About the Shimano Crankset Settlement
Shimano North America Bicycle, Shimano North America Holding, and major bicycle manufacturers have reached a class action settlement addressing alleged safety concerns regarding Hollowtech II cranksets.
Cyclists equipped with a covered Shimano crankset manufactured before July 2019 may possibly participate in a settlement that provides automatic extended warranty coverage, enhanced recall inspections, or reimbursement for replacement costs.
Understanding the Hollowtech II Bonding Separation Issues
Hollowtech II crankset bicycle components connect to the bike's pedals and drivetrain, and when they fail, riders may face immediate danger.
What causes crankset delamination?
Delamination occurs when the bond between metal components begins to fail.
According to court documents in Shimano's Hollowtech II design, the crank arm consists of multiple layers bonded together. Plaintiffs say that these bonds weaken and separate, compromising the structural integrity of the entire crankset.
Alleged warning signs of crankset defect may include:
- Visible corrosion at the bonding interface.
- Hairline cracks or gaps between metal layers.
- Unusual creaking or clicking sounds while pedaling.
- Loose feeling in the crank arm during rides.
Documents in the Shimano crankset settlement reveal that the company received reports of 4,519 incidents of bonding separation before it implemented a voluntary recall in September 2023.
This staggering number alone “underscores the widespread nature of the defect affecting cycling components across Shimano product lines,” according to the class members.
Alleged cycling injuries from defective components
This class action lawsuit also documented puported injuries directly linked to the alleged crankset failures, including:
- Bone fractures from sudden falls
- Joint displacement requiring medical intervention
- Deep lacerations from contact with failed components
- Road rash and soft tissue damage
The injuries allegedly occurred when the crankset suddenly separated during rides, disconnecting the pedal stroke from the drivetrain and causing cyclists to lose control, balance, and crash instantly.
Riders also received no warning before these dangerous failures occurred, according to the lawsuit.
Shimano Product Liability Claims and Settlement
The plaintiffs in this class action lawsuit claimed that Shimano North America and the named bicycle manufacturers were aware (or should have been aware) of the crankset defect but continued to sell potentially dangerous products to unsuspecting cyclists.
Presumed corporate awareness
According to court documents, plaintiffs allege:
- Shimano knew about bonding separation issues years before the 2023 recall
- The voluntary recall process was deliberately inadequate to minimize costs
- Marketing materials falsely advertised the cranksets as safe and reliable
- Companies failed to warn consumers about known safety risks
Plaintiffs also argued that Shimano's initial inspection protocol made it nearly impossible for recall retailers to identify defective cranksets, since most bike shops lacked proper tools and training to detect early-stage delamination.
Settlement agreement terms
After extensive negotiations, the parties reached a settlement that provides substantial benefits to affected cyclists while allowing defendants to avoid the uncertainty of trial. The settlement includes:
- No admission of liability: Defendants maintain they did nothing wrong.
- $123 million set aside: Shimano allocated funds for global recall costs.
- Court supervision: Federal judge oversees implementation.
- Class counsel fees: Paid separately without reducing class benefits.
By avoiding years of litigation, class members can likely receive benefits sooner rather than waiting for an uncertain trial outcome.
Who May Participate in the Shimano Bicycle Component Settlement?
Determining potential eligibility for this bicycle safety settlement requires understanding both the covered products and documentation requirements.
Covered crankset models and production codes
This settlement covers specific Hollowtech II cranksets manufactured before July 2019:
Ultegra Models
- FC-6800
- FC-R8000
Dura-Ace Models
- FC-9000
- FC-R9100
- FC-R9100-P
Eligible Production Codes
- KF through KL series
- LA through LL series
- MA through ML series
- NA through NL series
- OA through OL series
- PA through PL series
- QA through QL series
- RA through RF series
The settlement website features detailed photographs that clearly indicate the exact locations for each model.
Proof of ownership requirements
While the extended warranty in the settlement applies automatically, cash reimbursement requires proof:
- Original purchase receipts showing crankset or bicycle model.
- Credit card statements with merchant details.
