BATO issues motorcycle tire recall

April 3, 2009

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports Bridgestone Americas Tire Operation (BATO) is recalling certain Bridgestone Exedra G850 G motorcycle tires, size 180/70R16 77H, sold as original equipment for model year 2008 and 2009 Triumph Rocket III Touring motorcycles.

The motorcycle to which these tires are applied develops very high torque and can cause torque-induced degradation in a body ply which may result in innerliner cracking that may lead to a slow leak in the rear tire.

The affected tires may begin to vibrate at moderate speeds. Continued use of a tire with this condition could lead to a vehicle crash.

BATO is working with Triumph to notify owners and the defective tires will be replaced free of charge.

Although the condition does not affect the front tires, they also will be replaced free due to the matching requirements of the motorcycle.

The safety recall is expected to begin this month. For more information, contact BATO at (800) 465-1904.