Since its introduction in 2015, the Yamaha YXF-R3 hasn’t exactly had a smooth ride. The early models have been plagued by as many recalls as their number of years on the market number of recalls, and their track record is about to get yet another stain. This time, owners are advised to leave the bike at home.
YAMAHA RECALL
On December 4, 2018, Yamaha issued a recall on the 2015-2016 YZF-R3 for a possibly faulty transmission torsion spring. According to the information posted by the NHTSA, 11,240 units in the United States are affected.
The company explains that the shift shaft torsion spring found within the transmission is at risk of breaking, which might make gear shifting difficult or even impossible. This presents an important safety hazard as it may place the rider in a dangerous situation: the shifter could feel loose and the rider could even find himself unable to change gears altogether—definitely not something you want to happen while cruising on the highway. In more extreme cases, the issue could cause the rider to lose control.
For that reason, Yamaha advises owners of the model years targeted by the recall to avoid riding on their motorcycle altogether until a visit to the dealer is scheduled. Affected vehicles will receive a new spring with a different design free of charge. The modified spring design should eliminate any future issues.
Owners of 2015 and 2016 R3 are invited to call Yamaha’s customer service at 1-800-962-7926 with their VIN close at hand to confirm whether their unit is part of the recall or not. Customers can also contact the NHTSA hotline at 1-888-327-4236 using campaign number 18V860000 to receive more information regarding this recall.
Source: NHTSA