Royal Enfield of North America is recalling certain Himalayan motorcycles due to a corrosion-related issue that can affect braking performance. It is estimated that a total of 4,891 bikes from model years 2017-2021 are affected by the recall filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to the defect report, the brake calipers of affected motorcycles can corrode when used on roads treated with large quantities of salt to prevent formation of ice during winter. If the calipers are not thoroughly cleaned thereafter, corrosion damage can cause a decrease or total loss of brake function.

Royal Enfield states that owners should be wary of warning signs such as unusual and/or increased brake noise when applying brakes, an unusual odor/burning smell near the calipers, a drag feeling when attempting to accelerate, or unusual difficulty in pushing the motorcycle manually.

The recall was triggered after the problem was reported by a customer in the UK and the cause of the issue was identified. Royal Enfield North America has received no reports of the potential defect occurring in the US and currently believes that the conditions that led to the potential defect in foreign countries are not present to the same extent in the United States. However, the manufacturer states they have decided to move forward with this voluntary recall “in the interest of our customers and the unlikely event this may occur in the United States.”

Models Affected:

How To Get It Fixed

Royal Enfield North America, through its authorized dealers, is offering owners of potentially affected motorcycles the complete replacement of the current non-anodized brake calipers (front and rear) with anodized calipers free of charge. The company will begin notifying the affected customers regarding the recall through mail starting the week of February 6th, 2023. 

Owners may also contact Royal Enfield’s customer service at 1-262-617-2129 (recall number: SC-28). Alternatively, owners can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.nhtsa.gov.