KTM Austria informed us that there is a change in the status of the triple clamp recall. It is an unfortunate situation but KTM takes their customers safety very seriously. The initial recall procedure was developed based on all the evidence available to the factory at the time of the announcement. Being a safety related defect and to avoid possible injury to the KTM owner the factory did not have the luxury to wait to gather further evidence before acting and inspecting.
In the last two weeks further clamp failure evidence has been presented to KTM. This evidence points to possible problems in the composition of the alloy mix used in the casting process from their suppliers. Previously the metallurgy testing suggested failures in the heat treatment process after casting.
Based on this new evidence the initial recall inspection procedure may not guaranty 100% rectification.
KTM do not make these decisions lightheartedly and the investments made in the last six weeks of the initial worldwide recall (replacement clamps, dealer labour allowances etc) are already substantial (as in millions of $). KTM will honour all previous dealer inspection payments worldwide to date and also our dealer network will be subsidised for this new replacement advice.
The new recall involves replacement of the lower triple clamp on all the following motorcycles:
2003* models imported into Australia.
2 Stroke: 200EXC / 250 EXC / 300 EXC
Racing fourstroke: 250 / 450 SX & EXC / 525 SX & EXC
Also 18 of the *2002 model 640 Adventure motorcycles.
None of these motorcycles should be ridden again until replacement as there is possibility of lower clamp failure and serious injury.
The factory advised us that there are currently 500 new replacement lower triple clamps in the air as of yesterday and we have received notification that the balance required will be shipped within the week. We are confident that replacements can commence as early as next Wednesday at your dealers and there should be minimal delays.
We are working very hard in co-coordinating this new situation and also with the relevant government agencies to ensure that all our obligations are met in dealing with a Vehicle Safety Recall.
We sincerely apologise for this inconvenience but KTM wishes to guarantee your safety!
Please contact your dealer to organise bookings for the clamp replacement.
KTM Australia
Technical Service Manager