Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Recalled for Hot Exhaust

The latest recall from the NHTSA concerns the 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP motorcycle – and no, it’s not what you think – Big Red’s superbike isn’t getting recalled for its absurdly long name.

Instead, the Fireblade SP is being recalled because the exhaust pipe may overheat, which could lead to the oil cooler pipe melting and possibly rupturing.

This might increase the chance of a crash, injury, or fire, which necessitates today’s recall notice to the affected 311 owners of the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in the USA.

According to to recall documents, under certain driving conditions, such as when the motorcycle is following behind a vehicle or when riding in first gear and above 5,000 rpm for extended period of time, the exhaust pipe may not receive sufficient airflow and cooling.

If this happens, excessive radiated heat from the exhaust pipe could melt and rupture the oil cooler pipe.

To remedy the situation, Honda dealers will replace the oil cooler pipe and install a heat guard between the exhaust pipe and oil cooler pipe, free of charge.

The new heat guard will be used going forward in production of the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, starting in March 2022.

Letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 1, 2022. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available.

In the interim, Fireblade SP owners are advised not to ride their motorcycle above 5,000 RPM in 1st gear until the recall repair is complete. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KN3.

As always, the NHTSA is also available at 1-888-327-4236 and safercar.gov

Source: NHTSA