BMW North America has announced a recall of thousands of motorcycles due to a possible defect that could cause a fuel leakage and a fire.
The recall is affecting approximately 50,184 model year 2005-2011 R-model motorcycles, 2005-2012 K-model motorcycles, 2010-2011 S 1000 model motorcycles and 2006-2010 HP 2 motorcycles. According to the company, there is a defect in these motorcycles that could cause cracks to develop in the fuel pump flange, and as a result, the flange may leak fuel. This could easily pose a serious fire risk.
All owners of the motorcycles that are included in this recall are being asked to visit their local dealers to either replace the pump, or reinforce the flange free of charge.
Riding a well- functioning, well- maintained motorcycle is key to staying safe when riding. Motorcyclists are already at danger of being injured in accidents, caused by other motorists’ negligence, and adverse road conditions, and other factors. Riding a motorcycle that is not 100% safe to ride simply increases your risk of being involved in an accident.
However, it must be noted that most motorcycle accidents that are recorded in the United States every year are not caused due to defective or malfunctioning motorcycle components. Several studies have established that the biggest factor in motorcycle accidents is the failure of motorists to yield to a motorcycle. Motorists often fail to look out for motorcyclists, especially at intersections and other busy areas, and the result is very often a collision that leaves the motorcyclist seriously injured.
Motorcyclists may be at a higher risk of being injured when they are involved in an accident with an automobile, compared to the people in the car. With more motorcycles in California roads now, motorists must take greater precautions and look out for motorcyclists on the road.