Summary
The Honda CBR1000RR (Fireblade) has 9 recalls spanning 2004 to 2021, with the most serious recent issues on 2021 models where a misinstalled rear shock connecting plate can break suddenly and cause the bike to drop and lose stability, and where an overheating exhaust pipe can melt the oil cooler pipe, spilling oil onto a hot exhaust or the rear tire and raising the risk of fire or a crash.
The 2021 model year also has a gear shift lever pivot bolt that can loosen during a hard upshift, break, and leave the rider unable to change gears. On 2018 models, the fuel pump can fail while riding, cutting engine power and preventing a restart. The 2017 model year has a fuel cap that can fail to seal against the filler neck, allowing fuel to leak into the drain tube during acceleration or deceleration when the tank is full, creating a fire risk near any ignition source.
Going back further, 2014 SP trim models have a rear shock absorber where the piston rod nut may not have been torqued correctly, causing it to loosen over time and degrade suspension action in a way that affects handling. On 2008 models, a coolant hose clamp at the water pump cover can fail and spray hot coolant onto the rider's left lower leg, causing scalding. The 2006 model year has a fuel tank vent pipe weld that can crack from vibration and drip fuel, again with a fire risk if an ignition source is present. The earliest recall, affecting 2004 models, involves a digital speedometer that can develop a software error and read roughly 25 percent below actual speed, with no way to reset the display once it goes wrong.
