Burley Recalls Ballz® QR Skewers Due to Fall Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In September 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued an important alert regarding a specific safety defect found in bicycle accessories manufactured by Burley. This recall focuses on the Ballz® QR Skewers, a critical hardware component designed to attach Burley’s Coho XC Cargo Trailers securely to bicycles. While these skewers are small metal pieces, they serve as the vital link between your bike and any cargo you might be hauling, making their integrity essential for safe riding.

The recall specifically targets Ballz QR Skewers that were sold in two ways: either as individual replacement parts or as a built-in component when purchasing new trailers. If you bought these skewers separately, they would have been identified by one of the following model numbers: 960219, 960220, or 960222. Alternatively, if you purchased a Coho XC Cargo Trailer (identified by SKU 935101) that came with these skewers pre-installed, your affected item would have been the Ballz QR Skewer associated with that specific trailer model.

To help you identify whether your equipment is part of this recall, look closely at the physical characteristics of the skewer. The recalled items are silver in color and measure 5 millimeters in diameter. They feature distinctive spherical knobs on both ends for grip and aesthetics, along with a lever mechanism on one end that allows for quick attachment and removal from the bicycle’s axle. These design elements, while functional, were found to have a structural weakness under certain conditions.

Burley has acknowledged that they received 21 reports of these skewers failing during use. Although no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for accident is significant enough to warrant an immediate recall. The company advises all owners of these specific model numbers and SKUs to stop using the product right away. If you are unsure whether your gear is affected, it is best to check the model or SKU numbers against the list provided above or contact Burley directly for confirmation.

This recall was officially announced on September 9, 2021, but the issue may have been present in products sold prior to that date. Consumers who purchased these items at various times should still be concerned if their product matches the described specifications. The focus here is not just on when you bought it, but on exactly what you own. By identifying the correct model numbers and physical traits, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and the safety of others who might use the same equipment.

If you have any of these recalled Ballz QR Skewers, do not attempt to fix them yourself or continue using them under the assumption that they are still safe. The defect is inherent to the design or material of this specific batch, meaning it cannot be easily remedied by tightening or adjusting. Instead, follow the remedy instructions provided by Burley to get a free replacement. Your safety is paramount, and taking immediate action to remove these defective parts from your possession is the most responsible step you can take.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall matters, we need to look at the specific mechanical failure involved. The recalled item is the Ballz QR Skewer, a critical component that physically connects your Burley Coho XC Cargo Trailer to the frame of your bicycle. It is not merely a fastener; it is the primary structural link that keeps the trailer aligned with your bike while you ride. According to the recall details from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Burley, these skewers have been found to shear or bend under normal use conditions. This is particularly concerning because the failure happens in a part of the assembly that must remain rigid and stable to function safely.

The mechanism of injury here is rooted in sudden instability. When a skewer bends or shears (breaks cleanly across its cross-section), it loses its ability to hold the trailer axle securely in place. Imagine riding along, perhaps on a paved path or even a slightly uneven road surface, when the connection point between your bike and the attached cargo suddenly gives way. Because the skewer is only 5mm in diameter, once it fails, there is little to no resistance to keep the trailer from shifting violently or detaching entirely. This causes an immediate loss of control for both the bicycle and the trailer. The rider may find themselves jerked off balance, with the heavy cargo trailer potentially swinging into them or collapsing on top of them.

This type of failure poses a significant fall hazard for the bicycle rider. In cycling, especially when towing a load like the Coho XC Cargo Trailer, stability is everything. A sudden shift in the hitch point can cause the bike to wobble uncontrollably (a phenomenon known as "speed wobble" or "death wobble") or simply tip over sideways. While no injuries have been reported to date with this specific model, the physics of a falling bicycle with an attached trailer are unforgiving. The weight of the cargo can amplify the force of the fall, increasing the risk of bruises, fractures, or more serious trauma from hitting the ground or other objects. The skewer’s spherical knobs and lever design are meant to secure it tightly, but if the metal itself yields to stress, that security vanishes in an instant.

It is important to note that this failure can happen without warning. You might not hear a crack or feel a shift until it is too late. The skewer connects two moving parts under constant vibration and torque. Over time, or even due to material defects, the metal fatigue can reach a breaking point. Burley has received 21 reports of the skewer failing, which suggests that this is not an isolated incident but a pattern linked to the product design or manufacturing. By understanding that the hazard is a structural collapse leading to a loss of control, you can see why stopping use immediately is the only safe course of action.

Who is most at risk

The primary group facing potential danger in this recall consists of individuals who own or operate the Burley Coho XC Cargo Trailer, specifically those utilizing the Ballz QR Skewers with model numbers 960219, 960220, or 960222. This hazard is not limited to a specific demographic in terms of age or gender; rather, it targets anyone who has integrated these particular skewers into their cycling routine. Because the skewer serves as the critical mechanical link between your bicycle and the trailer, any rider towing this cargo unit is potentially exposed to the risk of sudden instability. The vulnerability stems from the nature of the failure: the skewer can shear or bend unexpectedly. For a cyclist, losing the secure connection to a heavy trailer while in motion creates an immediate and unpredictable loss of control.