- Bike shop service records mentioning the crankset.
- Photos clearly showing serial numbers and production codes.
- Warranty registration documents.
Claimants who lack original receipts may submit a declaration under penalty of perjury that details when and where they purchased their bicycle or crankset, the approximate price paid, and the circumstances of any replacement.
Possible Benefits from the Cycling Safety Settlement
The settlement employs a three-pronged approach to ensure that eligible cyclists receive the maximum benefit for addressing past harm and future safety concerns.
1. Extended Warranty Coverage
Every owner of a covered crankset in this settlement is automatically eligible for extended warranty protection.
Eligibility for this benefit requires no action, and the warranty extension applies immediately upon settlement approval.
Standard warranty periods:
- Ultegra models: 2 years from purchase
- Dura-Ace models: 3 years from purchase
Added coverage under the settlement:
- Bonding separation failures
- Delamination of metal components
- Structural integrity issues related to the defect
All covered cranksets will receive protection through July 29, 2027, regardless of original purchase date.
2. Enhanced Inspection Program at Recall Retailers
Under the settlement, Shimano agreed to enhance its recall inspection protocol significantly:
New inspection tools:
- High-powered magnifying devices with LED lighting
- Precision measurement instruments
- Specialized inspection manuals developed by engineering experts
Improved training:
- Comprehensive video tutorials for mechanics
- Hands-on training sessions at major cycling centers
- Direct hotline to Shimano technical experts during business hours.
Accountability measures:
- Every recall retailer must affirm they understand the new procedures.
- Shops must use the provided magnifying device on every inspection.
- Documentation requirements that ensure inspectors follow proper protocols.
These enhancements allow Cyclists to feel confident that trained professionals have properly assessed their cranksets for safety.
3. Cash Reimbursement for Replacement Costs
For members who have already paid out of pocket to replace defective cranksets, the settlement provides financial relief.
- Replacement crankset purchase price.
- Professional installation costs.
- Related component replacements from the failure.
Important exclusions apply:
- Replacements after September 21, 2023 are not covered.
- Warranty-covered replacements are excluded.
- Only reasonable costs are reimbursed.
Documentation remains key for reimbursement claims. Save all receipts, invoices, and correspondence related to your crankset replacement.
How to Submit a Shimano Recall Settlement Claim
Online claim
Visit www.shimanocranksetsettlement.com and follow these instructions:
- Create an account using your email address
- Enter crankset information, including model and production code.
- Upload documentation in PDF or image format.
- Review and submit your completed claim.
- Save the confirmation number for your records.
Mail-in claim
Download the official PDF claim form from the settlement website. Complete all sections legibly, attach copies of supporting documents, and mail via certified mail to the following address:
Settlement Administrator
PO Box 4150
Portland, OR 97208-4150
Key Dates for the Bicycle Equipment Defect Settlement
- December 29, 2025: Deadline to exclude yourself from the settlement
- December 29, 2025: Deadline to object to settlement terms
- February 2, 2026: Final approval hearing in federal court
- August 4, 2026: Final deadline to submit reimbursement claims
- July 29, 2027: Extended warranty coverage ends
Additional Considerations for Settlement Class Members
Used bicycle purchases
Buying a used bicycle doesn't necessarily disqualify you from settlement benefits. One key factor is whether the bike came equipped with a designated crankset manufactured before July 2019. Check production codes carefully on any used bicycle purchase.
Multiple bicycle ownership
Cyclists who own multiple affected bicycles can generally claim benefits for each one. Submit separate documentation for each crankset when seeking reimbursement. The extended warranty automatically covers all eligible cranksets you own.
International purchase considerations
The settlement specifically covers cranksets purchased or owned in the United States. If you bought your bicycle abroad but now reside in the US, you may still qualify if you can demonstrate current ownership and US residency.
Get More Information
This settlement provides valuable protection benefits for US cyclists who may have experienced issues with Shimano bicycle cranksets prior to July 2027.
Check out the lawsuit website at www.shimanocranksetsettlement.com for more details about covered products or settlement participation.
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