3T Recalls Ventus Aerobar for Safety Fix

MADONE, Italy – High-end component specialist 3T has issued a worldwide voluntary recall for its Ventus aerobar. 3T decided on the recall to fix a problem with the rubber handgrips. When the bar is used in humid, wet, or salty conditions, these grips can loosen on the handholds, with the potential to cause an accident for the rider.

Announcing the recall, 3T CEO René Wiertz apologized to owners: “We realize this is inconvenient for you, and we are truly sorry to put you to the trouble. But it is better to be safe than sorry. Two US owners reported having an accident when their grips slipped. Fortunately they suffered only minor abrasions. 3T has always insisted safety is paramount, so we have put this worldwide recall program in place right away, so you can get going again on the bike with the least disruption to your cycling plans.”

The fix consists of a pair of redesigned, replacement grips and adhesive. 3T is sending these free of charge to qualifying owners. Owners can install the new grips themselves, or take their bike to a 3T dealer to fit them. Owners do not have to pay the dealer for carrying out this work. All owners of any model Ventus qualify for the safety fix.

In the United States, this voluntary recall is being handled in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), while for the rest of the world 3T is managing the recall program. Owners in the US can get their replacement kit via 3T’s distributor, BikeMine.

Non-US owners get their replacement kit through the 3T website: www.thenew3t.com/ventusrecall

“From the safety point of view, we would prefer the certainty of having 3T dealers fit the replacement grip kit. But we know that for some Ventus owners, taking your bike to a dealer is inconvenient.”