Ridgeback bicycles could cause serious injuries if tyres fail, cautions product safety lawyer following recall

Owners of Ridgeback Comet, Motion and Speed bicycles sold from 2020 onwards with the prefix "RB21" have been urged to check whether their bike is affected after the manufacturer recalled the products from end users.

A recall notice from the Office of Product and Safety Standards (OPSS) says the affected bicycles may have tyres that could fail while the bike is being ridden.

According to the OPSS, tyre failure could cause riders to lose control of the bicycle and fall, creating a risk of injury.

The recall affects a range of Ridgeback Comet, Motion and Speed models in different sizes and colours. Consumers are advised to check whether their bicycle is included in the recall and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Ridgeway has advised owners to inspect their tyres using guidance published on the Ridgeback website or contact their local Ridgeback dealer to arrange an inspection and replacement where required.

The OPSS said the bicycles do not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

Philippa Wheeler, a product safety solicitor at Leigh Day, said:

"Cyclists place their trust in the safety of their bicycles every time they ride. When a tyre fails unexpectedly, riders can lose control in an instant, potentially resulting in serious and life-changing injuries.

"It is important that anyone who owns a Ridgeback Comet, Motion or Speed bicycle checks whether their model is affected and arranges an inspection as soon as possible.

"While recalls can be unsettling for consumers, prompt action to address potential safety defects is an important safeguard. Customers have a right to expect that the products they purchase are safe and free from defects, and effective recall processes play a vital role when products fall short of those standards."