American Honda is recalling 7,492 units of its CRF1100L Africa Twin due to a defect in the left handlebar switch assembly that could result in the loss of horn and headlight beam control. The recall affects select 2020–2022 and 2024–2025 models.

According to documentation filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from fretting corrosion at the terminal joints of the left handlebar switch harness. During normal vehicle operation, movement of the handlebars causes the harness to bend repeatedly at these joints. Over time, this repeated motion leads to small, localized shifts — a phenomenon known as fretting wear — which promotes the formation of oxide on the contact surfaces. This buildup, referred to as fretting corrosion, can disrupt the electrical connection and result in continuity failures within the harness.

In practical terms, riders may experience intermittent or complete loss of horn function and the inability to switch the headlight from low beam to high beam. Obviously this defect poses a safety risk in traffic or low-visibility conditions.

To address the problem, Honda has redesigned the component, eliminating the use of joint terminals in the harness. The updated part will be implemented starting with the production of 2026 CRF1100 Africa Twin motorcycles on September 17, 2025.

Models affected:

Remedy

Honda will replace the left handlebar switch assembly with a redesigned part that eliminates the problematic joint terminals. Repairs will be performed free of charge.

If you think your bike might be affected, you can call Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870 and mention recall number KS8. Or check with NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or nhtsa.gov using recall number 25V583.