Shimano Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Allegedly Defective Cranksets
Japanese bicycle components manufacturer Shimano is currently embroiled in a class action lawsuit in the United States, with allegations that the company “knowingly” marketed defective products to consumers.
The lawsuit specifically targets Shimano cranksets, crucial components that transfer pedal power to the chain. These cranksets were manufactured in Japan from June 2012 to June 2019. In September 2023, Shimano announced a voluntary recall due to a potential bonding separation issue associated with these products.
During an earnings call, Shimano President Taizo Shimano acknowledged the ongoing legal situation, stating, “As the case is still at an early stage, we will continue to monitor developments closely.” He emphasized that while the case involves major bicycle manufacturers that utilize Shimano’s parts, the company remains committed to maintaining strong relationships with its customers.
Approximately 680,000 cranksets have been shipped to the U.S., and Shimano has reported 4,519 incidents of separation related to these components as of September 2023. The company anticipates an extraordinary loss of 17 billion yen (approximately $114 million) for the fiscal year 2023, primarily due to expenses incurred from free crankset inspections and replacements.
The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, names Shimano along with three other prominent bicycle manufacturers—Taiwan’s Giant and U.S.-based Trek and Specialized—as defendants. Fourteen plaintiffs, all bicycle owners with Shimano components, are seeking damages, asserting that the recalled parts were defective from the design stage. Notably, Giant, Trek, and Specialized are all significant business partners of Shimano.
In response to the lawsuit, Shimano and the other defendants filed a request to dismiss the case last week. A court hearing is scheduled for early April, although the total number of plaintiffs who may join the lawsuit remains uncertain. Shimano’s legal representative stated, “We will take appropriate action in cooperation with local lawyers.”
As the situation develops, the implications for Shimano and its partners could be significant, raising questions about product safety and consumer trust in the brand.
What are your thoughts on Shimano’s response to the lawsuit? Have you experienced issues with Shimano cranksets or other bike components? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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