Piaggiohas announced that they are recalling severalmakes and modelsof motorcycles (Moto GuzziandAprilia) The recall stems from a potentially defective master cylinder that may cause the bike to slow or stop unexpectedly.

Two brands of Piaggo motorcycles affected

The affected motorcycles are as follows:

• 2016-2018 Moto Guzzi Audace 1400 and Eldorado 1400
• 2017-2018 Moto Guzzi California 1400
• 2017 Moto Guzzi MGX-21 Bagger
• 2013-2014 Aprilia Mana 850
• 2014-2016 Aprilia Dorsoduro 750
• 2018-2019 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900
• 2018 Aprilia Shiver 900 motorcycles
• 2018 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900

This recall affects 1,701 motorcycles in all.

Faulty front brake

According to the recall notice, “The front brake master cylinder may not have sufficient ineffective lever stroke”. “Ineffective stroke” is the initial part of the brake lever stroke that does not cause braking.

Apparently, a faulty front brake master cylinder may cause the front brake to drag or apply. This could cause the motorcycle to unexpectedly slow or stop completely. An additional concern is that the rear brake light is not activated when this occurs. This could increase the risk of a crash.

Piaggo’s recall provides a description to help owners understand if there is a problem. They say,

“If the vehicle is stopped it will be difficult to move by hand with the gearbox in the neutral position. If the vehicle is running it will progressively slow down or will require opening the throttle to maintain speed.”

Piaggio will notify owners of the affected machines. Affected owners should take their machines to a dealer who will inspect and if necessary, replace the front brake master cylinder free of charge.

The recall started on August 13, 2019. Owners of both brands of the motorcycle may contact Piaggio customer service at 212-380-4433 and reference recall PA2ZZQ1904. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4326 or go tosafercar.govand reference NHTSA safety campaign number 19V561000.