Popular Super73 electric bikes recalled for brake failure

Super73, a leading e-bike manufacturer based in Irvine, California famous for its moped-style electric bikes, has issued a recall for two of its popular models.

The recall covers approximately 1,400 units of its model year 2024 Z Miami SE and Z Adventure Core electric bicycles. At the heart of the recall is an issue with the braking system.

Specifically, the retaining pin within the disc brake calipers may loosen and detach, potentially leading to brake failure and increasing the risk of crashes and injuries.

According to a recall notice posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the recall covers the Z Miami SE in Bandit Black (black seat), Palladium Gray (camel seat), and Astro Orange (black seat), as well as the Z Adventure Core in Sandstorm, featuring a black and brown frame.

Super73 has confirmed that the affected e-bikes were sold between April 2024 and September 2024 at Super73’s Irvine store, various bicycle retailers nationwide, and online.

According to the company, Super73 has received 21 reports concerning loose retaining pins or associated brake failures, with one incident resulting in a minor injury.

Owners of the recalled models are advised to immediately cease using the e-bikes and contact Super73 for a complimentary repair kit. The company is providing a new retaining pin and will reimburse up to $50 for professional installation services. To obtain reimbursement, consumers should submit their installation receipts to Super73. The company is proactively reaching out to all known purchasers. 

Customers seeking information on the recall can reach Super73 by phone at 888-841-3584 from Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, or by email safety@super73.com. They can also visit a recall-related web page set up by the company.

These types of recalls are not uncommon in the e-bike industry, as manufacturers continue to refine designs and address safety concerns. Additionally, because most bicycle components are not built by the electric bike makers themselves, issues in systems such as brakes and wheels are usually related to the subcomponent manufacturers and can affect many bicycle companies downstream in the supply chain.

Similar examples of recalls in the industry include Rad Power Bikes’ 2022 recall of nearly 30,000 RadWagon 4 cargo e-bikes due to the bike’s tires, and the 2023 recall of some 45,000 Lectric XP 3.0 e-bikes over brake failure risks linked to faulty calipers.