What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall that affects a specific and somewhat unique intersection of two well-known brands: Radio Flyer and Tesla. Specifically, the agency is recalling all units of the Cyberquad for Kids manufactured by Radio Flyer under license from Tesla. This is not a general warning about electric toys; it is a precise action targeting one particular model number. If you have purchased this item, you need to know exactly what physical object was involved in this safety directive.
The product at the center of this recall is the Radio Flyer Cyberquad for Kids, identified strictly by Model Number 914. This vehicle is designed as a single-rider electric quad bike for children. It features a full steel frame, which gives it a sturdy appearance, along with a cushioned seat and adjustable suspension. The design includes rear disk braking and LED light bars, intended to provide a realistic riding experience. Powering the vehicle is a lithium-ion battery that offers up to 15 miles of range and allows for a top speed of 10 mph. Distinctive branding marks the product: both the Tesla "T" logo and the Radio Flyer logo are printed directly on the battery. Furthermore, the underside of the seat has information embossed into it that explicitly identifies the product as Radio Flyer Model 914.
A critical detail for verifying your ownership is where and how this specific model was sold. The Cyberquad for Kids by Tesla was not available in traditional brick-and-mortar toy stores or general retail outlets. Instead, these units were sold exclusively online through Tesla’s official website. This exclusivity makes it possible to track the distribution more narrowly, but it also means that if you bought a similar-looking quad bike from a third-party retailer, a garage sale, or a different brand entirely, this specific recall does not apply to you. You must verify that your purchase came directly from Tesla’s online platform.
The scope of this recall is comprehensive regarding the model itself. The CPSC notes that this action involves all units of Model Number 914. There is no distinction between early production runs and later ones, nor are there specific serial number exclusions mentioned in the current facts. Every single Cyberquad for Kids bearing this model designation falls under the safety review. The recall was officially announced on October 27, 2022, meaning any unit sold prior to or after this date remains subject to the same safety concerns if it matches the physical description above.
Understanding what was recalled is the first step in protecting your family. By confirming that you have a Radio Flyer Tesla Cyberquad, Model 914, purchased via Tesla’s online store, you can move forward with confidence to the next steps of verification and remedy. Do not rely on memory alone; physically inspecting the embossed text under the seat and checking your purchase history is essential.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a "recall" for a toy that looks like a miniature motorcycle, it can be easy to assume the danger lies only in broken parts or sharp edges. However, with the Radio Flyer Cyberquad for Kids (Model 914), the core issue is more fundamental: the vehicle was built without adhering to the strict federal safety standards designed specifically for youth all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). This isn't just a matter of poor craftsmanship; it is a failure to meet mandatory engineering requirements that exist to prevent catastrophic mechanical failures during use.
The specific physical deficiencies identified in this recall are twofold, and both significantly compromise the vehicle's stability and control. First, the Cyberquad lacks a compliant mechanical suspension system. In a properly certified youth ATV, the suspension is not merely for comfort; it is a critical safety component that keeps the tires in contact with uneven ground. Without adequate mechanical suspension, the frame cannot absorb shocks from bumps or changes in terrain effectively. This leads to a phenomenon known as "wheel hop" or loss of traction, where the wheels bounce off the surface rather than gripping it. When the wheels lose grip at speed, the rider loses steering control instantly.
Second, the vehicle fails to meet the maximum tire pressure requirements mandated by federal law. Tire pressure is directly linked to the structural integrity of the wheel and its ability to handle lateral forces during turns. If the tires are not rated or maintained for the specific pressures required by safety standards, they can deform excessively under load. This deformation alters the geometry of the steering linkage and reduces the contact patch with the ground, making the vehicle prone to sudden, unpredictable shifts in direction. Together, inadequate suspension and non-compliant tire pressure create a vehicle that is mechanically unstable, particularly when navigating anything other than perfectly flat, smooth surfaces.
The consequences of these mechanical failures are severe because they bypass the rider's ability to react. We know from incident reports that this instability can lead to tipping. In one documented case, the Cyberquad tipped over while being driven by a child and an adult simultaneously. While the vehicle was designed for single riders, the lack of stability meant that the combined weight and movement caused a rollover, resulting in injury to the adult passenger. This illustrates the primary mechanism of harm: the vehicle’s inability to maintain balance under stress leads to falls and tip-overs. For a child rider, a fall from even a modest height on an unstable platform can result in fractures, head injuries, or spinal trauma, as the brakes and frame cannot compensate for the loss of control.
