New news. Potential bolt issue that holds aerobar clamps in place. I just swapped out my old aero set up for the Specialized. Shop forwarded me the email today.

I haven't heard from my LBS but have seen a pic of the message on FB and now trying to figure out if my Shiv is affected (and with IMNZ in a fortnight...!). Did they give you any timeline for a fix? Potentially a few unhappy Shiv owners with NZ/Aus IM season kicking into gear.

Applies to Shivs from 2012-2015
Both Carbon and Aluminum Aerobars.
So far no timeline for fix

This is very recent news and I can only share the information we have at this time.

We have identified a potential problem with the aerobar extension mounting hardware on Carbon Aerobars with Aero Stem and Hydroformed Alloy Aerobars. We’ve sold these aerobars separately and as original equipment on the following bike models: 2012-2015 Shiv models (excluding the Shiv TT and Shiv framesets); 2013 Specialized Transition Apex.

Our concern is the extension clamp bolt may break, which could result in the rider losing control. We initiated a voluntary report with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”) and we will work closely with them on approval of a new extension clamp kit which solves the concern. For safety reasons, we want all riders who have these Aerobars to stop riding. All affected Shivs and Transitions, and aftermarket Aerobars have stopped shipping worldwide and retailers have been informed that they should stop selling and notify current owners.

Our team is working closely with the CPSC on approval of the new extension clamp kit and we will keep you posted on our progress. We are working hard at keeping everyone informed, and we are planning on a new announcement by March 2nd.

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

I'm on a Shiv with alloy bar and have installed the low-stack clamps. This makes the bars OK to use, correct?

Hi Mark -

This happened to me, but my bolts were fairly rusted (too much trainer time) which I assumed was the cause of the clap failure. It broke when I hit a bump while descending @ 40mph, but I kept the rubber down! Thanks for trying to get the word out.

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Thoughts on being an Urban Triathlete

So my stock 2014 Experts falls into this?

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I reject your reality and substitute my own!
Adam Savage

Title fixed now. Apologies just a newbie

Thanks for the update Mark. If it's as serious as you are suggesting you might want to organise a repair line at the Ironman New Zealand expo next week.

Hey.... I've had issues with those bolts and with the aerobar clamps. Stripped threads in the clamps lead to bolt failing to tighten, and yes I use a torque wrench (before anyone asks). It failed in my garage after reassembly as opposed to snapping while riding. I had the right clamp replaced last year but the new one is identical and probably also affected. Left clamp is original and seems okay. Thanks! I'll call the LBS and see what they can do.

So what are the options for us southern hemisphere riders racing in the coming days and weeks? Buy a non-specialized aerobar?

Man, I guess its a good thing I have a road bike. Is this anything to do with the fact that my bars won't stay level? I wonder? I just have to adjust them so often. I'm not a bike mechanic.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

Keep us posted. Hopefully a fix is released very soon.

My LBS said March 2nd for a fix to be released to dealers. Nothing can be done prior to that date.

Mark,
I saw this pretty much at the same time i was told the shop i worked at(and bought the shiv) is closing....

Are there specific bolts that need to be replaced?

Thanks in advance,
Ryan

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Ryan

The thread title says "carbon aerobar", but it includes the the aluminum version as well. I think we are talking all stock shiv bars. The way the notice is written is a little confusing if you stop reading after "carbon aerobar with....". Mark's comments make it clear, but I thought it was worth pointing out again.

I assume the "problem bolt" is the single bolt that adjusts the angle of the bars? I've always thought that the single bolt design seems like a weak link. I've hit a hard bump once and it caused the bar to slip down a bit, but the bolt didn't break. It seems like an awful lot to ask for a single small bolt to clamp the bar like that. If that's the problem bolt, then it seems that anyone who has installed the low stack kit would not be affected since it eliminates the adjustment pivot.

This really impacts hugely on us in the southern hemisphere. While half of the US is snowed in we have 3 of the country's 4 Ironman races coming within about 3 months.

My wife doesn't have another bike to fall back on. For her, this needs to be sorted NOW. If Specialized can't come up with a fix they need to allow Shiv owners to buy a replacement set of bars in the knowledge they'll be reimbursed fully.

Thank you, I purchased a SHIV Expert last spring and the left aero-bar snapped at the worst possible time. During Ironman Wi.

I have a great local bike shop that is super strong with the Specialized line. We chalked the bolt snapping up to me being a bigger rider 217 the day of IMOO. I hit a serious bump in the road, the left bar melted under me, almost went over the front of the bike, stained my shorts, then tried to ride with the left bar hanging from my hand, couldn't chuck the bar assembly because of shifter cable, ended up stopping and waiting for support, after long delay got new bolt put in and finished the race.

At least now I know I was not crazy.

I love my SHIV and my Roubaix, looking forward to eliminating my concerns with the aero bars.

Hi Mark,

if i changed the bolts to titanium, will this help to resolve the issue in the meantime? looking forward to your reply. Thanks

That would be the problem I have.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

wow, what a mess.
doesn't matter how aero a broken bike is...

My LBS hadn't heard about this when I called them this morning but later advised me that I was ok to keep riding. I don't think that is official specialized advice given the information in this thread.

well played, slidecontrol, well played.

Yes, these aerobars are affected and should not be ridden until an approved fix is available.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

The Specialized New Zealand and Australia Rider Care team are here for you. Please contact them through your Specialized retailer. I know the team will be at Ironman New Zealand to help in any way that they can.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Replacing the bolts is not an approved solution. For safety reasons, we want all riders who have these affected Aerobars to stop riding them.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Please work directly with Specialized Rider Care in your country. You can contact them through your Specialized retailer.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Replacing the bolts is not an approved solution. For safety reasons, we want all riders who have these affected Aerobars to stop riding them.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Well ... this is certainly not good news for me and my shivvie.

The shop I bought my shiv from went out of business will I get a notice via e-mail (I registered the bike on the Specialized website) when the fix is available.



Joel

So we are all clear, we are discussing these bars:

http://www.specialized.com/...robar-with-aero-stem

and

http://www.specialized.com/...formed-alloy-aerobar

and the issue is with the bolts that can be seen proximal to the elbow pads?

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"...the street finds its own uses for things"

Thank you. So does this explain the time I was riding and my right aerobar came loose and slid?

Could you address the low-stack clamp use? Is it OK to use the bars if the user is using the low stack clamps from Specialized instead?

Thanks Mark - I have just received an email from my LBS advising the following aftermarket solution:


The solution uses a replacement Profile base bar and extension mounting clamp used in conjunction with the existing Aerobar extensions and Aerobar pads.

For riders with carbon aerobars a new stem will also be required.
The bike requires some new cabling and replication of the position will be as close as possible to original.
The cost for this solution is $260 (without stem)

To say I am unhappy about being expected to shell out AU$260 plus a stem just to get to ride at IMNZ next week (and no guarantee of replication of my riding position) would be an understatement. This is a safety problem Specialized has identified and that cost should therefore be borne by Specialized.

Anxiuosly waiting. Wonder what the solution will be.

No way will they make us pay. That's ridiculous. On another note, my LBS told me to keep riding until I hear something. Sounds different than what was posted here.

If I have the stock base bar and pads/clamps...but different extensions.....do I still fall under the issue they are having??

Yes, our Rider Care team is reaching out to all registered owners. We first contacted our retailers as they have the closest contact with many riders who choose not to register their equipment on Specialized.com.

Additionally, all pertinent information is being put onto a page on Specialized.com in the Safety Notices section. This has not been placed yet but will be shortly and will be the go-to for any updates.
http://www.specialized.com/...pport/safety-notices


Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Please contact Rider Care in your country. In New Zealand, they can be reached at Customerservice.nz@specialized.com and in AU the contact is infoau@specialized.com. They will make sure you're taken care of and setup before IMNZ.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Mark

Thank you for your updates and your support of all of cyclist who use your product. To all those that are effected by this issue trust me Specialized is an extraordinary company compared to the rest of bike brands and if you reach out to them they will do whatever it takes to get you riding. I had some issues with my Shiv and they had replacement parts out to me the moment they found out what the issue was. They truly care about getting folks riding. I have a feeling they will do the same for the IMNZ racers out there. They truly are a good brand and I will never ride another bike other than specialized due to the way they have handled their warranties and support. I am a Shiv owner and I will await the replacement part which I heard is going fix our current set ups. I also heard 3/2/15 is when they are going to communicate what is next. As a fellow Ironman I feel for those IMNZ racers out there but believe me there is not a better bike brand than Specialized to back you up and get you riding.

