Guide
Battery fires, defects & manufacturer liability
When the bike itself fails, the maker, importer, seller or battery supplier may be responsible — even if you were riding perfectly.
Lithium-ion battery fires
Fires while charging, riding or stored. Uncertified or aftermarket batteries and chargers are frequent factors.
Thermal runaway
A damaged or defective cell overheats and spreads to the rest of the pack, often with little warning. Fire investigators can often trace the origin.
Brake failures
Underpowered brakes for the bike's speed and weight, faulty hydraulic lines, or poor assembly.
Throttle & controller failures
Throttles that stick or surge, and controllers that cause sudden acceleration.
Recall tracking
Check whether your bike, battery or charger has been recalled:
- Search the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall database by brand and model.
- Check the manufacturer's website and any emails you received after purchase.
- Save screenshots of recall notices — pages can be changed or removed.
A recall isn't required for a defect claim, but it can be strong evidence.
Who may be responsible
Bike manufacturerBattery or cell makerImporter / distributorOnline marketplace or retailerRepair shopLandlord (storage / charging rules)