Recalls From Specialized, Trek, Electra, & Urban Arrow, Oregon Bill Encourages Youth E-Bike Education | TWR Ep 69

According to Specialized’s safety notice, “The fork steerer tube on affected bikes may develop a small fatigue crack which depending on use could lead to a progressive failure of the fork, posing a fall hazard.” The notice applies to all Turbo Como SL 4.0 and 5.0 models with either belt or chain drives. Affected e-bikes were sold starting in 2021 and continuing up to the present.

Specialized is currently working with the CPSC to develop and implement a plan, with a solution expected in the next few weeks. Owners of affected e-bikes can check the recall notice page for updates and announcements. Specialized dealers will reach out to affected customers when a fix has been decided upon.

The bill is HB4007, which proposes a huge range of changes to Oregon law.

Currently, Class 1 e-bikes are treated like cars, so riders under 16 can’t operate or learn how to use them. The new bill would open access to Class 1 e-bikes for riders as young as 14, provided they wear a helmet. It also allows riders of all ages to ride Class 1 or 2 e-bikes while in safety classes. Otherwise, it enables riders 16 and older to operate Class 2 and 3 e-bikes.

HB4007 also creates a new class for “powered micromobility devices” that don’t fit cleanly into other categories (JackRabbit micro e-bikes, OneWheels, electric longboards, etc.) with a sub-100-lb weight and a maximum speed of 28 mph. It makes users of powered micromobility devices exempt from license and registration requirements and allows their use on bike paths or in bike lanes.

The bill punishes sellers of so-called “imposter vehicles” that are marketed as one type of micromobility device or EV while meeting the legal definition of another. For example, electric motorcycles without pedals are often sold as e-bikes, which must legally include operable pedals. It also makes it a violation to sell non-safety-certified and approved batteries. Those found in violation of the law could face fines up to $250.

Our Take:
Instead of the blanket approach that some states, such as New Jersey, have recently taken to regulate e-bikes, Oregon’s approach via HB4007 seems smart, targeted, and forward-thinking. We’ve always believed that proper education is a better approach than tighter restrictions, and the bill seems to encourage young riders to be informed about responsible e-bike use.

While a $250 fine seems like a relatively small penalty for companies selling intentionally mislabeled products or uncertified batteries, we also appreciate its approach to defining powered micromobility devices. These vehicles have largely occupied a legal grey area, so ensuring their operation in bike-friendly areas without registration is a welcome change.

Hyena’s recall affects the 20-mph FX+1 and 28-mph FX+1S models in both mid-step and stepover frame styles, as well as Townie Go! and Townie Go! S e-bikes. Faulty rear wheel bolts are the cause of the recall, as they may be affected by a phenomenon called hydrogen embrittlement.

This condition occurs when hydrogen atoms permeate the material, causing microscopic cracks and weakness. If affected, the bolts can break when too much torque is applied, which can result in the wheel coming off, potentially causing the rider to fall and become injured. According to the CPSC, 7 incidents have been reported with no injuries.

Affected bikes were sold only in the US and Canada prior to October 28th, 2025. If you own one of the models involved in the recall, stop riding it immediately and schedule a repair appointment with your local dealer. A technician will replace the bolts for free, and you will receive $10 of in-store credit toward Trek and Trek-owned merchandise.

If you’re not sure whether your bike is affected, you can reach out to your local dealer for more information.

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