When you’re on the road, the last thing you expect is that a simple bicycle accessory could endanger you. Yet, that’s exactly what’s happening with over half a million bicycle stem raisers, now recalled due to a serious fall hazard.
This article will guide you through the recall details and help you understand your rights.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to these faulty stem raisers, our team of product liability lawyers at Wilshire Law Firm is here to assist you in navigating the next steps. Contact us today to ensure your safety and fully protect legal options.
Background of the Recall
In April 2024, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada jointly issued a recall for over 500,000 bicycle stem raisers manufactured by Delta Cycle and Dimension.
This recall affects several models, including Delta Cycle’s TD3318B, TD3318S, TD3418B, and TD3418S, along with Dimension’s SM1977 and SM1979.
The models involved in this recall were sold across major retailers like REI and Amazon, making this an extensive recall that impacts cyclists across North America. The potential for accidents warrants immediate consumer action​​.
Technical Details of the Issue
The core issue leading to the recall of Delta Cycle and Dimension bicycle stem raisers lies in a critical safety hazard: the potential for the stem raiser to shift unexpectedly while in use. This shifting can cause the handlebars to move suddenly, leading to a loss of control and, ultimately, a fall.
The manufacturer incorrectly specified the torque, which measures bolt tightness, leading many consumers to improperly tighten the stem raiser, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
The correct torque specification for these stem raisers should be 20 nm, but this information was either miscommunicated or unclear on the packaging, leaving consumers at risk of under-tightening.
Impact and Reports
This recall affects many cyclists, with approximately 500,000 units sold in the United States and an additional 8,510 units in Canada. Prominent retailers like REI and platforms such as Amazon widely distributed these defective stem raisers, highlighting the problem’s potential scale.
Despite this large number of affected products, there have been no reported injuries in either country as of March 2024.
However, there has been one documented case of a stem raiser shifting during use, highlighting the very real risk these products pose to cyclists.
Response and Measures
In response to the recall, Delta Cycle has taken proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with the defective stem raisers.
The company has urged consumers who own the affected models to immediately stop using them and is offering a free repair for the recalled products, which buyers can arrange through an independent bicycle dealer. Additionally, consumers can visit a local bike shop to ensure that the stem raiser has the correct torque.
For further assistance, Delta Cycle has made contact information readily available. Consumers can reach out to the company by phone at 800-474-6615 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email at [email protected], or online at www.designbydelta.com/stemrecall or at www.designbydelta.com and click on “Stem Recall” at the bottom of the page schedule repairs or get more details about the recall process.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
The CPSC and Health Canada are closely monitoring the recall of Delta Cycle and Dimension bicycle stem raisers. These regulatory bodies make sure the recall process is carried out effectively and work to prevent similar issues from arising in the future​​​​.
From a legal perspective, the manufacturer could be held liable for any damages resulting from using these defective stem raisers. The law affirms that consumers have the right to use a product for its intended purpose without expecting injury, so if an individual suffers an injury due to the product’s failure, they may have grounds to pursue a product liability claim.
How We Will Help
Have you or someone you know suffered injuries while using the Delta Cycle bicycle stem raiser? You may be entitled to compensation.
Our product liability attorneys can assist you by:
- Evaluating your case: We’ll review the details of your incident to determine if you have a valid claim.
- Gathering evidence: Our team will collect and analyze all relevant information, including medical records, product documentation, and expert opinions.
- Accurately valuing your claim: We will account for every expense you have faced as a result of the accident, whether medical, lost wages, or property damage, and make sure you receive the compensation necessary to cover them.
- Handling negotiations: We’ll communicate with insurance companies and opposing counsel on your behalf.
- Representing you in court: If necessary, we can take your case to trial and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
- Providing support: Throughout the legal process, we’ll offer guidance, answer your questions, and inform you about your case’s progress.
- Easing your financial stress: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Understanding your legal options is the first step toward recovery. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, answer your questions, and outline the best action.
Contact our seasoned personal injury lawyer today at (213) 335-2402 for your free consultation.
