MMA Safety Alert: Suzuki Recalls More Than 200,000 GSX-Rs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) has learned that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall for Suzuki GSX-R Sport Bikes manufactured since 2004. This massive recall deals with corrosion of the brake piston inside the front brake master cylinder which could reduce front braking power. The MMA alerts all riders of Suzuki GSX-R Motorcycles to take notice since typically, more than 70% of your motorcycle's stopping power comes from the front brake!
The NHTSA recall notice identifies 210,228 potential units affected including 2004-2013 model year Suzuki GSX-R600, GSX-R750 and 2005-2013 GSX-R1000 models. Suzuki Motor of America responded in a letter dated October 18, 2013, describing the defect as a long-term deterioration of the brake fluid, which in turn absorbs moisture. The front brake master cylinder may not have uniform surface treatment leading to corrosion of the brake piston. The corrosion contributes to gasses in the reservoir which may not be "adequately purged from the master cylinder", and as the gas accumulates the brake lever "may develop a 'spongy' feel and stopping distances may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash."
Responding to customer complaints, the letter details the engineering behind the defect and the timeline of Suzuki Motor's investigation including the issuance of several Field Technical Information Reports (FTIR) which are related to the defect.. Suzuki further reports that they will replace the front brake master cylinder on affected models with a unit that has a redesigned reservoir and updated surface treatment on the brake piston, including several related parts. No issues have been reported with the rear brake cylinder and no known injuries have been reported to date.
Suzuki indicates that they will begin notifying owners in November, although owners may call Suzuki at 1-800-572-1490. (This number has been giving some callers issues, claiming "it is not available from your calling area." Suzuki Motor of America's Customer Service line is 714-572-1490.) Suzuki’s campaign id numbers for the recall are: 2A (31,32,33,34,35,36).
The specific NHTSA recall notice and Suzuki's response can be found here:
The MMA reminds all riders that they should perform regular maintenance on their motorcycles, and assure that brake fluid is changed periodically.
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