Archive for the ‘motorcycle safety’ Category

It is time to check you motorcycle helmet!

At least once a year you should check your helmet to make sure everything is right and correct.  As the month of April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety month, now is a good time to do the checks.

What are the things you need to check?  Here are the minimum things you need to look for:

1) Is the shell all in one piece? No cracks or splits?

2) Are the straps and connectors in good shape, no adverse wear or tear?

3) The internal padding is connected and stays in place?

4) Remove the padding and check the foam.  Is it dented or have cracks?

5) While looking at the foam, most companies place a sticker printed with the helmet’s birthday. Is it over 5 years old?

6) Does the rest of the internals look in good operating condition?

7) Check the visor for damage that might obscure your vision can you see clearly?

8) Are the screws or other visor attachments tight?

9) Make sure that insects/creatures are not living in your helmet, see the photos below!

Checklist item 5 is the 5-year rule.  Most manufactures recommend that after 5 years you replace your helmet.  While the cynical among us will cite the “more money” theory of why they want it replaced ,there is evidence that the foam lining (the part that does most of the work in a crash) does deteriorate over time. It is your head, so it is your decision to replace or not if everything looks good.

That little red spot on the inside of the helmet below… is a Black Widow Spider!

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24E029000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain BMW motorcycle dealer accessory side cases, designed to fit R1300 GS motorcycles, with part number: 77 41 9 444 361/362. The side case latch hooks may not snap properly into the lock, which can result in the case lid opening, and possibly detaching from the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will repair the locking mechanism and hinges of the side cases, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V221000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Kawasaki Motor Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 ZX400S and ZX400P (2023 Ninja ZX-4RR KRT Edition, 2024 Ninja ZX-4R, and 4RR) motorcycles. The spark plugs may have been damaged during the vehicle manufacturing process, which can result in unstable idling, hesitation, and engine stalling.

Remedy Dealers will replace all four spark plugs, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC’s number for this recall is MC27-04.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V216000

Manufacturer LIVEWIRE EV, LLC

Components SUSPENSION

Summary LiveWire EV, LLC (LiveWire) is recalling certain 2024 S2DM (S2 Del Mar) motorcycles. The rear axle and lower shock joint nuts may not have been properly tightened.

Remedy Dealers will inspect, tighten any loose nuts and replace damaged components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2024. Owners may contact LiveWire customer service at 1-855-387-4337. LiveWire’s number for this recall is 1002.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V177000

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Speed Triple RS, and Speed Triple RR motorcycles. The engine may overheat and cause the fan motor to fail, resulting in a coolant leak.

Remedy Dealers will replace the original engine software calibration with a new version, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 26, 2024. Owners may contact Triumph customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 62

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V165000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components SUSPENSION

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 R 1250RT, K 1600GT, K 1600GTL, and K 1600B motorcycles. The front spring strut may contain an incorrectly manufactured proportional valve that can loosen, and result in strut failure and a loss of stability.

Remedy Dealers will inspect the strut production dates and replace the front spring struts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24E020000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain BMW Motorcycle Dealer Accessory Top cases, designed for R 1300 GS motorcycles, and with part number 77 43 9 443 542. The dealer accessory top case locking flap may not function correctly, which can result in the top case detaching from the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will repair the locking mechanism of the top case and provide an insert for the rider’s manual regarding the locking mechanism, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

*****

Spring is here, and your motorcycle is beckoning you to hit the open road.

Before you embark on your two-wheeled adventures, take a moment to prepare your bike for the riding season. While the T-CLOCS (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stands) inspection is essential, let’s delve into some often-overlooked recommendations:

