Honda builds some inspiring motorcycles, ranging from smooth-driving machines to thrilling off-roaders. These cycles can reach breathtakingly fast speeds. However, one Honda model has a serious problem. The automaker recently issued a recall of certain off-road motorcycles. Which ones are affected, and what is the problem?

Which Honda motorcycles are affected? 

The recall, which Honda issued on April 29, affects approximately 536 units. The affected motorcycles are red and have the model number CRF450R, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports. Honda asks that owners check their bikes to see if they meet the requirements of the repair. 

If you have a Honda CRF450R, you’ll find the model number printed on a label on both sides of the bike. Then check the vehicle identification number. To find the VIN, locate the head tube frame, which is behind the suspension fork. You’ll find the number on a label there.  

According to Nasdaq, if the first six digits of your VIN fall between 400223 and 401056, your cycle is at risk for a serious issue that could harm you or someone else nearby. Honda Powersports dealerships nationwide sold these cycles from August 2020 to March 2021 for about $9,600 each. 

What’s the problem with these models?

It appears that while a rider is operating one of the affected motorcycles, the drive chain could break without warning. If that happens, the bike would immediately lose the driving force that propels it. 

The drive chain connects the rear wheel to the transmission. Therefore, if the chain breaks, you could lose control and crash. It increases not only your risk of serious injury but also others around you if the problem occurs at higher speeds. 

Honda learned of the problem through two owner reports. The owners said the drive chain broke while they were riding their motorcycles. However, no one sustained injured in those incidents. 

What you should do if your Honda motorcycle is under this recall

Honda will contact registered owners to let them know of the repair. If you think you own one of the affected models and haven’t heard anything from the automaker, you can check with the dealership that sold you the bike. 

Honda Manufacturing requests that you contact an authorized Powersports dealer to set up an appointment to fix your motorcycle as soon as possible. Honda also recommends you don’t ride it until the repair is complete. 

To find out more information about the recall or check if your model is under recall, call American Honda toll-free at 866-784-1870 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday. 

The dealership will make the drive chain repair free of charge if your motorcycle is part of the recall. Though you could repair your own chain, it’s best to have a professional handle this one, especially because it won’t cost you anything.