Ducati makes sixth recall

The Italian motorcycle marque has just made its sixth voluntary recall in Australia so far this year with two recalls on consecutive days.

Next worst is KTM with three recalls, followed by Suzuki with two, and BMW, Kawasaki, Honda, Harley and Yamaha with one each. British manufacturer Triumph has had none this year but had five recalls last year. The latest Ducati recall is for this year's and last year's 1199cc Panigale superbike with a raft of problems.

They include: the plastic exhaust valve protector could melt producing noxious fumes; the steering damper may come loose; rear fork fastening bolts may come loose; and front brake fluid could leak. 

The embarrassing list of faults for their flagship model with prices from $26,990-$39,990 follows two recalls earlier this year for the Panigale with a swingarm bolt failure and inferior rear brake pads.

It's a blow for the brand which has dominated the World Superbikes championship over the past 24 seasons with 14 rider titles and 17 manufacturer wins and is the current title holder. It may also be a blow to the bike's chances of winning the coveted International Bike of the Year award that many critics believed was already in the bag.

The day before the Panigale recall, Ducati's Australian importers, NF Importers, issued a voluntary safety recall for the Diavel power-cruiser with a sidestand that may bend and possibly break near the rotation pivot. The notice says there is the potential for "sudden and unexpected tip-over hazard if the side-stand collapses, possibly resulting in physical injury".

It could also lead to expensive repairs as the naked 1198cc Diavel muscle machine has no protective fairings or crash bars. The bike is priced at $23,490-$28,990 plus on-road costs. Owners have been advised to contact their nearest dealer for correction of the latest round of faults.

Other Ducati recalls this year include Monsters and Hypermotards with fire hazards caused by fuel leaks, Monsters with wheel failures and a range of models, including the Panigale, with inferior rear brakes.