The CPSC found several serious defects in the Meerkat 50: itlacks front brakes; has no parking brake; is missing a neutral indicator light; and can be started in gear.
Additionally, the owner's manual does not contain complete information on safe operation and maintenance of the ATV.
CPSC staff recommends that consumers stop using these ATV's immediately because it is unsafe. The staff recommends that consumers demand a refund of the purchase price from the importer or dealer due to the defective condition of the ATV.
The risk with these ATVs is severe because these vehicles are intended for children age 6 to 11. In many cases, youth riders are just learning how to operate an ATV and may not have the experience necessary to help them avoid hazards associated with this product's defects.
Kazuma Pacific has refused to provide complete incident or injury information for any of their products. Therefore, the government cannot determine how many children have been injured. Between December 2006 and May 2007, Kazuma Pacific has impeded CPSC's efforts to protect the safety of children, by refusing to implement a corrective action plan for this ATV.
Kazuma Pacificsold at least 2,700 Meerkat 50 ATVs andstated that they are continuing to sell the units that CPSC staff found to be defective. Kazuma dealers and Web retailers nationwide sold this ATV since 2003 for between $525 and $825.
CPSC staff is requesting that consumers immediately report any incidents involving the Kazuma Meerkat 50 to the CPSC Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or to the CPSC Web site at www.cpsc.gov.
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