VisionTech USA SuperMax, TriMax, TriMax Plus and Pro model Integrated Bicycle Aero Bars

CPSC Recall #05-229 — July 24, 2005

Recall Summary

Recall Number05-229
Recall DateJuly 24, 2005
Remedy TypeReplace
Units AffectedAbout 280
ManufacturerVisionTech USA, Inc., of Auburn, Wash.
Manufactured InUSA

Where It Was Sold

Bicycle specialty stores nationwide from March 2002 through March 2003 for about $435.

Product

VisionTech USA SuperMax, TriMax, TriMax Plus and Pro model Integrated Bicycle Aero Bars

Description

Aero bars are handlebar extensions typically used on racing and triathlon bicycles that either clip on to the handlebars or are sold as an integrated handlebar and stem system. The aero bars allow riders to ride in an aerodynamic crouching position. The recalled aero bars are an integrated system which have a casted aluminum centerpiece which are attached to a handlebar, a stem and two aero bars each approximately 15 inches long, protruding in front of the handlebar. The VisionTech logo is displayed in gold lettering against a black background on the wings of the bar. Bicycle aero bars bearing a silver and red decal on the wings with the words "Vision by Full Speed Ahead" are not included in this recall.

Hazard

The centerpiece of these bicycle aero bars can crack or break, causing the bicycle rider to lose control and crash.

Incidents & Injuries

VisionTech has received two reports of the centerpiece of these aero bars breaking, resulting in minor scrapes and abrasions.

Remedy Instructions

Consumers should stop using the bicycle aero bars immediately and contact VisionTech USA, Inc. to have their aero bars tested. A free replacement will be provided for any bicycle aero bars found defective.

What Should You Do?

Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Replace at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly — either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Replace) at no cost to you.

Yes. If you were injured by a defective consumer product — whether recalled or not — you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer and potentially the retailer. A recall notice can serve as evidence that the manufacturer was aware of the defect. Injuries that may support a claim include burns, lacerations, fractures, electric shock, choking incidents, and chemical exposure. Most product liability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win. Consult an attorney promptly, as statutes of limitation vary by state.

In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.

If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney — parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.