Shimano recalls QR skewers

Cut-and-paste from CPSC. How do I tell if I own one of the 8500 faulty skewers?

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Shimano Quick Release Device

Units: About 8,500

Manufacturer: Shimano Inc., of Osaka, Japan

Hazard: The quick release skewers can unexpectedly fail or break when locked in position. When this happens the rider could lose control and fall.

Incidents/Injuries: Shimano has received one report of the quick release breaking. No injuries have been reported.

Description and Models: This recall involves quick releases supplied after November 1, 2005 with Shimano front hubs and front wheels on the following road racing and MTB bicycles. Model numbers included in the recall are: HB-5501, HB-5600, HB-6600, HB-7800, HB-HF-08, HB-M756, HB-M760, HB-M760, HB-M960, HB-M965, WH-7801, WH-7801C, WH-7801C50, WH-7801SL, WH-R600, WH-M965, DH-2N71, DH-3N71 and DH-3D71. Only quick releases with silver skewers and without a round sticker on the back of the quick release lever are involved in this recall.

Sold at: Bicycle specialty stores and dealers nationwide from November 2005 through March 2006 for between $13 and $44.

Manufactured In: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should stop riding immediately and take the quick release device into their local bike dealer or retailer for a free inspection and repair.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Shimano American Corp. at (800) 353-4719 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at bike.shimano.com