Elliptical Exercise Gliders Recalled by Thane Due to Fall Hazard; New Instructions to Be Provided

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Orbitrek Elite and Orbitrek Elite Magnetic Elliptical Exercise Gliders

Units: About 48,000

Distributor: Thane International Inc., of La Quinta, Calif.

Manufacturer: Utop Sporting Co., of China

Hazard: The written instructions incorrectly identify the proper location of the spring washer. An incorrectly installed spring washer can put undue stress on bolts, causing them to loosen, which poses a fall hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves Orbitrek Elite (“OE”) and Orbitrek Elite Magnetic (“OEM”) elliptical gliders with model numbers BK2080 (OE) and BK2280 (OEM). The recalled gliders have a blue and gray plastic cover. The model name can be located on the side of the machine. No other models of Orbitrek-branded elliptical gliders are included in this recall.

Sold: Directly to consumers at www.thane.com and through television infomercials from March 2007 through May 2009 for between $200 and $300.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled machines until they inspect their unit and confirm that the spring washer is in the correct location. Thane is directly contacting consumers to provide new assembly instructions, which can also be located on the firm’s Web site.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Thane toll-free at (888) 863-4003between 6 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, between 6 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. PT Saturday and Sunday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.thane.com