  1. Check Your Gear:
    • Retrieve your riding gear from storage. It might have been sitting in your saddlebag for months.
    • Clean your gear thoroughly. Run it through the wash or clean it by hand.
    • Apply water repellent or waterproofing for added protection.
  2. Inspect Your Helmet:
    • Your helmet deserves special attention. Start by cleaning the exterior. Those bugs from 2023 should be easy to remove by now.
    • Remove and clean the interior padding following the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Don’t forget to check every nook and cranny for any unwelcome guests—SPIDERS (not the Can-Am species).
  3. Evaluate and Replace Gear:
    • Take a close look at your riding gear. Are your helmet and gloves still in good condition?
    • Remember, you are responsible for your own safety. If something isn’t right, repair or replace it promptly.
  4. Give Your Motorcycle a “Colonoscopy”:
    • If you didn’t adequately prepare your bike for winter, it’s time to peek up your tailpipe. Make sure nothing is living in your exhust.
    • Inspect all areas for leaks and ensure everything is in ship shape.
  5. Give your bike a rub down: Happy ending optional!
    • Give it a good wipe down to clean off the dust and debris that adhered to your bike over winter.
    • Now is a good time to give your motorcycle a waxing to help preserve the paint.
  6. Restock your saddlebags or backpack:
    • If you pack a first aid kit replace what you used last year or what is now expired.
    • Sunscreen and ChapStick…might want to swap them out for new.
    • That candy bar you had for an emergency snack, go ahead, and eat it now and put a new one in its place.
  7. Review the owner’s manual:
    • Get yourself reacquainted with the bike.
  8. Check your insurance:
    • Did you stop or reduce your insurance on the motorcycle over the winter? Give a quick call to your agent to get your insurance up to date.
  9. Remind yourself about PANIC STOPS:
    • Find an unused bit of road or parking lot, get up to speed and BREAK HARD! Get that feeling about what you and your motorcycle will do when you must make a sudden stop.
    • Ride with a passenger? Then run this exercise with them on the bike as well. It is best to know how it feels in a controlled environment before you really need to do it. OH, check your breaks before you do this to make sure they are good to go.

This is not an all-inclusive checklist or recommendations, I am sure each of you can add more items, but it can get you started for the new riding season. Remember, a well-prepped motorcycle, and rider, ensures both safety and enjoyment during the riding season.

Ride on, ride safe

 🏍️

2024 Michelin Two-Wheel Spring Promotion

I have never used Michelin products so I have no opinion on how well they work. But if you like there products this is a decent rebate. This rebate offer appears to limited to the United States.

Get a $80 Visa Reward Card via mail-in rebate with the purchase of two (front and rear) qualifying MICHELIN Cruiser Motorcycle tires.

Get a $60 Visa Reward Card via mail-in rebate with the purchase of two (front and rear) other qualifying MICHELIN On-Road and Road Racing Motorcycle tires. 

Get a $40 Visa Reward Card via mail-in rebate with the purchase of two (front and rear) qualifying MICHELIN Off-Road Motorcycle tires 

Offer Valid 3/1/24 – 3/31/24

For more information click here!

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

BTW I had never heard of Cake 0 motorcycles either!

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V038000

Manufacturer Suzuki Motor USA, LLC

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2024 GSX1300R motorcycles. The brake fluid pipe flare nut for the brake fluid supply line may have been tightened incorrectly and cause a brake fluid leak.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and tighten the brake pipe flare nut connection and adjust the brake fluid level, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 5, 2024. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-714-542-1490. Suzuki’s number for this recall is 3A01.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V904000

Manufacturer Cake 0 Emission USA Inc

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Cake 0 Emission USA Inc (Cake) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Kalk, Kalk Ink, and Kalk work motorcycles. The lithium-ion battery cells can fail while charging.

Remedy Cake will replace the battery pack, free of charge. As an interim action, owners will be instructed to check their battery serial number and if necessary, follow interim charging instructions until the remedy battery is available. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed January 19, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available, anticipated March 2024. Owners may contact Cake customer service at service@ridecake.com.

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V884000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 BMW R 18B and R 18 Transcontinental motorcycles. The headlight low beam attachment points may break, shifting the reflector out of position, and resulting in insufficient illumination. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”

Remedy The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V856000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components VISIBILITY

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (Bombardier) is recalling certain 2023 Can-Am F3 and F3-S motorcycles. The rearview mirror lens may dislodge from the housing.

