There were 28 safety recalls in 2017 in Australia for motorcycle, ATV and scooter faults which is the lowest number since 2014.
There were 39 official safety recalls in 2016 which was the biggest number in five years: 30 in 2015, 28 in 2014, 20 in 2013, 24 in 2012 and only 16 in 2011.
The increase in safety recalls seems to mainly affect new models and could be the result of companies bringing these models to the market too soon in an effort to attract new buyers.
2017 safety recalls
Yamaha led the pack with four recalls, and Honda and Suzuki three each, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
That’s to be expected because they are the top-selling brands in the market.
However, seventh-top-selling brand Triumph also had three recalls.
BMW, Ducati, Indian, Kawasaki, KTM and Victory had two each, despite the fact that Victory ceased production in February. Harley and Husqvarna had one each.
Common failures
The most common failure was an engine stalling issue caused by electrical and/or physical reasons. Other major recalls were for suspension failures, fuel and oil leaks, and transmission failures.
One of the most concerning was non-compliance issues with the brakes, steering and electrics in cheap Chinese mini-bikes and scooters destined for children and novice riders.
Surprisingly, Yamaha recalled its Raptor 90 ATV because there was asbestos in the brakes despite the noxious material being banned in most countries for about two decades.
Like many of the recalls, it seems to be an issue wth component suppliers, rather than the manufacturer.
While most recalls are issued quickly, some take a long time to become official.
Two of the longest-awaited recalls were for the BMW R 1200 GS models with front suspension failures and Husqvarna’s now-defunct Strada and Terra with engine stalling problems.
Husqvarna TerraMotorbike Writer publishes all safety recalls even when motorcycle and scooter companies contact the owner. That is in case the vehicle has been sold to another rider that the company does not know.
YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS ON RECALLS
Recall notices are issued by the manufacturer through a voluntary industry code under the ACCC.
Despite hundreds of recalls by various automotive manufacturers, none has ever been mandatory. All have been issued by the manufacturer.
While any recall is not good news for the manufacturer, it shows that they are largely diligent in fixing problems.
If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:
• USA
• UK
• Canada