Recall: Cannondale Recalls ATVs

August 15, 2001 Alert #01-517

CPSC, Cannondale Corp. Announce Recall of ATVs

PRODUCT: All-Terrain Vehicles - Cannondale Corp., of Bethel, Conn., is voluntarily recalling about 630 model year 2001 and 2002 All-Terrain Vehicles. The Cannondale "FX 400" and Cannondale "Cannibal" are four- wheeled all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The FX 400 and Cannibal models have "Cannondale" and "FX 400" or "Cannibal" on both sides of the vehicle. Cannondale appears on the rear fenders and bodywork of the vehicle; "Cannibal" appears roughly inboard of the operator's knee location; "FX400" appears on the seat of the vehicle. Cannondale dealers nationwide sold these ATVs from February 2001 through mid-July 2001 for between $7,000 and $8,000.

PROBLEM: The ball joints in the A-arm assembly on these vehicles can break, which could cause the front wheels to lose stability. Also, the tie-rod assemblies on these vehicles can break or work loose, and damage either the steering column plate end or knuckle. If the ball joints or a tie rod end breaks, the operator can lose control of the vehicle during use and crash.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES:
Cannondale Corp. has received five reports of the ball joints in the A-arm assembly on these ATVs breaking and two reports of the tie-rod ends breaking. One consumer suffered a concussion and another suffered a bruised shoulder.

WHAT TO DO:Consumers should stop riding these ATVs and contact their local Cannondale dealer to schedule an appointment to have the ball joints and tie-rod assemblies replaced free of charge. If possible, consumers should contact the dealer where they purchased their ATV. For more information, contact Cannondale toll free at (877) DLR-MOTO (357- 6686) between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m ET Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Saturday, and between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET Sunday. Consumers also can visit the firm's web site at www.Cannondale.com. Owners of these ATVs were directly notified about this recall.