Eugene

Here's my documentation, from Vineman 70.3 last year :-).

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Coach at TriForce Triathlon Team: https://www.triforceteam.com

Mark,

Can you confirm whether there will be a major change to aero/base bar set up, as someone mentioned above? I have sworks with carbon bars. I have a bike fit scheduled next week, and will cancel if that is the case, or at least reschedule after bar is fixed/ changed.

Thanks for the reply. This worries me as I have a race next week (March 8) Ironman Subic Bay 70.3.

Hope Specialized Philippines can help provide the solution.

Has anyone gotten any feedback through their LBS to this at this point? I reached out to mine, and they were super confussed, that's nothing new though, they always are. Wanted me to bring in bike before they could call etc.

Well this makes sense I guess. my right aerobar bolt/clamp essentially snapped off in the middle of IMCHOO. I rode 60 miles in aero holding up one of the bars with all my weight on the other arm. I've already bought a new cockpit, which is frustrating because I had to shell out some $$ to do so and it seems it wasn't my fault. Such is life I guess.

I'm seeing the bright side of this. Always wanted a set of carbon aerobars.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

So I just had a call from someone from Specialized in NZ after my email to them.

They're, as you can expect, working like mad to come up with an appropriate solution and are painfully aware of the timing with IMNZ next weekend. They don't have a 100% confirmed solution at the moment, but are getting close. It doesn't sound like it will be a bar swap as someone has suggested, but rather replacing the bolts that are the culprit.

For IMNZ athletes, as Mark Cote has said, they'll be in Taupo providing the swapout for us there.

That was really the gist of the conversation, so it doesn't sound like there'll be any positional issues to be concerned about if it is just a bolt replacement. They will release more info. about the what and how etc. when they have it confirmed what the final solution will be.

I'm keeping the faith Mickey and looking forward to seeing all my fellow Shiv riders in line at Taupo next week, lol :) One way of getting us all together and gives us something to think about other than the race!

I'll also be in IMNZ with my Shiv. Emailed Spec NZ and IMNZ to see if they can elaborate, nothing further as yet.

All,

I cannot speak for all markets but will support our New Zealand team that is working quickly to take care of IMNZ athletes. Here are some notes from a communication that will go live in NZ today from Specialized NZ.

Specialized empathizes with the situation this global action places our local IMNZ competitors in. The timing could not be worse. We are working day and night to have a solution available to Shiv riders at Ironman NZ in Taupo next week. The intention is to offer a replacement of the affected parts, and to carry out any work that may be required to return all Shivs to a safe standard, and in race ready condition. Planning is underway for this to take place on-site in Taupo, as early in the week as Tuesday through Thursday. Once details are confirmed Specialized will communicate the intended action to all IMNZ competitors directly. This communication will come on Friday 27th February.
Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Mark, I hope you can prioritize also IM 70.3 PH on March 8.

I talked to Specialized PH about it and they will be there at the expo and expecting the fix from HQ 1st of March.

I'm sure they'll be a lot of SHIVs out there.

This is a real shame and terrible for Specialized as a brand. What makes it worse is that they have had major issues with the Shiv's seat post clumps which continue....despite climbs otherwise and now this issue with the bars. Something that is very frustrating is as follows:
1) Seat post clamp failures have been ongoing for many and the "epoxy resin" fix is not a fix at all. Owners including myself have returned Shivs numerous times to LBS and ultimately distributors (in some cases at our cost) only for it to re-occur. Some people got frames swapped out whilst others have been frustrated with the return bike for "epoxy fix story.
2) The current issue with bars has been communicated very poorly. Whilst there is talk of "we are trying to come up with a fix", that is n help to those that have to train and race in the southern hemisphere and middle east at present. To then hear that the possible fix will come at a cost to the bike owner be it as replacement and also labour is absolutely disgraceful!

Mark and the team at Specialized, you need to step up here and do the right thing by people. Those that can wait should have the fix covered in terms of parts and about at no cost to them. Those with urgent fix requirements due to a confirmed race within a specified timeframe should be covered for the provision of replacements up to a certain value. That would be the decent thing to do....especially given this is Specialized STUFF UP!

I'm racing on Sunday. I have an S-Works Shiv Module (Tri version) from 2012.

Can someone clarify (using pictures and arrows please) exactly which part(s) are likely to break?

The single arm rest clamp bolt? Either of the two Extension clamp bolts? Or is there another bolt I'm forgetting?

Where should UK users go for parts? Will anyone in London likely have replacement parts in stock?

So essentially, if you bought a Shiv, model year 2012 - 2015, you are affected. Am I correct in this assumption?

So irritating... TriRig, and all other manufacturers for that matter, should throw up a sale on their bars. I know I'd consider buying them at this point. Not to mention the aluminum bars of Specialized are heavy. I love my Shiv but with all the issues that come with it... I'm not sure I'd buy another Specialized. :/

They are not saying the fix will come at a cost to the rider.

They have said that they will effect the change for riders at IMNZ during the week leading into the event.

Specialized NZ released some info on Twitter overnight confirming that.

Agree the comms have been less than ideal, but Mark's been doing a great job on here. As for them stepping up, well that's what they're doing.
[urlhttp://pbs.twimg.com/.../B-rBByYWoAAmNHK.png

Ask, and ye shall receive! Alpha sale is on :-)

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TriRig.com

Please PM me if you cannot reach Specialized Rider Care in your country. They will take care of you and make the situation right.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

All communication on the updates will be here:
http://www.specialized.com/...pport/safety-notices

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

I hope it is just a bolt change, wonder if that is even realistic? Seems like anything else would be a timing concern for getting ready to start riding in the next couple of weeks.

What bothers me about this whole exercise is that this is not a new issue and dealers do not know how to handle it because little guidance is coming from Specialized. I called my LBS about something else and brought this up. He was well aware of the recall, but said no fix until the date already mentioned here. HE SAID, that this is not a new issue and is a result of the screw shearing after corrosion and his own bike had it, so HE SAID, if the issue is pressing enough, get a similar bolt with the same thread gauge at HD or lowes made of better material and replace the bolt. At least that is what HE DID, but that is not his suggestion as a Specialized dealer.

That is a problem. You can't put out a warning that suggest injury or death may result from your product so you shouldn't use it without a solution because a good bike dealer who is responsive to his customers is going to do what he can to make his customers happy. But...

Do I trust this guy? Sure. Am I worried such repair would void warranty? Yes. Am I going to do it? No, I have a road bike to get me by. But what if I didn't?

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

Quote: "little guidance is coming from Specialized."

Mark may not be able to say it, so I will: in my experience the CPSC can be pretty strict about what a company (or their representatives) are allowed to say about stop sales, recalls, whatever you want to call it. (Even what it's called is tightly controlled legally.)

So I'd say cut Mark some slack. Specialized's communications are probably legally limited.

Cheers,

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Damon Rinard
Engineering Manager,
CSG Road Engineering Department
Cannondale & GT Bicycles
(ex-Cervelo, ex-Trek, ex-Velomax, ex-Kestrel)

Recalls are voluntary. All CPSC can do is make a recommendation or act as an information clearinghouse. They do test products before sale and ban them. But they have little capacity to enforce a recall. As for Mark. He has always been straight with us. This is a big corporation issue.

Ruger firearms have had a couple of recalls in the last few years. The recall was communicated to all vendors with specifics and how to get it fixed immediately.

I will say again, it is my understanding this has been an issue known for a while. I've been dealing with it on my bike 8 months ago. Mine was minor, so I figured it was a one off issue that if became severe enough would warrant a trip to the shop or an upgrade. But it sounds like some people had some serious issues and local bike shops have observed them. Like somebody else said, there were issues with the seat post bracket, and how about where the seat is mounted to the post? I had to use friction past to keep the seat angle in place despite two visits to a shop and my own tightening. That was an issue that almost caused me to wreck as I hit a pothole when the guy in front of the group failed to call it. But it shouldn't have caused my seat to nosedive.

This bike has had a lot of issues and solutions have not been timely.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

Hi Mark, I saw the IM NZ efforts both here and IM site. Will there be this "same high priority" for those racing in Ironman 70.3 Subic Bay happening on march 8 in the Philippines? I am concern as they are quite a lot of SHIVs racing there.

