Shimano Initiates Extensive Recall of Bicycle Cranksets Due to Severe Crash Hazard
Shimano, a global cycling component powerhouse, has recently initiated a substantial product recall involving approximately 680,000 units of its 11-Speed Bonded Hollowtech II Road Cranksets in the United States and an additional 80,000 units in Canada. The recall is due to a significant flaw discovered in the cranksets that can result in the bonded parts separating and breaking, thereby causing a potential crash hazard to users. The hazard poses a significant safety risk, and current users are advised to cease usage immediately due to the severity of the threat.
The recall specifically involves various models of Shimano Ultegra and Dura-Ace 11-Speed Bonded Hollowtech II Road Cranksets, including Ultegra FC-6800, Dura-Ace FC-9000, Ultegra FC-R8000, Dura-Ace FC-R9100, and Dura-Ace FC-R9100P, manufactured before July 2019. These units were not just sold as standalone products but were also incorporated into bicycles from other renowned manufacturers, including Trek and Specialized. The crankset serves as a pivotal component to which the chain and pedals are attached, facilitating pedaling. The identified flaw exists in cranksets with specific two-letter production codes located on the backside of the crank arm where the pedals are attached.
The hazard associated with the recalled cranksets is particularly concerning. Shimano has reported receiving 4,519 incidents involving these cranksets separating, resulting in six reported injuries. The injuries range from bone fractures and joint displacement to severe lacerations. Given the integral role the crankset plays in the functionality of the bicycle, any malfunction can have immediate and severe consequences, potentially causing serious harm to the user.
Consumers who own recalled cranksets are strongly urged to cease usage immediately and to contact an authorized Shimano dealer to schedule a free crankset inspection. During this inspection, cranksets showing signs of bonding separation or delamination will be identified, and affected consumers will receive a free replacement crankset, including installation. Shimano has committed to resolving this issue promptly and is actively reaching out to ensure consumer safety.
For those requiring further details or having additional queries related to the recall, Shimano has established a dedicated consumer contact line found at https://bike.shimano.com/en-US/information/customer-services.html or https://bike.shimano.com/en-US/home.html and click “Information” then “Safety Recalls” at the top of the page. Furthermore, detailed information regarding the recall is available online at Shimano’s official website under the “Safety Recalls” section.
The recalled cranksets were widely distributed and available at bicycle stores nationwide, ranging in price from $270 to $1,500, between January 2012 and August 2023. Shimano North America Bicycle Inc., located in Irvine, California, served as the distributor, with the products manufactured in Japan.
This recall by Shimano underscores the critical importance of consumer safety in the face of product malfunctions. As consumers navigate through this recall, it is imperative to adhere to the guidance provided and proactively ensure all users’ safety by scheduling inspections and seeking replacements where necessary. The prompt response by Shimano in initiating the recall and providing remedies is a step towards mitigating the associated risks and emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and adherence to safety standards in product manufacturing and usage.
If you or a loved one have been harmed by this defective bicycle crankset, you could be eligible to receive substantial monetary compensation. Call us to receive your free case review. The time you have to file your claim is limited by state law. So, do not delay pursuing legal compensation for your injuries and losses.
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