BMW Recalling 2,385 Motorcycles for Kickstand Problem

BMW is recalling 2,385 of its 2012-13 motorcycles to keep gravity from having its way with them.

In a report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, BMW said the kickstand on its S 1000 RR models could fail, allowing the $15,000 motorcycle to topple over.

BMW told the safety agency that the problem was that the attachment threads were not properly cleaned. So the remaining bits of metal could allow the bolts to loosen and the kickstand could separate from the frame.

BMW told the agency it had its first report of a problem in March followed by five more in June and July. “Given the low number of warranty claims and the long period of time in which the claims were received,” BMW said it continued to “monitor” the situation.

Following some additional reports in Germany – as well as in the United States – BMW began investigating in October, found the cause and concluded a recall was needed.

BMW described the recall as “voluntary,” but once a manufacturer finds a safety problem it has five business days to inform the safety agency of its plan for a recall or face civil fines.

_____________________________
Source: The New York Times (Jensen, 12/28)