Thanks

A general point, just looking at the bolt issue. This is easy to rectify at home; buy hi-tensile bolts locally/online and use a Torque-wrench. If you use carbon mounting paste, you can usually reduce the max torque slightly too.

Why wait 4 weeks or more?

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29 years and counting

I would say the only reason not to use a home fix is that a home fix could possibly void the warranty on the bike... If that is not a concern then I would say go ahead but at least for me I am not racing until May at the earliest (and I have a road bike to train with) so I am not willing to take a chance on voiding my warranty...



Joel

Yeah, I did think of that after I posted. I don't know where the grey line is drawn, when it comes to voiding a bicycle warranty; as most keen bikers will switch certain parts at some point.

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29 years and counting

My understanding of warranties is as long as you buy from and use a dealer to do the upgrades it is usually not a problem. I think the primary issue here is that this is a safety issue and they want to avoid legal/liability issues they are going to probably push really hard to have people use their approved fix and use the warranty as a way of convincing people not to do it themselves... I agree it is probably a gray area but unless someone has a race in the next month or so I would probably recommend waiting just to be on the safe side... And even if they have a race I would recommend before doing anything that they contact specialized directly and put pressure on them to get it fixed.



Joel

Well I just received an email from my LBS telling me not to ride until Specialized figures out a plan in March........good thing it's snowing here in VA, and i'm on my Cycle Ops trainer all winter anyway. I hope this doesn't impact too many racers, but I'm probably being overly optimistic.

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"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

So still no news in regards to what the actual fix is? I know I'm rather impatient.
Especially in this instance though, as I already had frame replaced 2 times due to seat clamp.
In their defense they have addressed both times, just getting tired of it.

There is a fix and it's been put upon the Specialized NZ facebook page. I think they are pretty focused on IMNZ shiv riders at the moment...
http://ibd.specialized.com/media/whatsnew/SpecializedNZ_ShivUpdate2_27-2-2015.pdf

Awesome. Sounds like a minor change. I was concerned I would need whole aero bar set up replaced.

Sounds very similar to the low stack clamps. Maybe that's what they're rolling out to meet the timeline for IMNZ.

Yeah, the only positional change should be if you use the 'tiltability' of the clamp.. I have mine tilted up a wee bit, but reckon I'll be able to just tilt the base bar to get that position back.

Might be lighter some one IMNZ post a photo when you get it

so you can still raise using spacers, just can't tilt?
Does anyone have a picture?

I see the update for the remedy for the problem. I can't tell if I will need to cut my extensions or do they extend back like currently. Anyone have any ideas? Also be interesting to see how cable exits the back. Anyone got pics of what the fox looks like in real life?

Based on that notice it sounds like they are fixing this issue by replacing the pivot with the low stack kit. You are still able to adjust height via spacers, but the extensions will need to be permanently cut to fit. The extensions fit "into" the low stack clamp, but do not pass through the back of the bracket.

Funny, because I recently bought the low stack kit and I've been holding off installing it because I'm not sure I have my reach dialed in.

So it looks like the fix is official.
Does anyone have experience with this? Besides from needing to have bike shop cut extensions, and rerun cables, here is my real question. Does any of the low stack options, have the exact same height as the part they are replacing, so I can recreate, current position without making other adjustments?
Any other thoughts on this?

http://www.specialized.com/...IA/pdf/aerobar-5.pdf

So the fix is the low stack deal. I used to have this on a older shiv and it is a solid set up. It does drop you a little more but the pads can still move. You do have to cut the extensions I bet they will give you new ones if needed. Makes sense this would work and from the diagram you can raise with stack spacers from what I can see. Only issues would be angling bars.

Is this low stack clamp the same as the one the Hoff was using:

http://www.slowtwitch.com/Products/Tri_Bike_by_brand/Specialized/The_Specialized_Shiv_of_The_Hoff_4682.html

thats what I thought as well, but I was jumping to conclusions. what that PDF says is "To further clarify the extension mountain hardware pieces Specialized will be replacing, please refer to the graphic below." so they are just clarifying which parts fall under the future part replacement program. The actual solution is not known yet by my dealer or announced yet by Specialized to my knowledge. Looking forward to a fix though. I did a TT this weekend with mine and was thinking the whole way "what if this thing breaks now, i probably couldnt claim anything because they told me not to ride" hehe. But yea, not to ride a shiv is a crazy request, I pity those who follow that rule and dont have a second or third bike, which is probably nobody on slowtwitch xD.

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Swim with swimmers, bike with cyclists, run with runners. Train with those who are hard to keep up with. Soon you will be hard to keep up with.

That has got to be a temporary quick fix for IM NZ athletes and other southern hemisphere riders with races imminent. The real fix ought to give us equivalent functionality and this clearly does not.

I am not sure if it is full time fix but I will say that that the low stack deal is solid. It looks cool and has very similar functionality. I do get that something else is coming as well but this maybe it. I would if mark has anything?

I know two people who have sworn off Specialized for good and moved to Trek as a result of this...one of whom picks up his SC 9 series en route to Taupo after work tomorrow. The timing literally could not have been worse. Our local Trek distributor has been saying he's never sold as many SC setups in one month before.

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So I called my LBS, and was informed the low stack solution isn't officially the fix. The fix is still in the works, and will not be released untill 3/9/15.
Anybody else hear same or different feedback?

I called my LBS last week. They are a rather large Spec dealer and a well known shop. They never heard of this recall. I sent them the link on the Spec website. They said they'd ask their Spec rep. That was a week ago. Still no word.

Same...that is what is on the dealer site. Wondering if low stack is for "urgent" situations and the permanent fix is going to be something different.

However, it won't matter...because you couldn't order the low stack option right now anyway.....already out of stock. Have a bad feeling about this....weather is getting ready to warm up, spring races in the USA approaching quickly. I have now had a faulty seat post x 2, and now a non-rideable bike again.

The only good news is that Specialized has been very cool about replacing things and covering things with a warranty. Bummed its happening though.

My first tri of the season is in 39 days.

Yep, I'm on hold until they take care of racers......I am on my trainer for another two months so I can ride it off. I'm a little curious and puzzled how this would lead someone to completely jump ship on a bike company, because there have been issues with other companies as well, so Specialized is hardly the only case in recent years.....maybe I'm missing the point, but my panties are hardly in a wad.

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"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

The quick fix for IMNZ is that Specialized bought all of the Profile distributors basebars and clipons yesterday...

I talked to a dealer today and it is going to be something simple like four bolts not the low stack

Seems like an expensive fix if they ultimately are just going to either provide the low stack option or a replacement bolt kit. Seems like they could mobilize both solutions fairly quickly.

Ohh this is SAD. No news for priority support at Ironman 70.3 Subic Bay this Sunday :(

I hear the problem is CPSC image that the government taking some time to get something done. Not Specs fault CPSC takes so long to approve something.

Putting aside the potential of them having a solution that uses the existing hardware....would anyone who has welding experience know if one could just a) get their angles sorted out and then b) slap 2,3 tack tig welds on there and be done with it.?
i assume the piece is alloy and if you grind off the annodizng, id imagine you could tig weld it?no?

Tig weld your aero bar hardware?

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"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

the concern is that bolt doesnt hold.
the low stack kit is like $20.00/kit.
if one was super conerned about their existing kit, get your angles set up, use the faulty bolt to hold it inplace and yeah, thats my though, weld that bitch solid. lose any adjustability but you dont fall off the bike.
and when they have the fix you replace.
my question is, can that pivot piece where the two alloy rounded sections mate together, can that be tig welded?

I'm sure it can....but taking a blow torch to your bike sounds like a terrible idea. You're better off just using scotch weld or some kind of industrial hardener that can be removed later.

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"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

I'm going to go out on a limb here and guess that you don't have much welding experience....

There aren't any "blow torches" involved in TIG welding, but it probably could be used in this case. Things like Scotch Weld are really adhesives and would not work in an application like this with so much stress on such a small joint.

My LBS just offered me a Profile Design T2 aluminum replacement, not sure if I should take it.

Thoughts?

Three thoughts. First are you racing right away (in the next several weeks)? Second another concern would be how would doing a non approved fix effect your warranty. Third how much would it change your fit from what I understand if you go with the specialized fix they will work out getting your bike fit tweaked with your LBS.


