Honda Australia has voluntarily recalled its CB500 models to check for oil leaks.
The recall notice says that due to “an incorrect procedure during manufacture” of the rocker arm shaft sealing bolt, it may come loose causing oil to leak from the CB500’s engine. “If the oil leak is undetected or unrepaired, loss of engine oil could cause engine failure or seizure,” the recall notice says.
Honda CB500ROwners of all Thai-made CB500 models are being asked to contact their Honda dealer to arrange for a bike inspection and the bolt replaced “as soon as possible”.
The bikes affected are:
- CBR500RA – MLHPC44U0D5000001 TO MLHPC44UXD5000829
- CBR500R – MLHPC44U0D5000189 TO MLHPC44U9D5000773
- CB500F – MLHPC44U2D5000012 TO MLHPC45U3D5000248
- CB500X – MLHPC46U4D5000001 TO MLHPC46U2D5000112
Recall notices are issued by the manufacturer through a voluntary industry code under the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. 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.