The 2011 Honda GL1800 has 4 recalls, the most serious being a Takata-style airbag inflator that can explode and send metal fragments into the rider, with a risk of serious injury or death.
The airbag concern covers two separate filing groups, but both describe the same core danger: the inflator inside the airbag module can rupture or explode, throwing sharp metal fragments toward the person on the motorcycle. One filing specifically covers bikes registered or sold in high-humidity regions including several southern states, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories, where heat and moisture accelerate the propellant breakdown that makes the inflator unstable. The other covers a broader population of vehicles where long-term exposure to humidity and temperature swings causes the same propellant degradation over time.
On the braking side, the combined braking system's secondary master cylinder can cause the rear brake to drag even after the rider releases it. This creates two problems: the unexpected braking resistance can contribute to a crash, and sustained riding with a dragging rear brake builds up enough heat that the brake components can catch fire. This braking defect is also addressed across two filings covering overlapping model year ranges, but both point to the same master cylinder behavior and the same consequences.
At a glance
What can fail
The air bag inflator may explode due to propellant breakdown after prolonged exposure to high humidity, heat, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the air bag module at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The front air bag inflators may rupture during a crash due to propellant degradation from long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the air bag module at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear brakes may continue to drag even after you release the brake pedal, affecting stopping performance and control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the secondary and rear brake master cylinders and flush the brake fluid at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The secondary master cylinder in the combined braking system may cause the rear brake to drag under certain conditions.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the secondary master cylinder and replace it if needed, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
