Parents and guardians need to check their garages immediately. Trek Bicycle Corporation has issued a critical “stop ride” order for thousands of popular children’s bicycles due to a serious brake defect.
This safety alert affects nearly 75,000 bikes sold across North America over the last two years. The defect involves the coaster brake system which can fail and prevent a child from stopping the bike. Continuing to ride these models poses a significant crash risk.
Identifying The Affected Trek Models
This recall is quite specific and targets the brand’s most popular kids and beginner models. The company sold these bicycles between August 2023 and September 2025.
It is vital to know exactly which bikes are on the list. Trek has identified five specific bicycle models and three standalone replacement wheels that contain the faulty part.
The following bicycle models are included in this mandatory recall:
| Model Name | Model Years |
|---|---|
| Trek Precaliber 16 | 2024, 2026 |
| Trek Precaliber 20 | 2024, 2026 |
| Trek Precaliber 12 | 2026 |
| Electra Sprocket 1 16″ | 2026 |
| Electra Townie Rental 1 Step Thru | 2026 |
This issue also extends beyond just the bikes sold in showrooms. If you repaired a bike recently, you might still be at risk.
Trek noted that replacement rear wheels sold and installed by dealers are also part of the recall. This applies if you bought a fresh set of wheels for the Trek Precaliber 12 CB, 16 CB, or 20 CB (2026 models).
The scope of this recall is massive. About 68,000 of these units are in the United States. Another 6,820 units went to families in Canada. Every single one needs to be inspected.
Trek Precaliber bicycle coaster brake recall safety warning
Why The Coaster Brakes Are Failing
The technical reason behind this recall is both simple and dangerous. Trek engineers discovered a flaw in the coaster brake assembly. This is the braking system where a rider pedals backward to stop the bike.
The problem lies with the lubrication. The grease used inside the brake assembly does not spread correctly. It fails to coat the internal surfaces as needed during a ride.
Without proper grease, the metal parts inside the brake create too much friction.
This friction causes the metal to wear down much faster than it should. Over time, this accelerated wear damages the internal mechanism.
When the damage gets bad enough, the brake stops working entirely. The most alarming symptom is that the pedals might spin backward freely without engaging the brake.
Imagine a child riding down a hill. They try to pedal back to stop, but the pedals just spin loose. The bike keeps moving. This loss of control creates a high risk of a crash or injury.
Trek has been clear about the danger. They have explicitly asked all customers to stop riding these bicycles until a mechanic fixes them. It is not worth the risk to test it “just one more time.”
How To Check Your Serial Number
You do not need to guess if your bike is safe. Trek has set up a clear process to verify if your specific unit is part of the affected batch.
You need to find the serial number on the bicycle frame.
Follow these simple steps to locate it:
- Flip the bicycle upside down carefully.
- Look at the bottom of the frame where the pedal arms connect.
- Find the sticker or stamped code on the bottom bracket.
- The serial number will start with the letters “WTU”.
Once you have this number, you should visit the Trek website. They have a special microsite dedicated to this recall. You can enter your serial number into their search box.
The system will tell you instantly if your bike is safe or if it needs repair.
This digital tool is the most accurate way to know. Even if your bike model matches the list, the serial number confirms the production date. It ensures you do not waste a trip to the bike shop if your bike was made outside the affected dates.
Getting Repairs And Compensation
If the lookup tool shows your bike is affected, you need to act now. Do not try to fix this yourself.
The repair requires professional service. You should contact your nearest authorized Trek or Electra dealer. They will schedule a free repair service for you.
The fix is comprehensive. The dealer will not just add more grease. They will replace the affected rear wheels entirely. They will install a new wheel set that does not have the manufacturing defect.
Trek is offering this replacement completely free of charge.
The company is also trying to make things right with their customers. They understand the hassle this causes for families. As a goodwill gesture, Trek is offering a $20 in-store credit to everyone affected.
You can use this credit to buy merchandise. It covers Trek, Electra, or Bontrager branded items. You could grab a new water bottle, a bell, or maybe some gloves for your young rider.
These bikes are not cheap investments. The affected models retailed between $300 and $660. The replacement wheels alone cost up to $77.
Product recalls are common in many industries like tech and cars. However, brake failures on kids’ bikes are particularly sensitive. Parents trust these machines to keep their children safe.
Please take a moment today to check your bike. Ensure your child is safe before they head out for their next ride.
Key Takeaways:
- Stop Riding: Do not let children ride the bike until checked.
- Check Code: Look for “WTU” on the bottom bracket.
- Get Fixed: The repair is free at authorized dealers.
- Get Credit: Claim your $20 in-store credit.
The safety of young riders is the top priority. A simple check today prevents a serious accident tomorrow.
