Recall for 2008-2010 Honda ST1300

Honda is recalling certain 2009-2010 ST1300 sport touring motorcycles due to a risk of a brake fluid leakage.

According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the pre-formed hose supplying fluid from the rear brake reservoir to the rear brake master cylinder is routed in a way that puts it at risk of damage. When the Honda ST1300 is heavily loaded and ridden over rough surfaces, the rear suspension may bottom out, causing the hose to contact the swingarm.

Over a prolonged period, the hose may develop a leak, allowing air to enter the rear brake master cylinder, resulting in a spongy rear brake pedal and loss of braking performance.

American Honda first noticed the problem in February 2011 on three police-spec ST1300 units. An investigation determined the cause of the defect, leading to the recall campaign. Honda has received a total of four complaints regarding the rear brake reservoir hose on ST1300 units. One complaint reported a loss of rear brake function while the other three showed signs of wear on the hose.

Honda dealers will install a new rear brake reservoir hose which is formed and routed so as to prevent this problem.

The recall affects Honda ST1300 units produced from Nov. 15, 2007 to May 27, 2010, and ABS-equipped St1300A units produced Nov. 7, 2007 to April 6, 2010, as well as police-spec 1300PA units produced from Nov. 18, 2008 to Dec. 8, 2009. A total of 2,232 units are included in the recall campaign.

[Source: NHTSA, Campaign ID 11V356000]

By Dennis Chung