I would probably take your bike in this winter to have this look at if you have a model that is affected. Read below.
American Honda is recalling certain 2001-to-2010 and 2012 GL1800 Gold Wings due to a braking problem. The potential number of units affected is about 126,000.
Under certain conditions, the combined braking system’s secondary master cylinder may cause the rear brake to drag. Unexpected braking increases the risk of a crash, and riding the motorcycle with the rear brake dragging may generate enough heat to cause the rear brake to catch fire.
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the secondary master cylinder and, if necessary, replace it for free. The recall is expected to begin on or about Jan. 4. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 866-784-1870.
In addition the government-distributed recall notice, American Honda has issued a press release that explains the problem in more detail:
The compensating port hole inside the secondary master cylinder (part of the combined-braking system) can become blocked due to (1) stacking of tolerances in manufacturing and (2) sufficient swelling of the primary pressure cup inside the master cylinder. If the compensating port hole becomes completely blocked, the rear wheel brake caliper can drag after the rider releases the brake input. If this occurs, the rear brake temperature and pressure progressively increase.
Honda says dealers will immediately receive a transmittal of complete repair instructions. Replacement secondary master cylinders in the U.S. will initially be made available through American Honda’s dealer technical support hotline. Upon approval by NHTSA, American Honda will mail letters to all registered owners, and also post a copy of the letter on powersports.honda.com. Target dates for website posting are before the end of December, and mail receipt by registered customers should occur before the end of January, the company says.




