Columbia Parkcycle Front Forks Replaced Due to Failure Risk

Plain-English summary

Columbia Manufacturing Company is continuing a voluntary replacement program for the front forks of 15,390 Parkcycle children's sidewalk bicycles. The affected models are the boys' "X2 Tiger" (Model No. 2122) and the girls' "Rainbow Connection" (Model No. 2121), manufactured between August 1 and November 1, 1983. These 16-inch bicycles were distributed nationally and retailed for approximately $75.00.

The recall is due to reports of front fork failure, which can cause children to fall. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is aware of two complaints involving lacerations and contusions of the face resulting from falls, as well as approximately 30 reports of front fork failure that did not involve injury. Columbia began using heavier gauge steel for front forks on all production starting November 1, 1983, and all Parkcycles sold after February 9, 1984, have the strengthened fork.

Consumers who purchased an affected Parkcycle prior to February 8, 1984, should check the serial number at the rear of the bicycle. If the serial number begins with 3212 or is lower, the owner should obtain a free replacement fork. Consumers can ask their retailer for a new fork and assembly instructions or request a preaddressed postcard from the retailer to have Columbia ship the parts directly. Consumers may also write to Columbia Manufacturing Company's Customer Service or call the CPSC toll-free hotline for more information.

The recalled product

Product

Rainbow Connection, X2 Tiger Parkcycles boys' sidewalk bicycles

Manufacturer

Columbia

Category

Consumer Product — Children's Bicycles

Hazard

• fall
• structural-failure

Distribution

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