Joel

Yup, just took mine in to the Spec centre at IMNZ. Talked through the fix, it's the low stack kit. My setup means I'll be getting the profile option though as they won't be able to replicate my pad position with the low stack kit.

They're working bloody hard to help riders here. Can't fault them.

Cheers
Mike

I just took mine off and looked. What it looks like is the anchor bolt inside the fulcrum slips because it has not friction. I put some extra thread lock on the bolts connecting the bars to the fulcrum. I'm thinking this extra thread lock will seep up the side and give some additional friction. Mine hasn't been an issue as it is more of a creeping nuisance. With that said, I'll continue riding my road bike (crit race this weekend anyways), and hopefully they get this solution out by next week when I was going to start my tri specific bike training.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

As someone mentioned earlier, the fix are bolt replacements. They were CSPC approved yesterday.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say anyone dumb enough to make permanent ghetto ass modifications to their bike instead of just waiting for the proper repair from Specialized and voiding their warranty is a complete idiot.....how's that, better?

---

"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

I am racing this weekend and LBS contacted specialised and they sent through carbon vuka zipp bars and extensions. They have been setup by LBS as per my original fit. Only difference really being they had to fit a round s-works stem instead of the aero shiv one. Very pleased with how they sorted it out. Because stem is different I have option to swap back when fix is sorted.

Having tried new set up it actually feels better. It's lighter and garmin/torpedo system fits better. Tempted to stay with zipps.

No, I'd say that's actually worse.

I don't have my bike in front of me to look at how you might TIG weld the pivot components, but it's a good idea if there's a suitable joint there. If I had a race this weekend and was worried about riding with the original bolts, I'd absolutely consider having those components TIG welded. If that would make me a complete idiot in your eyes, I think I'm OK there. The only thing that might look at little "Ghetto" is the black finish missing around the welded area. I totally agree with the Ghetto assessment of your Scotch Weld approach if you were saying that also.

I would not expect my LBS or Spec. to bless the approach (because of liability), but they would absolutely follow through with any warranty repair after the fact. My LBS is all about figuring out ways to make sure riders don't miss races and then picking up the mess later as needed. I've seen the same from Spec.

I've been through the fork recall issue on my Tarmac, the seat post issue on my Shiv, and now the bar issue on the Shiv. I'm still a big Specialized fan because of how they have responded to these issues.

Well, great. Didn't see that in all the post, must have missed it and it wasn't on the website. How do we get the said bolts?

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

By all means knock yourself out......I can just see it now at your next race, onlookers yelling "look, there goes the guy with the tig welded aero bars."

---

"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

I though about scuffing up the piece inside the fulcrum myself, bur thinking the thread locker might achieve the same goal. Talking with two people at my lbs, the issue they experienced was sheering after a little bit of corrosion. That is why I opened mine today to see if that wad the issue. Seems like an overall easy fix. Of course, the is always jb weld. I used that when the cable coupler housing on my transition pulled loose.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

Which Profile model are they installing? Do you know?

No idea. I just asked if it was pretty, and they responded that it was an upgrade...still can't tell you what model as they haven't got the parts they need in yet...was meant to be this afternoon but hasn't happened. I'll sure they'll get it sorted, got to rack tomorrow :-)

We had someone loan us a set of T2 aluminium bars to use until the fix is sorted.

My LBS (not the Specialized dealer where we bought the bike) fitted them last week and my wife and I did a 160km ride on Saturday. Bars are great. Position may be slightly lower than previously but the wife likes it. I would highly recommend going with the T2.

The Spec. dealer I visited yesterday told me there was a team coming over from Australia who would, if necessary, work around the clock to sort things out for any Shiv owners at Taupo for IMNZ this weekend. Sounds like they're as out in front of it as they can be.

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----------------------------------------------------------------

First, it wouldn't be a spot weld to prevent movement, it would be a structural weld. Structural welds are strange animals with weld prep requirements, welding techniques, etc. Joe Blow exhaust pipe guy isn't going to have the skill or knowledge to do it correctly. You might get away with it, and you might actually create a weaker joint or worse, weaken the material in the heat affected zone. There is no way to know without analysis.

That's why companies that weld critical joints (like the aero bars you are trusting your life to) have welding engineers, weld joint design reports, and destructive proof testing of qualification. It is also why most of us use robots these days.

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"...the street finds its own uses for things"

I am tempted to take the PD solution but I am curious as to which basebar they'd be offereing as well as if they would fit me with a T3 instead of T2.

Sadly, I'll be having them swap everything out, regardless of which solution I pick, then having to take it to another LBS to have them properly fit me in with this new setup... Frustrating!

I sure wish Mark could just confirm, this ultimately will just be a hardware change, for the 95% of us not looking to race these next couple of weekends. I'm sure it is a lot of bolts, but that should be easy to get, and affects nothing else in my set up or position. Anything else creates multiple challenges. Even the low stack solution doesn't seem to allow for as high of a stack, as you can create with the current hardware. Going to a whole new bar setup, is a whole new challenge.

I actually like the idea that most of these solutions will allow for a lower position.

I am on a -17 degree stem to get me as low as I need to be, not happy with the current set up...

Hopefully with whatever solution I go with, I'll be able to swap to a less "aggressive" stem.

On a seperate note, I do find it concerning that both of my local bike shops, have sold SHIVs, and have them on the floor and are selling SHIVs right now, have never heard of this issue, until brought forward by customers.

Then this is either on the LBS or Specialized.......it's on the LBS if they aren't on the distro list and receiving emails from Specialized. On the other hand, it's on Specialized if they aren't reaching out to all their clients expediently.

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"I would definitely smell her seat after a century ride"

Thanks to everyone on the thread for the productive discussion. Our team is doing all we can. If you're not being taken care of appropriately, please PM me.

I cannot confirm an approved global solution today due to continued work with CPSC. The notifications on Specialized.com here are the most up to date that we can provide.

If you have a retailer who seems to not have been notified, please PM me so I can reach out to them directly.

Thank you for your support and loyalty as I know we've made all of your lives more challenging despite our targets of keeping you safe on the road.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Thanks...can you confirm whether or not this is a "do not ride your bike until this is addressed" issue? I am hearing different things from different shops. Also, I am on a 14 or 15 S Works Shiv (frame was replaced due to seat post issue)......I have replaced the extensions with Zipp carbon extensions. Does this recall apply to me or am I good to go? Thanks

If you're using the parts "X'd" out on this document, then your aerobars are affected. If by changing extensions you mean you're using different aerobars (clipons or otherwise), then you're clear.

http://www.specialized.com/...f/03022015-rider.pdf


Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

I came here this morning for my update because my dealer knew about the recall but didn't think there was yet a fix. I was just double checking.

It was interesting at my lbs because the man I spoke to was clearly stressed out about selling the shivs with a known issue. But they were still on the floor to be sold.

I'm glad there is a fix coming. I'm also glad that I have a road bike to use in the meantime.

I just purchased a shiv expert last week not knowing about this issue. Is it recommended to return back to store or hold off until a solution is available. I'm pretty happy with it so far and have just been riding on trainer so far.

Mark,

Are you still expecting to release a fix on Monday?

There will be another update, but I cannot confirm if a fix will be announced by then or not.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Bummer, but appreciate the response.

Also asked this....

Thanks...can you confirm whether or not this is a "do not ride your bike until this is addressed" issue? I am hearing different things from different shops.

Hi Mark,

Are we still expecting an update today? Sorry to be impatient. Weather is breaking, and I need to get out of the basement ASAP.

Well the latest on Specialized's website is pretty much confirmation that the fix will involve the low stack clamps with some new hardware. However, the bad news is don't hold your breath because they will make the next announcement on March 16th. Looks like they are having difficulty in sourcing the parts before they announce the fix is in and people rush to get the fix made. There goes my weekend prep riding in the Texas Hill Country this weekend - I guess I'll stay on the roadie a while longer.

It can't be that serious as the dealer I bought mine off last year hasn't bothered to contact me about this. I'm in the UK, but it's the same aerobar. When I phoned they said they were probably going to contact me when they got the bits in a couple of weeks

I'm in the UK. I called the UK office today. I would do the same if your LBS hasn't contacted you.
I think if there was 'an issue' the warranty and any harm might no be covered, due to the recall and karfuffle

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http://www.gsterb.wordpress.com

Not too bothered as I have now replaced the bars anyway. Just a bit odd that they didn't bother to contact me when they have my address and this is supposedly a safety issue?

