Aged Standards Define What Makes A Bicycle Safe

More than 35 years ago the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission set forth safety standards for bicycles, prescribing safety features they must have when sold to the general public. Things like chain guards and spoke protectors became requirements for most bicycles. An informative and interesting post appears on the Cyclelicious blog today about these requirements. The post argues that many of these regulations are outdated and should be tossed. It's hard not to agree in some instances.

Click here to view the Commission's Requirements for Bicycles.

Safety Commission Orders Recall of Redline Cyclocross Bike

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced this morning the recall of all 2010 Redline Conquest Pro Cyclocross bicycles and framesets. The framesets, made of aluminum with carbon fiber forks, are white and blue. According to a Commission new release, "The bicycle's fork legs can separate from the fork crown and cause the rider to lose control, posing a risk of serious injury if the rider falls." Consumers who purchased this product are advised to stop using it and to contact a local Redline dealer for inspection and fork replacement. Click here for more information.

Bicycle Tire Inflator Recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the recall of a bicycle tire inflator, the Zefal EZ+ CO2 Inflator. "The pressurized cartridge containing carbon dioxide (CO₂) can forcefully separate from the pump head, posing a risk of injury to the consumer," said the Commission. So, if you have one of these suckers, stop using it.

Easton Bicycle Stem Recall

Yesterday, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of Easton's EA30 threadless stems. The company has received at least one report of the stem cracking and failing causing a rider to lose control of his bike, according to the Commission. The stems are described as "black with white-and-gray graphics and feature a four-bolt stem face cap. 'EA30' is printed on the stem." If your bicycle has this stem contact Easton Sports for a free replacement.

Recall of Bicycles Sold By REI

Last month, outdoor equipment seller REI announced a voluntary recall of a bicycle it sold. The bike was the 2005 Novara Trionfo Bicycle which came with a carbon fiber fork that could separate from the steerer tube. To read the recall news release from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission click here.