Defective Brakes in 2024 Z Miami SE and Z Adventure Core Models Pose Crash and Injury Risks
Super73 has issued a nationwide recall for two of its 2024 electric bicycle models due to a serious safety hazard involving brake failure. The recall affects approximately 1,400 units of the Z Miami SE and Z Adventure Core e-bikes. According to the recall notice issued on February 20, 2025, the retaining pin in the bikes' disc brake calipers can loosen and detach, leading to brake failure. This defect increases the risk of crashes and injuries, creating a significant danger for riders.
The recall applies to specific model numbers, including 900-00288, 900-00309, 900-00313 (for the Z Miami SE) and 900-00308 (for the Z Adventure Core). The affected Z Miami SE models were sold in Bandit black, Palladium gray, and Astro orange, while the Z Adventure Core was available in Sandstorm with a black and brown frame.
The recalled e-bikes were sold between April 2024 and September 2024 at Super73’s store in Irvine, California, nationwide bicycle retailers, and online at Super73’s official website, with prices ranging from $2,300 to $2,500. The company has received 21 reports of loose retaining pins or brake failures, with one reported minor injury attributed to the defect.
The Safety Hazard Posed by Super73’s Defective E-Bikes
The defective brake system on these e-bikes presents a severe safety risk. The issue stems from a flaw in the disc brake caliper's retaining pin, which can loosen over time and become dislodged. Once the pin falls out, the caliper can no longer function correctly, leading to a total loss of braking ability.
For riders, brake failure can happen unexpectedly and at high speeds, significantly increasing the likelihood of serious accidents, falls, and collisions. Given that e-bikes are heavier and travel faster than traditional bicycles, the inability to stop properly can lead to dangerous crashes, particularly in traffic-heavy areas or on steep terrain.
E-bike riders rely on precise braking to navigate safely through urban environments, and any failure in the braking system puts them in harm’s way. Riders may find themselves unable to slow down at intersections, avoid sudden obstacles, or stop in time to prevent collisions. A malfunctioning brake system also poses a risk to pedestrians and other cyclists who may be in the path of an out-of-control e-bike.
Although Super73 is offering a free repair kit, including a replacement retaining pin and up to $50 reimbursement for professional installation, this remedy does not eliminate the danger posed by the defect. Consumers who are unaware of the recall may continue using the e-bikes, putting themselves at risk. Those who have already been injured as a result of brake failure may have legal options to seek compensation for their injuries.
Legal Rights of Injured Consumers
Individuals who have been injured due to a defective product like the Super73 e-bike may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer. Companies are legally responsible for ensuring that their products are safe for consumers. When a product defect leads to injuries, the manufacturer can be held liable under strict liability laws for design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn.
In this case, Super73 may be held accountable for:
- Manufacturing Defect: If the brake calipers were improperly assembled or contained a structural flaw that led to the retaining pin failure.
- Design Defect: If the braking system was inherently unsafe, making failure inevitable under normal usage conditions.
- Failure to Warn: If the company did not adequately inform consumers of the risk before riders experienced brake malfunctions.
For those who suffered injuries due to the defect, pursuing a legal claim could provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The Product Liability Lawsuit Process
A lawsuit against Super73 for injuries caused by defective brakes would follow several key steps.
First, injured consumers need to document their injuries and the defect that caused them. This includes medical records, photos of the defective bike, and any repair history. Witness statements and police reports (if a crash occurred) can also strengthen the claim.
Once sufficient evidence is gathered, the next step is to file a legal complaint against Super73. This formal document outlines the allegations, including the defect in the braking system, the harm suffered by the victim, and the legal grounds for seeking compensation.
During the discovery phase, attorneys will collect evidence, including internal company documents, consumer complaints, and expert opinions on the defect. If the company failed to issue the recall promptly or ignored safety concerns, this could strengthen the case against them.
Many product liability cases settle before trial, with the manufacturer offering compensation to avoid a court judgment. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine liability and the damages to be awarded.
Why Legal Representation Is Critical for Injured Victims
Product liability lawsuits against manufacturers can be highly complex, often involving technical evidence and corporate legal teams working to minimize liability. Injured consumers need experienced legal representation to investigate the case, negotiate with the manufacturer, and present a compelling argument in court if necessary.
An attorney can ensure that all necessary evidence is gathered and that the case meets the legal requirements for product liability claims. Without proper legal guidance, victims risk underestimating their damages, missing crucial deadlines, or accepting low settlement offers that do not fully compensate for their injuries.
Compensation Available in a Defective Product Lawsuit
Victims injured by Super73’s defective brakes may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for time missed from work due to injuries sustained in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the crash.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to the e-bike or any other property affected in the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the manufacturer’s conduct was particularly reckless, additional damages may be awarded to punish the company and deter future negligence.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to brake failure on a Super73 Z Miami SE or Z Adventure Core e-bike, you may be entitled to compensation. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP is investigating claims related to this dangerous defect.
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