Recall: Bicycle Helmets Recalled by Cycle Express

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 5, 2000 Release # 00-140

Cycle Express Recall Hotline: (877) 714-6117 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-7058

CPSC, Cycle Express Inc. Announce Recall of Bicycle Helmets

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Cycle Express Inc., of New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 9,000 bicycle helmets. These helmets fail impact testing and labeling required under CPSC's Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets, violating the Consumer Product Safety Act. Riders wearing these helmets are not adequately protected from falls, and could suffer severe head injuries or death.

CPSC and Cycle Express are not aware of any injuries or incidents involving these helmets. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled girls' helmets are mostly pink mixed with silver glitter. The pink portion of the helmet is bordered by purple tape. Decals on the helmets read "Hearts & Flowers." These helmets are size small, for ages 2 through 5 years. A label inside the helmet reads "DISTRIBUTED BY: CYCLE EXPRESS." The helmets, which were made in China, are packaged in a box that reads, "Hearts and Flowers Helmet Combo Value Pack" and "Item #10235." The helmets were sold with a bike bag-purse combo and hair accessories.

Toys R Us stores sold these helmets with accessories nationwide from October 1999 through April 2000 for about $13.

Consumers should stop using these bicycle helmets immediately, and return them to the store where purchased. They will receive a $7 refund, which is the assessed value of the helmet. For more information, call Cycle Express toll-free at (877) 714-6117 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or write to Cycle Express Inc., 312 Fifth Ave., 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001.