Fire risk recall: These e-bikes just got pulled—check yours now!
- Replies 3
E-bike popularity has soared in recent years, offering convenience and speed to riders across the country.
But a new warning has thrown the spotlight on some serious safety concerns that could put users at risk.
The alert has sparked fresh debate over whether these devices are more trouble than they're worth.
Fears over exploding batteries prompted a recall of two high-profile e-bikes, triggering backlash from critics who questioned the safety of these increasingly popular vehicles.
Owners of Mamba Sahara and Santa Cruz Heckler 9 models were urged to stop using the bikes immediately, as the lithium-ion batteries supplied with both products posed significant fire risks.
While no injuries were reported, Santa Cruz Bicycles confirmed they had received four reports of fires linked to the Heckler 9, with some resulting in property damage.
The issue stemmed from the batteries—known for their high energy density—either short-circuiting or combusting spontaneously.
The Santa Cruz Heckler 9, which uses a 720W interchangeable lithium-ion battery, was at risk of internal short-circuiting. It was identifiable by the word ‘Santa Cruz’ printed on the downtube of the frame, while ‘Heckler’ appeared on the top tube and inside the left chainstay.
As for the Mamba Sahara, the concern centred on lithium-ion batteries that could ignite without warning, raising the spectre of severe injury or even death.
Consumers were told to arrange for a replacement and avoid using the e-bikes in the meantime.
The reaction online was swift, with many taking to social media to vent their frustrations. One person wrote: ‘They should all be banned. So dangerous and not necessary. Too many deaths and serious injuries.’
These concerns added to an already growing debate over the safety of e-bikes, with some Australians calling for stricter regulations—or outright bans—on certain models.
Santa Cruz Bicycles has been contacted for comments.
It’s not the first time battery-powered transport has raised safety concerns.
With more Aussies turning to e-bikes and scooters, understanding the risks has never been more important.
To see what’s causing these fires—and how to stay safe—take a look at this explainer.
Source: Youtube/Inside Edition
With e-bikes becoming more common on Aussie roads, do you think the convenience is worth the risk? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
In a previous story, we looked at the rise of e-bikes and the serious risks that come with not knowing how to use them safely.
For older Aussies who value independence and mobility, staying informed could be the key to avoiding a dangerous situation.
If you’ve been considering one for yourself or a loved one, that article is well worth a look.
Read more: This fast-rising transportation trend could turn deadly without crucial information. See why
But a new warning has thrown the spotlight on some serious safety concerns that could put users at risk.
The alert has sparked fresh debate over whether these devices are more trouble than they're worth.
Fears over exploding batteries prompted a recall of two high-profile e-bikes, triggering backlash from critics who questioned the safety of these increasingly popular vehicles.
Owners of Mamba Sahara and Santa Cruz Heckler 9 models were urged to stop using the bikes immediately, as the lithium-ion batteries supplied with both products posed significant fire risks.
While no injuries were reported, Santa Cruz Bicycles confirmed they had received four reports of fires linked to the Heckler 9, with some resulting in property damage.
Popular e-bikes recalled over fire risk. Image source: Product Safety
The issue stemmed from the batteries—known for their high energy density—either short-circuiting or combusting spontaneously.
The Santa Cruz Heckler 9, which uses a 720W interchangeable lithium-ion battery, was at risk of internal short-circuiting. It was identifiable by the word ‘Santa Cruz’ printed on the downtube of the frame, while ‘Heckler’ appeared on the top tube and inside the left chainstay.
As for the Mamba Sahara, the concern centred on lithium-ion batteries that could ignite without warning, raising the spectre of severe injury or even death.
Consumers were told to arrange for a replacement and avoid using the e-bikes in the meantime.
The reaction online was swift, with many taking to social media to vent their frustrations. One person wrote: ‘They should all be banned. So dangerous and not necessary. Too many deaths and serious injuries.’
These concerns added to an already growing debate over the safety of e-bikes, with some Australians calling for stricter regulations—or outright bans—on certain models.
Santa Cruz Bicycles has been contacted for comments.
It’s not the first time battery-powered transport has raised safety concerns.
With more Aussies turning to e-bikes and scooters, understanding the risks has never been more important.
To see what’s causing these fires—and how to stay safe—take a look at this explainer.
Source: Youtube/Inside Edition
With e-bikes becoming more common on Aussie roads, do you think the convenience is worth the risk? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
In a previous story, we looked at the rise of e-bikes and the serious risks that come with not knowing how to use them safely.
For older Aussies who value independence and mobility, staying informed could be the key to avoiding a dangerous situation.
If you’ve been considering one for yourself or a loved one, that article is well worth a look.
Read more: This fast-rising transportation trend could turn deadly without crucial information. See why
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