Bicycle manufacturer Specialized has initiated a recall for defective bicycle parts that could cause loss of control. According to reports, the manufacturer has voluntarily undertaken the product defect recall at a time when the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has closed because of the government shutdown.
Specialized says it has received reports from the field that show the steerer tube collar on certain 2017-2019 models may be susceptible to stress corrosion cracking. This can result in a sudden loss of steering control while riding.
Details of the Bike Recall
The company has also said it is working with the CPSC on a press release to help inform consumers. But, as noted on its website the federal agency is closed until the government reopens. Specialized has not said how many bicycles are part of this recall. But it has listed dozens of models spanning the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 including Roubaix, Ruby, Diverge and Sirrus bikes, which have the steer collars in question.
Specialized kindly recommends that anyone riding one of these bikes should cease riding and promptly take it to an authorized dealer. They said mechanics would install a new, improved collar and adjust torque settings to solve the issue. Repairs are free and owners will incur no cost for labor.
Defective Bicycle Parts
While a vehicle striking or colliding with a bicycle is a common cause of bicycle accidents, faulty bicycle parts are also common. When a bicycle, for example, has malfunctioning or faulty brake or steering parts, the bicyclist is more at risk of losing control of the bike, crashing into another vehicle, or hitting the pavement, suffering severe or even fatal injuries.
If you have been injured due to a faulty bike part, you may be able to seek compensation from the manufacturer by filing a product defect lawsuit. Victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
An experienced product defect lawyer can help examine the evidence and hold the negligent manufacturer concerned accountable for your injuries, damages and losses.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, which you suspect was caused by a defective part, it would be a good idea to preserve the bike in its current condition and not repair it until an expert has examined it for evidence of defects, malfunctions and potential design flaws.
Source: https://gearjunkie.com/specialized-recall-steerer-tube-collar-2019