Shimano Crank Recall: Ensuring Safety on Your Bike:
In recent news, Shimano, the well-known manufacturer of bicycle components, has issued a recall for certain cranksets due to a potential crash hazard.
Shimano is a trusted brand in the cycling industry, known for producing high-quality components.
However, in September 2023, Shimano announced a recall for certain 11-speed bonded Hollowtech II Road Cranksets.
The recall affects several models, including Ultegra FC-6800, Dura-Ace FC-9000, Ultegra FC-R8000, Dura-Ace FC-R9100, and FC-R9100P cranksets.
These cranksets were manufactured between 2013 and July 2019.
The reason behind the recall is the potential for the bonded crank parts to separate and break, posing a crash hazard to cyclists.
This separation can occur during use, leading to loss of control and potentially causing accidents and injuries.
Shimano has received reports of 4,519 incidents of cranksets separating, which resulted in six reported injuries, including bone fractures, joint displacement, and lacerations.
To determine if your crankset is affected by the recall, you should check for the following two-letter production code on the backside of the crank arm where the pedals are attached:
KF, KG, KH, KI, KJ, KK, KL, LA, LB, LC, LD, LE, LF, LG, LH, LI, LJ, LK, LL, MA, MB, MC, MD, ME, MF, MG, MH, MI, MJ, MK, ML, NA, NB, NC, ND, NE, NF, NG, NH, NI, NJ, NK, NL, OA, OB, OC, OD, OE, OF, OG, OH, OI, OJ, OK, OL, PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, PF, PG, PH, PI, PJ, PK, PL, QA, QB, QC, QD, QE, QF, QG, QH, QI, QJ, QK, QL, RA, RB, RC, RD, RE, or RF.
These codes only apply to Ultegra and Dura-Ace Cranksets.
If you own one of the affected cranksets, it is important to take immediate action to ensure your safety. Here are the steps you should follow:
1 Immediately stop using the Crankset. Stop riding your bike.
2 Contact your LBS or an authorised Shimano Dealer. They will be able to schedule and carryout a FREE crankset inspection.
3 Inspection and Replacement. During the inspection, the dealer will check for any signs of bonding separation or delamination. If either arm of the crankset exhibits any signs, Shimano will provide a free replacement crankset and installation.
4 Continued Vigilance. Even if your crankset passes the inspection, it is crucial to remain vigilant while riding. Regularly inspect both cranks for any signs of damage or wear and promptly address any concerns.
It is important to note that the recall affects not only the cranksets sold individually but also those fitted on bicycles manufactured by other companies, such as Trek and Specialized.
The affected cranksets bear the “Ultegra” or “Dura Ace” logos on the arm.
One of my own bikes – The SpeedX Leopard Pro, has the Ultegra FC-6800 crank arms.
By coincidence, my bike was at my LBS having a service, when the Recall was issued. The guys contacted the UK Shimano Office – who authorised the Inspection – Fortunately, no sign of any problems on the Crank Arms is visible.
The advice was to keep checking – every time you go out / wash the bike down – have a good look at the crank set.
The Shimano crank recall highlights the critical role that reliable and safe bicycle components play in ensuring rider safety.
Cranksets are a vital part of the bicycle, providing the connection between the rider’s pedaling motion and the drivetrain.
Any compromise in their integrity can have serious consequences, as demonstrated by the incidents and injuries reported in connection with the recalled cranksets.
As one of the world’s leading bicycle component manufacturer, Shimano takes safety very seriously.
When the company become aware of this potential safety issues with its products, it took swift action to address it and ensure the safety of its customers.
The voluntary recall of the affected cranksets demonstrates Shimano’s commitment to rider safety and its dedication to upholding the highest quality standards.
Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to cycling.
This crank recall serves as a reminder of the importance of reliable and secure bicycle components.
If you own one of the affected cranksets, it is crucial to follow the recommended steps to ensure your safety.
By stopping the use of the crankset, contacting an authorised dealer for inspection, and remaining vigilant while riding, you can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Remember, a well-maintained and safe bicycle allows you to fully enjoy many years of cycling.