Shimano recalls PRO Atherton mountain bike handlebar stems (model PRSS0049) sold 2009-2010 due to risk of bolts pulling out during use, causing falls. Affected stems have specific identification codes and 18mm bolts.
The bolts holding the front plate of the stem to the stem body can be pulled out of the threads while the bike is being ridden, causing the rider to lose control of the bike and fall.
Shimano is recalling PRO Atherton mountain bike handlebar stems from 2009 to 2010 because the bolts can pull out while riding, leading to loss of control and falls. This affects stems with specific identification codes and 18mm bolts instead of the required 21mm bolts.
The bolts holding the front plate to the stem body can become loose while riding, causing the rider to lose control and fall. This happens because the stems may have been installed with 18mm bolts instead of the required 21mm bolts, which can pull out of the threads.
Mountain bike riders who own PRO Atherton handlebar stems with model PRSS0049 from October 2009 to November 2010 are affected. Riders using stems with 18mm bolts instead of 21mm bolts are at higher risk of falling.
Check for the model number PRSS0049 on the barcode sticker on the packaging. Look for identification codes HH, HJ, HK, HL, IA, IC, ID, IE, or IF on the stem body where the handlebars are seated. Stems with 18mm bolts instead of 21mm bolts are affected.
Immediately stop using bicycles with PRO Atherton handlebar stems that have the model number PRSS0049 and identification codes HH, HJ, HK, HL, IA, IC, ID, IE, or IF.
Visit an authorized retailer to determine if your stem is subject to the recall and get free replacement 18mm bolts with 21mm bolts.
Consumers should immediately stop using bicycles with PRO Atherton handlebar stems and take them to an authorized retailer to determine if the stem on their bike is subject to the recall. Authorized retailers will replace 18mm bolts with 21mm bolts free of charge.
The affected model is PRSS0049, sold from October 2009 to November 2010.
Check for identification codes HH, HJ, HK, HL, IA, IC, ID, IE, or IF on the stem body where the handlebars are seated, and look for 18mm bolts instead of 21mm bolts.
Immediately stop using it and take it to an authorized retailer for free replacement with 21mm bolts.
We’ve drafted a message you can send Shimano to request your refund or repair — edit it as you like.
Subject: Recall 986 — Shimano Mountain Bicycle Handlebar Stem Hello, I own a Mountain Bicycle Handlebar Stem that is covered by recall 986 from Shimano. The official recall notice states: Consumers should immediately stop using bicycles with PRO Atherton handlebar stems and take them to an authorized retailer to determine if the stem on their bike is subject to the recall. Authorized retailers will replace 18mm bolts with 21mm bolts free of charge. I’m writing to arrange the remedy described in the recall (a refund, repair, or replacement as applicable). Could you please tell me the next steps to resolve this? Thank you.
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The facts (hazard, remedy, dates, manufacturer) are pulled from the official CPSC recall record. The plain-language summary and step-by-step checklist are written by GovInfoNow to make the official notice easier to act on — they don’t replace it.
