Canyon Seeks Compliance Advice from CPSCers

Canyon Bicycles January 9 reached out to CPSC related to its recent entry into the U.S. market. The German company began its major U.S. push last August. Discussion covered both the company's quality practices and ensuring it understands U.S. regulatory and standards requirements. Part of the session was closed due to proprietary discussion.

On quality, the company emphasized its use of CT scanners to review parts after production. This includes pushing Asian suppliers also to adopt use so that problems need not wait until after shipment to be discovered. This includes at least three providers in China and one in Vietnam.

Overall, including in Germany, it has 50-60 scanners in operation. Canyon seeks uniformity in machines and practices. A related discussion of traceability and serialization of parts was reserved for the closed portion.

The visitors also explained its service approach, which includes a partnership with Velofix, which provides mobile bike shops. Canyon sells online only, but in Europe it has used parcel-delivered service shops.

As for requirements, CPSCers and the visitors discussed the agency's regulation, including the fact that it has not been updated for decades, meaning modern designs may not be covered well. Canyon currently looks to ISO standards as the baseline of its internal requirements. Agency staffers also urge ASTM participation.

On an agenda displayed by the company was discussion of a Section 15 report involving S23 seatposts. Also to be discussed were VanMoof and Civia/Hyland fenders.