While Burley has not reported any injuries yet, the physical dynamics of a bicycle-trailer fall make certain riders more susceptible to serious harm. Cyclists towing cargo trailers are often carrying significant weight, which alters the center of gravity and handling characteristics of the bike. When the skewer fails, the trailer can detach or swing wildly, causing the rider to lose balance. In this scenario, younger adults and teenagers who may be riding at higher speeds or navigating urban environments with traffic are at heightened risk of high-impact collisions. The sudden jerk on the handlebars can throw an experienced rider off guard, leading to a fall that could result in fractures, head injuries, or road rash.

Furthermore, families using these trailers for transporting children face compounded risks. Although the recall focuses on the mechanical failure of the skewer, the consequence of that failure is a crash that endangers not just the rider, but any passengers. If a child is present in the trailer when the connection fails, they are at risk of being jostled violently or ejected from the trailer depending on how the detachment occurs. Parents and guardians who rely on these trailers for daily commutes, grocery runs, or recreational outings must recognize that the stability of their family’s safety depends entirely on the integrity of this small metal component. The elderly or less physically agile cyclists may also be at greater risk because a fall from a bicycle can have more severe long-term health consequences for them compared to younger, more resilient riders. It is crucial to understand that "no injuries reported" does not mean the risk is low; it simply means a tragedy has not yet occurred. The potential for harm is real for anyone who continues to use these specific Ballz QR Skewers.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, it is crucial to confirm that your specific piece of equipment falls within this recall. The Burley Ballz QR Skewers affected by this safety alert are not just generic bicycle parts; they are distinct components with very specific identifiers. If you own a Coho XC Cargo Trailer or purchased these skewers separately, there is a chance your item is included. Because the risk involves the structural integrity of the connection between your bicycle and your trailer, misidentifying the part could lead to unnecessary panic or, conversely, leave you with a dangerous component in use. The most reliable way to verify your status is by checking the model numbers printed on the product packaging or the item itself.

The recall specifically targets Ballz QR Skewers with the following model numbers: 960219, 960220, and 960222. These were sold as individual components. Additionally, if you own a Coho XC Cargo Trailer that was purchased with this specific hardware pre-installed or included in the box, your trailer’s Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) is 935101, and it contains the Ballz QR Skewer with SKU 960219. You should look for these numbers on the original retail box, the instruction manual, or potentially engraved or stamped directly onto the metal skewer. If you no longer have the packaging, inspecting the physical item is your next best step.

If you cannot find the model numbers, you can also identify the recalled skewer by its physical characteristics. The affected items are silver in color and measure 5mm in diameter. A key distinguishing feature is the design: the skewer has spherical knobs at both ends and includes a lever on one end for quick release. This specific geometry is what allows it to attach to your bike’s dropouts, but it is also the mechanism that failed in the reported incidents. If your skewer looks different—for example, if it lacks the spherical knobs or is a different diameter—it may not be part of this specific recall, though you should always double-check with Burley to be certain.

You might be wondering where these items were sold and when. While the recall notice does not specify every retailer or exact sales window, it confirms that these skewers were distributed both as standalone parts and as integral components of the Coho XC Cargo Trailers. If you bought a Coho XC Cargo Trailer (SKU 935101) at any time prior to the recall announcement on September 9, 2021, your trailer likely contains one of these affected skewers. For those who purchased the skewers individually, they were sold as replacement or upgrade parts for compatible Burley trailers and bicycles. If you are unsure about the origin of your part, the safest approach is to assume it might be included if it matches the physical description and then verify with the manufacturer.

When in doubt, do not guess. The consequences of a shear or bend in this component can be severe. If you see any of the model numbers (960219, 960220, 960222) or if your trailer matches SKU 935101, stop using the product immediately. You can find more detailed visual aids and confirmation steps on Burley’s official recall page at https://www.burley.com/ballz-qr-skewer-recall/ or by clicking the "Safety Recall Information" link at the bottom of their main website. This ensures you are looking at the most current and accurate identification guide available.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you are one of the owners of a Burley Coho XC Cargo Trailer equipped with the recalled Ballz QR Skewers, or if you purchased these skewers individually, you do not need to worry about footing the bill for your safety. Burley has established a clear and straightforward remedy designed to put your mind at ease immediately. The company is offering a free replacement skewer to all affected consumers. This is not a partial credit or a discount code; it is a complete, no-cost resolution to the defect. The primary goal here is to ensure that your trailer is safe to use again without any financial burden falling on you. To initiate this process, you must reach out directly to Burley’s support team. They have set up specific channels for this recall, including a dedicated phone line and email address, to handle these requests efficiently.

Getting the replacement part is simple, but it requires you to take the first step by contacting them. You can call Burley at 800-311-5294. Their customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to communicate in writing or want to keep a record of your request, you can send an email to Burley@burley.com. When you contact them, they will provide you with specific instructions on how to dispose of the dangerous, recalled skewer currently attached to your trailer. This disposal step is crucial because leaving the faulty part in place, even if you are waiting for the new one, still poses a fall hazard. Once you have safely removed and disposed of the old skewer according to their guidance, Burley will send you a new, safe replacement skewer at no charge.

