At the start of wishlist season, a national agency reports that a faulty brake system could result in riders losing control.
Whether you enjoy a leisurely weekend bike ride or you ride a bike for your work commute, biking is a healthy way to get outside, breathe fresh air, and move your body. But, for two brands of bikes, riders in the U.S. and Canada will want to take note before hopping on.
According to a November 13 notice by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Trek Bikes has recalled 68,000 bikes sold in the United States and 6,820 bikes sold in Canada after the company became aware of an issue with certain bike models’ coaster brakes. In a letter to bike owners issued by Trek, the company said that it is recalling a “limited number of bicycle models” because the coaster brakes may not be adequately lubricated, causing faster wear and potential damage to the brake itself—meaning that riders could lose control of their bike and fall.
Trek advises that owners not ride the affected bikes until they can get a replacement brake, which the company will provide through authorized retailers. The CPSC reports that affected models were sold at smaller authorized retailers as well as REI stores in some states. Here’s a list of the specific models that were recalled:
- 2024 Trek Precaliber 16
- 2024 Trek Precaliber 20
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 12
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 16
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 20
- 2026 Electra Sprocket 1 16”
- 2026 Electra Townie Rental 1 Step Thru
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 12 CB replacement/service wheel
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 16 CB replacement/service wheel
- 2026 Trek Precaliber 20 CB replacement/service wheel
If you’re unsure if your Trek or Electra bike is affected, Trek is urging owners to use a lookup tool on its site with the bike’s serial number, which can be found on the bottom bracket of the bike near the crankset (underneath the bike near the pedals) and starts with the letters WTU. If you’re having trouble finding the serial number or knowing whether your specific bike is affected by the recall, Trek advises contacting your local Trek retailer.
To get the free replacement brake, schedule a service appointment with a local Trek retailer. Once there, Trek is also giving customers a $20 in-store credit good towards any Trek, Electra, or Bontrager merchandise.
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