REI recalls bicycle after separating forks cause injuries

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After two reports of bicycle breakdowns causing a fractured clavicle, broken teeth, facial damage and head injuries, retailer Recreational Equipment Inc. and the Consumer Products Safety Commission recalled the 2005 model Novara Trionfo bike today.

The Aprebic carbon fiber forks on the Novara Trionfo can separate from the bike’s steerer tube while riding, which can cause the rider to lose control and fall, the commission said in a statement.

About 260 bikes are involved in the recall, the statement said, and riders should stop using the Novara Trionfo immediately and return them to a REI retail store for a free repair.

The 2005 model Novara Trionfo bikes are painted blue and white with black forks, and have the name “Novara” printed on the bars, the commission said. The bikes sold for $720 to $1,900 in REI stores from January 2005 to August 2006.

For more information, consumers can contact REI, based in Kent, Wash., at (800) 426-4840 or online at www.rei.com.

-- Nathan Olivarez-Giles