Trek Recalls Bicycles Due to Crash Hazard

Trek Bicycle Corp is recalling about 900,000 bicycles in the United States and 98,000 in Canada due to a crash hazard. The recall was prompted by reports of three injuries, including one rider who was paralyzed. The recall includes models that have front disc brakes from model years 2000 through 2015 and a black or silver quick release lever on the front wheel hub that opens far enough to touch the disc brake. Models with front quick release levers that do not open a full 180 degrees are not affected by the recall.

The CPSC alert said the issue is that “An open quick release lever on the bicycle’s front wheel hub can come into contact with the front disc brake assembly, causing the front wheel to come to a sudden stop or separate from the bicycle, posing a risk of injury to the rider.” Trek Bicycle Corp. reported three incidents, all of which resulted in injuries, related to the issue. One rider became a quadriplegic. The other cases included a fractured wrist and facial injuries.

Consumers affected by the recall should discontinue use of the bicycles and contact an authorized Trek retailer for a free installation of a new quick release on the front wheel, the alert said. The bicycles have been on the market since September 1999 are priced anywhere from $480 to $1,650.