'If there’s even one bike still out there, we want to find it' – bike brand continues four-year quest to recall and replace forks after one failure in 2022

British children’s bike manufacturer Islabikes has been engaged in a persistent recall and replacement campaign for a specific batch of forks following a failure on one child’s bike in 2022. Although the incident did not result in injury, the company took immediate action by initiating a full investigation and deciding to replace all 7,677 affected forks as a precautionary measure. Four years on, Islabikes has successfully replaced 82% of these components but continues to actively seek out the remaining forks, including those on second-hand bikes, to ensure every potentially faulty part is removed from circulation. Founder Isla Rowntree emphasises the company’s commitment to safety and quality, noting that the recall effort remains open indefinitely and that they regularly contact owners to facilitate replacements. The affected forks were fitted to four children’s bike models sold between October 2019 and May 2022, specifically the Beinn 24, Beinn 26, Beinn 27, and Creig 20. Rowntree appeals to anyone with these models, new or second-hand, to get in touch with Islabikes to arrange a free replacement, underscoring the company’s dedication to protecting young riders. Islabikes’ ethos has long been centred on producing bikes to standards suitable for their own families, a principle that has guided the brand since its founding in 2006 by Rowntree, a professional racer and national cyclo-cross champion. Despite financial challenges in 2023 that led to a temporary halt in production, Rowntree regained full ownership last year and revitalised the brand with new offerings, including the Rosetta gravel bike for adults. This model reflects the company’s innovative approach, aiming to stand out in a crowded market rather than simply following trends. The ongoing recall highlights both the challenges and responsibilities faced by manufacturers in the electric and conventional bike sectors, particularly when safety issues arise. Islabikes’ thorough and prolonged response sets a notable example of corporate accountability within the industry. As the search for the remaining forks continues, the company’s transparent communication and proactive outreach demonstrate a clear prioritisation of rider safety over commercial considerations.