InSTEP Recalls Hitchhiker III Trailer Bikes Due to Joint Failure Risk
InSTEP LLC is recalling about 4,300 Hitchhiker III trailer bikes because the universal joint system can fail, causing riders to lose control and suffer injuries.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).
Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has been reported (contusions and abrasions), but no fatalities or severe injuries are documented, fitting the 'High' severity criteria.
Plain-English summary
InSTEP LLC, of Mendota Heights, Minn., is recalling about 4,300 Hitchhiker III trailer bikes. The recalled bikes are attached to a lead bicycle by a universal joint system with two side bolts and a top-mounted quick-release bolt. The NH300 model has "HITCHHIKER III" printed in red on the trailer arm and the "InSTEP" logo on the bottom tube and safety flag.
The universal joint system can fail, causing a rider to lose control of the bike. This poses a risk of injury to either of the two riders. CPSC and InSTEP have received 10 reports of universal joint systems failing, including three reports of consumers who suffered contusions and abrasions.
The bikes were sold at retail stores nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, The Sports Authority, and One Step Ahead, from February 2001 through May 2001, for between $80 and $110. Consumers should stop using these trailer bikes immediately and contact InSTEP at (800) 242-6110 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or by e-mail at [email protected], for a free repair kit with instructions.
The recalled product
- Product
- Hitchhiker III Trailer Bikes
- Manufacturer
- InSTEP LLC, of Mendota Heights, Minn.
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 4,300
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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See all →- High
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