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Profile-Design Stem Recall Notice

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Profile-Design is voluntarily recalling approximately 8,000 "Stiffy™" threadless mountain bike handlebar stems. The stem connects the bicycle's handlebars to the fork. One of the recalled stems is pictured below. The stems can break during riding causing a loss of control of the bicycle.

Description of the Affected Stems

This recall only involves "Stiffy™" threadless mountain bike handlebar stems sold from March 1997 through April 2000. These stems were sold through bicycle retailers, included as original equipment on new bicycles or included in some bicycle parts kits.

How to Identify the Recalled Stems

The recalled stems are identified using the following points of identification:
(1) The recalled stems say only "Profile" on them and not "Profile-Design."
(2) The rear portion of the steer tube clamp (the portion that says "Stiffy") is sharply angled (45 degrees) at the top and bottom (later models not subject to the recall were not as sharply angled).
(3) The front handlebar clamp only has two bolts, not three like later non-recalled versions.
(4) The recalled stems were available in black, red, blue, yellow, and cream.
If you have any questions regarding whether your stem is affected or not, please contact us or Profile-Design immediately (contact information listed below).

What to Do If Your Stem is Affected

Stop using the stem immediately. We will replace any affected stem free of charge for our local customers. If you are not located nearby, you can obtain a replacement stem from Profile-Design free of charge (and change the stem yourself), or you can visit another Profile Design retailer to have the stem replaced free of charge. If you would like to locate another dealer, click on the "Profile Dealer Locator" link below, or you can call Profile-Design toll-free at (888) 800-5999 (Ext. 161) Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Time. Removal of the recalled stem and installation of the new stem only takes about 10 minutes using a 5mm hex or "Allen" wrench.

How to Obtain a Replacement for Self Installation

If you wish to replace an affected stem yourself, call Profile-Design's recall hotline at (888) 800-5999 (ext. 161) Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Time. You will be issued a return authorization number and Profile-Design will mail you a UPS or USPS Priority Mail shipping label which can be used to return the old stem to Profile-Design. The old stem must be sent first so that its size can be matched to the replacement stem. Detailed instructions for removal of the old stem and installation of the replacement can be obtained by calling the number above or by e-mailing Profile-Design at the link below.

Profile-Design Contact Information

Profile-Design, LLC
2677 El Presidio St.
Carson, CA 90810

Phone: (888) 800-5999 (ext. 161)
Fax: (310) 747-0085