Recall: Profile-Design LLC Bicycle "Aero Bars" Recall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 29, 2001 Release #02-054

Profile-Design Recall Hotline: (888) 800-5999 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058

CPSC, Profile-Design LLC Announce Recall of Bicycle "Aero Bars"

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Profile-Design LLC, of Long Beach Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 8,400 "aero bars" used on racing bicycles. The aero bars are handlebar extensions that either mount in the center of the handlebars or are sold as a complete handlebar and stem system. The aero bars allow riders to ride in an aerodynamic crouching position. The brackets that attach the aero bars' forearm pads, where riders rest their arms, can loosen or separate during use, causing the rider to lose control and crash.

Profile-Design has received one report of a bracket on one of the aero bars loosening, resulting in a rider crashing and suffering a broken rib and abrasions.

The recall includes "Carbon X" TM and "Carbon Stryke" TM aero bars. The Carbon X aero bar is a complete bicycle handlebar and stem system, and includes the writing "Profile Design" and "Carbon X." The Carbon Stryke aero bar attaches to existing bicycle handlebars, and includes the writing "Profile Design" and "Carbon Stryke." Both aero bars are black.

Independent bicycle stores worldwide sold the recalled aero bars. The Carbon X aero bars were sold from August 1999 through November 2001 for about $349, and the Carbon Stryke aero bars were sold from May 1999 through November 2001 for about $139.

Consumers should stop using the recalled aero bars immediately and contact the company to receive two free replacement brackets. For more information, consumers should contact Profile-Design at (888) 800-5999 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's web site at www.profile-design.com.

Aero bar ZB brackets that are welded together or have a spring- loaded flip-up design are not part of the recall.