ACCC issues recall on big Indian models

An official ACCC recall has now been issued on all big Indian cruisers and baggers from 2014-19 over a problem with the gear position indicator.

Indian Motorcycle Australia confirmed on November 13 that they were working with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) who have only now posted it.

Some 52,745 bikes were recalled over the issue in the US and 2060 bikes will be recalled in Australia.

They are model years 2014-19: Chief, Chief Classic, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Vintage, Springfield, Springfield Dark Horse, Chieftain, Chieftain Classic, Chieftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Limited, Chieftain Elite, Roadmaster, Roadmaster Classic and Roadmaster Elite.

The full list of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) of affected vehicles is listed at the end of this article.

What’s the issue?

Indian says the gear indicator switch could oxidise and show an incorrect gear which is not a huge issue.

However, it may also show it is in neutral when it is actually in gear.

That could cause the bike to stall or suddenly move forward if the rider lets the clutch out.

Replacement parts are not available until early 2020.

The recall notice says:

Indian Motorcycle is currently evaluating a comprehensive repair for this recall and will contact consumers when it is available. Indian Motorcycle will notify consumers of the recall and in late December will write and update consumers on the recall repair timeline. In the interim, if a gear position concern is identified, or you do not feel comfortable riding your motorcycle, please contact your Indian Motorcycle dealer and arrange for an inspection to be completed free of charge. If you have questions please contact Polaris Customer Service on 03 9394 5610 (Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.30pm, excluding Victorian public holidays)

It is the first recall notice for Indian this year.

In 2018, they had three recalls: Scout models for brake issues; some Thunderstroke-powered models for  faulty right switchblocks; and Roadmaster for a lack of waterproofing in the rear top box.

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