Recall: BMW Recall of SlideCarver Scooters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 27, 2004 Release # 04-203

Firm's Hotline: (800) 831-1117 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, BMW Announce Recall of SlideCarver Scooters

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recall in voluntary cooperation with the firm below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: SlideCarver Scooter

Units: 161

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC, of Woodcliff Lake, N.J.

Hazard: The front column of the scooter does not meet impact resistance standards. The handlebar column can break if the scooter hits an object, which can cause the rider to fall and suffer injuries.

Incidents/Injuries: BMW has received one report of a scooter front column breaking, causing a rider to fall and suffer minor injuries.

Description: The SlideCarver is a three-wheeled scooter which is designed to be steered both in the front and back. The steering design allows riders to shift weight and change direction while maintaining control. It has twin-disc brakes, and wide tires equipped with wear indicators. The SlideCarver stands 39.5 inches high by 20 inches wide, has a 26.5-inch wheelbase, weighs approximately 26.5 pounds, and can be folded. "BMW" and "SlideCarver" are written on the underside of the rider platform of these scooters.

Sold at: BMW dealerships and on the firm's Web site from December 2003 through July 2004 for about $700.

Manufactured in: Germany

Remedy: Consumers should return the SlideCarver scooters to any BMW dealership or contact the firm for information on returning the scooter to receive a refund. Additionally, consumers will receive a $200 gift certificate for BMW lifestyle merchandise.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact BMW at (800) 831-1117 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.