Orbea recalls Optima e-bikes in Australia over a frame weld fault

Orbea has recalled a batch of its Optima e-bikes sold in Australia after identifying a welding fault that could cause the frame to break mid ride. The recall covers the Optima Asphalt and Optima Comfort models, sold online and in store across every state except the Northern Territory between 1 October 2019 and 31 December 2020.

What is wrong with the frame

The fault sits in a welded joint in the middle of the frame. If that weld fails while the bike is being ridden, the recall notice warns the rider could lose control and crash, creating a risk of death, serious injury or property damage, including to other road users. It is a structural problem rather than a component wear issue, which makes it more serious because it can happen suddenly and at speed.

What owners need to do

Anyone who owns an Optima Asphalt or Optima Comfort is being told to stop riding it immediately and check the bike's Vehicle Identification Number. Bikes with a VIN containing the code SNKIN19A are affected and should be taken to an Orbea dealer for a free replacement frame. Because these bikes are now several years old, plenty will have changed hands since their original sale, so the recall applies whether you are the first owner or bought the bike secondhand.

What it means for buyers: a bike's safety history does not end at the original sale. If you are looking at a secondhand e-bike, especially an older model, run the brand and model through the ACCC's product safety recalls register before you hand over money, the same way you would check a used car. It is a five minute check that sits alongside the kind of spec and price comparisons BikeFinder is built for.