. The E300 and E300S models are silver and green. The E200 and E200S models are silver and red. Models E100 and E125 scooters are not included in this recall.

The scooters were manufactured in China and sold at discount department, auto parts and toy stores nationwide from October 2003 through May 2005 for between $180 and $250. Consumers should stop using the scooters immediately and contact Razor to arrange a free repair.

This recall repair also will include a new battery charger to address a risk of overheating that was announced as a separate recall. This separate issue involves roughly 584,000 Razor USA PowMax Battery Chargers, manufactured by Leadman Electronic Co.

The battery charger can overheat and cause minor burns when touched. Also, nearby items can become damaged by the hot chargers. Razor USA has received 144 reports of battery chargers overheating. There have been no reports of injuries and six reports of minor property damage, such as a melted spot on a linoleum floor.

The chargers were also manufactured in China and distributed through discount department, auto parts and toy stores nationwide from October 2003 through May 2005 for between $130 and $250. Consumers should stop using the battery charger and contact Razor for a free replacement.