Remedy Dealers will install new mirror assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 22, 2024. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222. Bombardier’s number for this recall is Bulletin 2023-9. This recall is an expansion of Recall 23V-053.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V855000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Potential Number of Units Affected 10,969

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (Bombardier) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Can-Am Ryker motorcycles. The impeller may swell, causing the high-pressure fuel pump to fail.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 22, 2024. Owners may contact Bombardier customer service at 1-888-272-9222. Bombardier’s number for this recall is Bulletin 2023-10

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V836000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, STRUCTURE

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2023 FLHXSE (Street Glide CVO) motorcycles. The motorcycle may react unexpectedly and become difficult to control when traveling at certain high speeds, especially on rough roads or through wind gusts.

Remedy Dealers will update the engine control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 22, 2023. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0185.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V829000

Manufacturer Indian Motorcycle Company

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2023 Chieftain Elite, 2023-2024 Chieftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Dark Horse Icon, Chieftain Limited, Chieftain, Roadmaster Limited, Roadmaster Dark Horse, Roadmaster, Springfield, Springfield Dark Horse, and 2024 Roadmaster Elite motorcycles. The crankshaft position sensor may have been routed improperly, which can result in an engine stall.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and reroute, or replace the crankshaft position sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 28, 2023. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian’s number for this recall is I-23-07.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V820000

Manufacturer Ducati North America

Components SEATS

Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2016-2023 XDiavel S and XDiavel STD motorcycles. The passenger backrest may break if it is installed incorrectly or used incorrectly by the passenger.

Remedy  Dealers will inspect the passenger backrest installation, tighten the screws as necessary, and also apply a warning sticker on the component, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 9, 2024. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s number for this recall is SRV-RCL-23-005.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

Winter in the northern hemisphere is approaching fast, maybe faster then you can ride your motorcycle south, chasing the sun! On top of that there is great concern that the winter in the Unites States may be worse than normal because of an El Nino jet stream pulling damp air and turning it into snow. Just look a few post in the past to see we had a winter ride already this year.

If you want or “need” to ride in winter here are some tips to help you prepare for the conditions.  However, always look at the level of risk to reward before you ride out.

  1. Wear appropriate gear: Dress in layers to keep yourself warm and dry. Wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer to protect yourself from the elements. Don’t forget to wear gloves, boots, and a helmet that covers your face. If you can make a lot of that gear heated even better! If you can make your base layers synthetic and not cotton as cotton does not dry fast and you do not want to be wet in the winter.
  2. Check your tires: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to provide good traction on slippery roads. Racing slicks will not help you much on snow or ice.
  3. Use the right oil: Use oil that is designed for cold weather. This will help your engine start more easily and run more smoothly. I am a big fan of synthetic oil which seems to work better in winter, IMHO.
  4. Warm up your bike: Let your bike warm up for a few minutes before you start riding. This will help the engine run more smoothly and reduce the risk of stalling.
  5. Be cautious: Be extra cautious when riding in winter conditions. Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Folks in cars don’t look for us in summer I am sure they will look even less in winter.
  6. Avoid sudden movements: Avoid sudden movements like hard braking or accelerating quickly. This can cause your tires to lose traction and lead to an accident.
  7. Watch out for black ice: Black ice is difficult to see and can be very dangerous. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, and shady areas.
  8. Stay visible: Wear bright and reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to other drivers. This is one of the reasons I run Custom Dynamic lights, they are extra bright. There are also other options such as adding reflective tape to your clothing and even helmet.
  9. Stay alert: Riding in winter conditions requires extra attention and focus. Stay alert and be prepared for unexpected situations.

It is possible to ride your motorcycle in winter and even with there is snow and ice on the ground. You just have to be very careful as you only have two wheels to handle the conditions. As I mentioned above always weigh the risk vice the reward before heading out on a cold winter day.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe! 🏍️

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

Manufacturer CFMOTO POWERSPORTS

Components SERVICE BRAKES, AIR, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary CFMOTO POWERSPORTS, INC. (CFMOTO) is recalling certain 2022-2023 700CL-X motorcycles. The ABS control module software settings may delay braking when the hand brake lever is squeezed two or more times, and therefore lengthen the distance required to stop the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will update the ABS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 27, 2023. Owners may contact CFMOTO customer service Toll Free at (888) 8-CFMOTO (283-6686) or at 1-763-398-2690; or via email at info@cfmotousa.com. CFMOTO’s number for this recall is WAR-2023-07 and is available online at www.cfmotousa.com.

