The CPSC warns consumers to stop using Ridstar Q20 and Q20 Pro e-bikes immediately due to fire risk.
At least 11 fire incidents have been reported, including injuries and over $40,000 in property damage.
The manufacturer has refused to agree to a recall, according to the agency.
Products that use lithium-ion batteries tend to carry a heightened fire risk. For example, there have been several cases where smartphones have overheated aboard commercial aircrafts.
Some e-bikes and scooters have also been problematic. This week, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urged consumers to immediately stop using certain Ridstar electric bikes after multiple reports of fires linked to the products.
The CPSC said it is aware of at least 11 reported fires involving the e-bikes. Those incidents include one burn injury, five cases of smoke inhalation, and two reports of property damage totaling more than $40,000.
The warning includes Ridstar Q20 and Q20 Pro e-bikes. The agency said these models pose a serious fire hazard risk that could lead to injury or death if the bikes’ lithium-ion batteries and wiring ignite.
Remove the batteries
Consumers are being told to immediately stop using the e-bikes and remove the batteries. The agency advises disposing of the batteries through local household hazardous waste programs and warns against throwing them in the trash or standard recycling streams due to the heightened fire risk.
“Do not sell or give away these hazardous batteries,” the CPSC said.
The warning comes after the manufacturer, China-based Huizhou Xingqishi Sporting Goods Co., Ltd., declined to agree to what the agency described as an acceptable recall. As required by law, the CPSC noted that the company objects to the release of the warning.
The affected e-bikes are black, with the brand name “Ridstar” printed on the battery. Model numbers Q20 and Q20 Pro may appear on purchase receipts. The bikes were sold online through Amazon, Ridstar’s website, and Walmart.
Regulators emphasized that defective lithium-ion batteries require special handling and should only be taken to facilities equipped to manage hazardous waste. Consumers are encouraged to contact local waste collection centers for guidance on proper disposal.