One of the most serious concerns with eBikes is the potential for battery problems—things like overheating, short circuits, or even fires. And when a battery issue gets serious, it’s not just a minor inconvenience; it can be a real safety hazard. That's why it’s important to stay on top of eBike recalls, especially those involving batteries. In this article, we’ll walk through some of the major eBike battery recalls you should be aware of.
1. Specialized eBikes – Fire Hazards from Water Penetration
Specialized is a leading brand in the eBike world, they’ve had a serious issue with some of their battery packs. The recall, which affects around 4,500 bikes, was issued in July 2021. The problem? Water can get into the battery pack and cause a short circuit. If this happens, it could lead to a fire or a burn hazard—definitely not something you want while riding.
This recall affects the first-generation Turbo Levo FSR, Turbo Levo Hardtail, and Kivo Turbo Canio FSR models. These bikes were manufactured between 2016 and 2019. If you have one of these bikes, you should stop using it immediately and check the production code on the battery. If it matches the affected batches, get in touch with Specialized for a replacement. These bikes can cost anywhere between $3,400 and $10,000, so it’s definitely worth getting that battery sorted out.
2. Ancheer eBikes – Fire and Explosion Risk
Another brand you might want to watch out for is Ancheer eBikes, sold by Shenzhen Salivan Network Technology Limited. The recall for these bikes involves a serious fire risk due to faulty lithium batteries that could potentially ignite, explode, or spark. The recall was issued in October 2022, affecting around 22,000 bikes.
The affected model is the AM01 907, which has black 26-inch wheels. These bikes were sold between January 2016 and June 2022 for between $280 and $930. If you have one, stop using it immediately and contact Ancheer for a replacement. You’ll need to dispose of the battery and either send in a copy of your receipt or return it for a replacement—Ancheer will even send you a box to make the return process easier.
3. Gyroor eBikes – Battery Fire Risk
For those who ride Gyroor eBikes, there’s also a recall you’ll want to be aware of. This brand, sold by Shenzhen Chia Technology, is recalling around 3,300 bikes due to a serious issue with the battery pack. The problem? The battery could catch fire, posing a real safety hazard. This recall, issued in December 2022, affects the C3 model, which was sold online through retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and the company’s own website from November 2020 to September 2022.
If you own one of these bikes, it’s important to stop using it and visit the Guy Roar website for full recall details. The bikes were priced around $600, so if yours is affected, be sure to follow the instructions to get a replacement or a refund.
4. Pacific Cycles – Battery Overheating and Fire Hazards
Shifting gears to Pacific Cycles, this brand sold through Bass Pro Shops, has also experienced a recall affecting around 1,700 bikes. The issue lies with the wire harness in the battery, which wasn’t properly assembled, creating the risk of overheating or even fire while charging. The recall was issued in January 2024, and there have been reports of three incidents where the batteries caught fire, with one person suffering second-degree burns.
The affected models include Ascend, Cabriel, and Minet. These bikes were sold between January 2023 and November 2023 for around $1,400 to $1,500. If you have one of these bikes, check the serial number and head over to Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's to return your bike for a full refund.
5. Unit Pack Power Batteries – Overheating and Fire Risk
For those of you using Unit Pack Power batteries, it’s time to pay attention. A recall has been issued for 48V 20Ah and 72V 19.2Ah batteries that have been overheating and causing fires. This recall affects batteries sold between 2018 and 2024 through platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, Walmart, and eBay. These batteries are priced between $280 and $730, so if you’ve got one of these in your bike, you should stop using it immediately.
The company behind these batteries has refused to issue an acceptable recall, so you’ll need to take action yourself. Be sure to dispose of any affected batteries and contact the seller for a replacement or refund.
6. SafPowBattery Chargers – Fire and Smoke Risk
Lastly, if you’ve purchased a SafPow battery charger, there’s an important recall you should be aware of. The recall affects 36V lithium chargers designed for use with a variety of battery types. The issue with these chargers is that they’re incompatible with some batteries, which could cause them to ignite. These chargers were sold between January 2021 and the present day on Amazon and eBay for between $10 and $31.
There have been 47 incidents involving these chargers, including reports of fires and property damage totaling over $100,000. If you own one, stop using it immediately and dispose of it properly. You can get a refund through Amazon if you purchased the charger there—just be sure to verify that you’ve destroyed the product.
Final Thoughts
Electric bikes are fantastic for commuting, recreation, and reducing our carbon footprint, but battery-related recalls are a serious issue that every rider needs to be aware of. Whether it’s fire risks, overheating, or explosion hazards, these recalls are all about keeping you safe while riding. If you own one of the bikes or batteries mentioned in this article, don’t wait to take action. Follow the recall instructions and make sure your equipment is safe before you hit the road again.
FAQs
How do I safely dispose of an eBike battery?
eBike batteries should never be thrown in the trash. Look for local recycling centers or battery disposal programs that specialize in lithium-ion batteries. Some eBike manufacturers offer return programs, where they will handle the disposal for you.
What are the common causes of eBike battery fires?
Common causes include short circuits, overcharging, physical damage to the battery, or defective battery cells. Always use the charger that came with your bike and avoid leaving the bike plugged in unattended for long periods to prevent overheating.
How long does an eBike battery last?
The lifespan of an eBike battery typically ranges between 3-5 years, or around 500 to 1,000 charge cycles. Factors such as freque