Wondering at what point I should expect to be able to train on my Shiv. I have a race April 12th and haven't ridden it since IMCHOO. Would like to put some miles on it but the delays on a fix are getting in the way. Is there a link to the announcement from today??

The latest from Specialized is at: http://www.specialized.com/...pport/safety-notices

QUOTE:
**************************************************
Aerobar Extension Mounting Hardware: 3/9/15 (March, 2015)
http://www.specialized.com/...f/03092015-rider.pdf
Dear Specialized Rider,
Our primary objective is to keep you safe and our instructions still remain unchanged.
You should not be using your Carbon Aerobars with Aero Stem or Hydroformed Alloy Aerobars until we are able to provide replacement extension mounting hardware.
The hardware we’ve proposed to solve the issue is a combination of the Shiv Low-Stack Extension Clamps and supplementary bolts and spacers that, when used in the appropriate configuration, will place the extensions and pads in exactly the same position for the vast majority of our riders.
This hardware does eliminate some features the original hardware offered and some positions may not be able to be replicated. In those instances, our Rider Care team will be happy to work with you and your SBC retailer.
We are continuing to work closely with the CPSC on approval. In anticipation of that, we are sourcing all the parts necessary that will get you back using your bars as soon as possible.
At this time we do not have a concrete time frame on when we can start delivering parts to retailers, but will keep you and our retailers updated as we receive more information.
Please visit the Safety Notices page on Specialized.com for official information, and look for our next update on Monday, March 16, if not sooner.
Thank you again for your patience and support.
Specialized Road Product & Rider Care Teams
**************************************************

Mark,

As i have followed this thread since the start, I always highlight if we'll be supported with the new fix at Ironman 70.3 Philippines last Sunday (just like at Taupo). However, when we arrived there Specialized Philippines said stocks didn't arrived on time so the quick fix is to glued the mount screw and tighten it. Well, we didn't have any other choice but to accept it and pray nothing bad will happen.

To sum it all up, I am extremely disappointed we were left behind by Specialized at Ironman Philippines. I mean, it doesn't have to be a full distance or half IM distance as long as safety is priority, right? A lot of shivs were out that day racing. If I had known earlier, I would have changed to different aerobar after the notice announcement. sigh.

Well that's certainly not an ideal answer from specialized. Bummer.

I know I am not alone...but I have an out of state race in 32 days, can't train on my race bike and there is no known date of a solution. Hopefully we hear something (positive) soon!! Pretty expensive piece of machinery to be collecting dust when I should be riding it!

I'm not happy with the proposed permanent solution. I don't think the low stack bar kit will allow me to place my BTA bottle where I want it. I also think that the pad to aero bar vertical distance cannot be replicated. AND, because the aero bars needs to be cut to length... I won't be able to make changes in the future and the Shiv resale value just plummeted because the next buyer will have diff fit requirement and will need to spend money to get a new bar. I'm contemplating changing out everything. I wonder if Spec will reimb me for that. Carbon bar setups won't be cheap. Spec's solution feels more appropriate as a temporary fix so that they can get the right hardware in place later. Remember what SRAM did with their hyro brake recall?

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-------------------------------
Wife says "Too Many Bikes"
I disagree :-))

I understand Spec is making all kinds of effort here. And it is appreciated. But we need results. My LBS never heard of this recall and they don't know when the parts will become available, or in fact what those parts will look like. They are a Spec dealer and a large shop one of the largest in the US.

This group here is probably more informed than anyone, and yet we don't know for sure how this is going to be resolved. Low stack kit for everyone? Or can we fix the existing hardware? How hard would it be to manufacture new bolts or other mounting hardware?

I'm almost in the same boat. Need to ride to get ready for IMFL 70.3.
being 6'8", I need as much stack in the bars as possible, and don't believe this solution will ultimately offer that. So if that's the case and another bar set up is needed they should make that available now. I know that's expensive but so was my SWORKS Shiv.

Yeah I agree and am in a similar situation. I have my A race coming up in <7 weeks and I need to get out on the roads. I really hope this is a temporary fix because as it is this fix absolutely stinks. and
My LBS has no idea on the timetable for parts and that is inexcusable (on specialized part). This puts me at the point where I will probably have to get a new setup which costs lots of money that I don't have.

I have Oceanside 70.3 in 17 days. As soon as the stop sale notice came to light a couple of weeks ago I ordered a different set of aerobars (from Shimano). I was told the aerobars would arrive in two weeks (today) and, having had to send my Shiv back on two occasions due to failures with the seat post screws (http://forum.slowtwitch.com/..._latest_reply;so=ASC) I preferred to incur the additional cost than suffer again through the uncertainty of a Specialized fix immediately before a race.

My LBS was able to get me the aerobars at a reduced price and I accepted the upgrade on the basis that the Specialized fix would not indicate a design flaw in the aerobars or limit the adjustability in a material way. Unfortunately, it now turns out that the Shimano aerobars won't even make it to the US until Sunday (from Japan) and the best Shimano can do is claim they will arrive in Canada (where I reside) sometime next week.

Damned if you do...

From the Specialized Update for the Mooloolaba Tri this weekend:
QUOTE:
**************************************************
Out engineers have developed replacement aerobar extension mounting brackets of a different design to the current set-up.
This new mount eliminates the potential problem and is a permanent measure.
The new mount secures the extensions in a horizontal position by two bolts and removes the aerobar extension angle adjustment.
**************************************************
Is there anyone going to Mooloolaba that can post pictures of this setup ?????

Not sure what to do but time is a wasting. Races are approaching. Hope to have a fix soon otherwise might have to get a whole new cockpit or bike for that matter.

So how many times has this part failed. I have a 2012 and 2014 Shiv and have not had any problems. I checked both out 4 days ago and rode 60 miles yesterday with no issues. I ordered a Profile Design Aeria T4 Wing Aluminum Aerobar ($350.00) and will replace my 2014 Shiv with that until Specialized comes up with a fix. I will continue to ride until new aerobar comes in.

I went ahead and put a 30 mile ride on mine yesterday and have some rough roads with the stop gap I mentioned earlier. I paid extra attention to how I position myself aero and it is as I suspected. I don't put a lot of weight on the bars themselves, but I was fitted and having the weight bearing on the pads was my preferred method. Felt as solid as ever. But like I said, it was more of a creeping inconvenience for me to begin with, losing a degree (on the bar) every 3 or so months). I love my shiv, but between this and the seat issues I had, I will definitely look elsewhere when I do buy a new bike, whenever that may be. I've already looked at my fit coordinates against the slice, BMC, Trek and can't find anything on the IA (i know, you can plug in the spreadsheet, but I'm not that serious yet). I've owned two specialized bikes and when I was going to go carbon with my road bike I was looking at specialized. That is no longer a consideration.

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

True. Problem is if they do now one is SOL if they crash and trash the bike since they put out a stop rideHow do you like PD? I was looking at those and the 3T Vola.

Good, but strange that they told me the solution has not been approved by CSPS yet (this evening) so not sure how they can call this a permanent solution.

I will say that every time I have spoken to Specialized that the quality of customer service does put me at ease a little. They are kind, understanding and seem to care.....I would imagine they are fielding a ton of calls on this matter, so there reps ability to remain cool under pressure is commendable and refreshing.

They have taken care of my issues in the past in a more than fair manner and I am sure this one will be handled in the same way.....I just need a solution Monday!!! My race is approaching as well (32 days).

I have always had my eye on BMC and started looking at them a little closer this week. I have only had 3 tri bikes....and the Specialized warranty covered my butt more than once. Given the issues I have had, I am reluctant to go to a bike without a lifetime warranty....and so BMC is no longer an option for me. Fingers crossed, we are all past this issue by the end of next week and can focus on training and racing!!

IM Melbourne update from Specialized_AU:


OK, if the image won't load, THE LINK IS HERE.

I guess it's great they're pulling out all the stops to sort out IM athletes, but my A race for this season is a smaller HIM in 9 days and I feel like I'm being left out in the cold here. Specialized NZ have not returned my emails and my LBS thinks I should just keep riding.

felt the same way last week for HIM in PH. extremely dissapointing

Same here. I've been riding this bike in this configuration for 2 years - over 3000 miles. Why panic and stop now. I took the bars apart, looked at the joint and all the things that make it up, and there is no obvious damage.

