Buell's Total Recall

BUELL'S TOTAL RECALL

IN A SHOCK MOVE, BUELL Motorcycles has recalled virtually all of its motorcycles produced between 1994 and 1999, a total of close to 19,000 units, of which approximately 12,400 were sold in North America.

The recall was initiated by Buell after a review of warranty data indicated several safety-related concerns. The problems run the gamut from minor (faulty sidestand switches, plugged fueltank vents) to potentially major

(defective swingarms and shock eyes, breakage-prone front motor mounts). Company officials are aware of no injuries resulting from the defects.

“It’s certainly an inconvenience for our customers and our dealers," says company founder Erik Buell. “But we’re going after these problems with an overall solution in mind, not just random

fixes. It's the right thing for the customer." Buell says parent company Harley-Davidson is fully behind the voluntary recall: “There was not a blink of an eye from Harley-all they wanted to know was what it would take to get things done.”

Buell Motorcycle Company has set aside a reserve of $5 million to cover the cost of warranty repairs. Though assembly lines will be down for a few weeks, Buell says the recall should not affect 1999’s production goal of 8000 units. -David Edwards