Harley-Davidson Recalls About 250,000 Motorcycles for Brake Issues

Harley-Davidson is recalling about 250,000 encompassing several models over potential braking problems. According to Consumer Reports, the affected motorcycles are the 2008-2011 Touring, CVO Touring and VRSC models that are equipped with antilock brake systems or ABS. The problem is that the brakes in these vehicles can fail without warning. The problem can be fixed with a flushing of the brake fluid, which Harley-Davidson has said it will do without cost to the owners.

Details of the Recall

A recall filing by the company said it appears that the problem could be caused by owners who don’t comply with the recommendation to replace the fluid once every two years. The problem is that deposits may form on components within the brake system if the brake fluid is not replaced at the right time. These deposits may cause a valve within the ABS hydraulic control unit to stick, reducing braking ability and increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall was issued, the company said, because the sudden and complete loss of brakes without warning is a safety concern. So far, there have been 43 complaints, three accidents and two injuries in connection with motorcycles that had these braking problems. When the recall begins Feb. 12, dealers will flush the entire brake system with new brake fluid free of charge. Anyone with questions is asked to contact Harley-Davidson’s customer service at 1-800-258-2464 or visit safercar.gov.

Motorcycles and Braking Issues

Brake failure can be extremely dangerous for any vehicle, but it puts motorcyclists is an even more vulnerable position. Being unable to brake in time could result in a catastrophic or even deadly motorcycle accident. Some of the common injuries suffered by motorcyclists include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, multiple broken bones, internal organ damage and road rash.

If you are a Harley owner, it would be in your best interest to go on the safercar.gov website to check if your vehicle is on the recall list. If so, it would be in your best interest to take your motorcycle to the dealer so that the repairs are done. If you or a loved one has been injured or if you have lost a loved one as the result of a defective motorcycle, please remember that you have legal rights. You may be able to seek compensation for your damages by filing an auto product liability claim. A reputed auto defect law firm can assist you with your claim.

Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/recalls/harley-davidson-motorcycle-recall-brakes-abs/