I'll fix them when the fix is available, but I'm not changing the way I train at this point for something like this.

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"...the street finds its own uses for things"

Same here. I have had no issues. I'll just be mindful when riding as it sounds like for the few people that actually had a breakage, it was more of an annoyance than anything (that one guy finished an IM on his broken bars).

Same here. Then again... most of my rides have been on the trainer this winter and will continue to be until St. Anthony's at the end of April (so if it breaks, it will probably be more funny then dangerous). And with that being said, I am scheduled for a re-fit (going more aggressive) on the 20th at which time I am replacing the Specialized alloy cockpit with a third party carbon one (Zipp, Profile, 3T... which ever fits best and is comfortable).

My bars look okay but still went to my local specialized concept store to get more info. I was booked in straight away for next week to replace my cockpit for free with a zipp alumina. Can't complain.

Where do you live? That sounds awesome?

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"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

London. UK.

We did all we could to prepare our regional teams for their upcoming events however we weren't able to mobilize in an identical way around the world.

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Mark,

Can you confirm if the "fix" will allow for same raise to pads as the current setup?

I understand your frustrations and empathize with the challenges we've created. We are doing all we can to get to a "result" as soon as possible.

Regulation is different in various parts of the world and the members here represent many countries. For these reasons, our updates are being posted to Specialized.com in the Safety Notices areas.

If you've contacted Rider Care in your country and have not been supported adequately, please PM me and I'll make sure you're appropriately supported.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

I'll address many of the fit related questions here related to the "low stack clamps". These parts are not affected by this safety notice and are safe to ride on these aerobars.

The low stack clamps reduces the stack by ~19mm compared to the original aerobar extension mounting hardware. For those utilizing most of the 50mm of extension mounting hardware "spacers", the immediate replacement parts utilized in some markets might not have included additional spacers and long enough bolts to achieve the same stack. With a final solution, we plan to achieve the same stack for all riders utilizing a riding position stack that is possible from the original owners manual and with all the supplied parts that came with the aerobars.

The reach of the aerobar extensions can still be achieved in almost every case however the extensions need to be cut shorter as the low stack clamp protrudes towards the front of the bar, clamping the aerobar extension more forward than the original aerobar extension mounting hardware. The only case this doesn't work is on aftermarket extensions that have a bend very early in their length.

The angle adjustment of the aerobar extension and pad is removed with the low stack clamps.

The pad mounting hardware is integrated into the low stack clamps allowing for ~30mm (+/-15mm) of fore/aft adjustment of the pads.

The low stack clamps do change the configuration of the cockpit however we've been able to achieve similar BTA bottle and computer (Garmin, etc) placement on almost all athletes we've worked with.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Mark,

Appreciate the prompt responses.

So if I'm reading this correctly, there is an intial fix, which won't allow for same rise, but it will be followed by a long term fix that does? Is that correct? Not trying to beat a dead horse, just want to make sure I understand, so I can direct my LBS, as they for sure have no idea.

Bummer, because that sounded awesome.

---

---

"In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rockefeller Center. You'll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You'll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you'll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighway." T Durden

Specialized contacted me this morning, new hardware has been sent to my LBS (and others in NZ) and I'm getting the fix done today. Very happy.

Can you please PM me details on your LBS so we can reach out directly to them? I don't mean to confuse, but one way or another, we will make sure every rider's fit can be replicated. I was only speaking to those using low stack clamps - explaining that the stock spacers and bolts will not allow the same stack range as the current hardware.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

Any updates on an official solution or what others are getting approved?

I am still waiting on options from my LBS, was suppose to hear back Thursday afternoon but nothing yet...

I'm in the same boat. Haven't heard anything from the lbs and oceanside is only 2 weeks away!! It's kinda panic mode now.

Anyone in the UK with a Shiv should get onto their LBS if they haven't already. Had a call from mine about it last week, today had a full new Profile Aeria cockpit fitted, and some LBS vouchers for the inconvenience chucked in. Very happy Specialized customer here! I don't think I'm the only one in the UK, that's had this offer either. :)

I hope this gets figured out soon. Starting to be more than an inconvenience.

Where did you buy your bike? I got mine from the Chester Specialised store and have heard nothing.

Mark - would you please confirm whether Specialized will be providing support for those of us presently registered for Ironman 70.3 Oceanside next week?

As I mentioned earlier in this thread as soon as the stop sale notice came to light I ordered a different set of aerobars as I did not want to suffer the same uncertainty that I experienced when the seat post screws failed (then, the first time I was able to ride the bike was the day before I was due to rack the bike at Ironman Austria - definitely suboptimal). Unfortunately, the different set of aerobars I ordered do not now appear to be a solution as there is a compatibility problem with my groupset.

As others have stated this is starting to be more than an inconvenience.

Per the Important Safety Notice on the Specialized website

"Please visit the Safety Notices page on Specialized.com for official information, and look for our next update on Monday, March 16, if not sooner. Thank you again for your patience and support. Specialized Road Product & Rider Care Teams"

By my calendar it is March 16th - and crickets. Patience is beginning to fail and support would be next to go. Critical training events being lost and races coming up quick. If the low-stack clamp attachment works can you not make that available for people who want to take advantage of that as a solution? I don't want to be strung along waiting for a fix that doesn't come in time and have to be trying something new on race day.

26 days until race day. I have been checking every day. Pretty upset that Specialized stated we would know something by now and they just left us hanging.

Anyone in the UK should contact Specialized customer service: Customerserviceuk@specialized.com or 020 8391 3529

I contacted them, mentioned I was racing soon, and they were really helpful and have arranged for me to have the bars changed locally.

Seems to me that communication is a bit poor because Specialized haven't issued a formal recall at this time (just a stop sale notice) due to them not having an approved fix. The LBS's and distributors can't officially contact everyone with a solution unless Specialized have issued one, which they are clearly still working on. No man's land.

This is what I don't understand, if they are dangerous then surely they should be contacting customers to tell them to stop using them, not just shops to stop selling them. I only know about this as I read this forum. I imagine a lot of customers are blissfully unaware there is a problem.

I'm not faulting my LBS, they are just relaying info at this point.

Like everything, I feel that if you registered your bike, Specialized should've emailed/mailed/called everyone affected, LBS may or may not have that info...

If it wasn't for Slowtwitch, I likely would have never heard of this...

I'll be patiently waiting for a call today, hopefully with some good news.

According to my LBS they aren't dangerous unless you like to pull the aero bars in or out while you ride. They will not take the lateral forces and eventually break. Not many people do that, I would guess, and if you have something between the bars , like a water bottle holder, that provides lateral stiffening to the bars themselves, it is even less likely.

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"...the street finds its own uses for things"

That makes sense. However, my concern is what would happen if I am unfortunate and the unlikely happens. Presumably the stop sale notice would allow Specialized to avoid liability for the consequences?

Just Posted

Dear Specialized Rider,
We continue to work closely with regulatory agencies throughout the world towards the objective of getting you back on your Carbon Aerobars with Aero Stem or Hydroformed Alloy Aerobars as safely and quickly as possible. We are working on a timetable to deliver our solution and are working night and day for our riders.
To reiterate our proposed permanent solution: the Shiv low-stack extension clamps with supplementary hardware are capable of placing your extensions in the same position you currently ride them for the vast majority of our riders. They are also highly compatible with most accessory mounting configurations.
Thank you again for your patience and support. Specialized Road Product & Rider Care Teams

Yes just saw that. Truly disappointed at this time. Not sure how long this will continue but will start finding my own solution soon (new bars, new bike) which will be quicker than this.

Looks low stack is the answer, unfortunately.....they are out of stock. Guessing they are waiting on the CSPC.....which is probably some government union shop who are paid by the hour and not by the amount of work they get done.

Having now given up on my LBS I decided to call Specialized directly. The person I spoke with confirmed that they are trying to work on something for Oceanside but could not tell me what nor give me any guarantee that those of us taking part will have a solution. He took my name and contact details and promised I would be the first to know / they would contact when they could. If I do not hear anything by this Friday I will be calling back. I need to pack the bike this weekend.

