CPSC recall 01-044, announced November 30, 2000, covers Profile Design Mountain bike handlebar stems (about 8,000 units). The stem connects the bicycle's handlebars to the fork. The notice cites 6 incident reports. Consumers should stop using bicycles with these stems immediately, and either call Profile Design to get a free replacement stem, or return the bicycle with the recalled stem to a Profile-Design retailer, to have the stem replaced free of charge. Recall contact: call (888) 800-5999.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
This recall only involves "Stiffy"™ threadless mountain bike stems. Threadless stems clamp directly around the fork's steering tube. These stems were sold individually, and also on custom-built bicycles and in bicycle parts kits distributed by: Porter Frames Slingshot Bicycle Co. Cicili Fondriest Javelin Cycle Hillside Mountain Cycles Security Bicycle Accessories Mountain Cycle Ellsworth Bicycles G. Joannou Cycle Co. Simo Cycle Corp. Jamis Bicycles Samchulu Bicycle Co. Softride Bicycle Co. The recalled stems have "Profile" and "Stiffy" written on them. The rear portion of the steer tube clamp is sharply angled (45 degrees) at the top and the front handlebar clamp has two bolts. The recalled stems were sold in black, red, blue, yellow and cream.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
The stem connects the bicycle's handlebars to the fork. These stems can break during use, causing the bicycle rider to crash and suffer serious injuries.
Incidents and injuries
Profile Design has received reports of six riders crashing when the stems on their bicycles broke, resulting in teeth injuries, bruises and abrasions.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using bicycles with these stems immediately, and either call Profile Design to get a free replacement stem, or return the bicycle with the recalled stem to a Profile-Design retailer, to have the stem replaced free of charge.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Profile Design
- Manufacturer
- Profile Design LLC, of Carson, Calif.
- Product type
- Bicycles & components
- Recall number
- 01-044
- Units
- About 8,000
- Sold at / sales period
- Independent bicycle dealers nationwide sold bicycles and parts kits with these stems and individual stems, from March 1997 through April 2000. The stems sold for about $50.
Mountain bike handlebar stems
CPSC product type: Bicycles & Accessories
Recall contact information
For more information, call Profile Design toll-free at (888) 800-5999 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
