Recall: Polaris Industries Recalls ATVs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2001 Release # 02-044

ATV Recall Hotline: (800) 765-2747 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076 Polaris Media Contact: Marlys Knutson, (763) 542-0500

CPSC, Polaris Industries Inc. Announce Recall of ATVs

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 12,000 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Screws in the ATV's manual transmission can loosen, causing the rear wheels to lock. This can cause the driver to lose control of the ATV and crash, possibly resulting in injury or death.

CPSC and Polaris Industries have received reports of seven incidents. Three resulted in injuries when the transmissions failed on the ATVs. The injuries included multiple broken bones, internal injuries, abrasions and bruises.

The recalled ATVs are the 2000, 2001 and 2002 model year "Xpedition 425" with 5-speed manual transmissions. The ATVs are either red or a tan metallic, and have "Xpedition 425" and "Polaris" written on both sides of the bodywork. On the left-hand side of the ATV on the clutch cover, near the footrest, appear the words "5-Speed".

Polaris dealers sold these ATVs nationwide from February 1999 through October 2001 for about $6,300.

Consumers should stop using these ATVs immediately and contact their local Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair. Consumers also can call Polaris Industries toll-free at (800) 765-2747 between 7 a.m. and 2 a.m. ET Monday through Friday and between 8 a.m. and 12 midnight on weekends, or log on to the company's website at www.polarisindustries.com

Polaris ATVs with automatic transmissions (belt drive) and Xpedition 325 ATVs are not included in this recall.

Purchasers were sent direct mail notification of this recall.