Cosmetic plates for reversible spacer shipped with 2012 model E-118
Date of communiqué: March 1st, 2012
To: All Argon 18 Distributors
Subject:
This recall notice concerns the handlebar of the 2012 model E-118. Certain units of this model have been identified with the potential problem of handlebar slippage.
Description of the issue:
Due to improper Quality Control procedure, certain units of cosmetic spacer plates (#4G in the Assembly Guide) used in the reversible stem spacer (#4G in the Assembly Guide) were beyond specification tolerance. These affected units could be slightly larger than the spacer and therefore prevent proper contact between the handlebar and spacer. This lack of contact could cause handlebar slippage and possible loss of control of the bike.
Argon 18 has been notified of a situation wherein a cyclist in Australia lost control of their bike during a ride.
Solution:
All Argon 18 distributors and their retailers who either have inventory of or have sold any E-118’s must proceed with an immediate recall of the bikes from their customers and follow the procedure outlined below in order to resolve the issue. Argon 18 requires that applicable local recall requirements be evaluated and implemented by all distributors and their retailers.
There are two solutions depending whether the spacer was delivered as one part or in three parts.
Solution #1 (for units shipped prior to Production 3)
Part #4G in the E-118_Assembly_Guide_A18_2012_01/03/2012.pdf: spacer shipped as 1 part (see Photo A):
The cosmetic plates can be easily removed by inserting a blade (exacto knife for example) between the spacer and the cosmetic plate and separating them. Repeat this procedure on the opposite side of the spacer to ensure both plates are removed & discard them. The plates are held in place with adhesive.
Solution #2 (for units shipped as of Production 3)
Part #4B &4G (2 pcs) in the E-118_Assembly_Guide_A18_2012_01/03/2012.pdf: spacer shipped in 3 parts (see Photo B):
The two cosmetic plates are separate from the spacer & not attached, simply do not install the plates and discard them.
The cosmetic spacer plate (4G) does not have any structural purpose or properties therefore the spacer without the plates does not compromise safety or performance.
Argon 18 will no longer manufacture these cosmetic plates and they will not be included in frame-sets or complete bikes shipped
after March 1st due to the issues at hand.
Argon 18 Distributors are responsible for the communication of this recall notice to all Retailers in their network.
Should there be any additional questions or concerns regarding this notice, please contact Argon 18 International Division at
+1 514-271-2992.
Thank you for your support.
Technical Service Department
Argon 18
