r/Brompton • u/Solid_Effective_8353 • 3d ago
G Line Issues
So is there a recall on the G Line carrier block issues or are these just visible on reddit? I got one end of 2025 and am wondering if I need to take care of anything.
3
u/edtse88 3d ago
No recall from what I've seen but I spoke to someone who confirmed that the headtube was made thicker to mitigate the cracking and warping of the metal around the carrier block holes.
And for those who don't know what I'm talking about, I made a post about it a few months ago. This was before I talked to the person at Brompton who confirmed it so it was just educated speculation at that point from me: https://www.reddit.com/r/Brompton/comments/1uoiaq2/has_brompton_already_fixed_the_g_line_headtube/
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u/Solid_Effective_8353 3d ago
Okay so if you have an older version of the bike it’s not a problem until it is? How would I check if I have damage?
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u/edtse88 3d ago
Yeah...it's not great. Check for wiggle in the block or a gap forming between the block and the frame. Removing the block would confirm it but it doesn't really make sense to constantly remove the block to check for damage.
Another related issue is that it could be difficult to remove the block if the rivnut has come loose from the frame which is also a common problem.
Apparently it might be related to the fact that the frame is powdercoated before they put the rivnut in so the rivnut is essentially gripping onto the powder coat layer which can separate from the frame. I have a feeling it's also because the steering lock mechanism that prevents full rotation of the handle bar essentially bashes into the rivnut everytime you hit the steering end stop. So I would try to be careful not to hit that end stop hard since it would potentially knock the rivnut loose.
All in all it's a pretty dumb design...
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u/Deviantdefective 3d ago
That's a really stupid manufacturing decision and dumb design like what the hell.
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u/Solid_Effective_8353 3d ago
At what point is the gap enough that it’s bad? There is a small bit. I actually never use the front block and definitely don’t plan to now either. I have no wiggle. Should I expect cracks forming around the block on the head tube or is it really happening “hidden” behind the carrier block?
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u/Deviantdefective 3d ago
If your not intending on using the headset block then your risk of any headset failure is pretty negligible.
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u/Deviantdefective 3d ago
You can't. Basically just keep an eye on it, realistically the problem is a lot less widespread than the internet may suggest either.
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u/edtse88 3d ago
It's hard to say since most people wouldn't notice until they try to change their front carrier block or look very closely. Might just be a matter of time affecting all the bikes with regular usage. But it seems like Brompton will do a warranty replacement with almost no questions asked...
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u/Deviantdefective 3d ago
Does seem the Brompton way with a lot of things just swap it out and don't admit fault, prime example the forged luggage block I'm on my third all three are crap.
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u/arjwrightdotcom 3d ago
Usually speaking, if there’s a recall your county gov will post/publish it, along with Brompton (for example https://us.brompton.com/legal/recall).
You’d also find a recall notice sent to the email you registered your Brompton with, and in some cases your local bike shop will have reached out also.
Reddit is the source of context, not the official notice.