Open has issued a voluntary recall for select models of its bikes and framesets built with Campagnolo groupsets.
The recall is due to the potential for Open’s frame ports to damage Campagnolo brake hoses.
Open says the safety recall applies to the USA and Canada.
In the rest of the world, Open is conducting a "safety exchange" where it has not been forced to recall the product but says it is offering an exchange "because we care about our customers".
Which Open Cycle bikes are affected?
Open says four bike models are affected:
- U.P Ekar
- UPPER Ekar
- WIDE Ekar
- MIND Ekar
It also says all Open Cycle framesets using a Campagnolo rear hydraulic disc brake are affected.
Open says the recalled bikes were sold in matt black, blue, grey and orange, as well as custom colours.
Why is Open recalling bikes?
Open says it is recalling bikes due to the construction of Campagnolo hydraulic disc brake hoses.
It says these hoses are more susceptible to damage at the entry port of Open’s frames, versus hoses from other brands.
Open says Campagnolo brake hoses can be damaged from “over-turning” of the handlebar to the left.
It says once the hose is damaged it may not work properly and “either limit rear braking or eliminate rear braking entirely which could result in a loss of control”.
How long will the recall take?
Open says it has already designed a replacement Multistop entry port and retrofit kit to bring affected models into compliance.
It says the first units have already shipped to warehouses in Europe and the USA.
Open expects to be able to replace Multistops at retailers within weeks.
However, the brand says it is dependent on Campagnolo delivering spare brake hoses.
Open says it is “working hard” to ensure acquiring new brake hoses “will not delay this process”.
Open says the repair requires a skilled mechanic and you should not try to do it yourself.
If you are unable to reach a local Open retailer, you should contact the brand. It will then help you find a bicycle retailer who can do the work for you.
Full details can be found on the Open website.
Update 5 April 2023: Campagnolo has issued the following statement in response to the recall of Ekar-equipped Open bicycles:
"Open Cycles AG has initiated a voluntary recall for select models of its bicycles and frames equipped with Campagnolo hydraulic brake hoses.
"Campagnolo encourages everyone to strictly follow the instructions provided by Open Cycle in its recall notice.
"However, as a point of clarification, the recall notices suggest that the recall is due to some deficiency in the Campagnolo hoses. This suggestion is inaccurate. The Campagnolo hoses meet and exceed the requirements of all applicable standards, are not in any way defective, and did not cause this recall.
"The cause of the recall is directly related to the “Multistop” inserts used in the recalled frames. These inserts are too narrow, thereby bending the Campagnolo hoses far beyond the limits as specified in Section 4.3 of Campagnolo’s instruction manual.
"The responsibility of the “Multistop” inserts for this recall is confirmed by the corrective action plan: the existing inserts with narrow holes are being replaced with new inserts. Campagnolo did not design, manufacture, sell or specify the inserts."
