Recalls Australia and Pacific Brands Sport and Leisure Pty Ltd (Norco distributor)  have announced the recall of the following models of Norco bikes: 2007 Team DH, 2008 Team DH, Aline Park, Atomik, Shore 1, Shore 2, Shore 3, 2009 Atomik (without gussets). The affected bikes where distributed in Australia from September 2006 until May 2009.

The fault is related to the head tube area of the frame, which may develop cracks and could cause the head tube to separate from the remainder of the frame, causing a rider to fall from the bicycle and suffer injuries.

If you have one of these bikes, you should immediately ensure that the bicycle is not ridden again and contact the current distributor of Norco bicycles in Australia, Pacific Brands Sport and Leisure Pty Ltd, or a local Norco dealer to arrange for an inspection of the bicycle and replacement of the frame at no cost to the consumer.

For further information contact Pacific Brands Sport and Leisure Pty Ltd on 1800 667 831.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Tags: Norco,Pacific Brands,Recalls
Categories: Bicycling
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Today, Monday May 25, 2009 at approximately 3:50 PM I was riding south on Marmion Avenue safely or so I thought in the left lane when I was hit in the shoulder/upper arm by the front seat passenger of the of a blue sedan, BSN 224434. The front seat passenger, a male teenager, light brown hair and baby face lent out the window of the car to hit me, I think with a plastic dog ball thrower or similar.

Of course not being to bright, these boys, I was able to catch-up with them at the intersection of Hepburn Avenue and Marmion Avenue. The window was down the passenger was not expecting me. The shock on his face was priceless. I did not lower my south to his level and hence did not reach out. I did however let him know he was a idiot to put it nicely.

South of Hepburn Avenue intersection a lady and her daughter who witnessed the incident pulled up and hailed me down. The provided their details, so at least I have a witness to the incident.

I have now reported the incident to the WA Police via their online Traffic Complaint Form. The question will the WA Police actually do something this time or will the only response be the form response.

I also found it interesting but when I completed the Traffic Compliant Form, it had a drop box to select what your role was in the incident. The choices given where driver, passenger, pedestrian or other. That is right, cyclists did not get a mention! We come under "other." What does this say about the Western Australian Police attitude to cyclists, cyclists who are legal road users in Western Australia. We are nothing but "other?"

Update – May 29, 2009. I visited the Mt Hawthorn police station today to lodge a statement. It seems the incident is not a traffic matter, but rather a matter of a assault and hence my form was rejected.  So now I have a formal statement lodge and awaiting further investigation.

Update – May 27, 2009. I have received the following email from the WA Police, which is at least different from the normal canned response. Mind you I am not sure what information they are missing or is incorrect. A phone call will be made.

Your Traffic Complaint Form received on 25/05/09, could not be processed due to missing or incorrect information. Please report the Incident by telephoning the Police Assistance Centre on 131 444.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Tags: Road Rage
Categories: Commuting and Recreational
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Recalls Australia and Trek Bicycles Australia Pty Ltd have announced the recall of Trek Hybrid 200 models, 7700E and 7500. The affected bikes where for sale from November 2008 until May 2009 and have forks manufactured by JD Components of Taiwan fitted.

The fault is related to the suspension fork which was apparently assembled incorrectly and could come out of alignment with the handlebar, which could allow the front wheel to turn unexpectedly resulting in injury or worse.

If you have one of these bikes, you should return it ASAP to your Trek dealer for the fitting of a replacement suspension kit.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Tags: Recalls,Trek Bicycles
Categories: Bicycling, Commuting and Recreational
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