The US Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that some lithium-ion batteries are used in some Rad Power Bikes electric bicycles. constitute a serious fire hazard This could result in injury or death. The agency says batteries with model numbers RP-1304 and HL-RP-S1304 may catch fire or explode unexpectedly, especially if the battery or its leads have been exposed to water or dirt.
The recall was considered a “public health and safety” issue as Rad Power Bikes refused to offer a full replacement or refund to all consumers, citing financial constraints.
The CPSC reports 31 cases of fires involving these batteries, including 12 cases where property damage totaled approximately $734,500. Some of these fires occurred even when the battery was not being used or charged but was in storage.
The batteries were sold as original or replacement batteries for various models of Rad Power Bikes e-bikes and were available at RadPowerBikes.com, Best Buy and independent bike shops nationwide.
“Rad has informed the agency that a requirement to replace all batteries, regardless of condition, would immediately put Rad out of business, providing no benefit to our drivers,” the company said in a statement accompanying the CPSC warning. “Rad is disappointed that we have not been able to find a solution that better serves our users and the industry as a whole. Rad reminds customers to inspect batteries before use or charging and to immediately stop using batteries that show signs of damage, water intrusion or corrosion, and to contact Rad so we can assist our users.”
The CPSC declaration does not apply to all-wheel batteries and does not apply to Safe Shield or semi-integrated batteries.
Consumers who have an affected battery are advised to use it immediately and dispose of it properly at a household hazardous waste collection point. Do not dispose of batteries in recycling bins or general waste bins, and do not resell them.