Recall: Kawasaki Recall of ATVs

CPSC, Kawasaki Announce Recall of ATVs

The following product safety recall was conducted voluntarily by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Kawasaki Prairie all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

Units: 75,000

Manufacturer: Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. USA, of Lincoln, Neb.

Hazard: The lower front suspension arm can separate from the steering assembly, resulting in a loss of steering control and posing a serious risk of injury to the rider.

Incidents/Injuries: Kawasaki has received 42 reports of incidents, including nine injuries, such as broken bones, bruising, scrapes, and lacerations.

Description:The recalled Kawasaki ATVs include both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive versions of the Prairie 300 and 400 units, with model years between 1997 and 2000. The ATVs come in green or red and have the words, "Kawasaki" and "Prairie" printed on each side of the vehicle, "300" or "400" printed on the left side, and ""4x4" printed on the side of the seat (for the 4-wheel drive models only).

Sold at: Authorized Kawasaki dealers nationwide sold the ATVs from September 1996 through December 2000 for between $4,500 and $6,100.

Manufactured In: U.S.A.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the ATVs immediately and contact their Kawasaki dealer to schedule an appointment for a free inspection, replacement of the pinch bolt or repair of damaged parts.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact your Kawasaki dealer or call Kawasaki toll-free at (866) 802-9381 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Consumers also can visit the Kawasaki Web site at www.kawasaki.com