All communication in my case was through my LBS. They're just a local independent shop, but the deal came through their specialized rep who agreed the bar swap and the store credit. Got my bike back today with new Profile Aeria cockpit and £100 worth of free goodies for the "inconvenience"!
That's what I call a permanent solution!

It's too bad there is not a consistent and rapid answer. Some hear a response others hear nothing. Some have their handlebars replaced and others are told that they will be fixed at some point in the future but not sure when. Really interested to see if Specialized cam right the ship. Customer satisfaction and (potential customers) on the line.

To be fair, all specialized retailers will have had the stop sale notice, and instruction to advise owners not to ride. What they do with that info isn't really specialized's control. My LBS called me but were quite relaxed, saying it's probably based on a single incident and not to worry too much. They even said to carry on training on it. It was only after I followed up a week later, and directed them to the spec site and the update which clearly states they have been deemed unsafe to ride on, and showed them info about the spec set ups at IM events to do the work on the spot, then politely but firmly made them aware that I have a race mid April, and one way or another would like this rectified by then. To be fair they were great, faultless in fact, but did need a bit of a push, which is fair enough if you ask me. They're busy too.
And can you imagine the global scale of a problem like this! Must be crazy trying to get to every set of these bars ever made and individually sort them out all over the world. Nothing less than they should do, but WOW, what a mission! I think a lot of companies would brush it under the carpet rather than standing up and being accountable. Easy to say when I've had a good result though. If my bike was off the road for my first races this year I'd be PI$$3D!

Just out of curiosity, what remedy would you expect from your LBS? New bike? Demo bike to use in the mean time?

I've seen this issue come up a couple of times and I'm just curious what people are expecting their LBS to do for them in a situation like this? This is not a loaded question, genuinely trying to understand what everyone wants.

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__________________________

I tweet!

It seems like Specialized is being more proactive in Europe around getting people new bars (at least from the stories on this thread). Has anyone in the US been successful in getting a replacement? I called both Specialized and my bike shop about this and neither seem to be that bothered by having a 2nd issue on a multi-thousand dollar bicycle that takes a least a month to fix in each case. FL 70.3 is now less than 4 weeks away and its getting to the point where it makes more sense to just buy another set of bars out of pocket (which doesn't seem right).

Well as you've replied this to my post I'll go first.

I expect a rapid and permanent fix in a timely fashion, suitable for my needs and to work around my race schedule.

Seeing as that's exactly what I got I have no complaint.

I would say the main thing I look for is some sort of empathy from the LBS and a willingness to try and find a solution for their client. Its obviously not their fault that there is a stop ride, but when they respond in a way that makes it seem like they don't want to be bothered with it, I (and I'm guessing others) start getting frustrated.

I have personally heard 2 messages from my LBS when asking about this.

1. Specialized will fix it eventually (from LBS)
2. We can sell you new handlebars and you would have to pay for the labor of installing them (no mention of discount or any concession due to the issue with the bike they sold me, from LBS)

It would make a big difference to me if my LBS had taken some initiative in finding a solution for me, or at least taken in interest in what type of solutions would mitigate the concerns of not having a useable bike heading into a race.

All,

I 100% empathize with everyone on this thread. In the northern hemisphere, this is the time of year to get the base miles in and races are already happening or rapidly approaching. We've done our best to reach our affected riders and retailers. We are working closely with the CPSC to formalize the corrective action within the United States. Please continue to follow our updates on Specialized.com under the Safety Notices section.

If you feel you need more support, please PM me and we'll make sure that your unique situation is taken care of. We don't want anyone to be missing out on key preparation for their most important events.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

So my local Specialized concept store is offering to replace with a profile carbon bar on my Shiv Pro, which I appreciate, so I can get back on the road. If I want to use the credit and get better bars, I can. My issue is I know very little about bars, any recommendations.

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"Don't mistake activity for achievement"
-John Wooden

The LBS is not at fault for sure however they choose to sell a brand and they should offer support by all available means. That does not mean free bars or free bike but should offer more than "I cant help, call again" like they are being inconvenienced. The big issue is for those with races nearing, then maybe, they should be offered something "above and beyond" the normal expectations.
So time will tell but can already see those taken care are happy as a clam and the others that are not are feeling stranded.

Is Specialized replacing the entire bar or just the stack angle portion? I have to say my "concept" store gave me the "we don't know.. we were told maybe April" WTF??

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Team Every Man Jack

http://www.teamemj.com

What I don't understand is why Specialized don't have a consistent policy worldwide on this. There are plenty of new bars out there, and If they just made the same offer to the many that has been made to the few, ie swap out the bars, then everyone would be happy. If they can do for some they should do for all. Same bike, same problem, same cost no matter what the currency. Spending weeks "developing" a fix that already exists that changes the set up of the bars anyway just makes the people waiting more frustrated.

+1

Trying to save some money by not having to replace all the bars,so I get that but in the long run it seems like it may have a negative impact on revenue (maybe not). I know that I can't wait until April. Got a race in May. If that's the case I will fork over for a new cockpit (or bike).

I am in a bit of an awkward spot as I bought mine secondhand (but not used) 2 years ago. I managed to track down the shop it was purchased from and they are going to fit the new parts. However they were told the fix wouldn't be available until the end of April!!

Guess I don't have to much of a leg to stand on but may speak to my local concept store or Specialized (based in the UK) as this still doesn't seem good enough. Seatpost clamps crack ages ago and I am praying they hold

All,

I don't know where this April comment came from, but it didn't come from Specialized. Anyone who has not been supported, please PM me and we'll make sure you're taken care of. Many others have PM'd me and they're being set up by our Rider Care teams now.

Mark

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Mark Cote
MITAerobike
Specialized Bicycle Components

My 19 y/o son is on his way to Havasu for the MOUNTAIN COLLEGIATE TRIATHLON CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS.


(yes, I just cut/pasted that title!). He lives in Flagstaff, has been training this week in Colorado Springs. I'm in California. We heard about the recall yesterday. He really wants to ride. How bad is the damage? I can't imagine he'll be able to get a fix between now and Saturday - WWSTD?


He really wants to race - how many incidents have happened with this part?


He's out of pocket for all the costs of the race - travel, hotel, entries, but the bigger issue is that he really wants to race. I really want him safe.


Can somebody help put this recall into perspective for us??

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Linda
~Still recovering from IMLT

There are a few cases of this kind out there, I've seen a few photos. When the failure does occur it is the single bolt that attaches the extension bracket to the half moon shaped piece. On the diagram issued by Specialized, you'll see the two bolts that clamp the extension bars. In between those two bolts, you'll see there is another bolt. It's this bolt that fails. There is one for the left extension and one for the right.

Clearly the ideal situation is to get the bar setup changed out for a different design (PM Mark, I'm sure he'll do his best) but if that's not possible and you need to race, here's what I would check:

1. Remove this bolt from each side of the aerobar and check for corrosion or any deformity. If you see any signs of either, there's a higher risk of failure. The older/more used your Shiv the more likely this is.
2. Consider how you ride the bike when on the extensions. If you pull up or push down on the extensions, you will stress this bolt and there's a higher risk of failure. If you simply rest your weight on the extensions you won't be stressing this bolt and you'll likely be ok. Note that the base bars are not affected and you can sprint/climb/yank on them as much as you want.

If you see only light corrosion or deformity in the bolt and you pull/push on the bars, I would either: A) Replace the bolt if possible or B) race but be as gentle as I can with the extension bars. If the bolt is super corroded or obviously bent either A) replace the bolt, B) pull out of the race or C) make sure I have a good dental/health plan.

Given that Specialized have issued a stop ride notice, I'm not sure you'd have any legal comeback if you rode these bars and had an accident but I'm an engineer not a lawyer.

This is the concern. I mentioned the same earlier in the thread. My belief is that the stop sale notice would allow Specialized to avoid liability should something happen.

