Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars which where mostly fitted to Giant TCR Advanced SL Rabobank bicycles (model year 2011 and 2012) have been recalled by Product Safety Recalls Australia in-cooperation with the Shimano Australia Pty Ltd. This recall is an Australian one so may only affect Giant TCR Advanced SL Rabobank bikes sold in Australia. I suggest you check your specifications if you brought your bike overseas. That said I would assume that the handlebars are not unique to Australia; they are sold in the UK for example.

Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars defect

It seems that during the manufacturing process some Shimano Pro Vibe handlebars were constructed with carbon fibre that was laid at the wrong angle. The outcome of this fault in the manufacturing process is that these carbon fibre handlebars may break. This is interesting as it does highlight the critical nature of the laying process in making carbon fibre products for bicycles, more so for critical components such as stems and handlebars.

In a classic under-statement, Product Safety Recalls Australia then go to say that “if the handlebar breaks, it could cause a serious accident.” I think it is fair to say that if one of these Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars break you are going to get hurt and your lovely Giant TCR Advanced SL Rabobank is likely to get hurt as well. It might take a bit of effort to get all those graphics looking snappy again if you hit the ground when your handlebar breaks.

My suggestion is that if you own a MY2011 or MY2012 Giant TCR Advanced SL Rabobank or have installed Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars on your bike you should contact the retailer you purchased the bike or the handlebars from ASAP. If the bike or handleabars where purchased in Australia, the retailer should arrange a replacement for you.

If you brought the handlebars overseas (e.g., the UK) it might be a bit tougher getting a replacement. I suspect this will come down to whether the recall has been applied in our countries. If you have brought Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars say from the UK or the US please leave a comment below on how you go finding out about a replacement and/or getting a replacement.

For Australian consumers if you want further information on this recall please contact Shimano Australia Pty Ltd on (02) 9526 7799 or via email at shimano@shimano.com.au or via their website.

Your Turn To Talk

I hope you liked this post! Please do stop by the comment section below and share your thoughts on the recall of the Shimano Pro Vibe carbon handlebars with the rest of us.

I am always interested in feedback on these recalls. Are they justified? Are you an owner of a recalled bike? What has your experience been of the recall process? Did you buy the handlebars overseas? Have you been able to get them replaced? Please do share your thoughts by leaving a comment below 🙂

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