*****

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2020 Rocket 3 TFC, 2020-2024 Rocket 3 R, Rocket 3 GT, 2022 Rocket 3 GT Triple Black, and Rocket 3 R Black motorcycles. The rear brake master cylinder may fail to move fluid through the system properly, requiring an extended distance to stop.

Remedy Dealers will replace the rear brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023. Owners may contact Triumph’s customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 611.

 *****

Ride On, Ride Safe

santa gifts

Why just 9 ideas for your motorcyclist?  Because 10 is too much work!!  LOL

Your biker/motorcyclist, deep down, wants some motorcycle related stuff.  Any parts or accessories for the bike or new gear for them will likely work, but here are a few other items to think about. If you have some different ideas include them in the comments!

9 – Communication Gear – There are several options out there that will allow your motorcycle rider to talk to a group of other riders, listen to music or answer your phone call.  Sena and Cardio are two of the more popular brands.

8 – Battery Tender – Winter is coming and if your rider has to lock away the motorcycle a battery tender will keep the battery fresh all winter.  preparing motorcycle for winter | I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!!.

7 – Cleaning equipment – Take a look at your riders cleaning equipment.  Does it look worn and tattered? Consider replacing their current equipment for new cleaning equipment.  For those times you just want to clean the bike quickly between rides I use and recommend Bugslide.  I am not paid by, but I do endorse Bugslide.

6 – Recording equipment – A GoPro or similar type of device to record their rides.

5 – New riding gear – Do their riding gloves look ratty?  What about their boots or jackets?  Now might be a good time to gift them with new motorcycle riding gear.

4 – Motorcycle related books – There are a lot of them out there.  I just finished reading the memoir of Willie G. Davidson, grandson of the founders of Harley Davison. You can read my review here.

3 – Their bike on something –  and I am not talking about crack or meth.  There are a lot of companies that will take a photo of their motorcycle and put it on mugs, pillows, t-shirts and even make it into a 3d Christmas ornament.

2 – Custom Dynamics Motorcycle Lights – Custom Dynamics makes SUPER BRIGHT, eye catching lights for many motorcycle models. I suggest their ProBeam LED Motorcycle Turn Signals!  I have had them on 3 motorcycles and highly recommend them.  As before, I am not getting paid to promote these motorcycle lights, I just believe in them.

1 – Membership – Motorcyclist need to make sure their rights are not trampled upon.  There are two good groups that help preserve those rights.  Sign your rider up for either or both!

American Motorcycle Association – Membership does not only help in the political arena but also include discounts on products and emergency towing.  The AMA is the largest motorcycle lobbyist group.

Motorcycle Rider Foundation – In addition to their pro-motorcycle lobbying efforts membership will get you a $4000 AD&D insurance policy and regular weekly/monthly updates on what is going on in Washington DC.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So safety first.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V672000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2023 FLHXSE and FLTRXSE motorcycles. The rear brake line may not be secured properly, allowing it to chafe against the exhaust pipe, which can result in a brake fluid leak.

Remedy Dealers will replace the rear brake line clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0184.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E074000

Manufacturer Zero Motorcycles Inc.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain accessory chain kits, with part numbers 10-08127 and 10-08140. The included installation instructions are incorrect and if followed, may lead to eventual dislocation of the motor shaft magnet while riding.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and repair the motorcycles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 30, 2023. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero’s number for this recall is SV-RCL-023-014.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V666000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2023 X350 RA motorcycles. The fuel sensor may leak fuel.

Remedy Dealers will replace the fuel sensor gasket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 23, 2023. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0183.

 *****

Ride On, Ride Safe

*****