June 2009 Recall Notices

BMW is recalling 2009 K1300GT and K1300S motorcycles due to a problem with front brake hydraulics.

In certain riding conditions with high levels of vibration, the brake fluid in the front reservoir may foam, leading to reduced braking power. According to a document submitted by BMW to the NHTSA, rear brakes on the affected K1300GT and K1300S bikes do not have the same problem.

BMW has yet to provide the NHTSA with a solution to this problem. BMW also havent provided an estimate on the number of vehicles affected. The affected motorcycles were produced between Oct. 1 2008 and May 1, 2009.

The acorn stud at the brake reaction links of the affected motorcycles may fall out during use. Should this occur, the front brake and fender assembly would no longer be properly attached to the motorcycle.

Harley-Davidson discovered the flaw after receiving a report of a crash on Nov. 21, 2008 in which a rider received minor injuries. While investigating that accident, Harley-Davidson received another reported crash, this one with no injuries, caused by the same problem.

Dealers will replace the acorn stud on affected motorcycles with a new stud and a retaining clip. Potentially 11,005 motorcycles are included in the recall.

Ducati submitted a recall notice for 2009 1098R, 1198S and Streetfighter motorcycles. The right fork on affected motorcycles may have cracking and deformation at the wheel axle pinch bolt area.

In documents submitted to the NHTSA, Ducati reports the affected forks have an insufficient amount of material around the axle mount which can place excessive stress on the fork.

Ducati dealers will inspect affected motorcycles and if necessary, replace the entire fork with a new one with a stronger front axle mount. Potentially 732 motorcycles are affected by the recall.

Piaggio is recalling 2006-2008 BV500 and 2005-2007 X9 500 scooters due to a problem with the fuel pump assembly.

The hose connecting the fuel filter to the fuel pump may come loose, causing a drop or loss of fuel pressure to the engine. These parts are located inside the fuel tank so no signs of a fuel leak will be visible from the outside.

Dealers will replace the fuel hoses on affected scooters. Potentially 2,428 scooters are included in the recall.

Some Spyders may require more force than expected to adjust the handlebars to correct vehicle drift from a straight line path. This problem can cause the vehicle to overshoot and stray into other lanes.

BRP received 14 reports from dealers and Spyder owners about unexpectedly strong steering resistance.

Dealers will inspect and replace or repair the dynamic power steering systems on affected vehicles. Potentially 9,932 Can-Am Spyders are included in the recall.

Related Reading
2009 BMW K1300GT Review
2009 BMW K1300S Review
2008 Harley-Davidson FLSTSB Cross Bones Review
2009 Ducati Streetfighter Review
2009 Ducati 1198S Review
2009 Can-Am Spyder SE5 Review