Furthermore, it is important to understand that these mechanical flaws are compounded by a regulatory gap. The Cyberquad lacks a CPSC-approved ATV action plan, which is legally required for any manufacturer, importer, or seller of ATVs. This means the vehicle was not subjected to the same rigorous safety testing and quality assurance protocols that other youth ATVs undergo. Essentially, you have a motorized vehicle capable of reaching 10 mph with the handling characteristics of an unstable go-kart, rather than the controlled dynamics of a certified ATV. This mismatch between power and control is what turns a fun ride into a serious safety hazard.
Who is most at risk
The primary group of individuals exposed to the hazards associated with this recall consists of children who own or operate the Tesla Cyberquad for Kids by Radio Flyer. Specifically, any household possessing Model Number 914 is directly in the line of fire because the entire production run fails to meet federal safety standards. While these vehicles are marketed as fun, electric-powered toys for kids, the reality is that they are classified as youth All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). This classification is critical because ATVs demand a level of physical maturity and coordination that many young children have not yet developed. The vehicle’s ability to reach speeds of up to 10 mph and its lithium-ion power source create a dynamic environment where split-second errors can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, any child who has been given access to this quad, regardless of their age or riding experience, is at risk.
The inherent design flaws in the Cyberquad disproportionately endanger younger riders who lack the strength and balance required to manage such machinery safely. The recall highlights that the vehicle lacks proper mechanical suspension, a component essential for absorbing shocks from uneven terrain. Without adequate suspension, the quad transmits more vibration and instability directly to the rider. For a child whose skeletal structure is still developing and whose reflexes are not fully honed, this instability can be overwhelming. If the tires blow out due to improper maximum tire pressure compliance, or if the vehicle tips over during a turn, the rider has little physical ability to correct the situation. The lack of a CPSC-approved ATV action plan further suggests that the manufacturer did not adequately assess how different age groups would interact with the machine, leaving younger users particularly vulnerable to loss of control.
We must also consider the risks to older individuals who might ride alongside or with these children. In one documented incident, an adult female aged 36 was injured when a single-rider Cyberquad tipped over while being driven by an eight-year-old child. This event illustrates that the danger extends beyond just the intended young user; passengers or accompanying adults are also at risk of injury from tipping or unexpected vehicle movements. The heavy steel frame and cushioned seat, while seemingly comfortable, add weight to the vehicle, potentially making it harder to stabilize if a rider shifts their weight incorrectly. Consequently, anyone who allows this specific model to be used in their home, whether as a rider or a supervisor, faces a heightened risk of physical harm due to the fundamental safety violations present in the product.
- Young Children: Those under the age of eight are at the highest risk due to limited motor skills and judgment when operating high-speed vehicles.
- Adult Supervisors: Parents or guardians who ride with or near the vehicle are at risk of secondary injuries, such as bruises or fractures from tipping incidents.
- All Owners of Model 914: Regardless of usage frequency, every owner holds a product that violates mandatory federal safety standards for ATVs, creating a continuous latent danger.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you purchased a toy quad bike for children that features Tesla branding, there is a strong chance you have one of the units included in this recall. To be certain, you need to look closely at the product’s physical details and its sales history, as this recall covers every single unit of a specific model made in partnership between Radio Flyer and Tesla. The primary identifier for this recalled item is the brand name "Tesla" combined with the manufacturer name "Radio Flyer." You will find both logos printed directly on the battery pack of the vehicle. If you see the distinctive Tesla "T" logo alongside the Radio Flyer name on the battery, this is a key indicator that your Cyberquad is part of this specific safety notice.
The most definitive way to confirm if your item is affected is by checking the model number. This recall applies exclusively to the Tesla Cyberquad for Kids by Radio Flyer with Model Number 914. You can locate this identification by lifting or examining the underside of the cushioned seat. The manufacturer has embossed the product information directly into the plastic of the seat’s underside. Look for the text "Radio Flyer Model 914" stamped there. If you cannot find this specific model number, or if your vehicle does not bear the Tesla branding, it is likely not part of this recall, though you should always double-check official sources if you are unsure.
In addition to physical markings, consider where and when you bought the vehicle. This particular Cyberquad was sold exclusively online by Tesla. It was not distributed through general retail stores or other third-party vendors. The product features a full steel frame, an adjustable suspension system with rear disk braking, LED light bars, and a cushioned seat. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery that provides up to 15 miles of range and has a top speed of 10 mph. If you purchased this specific combination of features directly from Tesla’s online store, especially around the time leading up to the recall announcement on October 27, 2022, you should immediately inspect your vehicle for the model number 914 and the embossed seat marking. Taking these steps now ensures you can quickly move to the remedy phase without delay.
