NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 15, 2002
Release # 02-228

Bicycle Stem Recall Hotline: (800) BIKEUSA
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Kim Dulic, (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1183

CPSC, Cannondale Corp. Announce Recall of Bicycles With Defective Stems

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Cannondale Corp., of Bethel, Conn., is voluntarily recalling about 1,300 bicycles with defective stems. The stem can break away from the bicycle, causing a loss of control, falls and serious injury to riders.

Cannondale has received four reports of stems breaking, including one minor injury.

The recalled stems are black and have the model name - 3T ZEPP XL printed in white on the sides of the body of the stem. The faceplate also has "3T" printed in white at the front of the stem. The stems were installed on 2002 and 2003 model year Cannondale bicycles. The recalled stems were manufactured in Italy by 3T (Tecno Tubo Torino) and distributed by parent company, Gruppo, SPA.

Authorized Cannondale Bicycle dealers nationwide sold the stems from March 2001 through July 2002 for between $3,400 and $5,000 (includes the cost of the bicycle).

Consumers should stop riding bicycles with these stems immediately and contact a local Cannondale retailer for a free repair. Consumers can contact Cannondale at (800) BIKEUSA or visit the company's website at www.cannondale.com to find a local dealer.