I Report Motorcycle Recalls Too

I used to compile Motorcycle Recalls in my former job. I liked to get them on the site as soon as they appeared in the NHTSA database. I can't do that anymore and it bothers me. I did keep track of the recall numbers that I was unable to post. Since some of these are pretty serious, I just felt compelled tonight to tell you about them:

2007 H-D Sportster XL1200C, L, R; XL50; XL883, XL883C, L, R

Recall # 06V476000 on December 14, 2006 affects 18,758 motorcycles.

Summary: On certain motorcycles, as a result of a greater body thickness than used in previous model years, the voltage regulator may contact the front fender under certain conditions. In some cases this contact may allow the front fender to catch on the top side of the regulator body which could impede the operator's ability to steer the vehicle.

Consequence: This could result in a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.

Remedy: Dealers will install an intermediate mounting bracket that will relocate the voltage regulator to a position which provides more clearance from the front fender. Harley-Davidson has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson at 1-414-343-4056.

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2006 Ducati ST3, ST3 ABS

Recall # 06V485000 on December 11, 2006 affects 468 motorcycles.

Summary: On certain motorcycles, the fuel sending unit wiring cables installed during production could be routed incorrectly possibly coming in contact with the exhaust.

Consequence: This condition will burn out the cables insulation and cause a possible electrical short circuit stopping the fuel pump and consequently stopping the engine. If the engine stops while the motorcycle is being driven, it could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the fuel sending unit wiring cables and reposition them if necessary. The recall is expected to begin during January 2007. Owners may contact Ducati at 1-408-253-0499.

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2006 BMW R1200GS and GS Adventure

Recall # 06V486000 on December 8, 2006 affects 144 motorcycles.

Summary: On certain motorcycles, the tire inflation valve hole in the rim of the cross-spoke wheel which is equipped with the optional tire pressure monitoring system (TPM) was incorrectly manufactured. A leak may develop at this location possibly causing sudden deflation of the tire.

Consequence: If this happened, motorcycle handling and control would be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will temporarily deactivate the TPM system, remove the corresponding valves and integral TPM sensors, and then replace them with standard valves. When a permanent repair is available, owners will be notified to bring their vehicles in for reactivation of the TPM system and replacement of the integral TPM sensors and valves. The recall is expected to begin during late December 2006 or early January 2007. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-331-1117.

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2007 H-D FXDWG and 2006 H-D FXDWGI

Recall # 06V474000 on December 12, 2006 affects 10,397 motorcycles.

Summary: On certain motorcycles, the internally wired handlebars have a potential to crack at the hole where the wires exit the handlebars between the handlebar clamps.

Consequence: Should these cracks progress to the point of breaking the handlebar into two pieces, a loss of control could result which could cause a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the handlebar with one with a greater wall thickness and with a wire exit hole that has a shape that reduces stress concentration. Harley-Davidson has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson at 1-414-342-4680.
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There. I feel better.