What to do — step by step
If you own the Radio Flyer Cyberquad for Kids sold by Tesla, your immediate priority is ensuring that the vehicle is no longer in use. The primary instruction from both the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Radio Flyer is clear: you must stop using the recalled Cyberquad immediately. This is not a suggestion to wait until you have time to review the paperwork; it is a critical safety measure. The product fails to meet federal mandatory safety standards for youth all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), specifically regarding mechanical suspension and maximum tire pressure. Furthermore, it lacks the required CPSC-approved ATV action plan. By ceasing use right away, you eliminate the risk of tip-overs or other injuries associated with these non-compliant mechanical features. Once you have secured the vehicle in a safe location away from children, your next step is to initiate the refund process by disabling the power source. This is a unique part of this recall remedy: Radio Flyer will provide a full refund, but to receive it, you must remove the product’s motor controller. This specific component is what powers the lithium-ion battery system that gives the quad its top speed of 10 mph. Removing the motor controller will permanently disable the Cyberquad, ensuring it cannot be accidentally turned on again while you are waiting for shipping instructions or disposal arrangements. This step is crucial because it transforms a potentially dangerous, moving vehicle into an inert object that poses no immediate threat of motion-related injury. After you have removed the motor controller, carefully place it in the prepaid envelope provided by Radio Flyer and send it back to them. Radio Flyer is actively contacting all consumers directly to facilitate this process, so keep an eye on your mail or email for their specific instructions. If you need to locate the controller yourself, detailed directions can be found on the Radio Flyer recall website at www.radioflyer.com/recalls. This step finalizes your part of the transaction and triggers the refund issuance. Finally, deal with the remainder of the Cyberquad. The physical frame, seat, wheels, and battery casing no longer serve a purpose once the motor controller is removed. You do not need to return these parts to Radio Flyer. Instead, you can dispose of them responsibly. If you incur costs associated with disposing of the heavy steel frame and other materials, Radio Flyer will reimburse you for up to $50. Information on how to properly dispose of the remainder of the unit is available in the FAQs section of their recall website. By following these steps—stopping use, removing the controller, returning it via prepaid mail, and disposing of the rest—you ensure your family’s safety while securing your full financial remedy.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
Radio Flyer has designed a specific remedy for this recall that prioritizes your safety and financial convenience. The primary solution offered is a full refund for the Cyberquad for Kids. However, because the product contains electronic components and heavy materials, Radio Flyer has structured the return process in a way that ensures the item cannot be used again while also helping you with the hassle of disposal. Understanding exactly how this process works will help you feel confident and supported as you resolve this issue.
The most critical first step is to immediately stop using the recalled Cyberquad. You should not allow any child or adult to ride it under any circumstances. To proceed with your refund, you must permanently disable the vehicle by removing its motor controller. This is not a minor adjustment; it is a permanent modification that ensures the quad can never be powered on again. Radio Flyer requires this step before they will issue your refund. The company has stated that they are contacting all consumers directly to inform them of this remedy, but you do not need to wait for their outreach if you have already identified your product as part of this recall.
To initiate the process, you will need to locate and remove the motor controller from the Cyberquad. Detailed directions on how to safely find and detach this component are available on the Radio Flyer recall website. Once removed, you must place the controller into the prepaid envelope provided by Radio Flyer. The company is covering all shipping costs for this return, so there is no charge to send the part back to them. This prepaid service removes any financial burden from you regarding the return logistics.
You might be concerned about what to do with the rest of the quad after sending back the controller. Radio Flyer has anticipated this concern and offers additional support. If you incur costs associated with disposing of the remainder of the Cyberquad, you may receive up to $50 to cover those expenses. Instructions on how to properly dispose of the non-electronic parts are available in the FAQs section of their recall website at www.radioflyer.com/recalls. This generous approach ensures that you are not left with a large, unusable item sitting in your garage or driveway.
