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On January 25, 2024, Pacific Cycle Inc. of Madison, Wisconsin announced a voluntary recall of approximately 1,700 Ascend Cabrillo and Minaret Electric Bikes in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) [1]. The recalled e-bikes were manufactured in China and distributed by Bass Pro LLC of Springfield, Missouri.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall covers two Ascend-branded electric bike models sold exclusively at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. The affected models, model numbers, and colors are:
- Ascend Cabrillo Electric Bike (Model R7583BPS) – sand color, with rear storage rack
- Ascend Cabrillo Electric Bike (Model R7585BPS) – gray color, with rear storage rack
- Ascend Minaret Electric Bike (Model R7586BPS) – black with red and gray accents, also available in a step-through frame style
The model number and “Pacific Cycle” are printed on the service label located on the seat tube above the bottom bracket. The word “Ascend” appears on the downtube and either “Cabrillo” or “Minaret” is printed on the chain stay. The recalled bikes were sold at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s stores nationwide and online at basspro.com and cabelas.com from January 2023 through November 2023 for between $1,400 and $1,500.
What Is the Hazard?
The wiring harness that manages the charging of the e-bike’s lithium-ion battery was not properly assembled at the factory. An improperly assembled wiring harness can cause the battery to overheat while charging, posing a serious risk of fire that can spread to the surrounding area and cause property damage, burns, or worse.
Incidents and Injuries
Pacific Cycle received three reports of the lithium-ion battery catching fire during charging. One of those incidents resulted in a consumer suffering second-degree burns — injuries that can cause blistering, significant pain, and may require medical treatment or skin grafting.
What Caused the Recall?
The recall was initiated after Pacific Cycle identified that the wiring harness controlling the lithium-ion battery charging system was improperly assembled during manufacturing. The assembly defect allows excess heat to build up in the battery during charging, creating conditions that can lead to a thermal event — including fire — without any warning to the consumer.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers who own the recalled Ascend Cabrillo or Minaret Electric Bike should stop using and unplug the bike immediately. Before returning the bike, consumers should first verify that their serial number is included in the recall by visiting www.pacific-cycle.com/safety-notices-recalls and entering their serial number.
Confirmed recalled bikes should be returned to any Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s location for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Pacific Cycle toll-free at 877-564-2261, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT, by email at customerservice@pacificycle.com, or online at www.pacific-cycle.com/safety-notices-recalls.
Can I File a Lawsuit?
Consumers who purchased the recalled Ascend Cabrillo or Minaret Electric Bike — particularly those who suffered burn injuries or property damage when the battery caught fire during charging — may have significant legal options. A class action lawsuit could allow affected consumers to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, lost wages, and other related losses. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your rights.
References
1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Pacific-Cycle-Recalls-E-Bikes-Due-to-Fire-Hazard