In addition to phone and email support, Burley has created a dedicated online resource to streamline this process further. You can visit https://www.burley.com/ballz-qr-skewer-recall/ for direct information regarding this specific alert. Alternatively, you can navigate to their main website at http://www.burley.com and look for the "Safety Recall Information" link located at the bottom of the page. These online resources are updated with the most current instructions and may offer additional guidance on how to verify your product’s eligibility based on the model numbers 960219, 960220, or 960222, or if your skewer was included with a Coho XC Cargo Trailer (SKU 935101). The company is committed to making this repair as seamless as possible so you can get back to enjoying your cargo hauling adventures with confidence. Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself with generic parts; only the replacement provided by Burley will ensure the structural integrity required for safe towing.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your gear. The Ballz QR Skewer is a small, seemingly unassuming component, and the idea of discarding it or going through the hassle of a replacement can feel like an unnecessary inconvenience. However, ignoring this recall is not just about losing a part; it is about introducing a critical point of failure into one of the most dangerous phases of cycling: turning and balancing at speed. The skewer is not merely holding the trailer in place; it is the primary structural link that transfers the lateral forces from the bike to the trailer. When you are riding, especially when cornering or hitting a bump, immense force is exerted on this connection point. If the skewer bends or shears because of the defect described by Burley, that rigid connection instantly becomes compromised.

The real-world consequence of continuing to use a compromised skewer is a sudden and unpredictable loss of stability. Because the Coho XC Cargo Trailer adds weight and length to your bicycle’s rear end, any instability is amplified. If the skewer fails while you are in motion, the trailer may detach or swing wildly. This does not just mean the trailer falls off; it means the balance of your entire bicycle is violently disrupted. For the rider, this often results in an immediate fall. The CPSC and Burley have documented 21 reports of these skewers failing. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported among those 21 incidents, each one represents a near-miss where the physics of the bike and trailer system went wrong. A fall from a bicycle while towing a heavy cargo trailer can easily lead to serious injury, particularly if you are caught off guard or riding in traffic.

Furthermore, ignoring the remedy means you are relying on a component that has already proven unreliable for others. The skewer is silver, 5mm in diameter, and designed with spherical knobs and a lever, but these physical characteristics do not change the material fatigue or design flaw that leads to bending. By continuing to ride, you are essentially gambling your safety on the chance that this specific unit will hold up, despite evidence that it may not. The remedy is free and straightforward: Burley provides instructions for disposal and sends a replacement at no cost. Choosing to bypass this step leaves you with a known hazard instead of a verified safe one. In cycling, where balance is everything, trusting a critical connection point to integrity rather than hope is the only sensible choice. Do not wait for a failure to become an accident; take the few minutes to contact Burley and secure your ride.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a critical failure point in the connection between your trailer and your bicycle, the underlying principle applies to almost every piece of gear you use for outdoor recreation. Safety is rarely about one single component; it is about the integrity of the entire system. When you are out on the road or trail, you are relying on a chain of connections—brakes, tires, handlebars, and accessories—to hold together under stress. The Ballz QR skewer incident serves as a powerful reminder that quick-release mechanisms, while convenient, must be inspected regularly because they are subject to metal fatigue and wear over time. Just as you would not ride a bike with bald tires or frayed brake cables, you should never assume that a connection point remains secure without visual and physical verification before every major trip.

Proactive maintenance is your best defense against unexpected failures. Establish a routine check for all quick-release skewers on your bicycle and attached trailers. Ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications; a common mistake is leaving them too loose in an effort to make them easier to remove, which can lead to the kind of instability that causes falls. Additionally, pay attention to the materials themselves. Metal components exposed to weather, mud, and road salt can corrode or weaken. If you notice any bending, discoloration, or unusual resistance when operating a lever, treat it as a warning sign rather than a minor inconvenience. Regular cleaning and lubrication of moving parts, followed by a thorough inspection for cracks or stress marks, can extend the life of your equipment and keep you safe.

Beyond mechanical checks, staying informed is equally important. Manufacturers often release safety updates or recalls after identifying potential issues in production batches. To stay protected, consider signing up for email alerts from CPSC.gov and directly from the brands you purchase from. This ensures that if a new hazard emerges—whether it involves your bike trailer, a stroller, or a piece of home furniture—you will know immediately rather than discovering it after an accident has occurred. For any product involving weight-bearing or high-stress connections, always read the user manual carefully and adhere strictly to the recommended weight limits and usage guidelines. Overloading a trailer, for instance, places excessive strain on every connection point, accelerating wear and increasing the risk of failure. By treating your gear with respect and maintaining a habit of regular inspection, you transform potential hazards into manageable routine tasks, allowing you to focus on the joy of the ride rather than the fear of breakdown.

• Inspect all quick-release levers for tightness and proper engagement before every ride.
• Check metal components for signs of corrosion, bending, or fatigue cracks.
• Register your products with manufacturers to receive direct safety notifications.
• Adhere strictly to weight limits specified in the user manual to prevent overstressing connections.