If you have questions about the removal process, need a replacement prepaid envelope, or require clarification on the disposal reimbursement, you can reach out to Radio Flyer’s customer support team. They are available by phone at 800-621-7613 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday. You may also email customerservice@radioflyer.com or visit www.radioflyer.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page for further assistance. The company is committed to making this process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a safety recall involves a vehicle, even one designed for children, the stakes are significantly higher than with a defective toaster or a broken toy. Ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is an active decision to continue using a machine that has been deemed non-compliant with federal safety standards. The Radio Flyer Cyberquad for Kids was recalled because it fails to meet the mandatory requirements for youth All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). This is a critical distinction. Unlike standard ride-on toys that operate on flat surfaces, ATVs are engineered to handle uneven terrain, which introduces complex physical forces that unregulated designs cannot safely manage.
The primary danger lies in the mechanical deficiencies of the recalled unit. Specifically, the Cyberquad lacks the proper mechanical suspension and does not adhere to maximum tire pressure standards required for this class of vehicle. In practical terms, this means the frame and wheels are not designed to absorb shocks or maintain traction when hitting bumps, dips, or loose ground. Without adequate suspension, the impact forces are transferred directly to the rider’s body and the structural integrity of the bike. This significantly increases the likelihood of a loss of control. When an ATV loses traction or stability at speed, the most common and dangerous outcome is a tip-over. These vehicles have a high center of gravity, and without the proper engineering safeguards, they can roll over with surprising ease during normal play.
We are not speaking in hypotheticals here. The recall notice confirms that Radio Flyer has already received reports of incidents involving this exact model. In one documented case, the Cyberquad tipped over while being driven by a combination of an eight-year-old child and a 36-year-old adult. The result was a bruised shoulder for the adult driver. While a bruise may seem like a minor injury in the grand scheme of things, it serves as a stark warning signal. It demonstrates that the vehicle’s instability is not just a theoretical risk but a present reality. If the dynamics change slightly—if the terrain is wetter, if the speed increases, or if the weight distribution shifts—the consequences of a tip-over could escalate from bruises to fractures, head injuries, or worse. The fact that an adult, who presumably has more experience and strength than a child, was injured highlights how unpredictable the handling can be.
Furthermore, because this model lacks a CPSC-approved ATV action plan, it misses out on the broader safety ecosystem designed to protect riders. This includes proper braking systems, stability controls, and speed limiters that are standard for compliant ATVs. Continuing to use the Cyberquad means operating without these essential safeguards. You might be tempted to think that because it is a "kids' toy," it will only hurt a child. However, as the incident report shows, adults can be at risk too. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with the physical safety of your family for the sake of convenience or cost. The risk of a serious accident far outweighs the effort required to remove the motor controller and process the refund. Do not wait for a more severe incident to occur before taking action; the current data is enough to warrant immediate removal from service.
Staying safe: broader tips
When you have just dealt with a product recall, it is natural to feel concerned about the safety of other items in your home or garage. While this specific situation involves an electric youth vehicle, the principles of proactive safety apply to many categories of consumer goods. One of the most effective ways to stay protected is to establish a routine for checking official safety databases. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a robust online recall database that is updated daily. Rather than waiting for news alerts, consider setting aside a few minutes each month to search your major purchases—especially those involving motors, batteries, or mechanical moving parts—against current recalls. Many manufacturers now offer email notification services, so signing up for alerts from the brands you trust can ensure you are among the first to know if a defect is discovered.
For any electric vehicle or battery-powered device, proper charging habits are critical for long-term safety. Lithium-ion batteries, like those found in this recalled Cyberquad and many other modern toys and tools, require careful handling. Always use the charger provided by the manufacturer, as using incompatible chargers can lead to overheating or electrical faults. Charge your devices in a dry, well-ventilated area away from flammable materials such as curtains, paper, or bedding. Never leave a battery charging unattended for extended periods or overnight if you are unsure of its condition. If you notice the battery casing swelling, becoming excessively hot to the touch, or emitting an unusual odor, stop using it immediately and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe disposal.
Furthermore, always adhere strictly to age and weight recommendations provided by manufacturers. These guidelines are not arbitrary; they are based on rigorous testing to ensure that the vehicle’s speed, stability, and braking systems are appropriate for the rider’s physical capabilities. A vehicle that is stable for a heavier, older child may be dangerously unstable for a younger one due to differences in center of gravity and reaction time. Additionally, always require protective gear, including helmets certified for the specific activity, along with knee and elbow pads, regardless of the rider’s skill level. Finally, create a designated play area that is free from traffic, slopes, or obstacles that could cause a loss of control. By combining regular safety checks, responsible battery management, and strict adherence to usage guidelines, you can help ensure that recreational products remain sources of fun rather than risk.