Specialized and Walmart Hit by Recalls

MORGAN HILL/NAPLES, USA – In two separate issues technical failures of chains and forks is forcing Specialized as well as Walmart to recall more than 100,000 bicycles. Specialized received two reports of brake components disengaging from the carbon fork (see photo). The brake component housed within the carbon fork can separate from the fork and allow the brake assembly to contact the wheel spokes while cycling.

The fork involved in the recall was specified on the following nine 2011 models; Sirrus Expert, Sirrus Comp, Sirrus Elite, Vita Expert, Vita Comp, Vita Elite, Vita Elite Step Thru, Tricross Sport, Tricross, and Tricross Comp.

All bicycles have the brand name Specialized on the lower front frame tube. The model name is on the top tube. Specialized’s recall included a total of 14,200 units.

Retail giant Walmart had to issue a recall last week concerning 91,000 China made bicycles imported for the US market by Bridgeway International of Naples in Florida. Walmart received 11 reports of breaking chains causing injuries, including lacerations and contusions.

The recall involves the ‘Next’-branded men’s 26-inch hybrid bicycles in the color red or orange. The model names Power X and Suspension are printed on the frame. Model numbers LBH2611M and LBH2611M2 are included in this recall. This number is located on the frame between the pedals. The bikes have been sold at Walmart from February 2011 through July 2011.