2012-2013 Moto Guzzi Griso, Norge, Stelvio NTX Rear Suspension Recall

Earlier this month, we wrote about a recall in Canada for the 2012-2013 Moto Guzzi Griso, Norge GT 8V and Stelvio NTX 1200 8V because of a problem with their rear suspension systems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has also announced recall for the U.S. market, revealing more information about the issue. (Update: a similar recall has been announced for the U.K., also including the Moto Guzzi 1200 Sport and Bellagio, neither of which is offered in the U.S.)

According to documents released by NHTSA, the rear suspension double connecting rod could fracture because of a manufacturing fault during the extrusion phase. The defect in the extrusion process may have compromised the structural reliability of the double connecting rod. Under certain circumstances, the part could fracture, causing a rear suspension failure.

Warning signs of an impending problem include an increase in vibration and a decrease in rear suspension travel.

Three cases were reported from outside the U.S.

According to the documents submitted by Piaggio, there have been three reported cases of a double connecting rod fracturing. None of the reports resulted in accidents or injuries. No related failures or warranty claims have been reported from the U.S.

Moto Guzzi dealers will replace the rear suspension connecting links on the affected units. The U.S. recall affects 680 units in total: 262 units of the Stelvio NTX, 156 of the Norge and 262 of the Griso.

A similar recall has also been announced for the U.K. by the Vehicle & Operator Services Agency. The U.K. recall also applies to the 1200 Sport and the Bellagio, two Moto Guzzi models not currently available in the U.S.

[Source: NHTSA, VOSA]

By Dennis Chung