Velcromon - given your short timeline you could also try calling Specialized (http://www.specialized.com/us/en/contact-us / 1-877-808-8154 or 408-779-6229) to request a solution that allows the bars to be immediately replaced. Good luck. There are few of us in similar situations.

try to heed specialized's stop notice as much as possible.
in the alternative, and im not suggesting it, but i have heard and seen this work like a charm:

1. use some gritty sandpaper and rough up those two pieces that mate with one another so the edges of each have some bite.
2. use some carbon paste on those same two faces that mate so there is more gripping power
3. go to a place like boltdepot.com or mcmaster, and get a 6mm x 1mm x 20mm (though the 6x1x25 fit also, in the grade class 12.9
12.9 is probably one of the strongest bolts you can buy.
adhere to torque specs but that 12.9 shoudl give you some added comfort that the bolt head wont shear or tear.

again, one shoudl really comply with specialized stop sale/stop use suggestion, but if i were racing this weekend, thats what id do.
i did all the above to my bike last year and never had a single failure. i just replaced the bolts with new bolts for no other than reason than they are like 25 cents each x 2. i know i have new bolts with no corrosion, no deformity.

Specialized has been really great working with us - both the headquarters in Morgan Hill, and the Utah office. The LBS in Flagstaff made a valiant effort - but didn't have all the right parts, even after the boy made it into the shop just under the cutoff time.....

But there was a pro cyclist (from the east coast!) in the shop....working out a shoe issue, I think......and he offered his bike to my son. REALLY. They swapped out the wheels, and signed a form, and Zach is on the road to the race. Not his bike, but it's a bike, and he'll race. I'm blown away by the generosity of this stranger. I'll name him if he's okay with it......

And Specialized has promised a fix before he has to get it on the truck for Collegiate Nationals next month.

Thanks for the advice, and the PMs.

~Linda

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Linda
~Still recovering from IMLT

That's really great to hear. Thanks to Mark, we have now been able to open up a good channel of communication with Specialized as well. Similarly, I am thus confident of a temporary fix for Oceanside next weekend followed by a permanent fix when we return.

Looks like Specialized is working hard to fix the problem With the bikes that are already sold and are inn use.
But how about the bikes that are to be delivered this year ?

I pre ordered a S-Works frame kit 17th November With delivery date set to 20th February. That was postponed to 13 Mars but before that it got postponed again to earliest 1th May....
I can understand that the shop cant deliver the bike With the stop sale notice...but that is for the handlebar, not the frame....some People have spare parts or even a Nice shop that can lend the buyer a handlebar while waiting for the fix....
But 2 1/2 month delayed and the store still does not know for sure about the ETA of the frame kit ??

Cae.

I'm glad some of you are getting resolution, I've been getting the runaround since this started and am still not riding.

I've missed 2 races and likely won't be doing my next race.

To say that I am frustrated would be an understatement.

Hey Boca,

I have Shiv that is affected by this recall, so I've been following this very closely. Have you contacted Mark directly? He's mentioned numerous times in this thread that if you are in need to reach out to him. Perhaps, he can arrange something so you won't have to miss your next race.

For what it's worth - I just installed the low stack kit last night and it's really a much cleaner design than the original "pivot" design. I had issues with my bars getting out of alignment a couple times when hitting big bumps and this solution definitely solves that (along with the risk of a broken pivot bolt).

I bought the kit a couple weeks before the recall came out when I was messing with my position. I was riding with the old design and taking my chances, but figured it's not worth the risk when I had the kit sitting in my parts bin. I hesitated installing it because you lose the ability to adjust reach and also lose the ability to adjust the aerobar angle independent from the base bar. You can adjust the stack with the same spacers used on the original design.

Anyway, I'm guessing that specialized is making these kits as fast as possible, but I thought it was worth sharing my experience on the install.

Yes, I PM'd him Friday afternoon and hoping to hear from him Monday or Tuesday.

I'm just hoping to get an appropriate resolution as soon as possible at this point. I'm just tired of the back and forth I've experienced.

A huge thank you to the pro cyclist that loaned my son his bike - Timothy Rugg. An incredibly thoughtful thing to do!

Zach didn't have the race he wanted to have - but he DID get to race!

Now we just hope that the bike gets fixed before Collegiate Nationals......

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Linda
~Still recovering from IMLT

LBS says they have heard nothing and to check Specialized site. Anyone hear anything new or updates? The site is not helpful either.

My LBS said I probably know as much as they do - they are at the mercy of Specialized on this! We talked and I explained my concerns with specific dates of training camps and races and they have ordered a Profile bar to replace the stock set which they will replace and then do a fit for me. The squeaky wheel gets greased - the owner of the store rides a Shiv so was sympathetic to the situation as he has the same problem. LBS - great attentive customer service. Specialized - ????????

This is ridiculous. :(

Talked to the actual LBS guy who received and built my shiv when I bought it. He said he'd find out more about the recall. I heard nothing from him for a couple of weeks. I don't know if the delay is with them or with Specialized. Contacted him again. He told me to just bring the bike in and so-and-so is the warranty person and he'll take care of it. So I did that. Dealt with a different LBS guy. He said he'd call Spec for more info and call me back. No one called me back.

What am I supposed to do? Can I please know two things:

What is the official fix, besides the low stack kit or aftermarket bars for free? Is it just a new bolt, and maybe the base part the bolt screws into?

And can I just have the replacement parts I'll replace them myself. It'd only take 15 minutes. I work on my own bikes.

It is year 2015 not 1870 dawn to dusk work on a subsidence farm. Today we need to work smart not hard. They are not working smart or this would have been done a month ago.

Well at least they are putting forth a good gesture to keep you as a customer. That is commendable. I asked my shop about new bars and they said they would order me a set (on my dime) and in the same breath the say they want to be there for me. Interested in what bars you got. Aeria?

It would appear that the fix will be a modified low stack kit - but, and purely an educated guess here, they don't want to make official announcement until they have however many low stack kits they need to fix all the bikes and it is taking time to ramp up production. As many have said it is not the actual fix that concerns me but the unknown timing - we all put in a lot of time and effort for our hobby and I for one didn't want to be looking for a solution to this the week before a race because I kept waiting for Specialized to fix this and then nothing comes through. How many of us have our races planned out six months to a year in advance. In any industry problems happen, it is how you respond to them that people remember. In this social media society the absence of communication leaves a bad impression.

I was told that Specialized is waiting on the CPSC (the government to approve the fix) and that they were at the mercy of the government on this...


Joel

The shop is great - it is at times like this where having gone in and bought items from them that I could have bought cheaper elsewhere but fosters a good relationship pays dividends. To be honest I don't even know which bars at this point - whichever model is a comparable swap, I wasn't looking for a free upgrade just the same quality and position.

then we are all up s**t creek and should plan on an end of summer fix - because one thing government doesn't do is quick!

Have you contacted Mark yet... He hooked me up with specialized customer care and they contacted my LBS and arranged for me to get an equivalent third party aero bar setup if necessary...



Joel

not necessary - my LBS is taking care of me, my posts were more along the lines of advice for others. Thanks for the advice - and recommend others do as you suggest if their LBS isn't taking care of them.

I believe the fix is the low stack kit and new bolt but I don't know the details.

I PMed Mark who put me in touch with a customer service person at specialized (I believe it was the rep who covered my bike shop). He said that they anticipate to have the new equipment a week from this past Monday (6 days from now) and they would go out to bike shops the next day. I doubt that installing the parts yourself would be an option right now since I don't believe there is any supply of them.

Assuming there is no delay in approval, I believe they could start getting people set up towards the end of next week or beginning of the following week. This puts me about 1 week out from FL 70.3. I think there is a good chance I could have been given free bars if I really screamed for them but if Specialized was confident that they could get me set up in time for my race, screaming over 1 week didn't seem like the right thing to do. I'll probably check in next Monday to make sure everything is on schedule.

That is worth while information. Just hate waiting and not knowing and given no updates.

Like I said before earlier in the thread specialized is waiting on government approval and from what I have been told they have the parts for the fix ready to ship once they get that approval... Unfortunately the government is not moving as fast as specialized would like...



Jeol

From what I have uncovered....the delay is with the CSPC. They are a government entity, so I imagine they are moving like molasses. Specialized (ad us) is/are at their mercy.....

My LBS is helping me out. Because of how my cockpit is configured... I've received approval to install an alternate sourced cockpit... I would say Spec stepped up to the plate for me.

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Wife says "Too Many Bikes"
I disagree :-))

Same here.

Can either of you provide more details re your configuration and the alternately sourced cockpit? I'm currently in a waiting phase here; I never heard from my LBS (learned of the stop sale here) so eventually I emailed them about it. They said they'd look into it but I haven't heard anything so far, 10 days later.

I sent you a PM...

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Wife says "Too Many Bikes"
I disagree :-))