Common Motorcycle Defects
Manufacturing defects occur when products deviate from their intended specifications during production. Assembly errors, improperly torqued bolts, inadequate welds, and faulty components create dangerous conditions. Recent cases have involved over-tightened crankcase bolts damaging engine components, leading to sudden seizures that cause complete loss of power and increased crash risk. Improperly welded clutch release shafts can break apart, disabling motorcycles and preventing riders from disengaging the clutch during operation.
Design defects represent inherent flaws in product engineering that make motorcycles unreasonably dangerous even when manufactured correctly. Inadequate stability in certain models, insufficient brake system capacity for vehicle weight and performance, weak frame components that fail under normal stress, and poorly designed fuel systems prone to leaks all constitute potential design defects. These systematic problems affect entire production runs rather than isolated units.
Electrical system failures create particularly hazardous scenarios. Defective switch cubes can crack and cause motorcycles to start unexpectedly, creating injury risks for owners and bystanders. Battery grounding issues may cause engines to cut out unpredictably during operation, leaving riders without power in dangerous traffic situations. Electronic stability control systems that malfunction or fail to activate when needed eliminate critical safety protections.
Brake system defects rank among the most dangerous mechanical failures. Defective front brake calipers that fail during operation dramatically increase crash risk by eliminating stopping power when riders need it most. Rear shock mounting tabs that break can expose sharp bolt edges that puncture tires, causing sudden pressure loss and loss of control.
Tire defects introduce catastrophic failure risks at any speed. Tread separations, sidewall blowouts, and manufacturing flaws in tire construction can cause immediate loss of control. Even subtle defects like thin compound layers covering tread surfaces reduce grip substantially, particularly in wet conditions or during emergency maneuvers.
Other motorcycle defects and recalls in recent years involve standard bike features, including the following:
- Tire failure and blowouts
- Engine malfunction
- Fuel system issues
- Faulty wiring
- Brake failure
- Clutch failure
- Wheel problems
- Steering lockup or other steering problems
- Defective turn signals and other lights
- Unintended Acceleration
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Neck & Spinal Injury
- Orthopedic Trauma
- Severe Road Rash
- Amputations
- Permanent Nerve Damage
- Wrongful Death
Motorcycle Defect Lawsuits
Product liability lawsuits may be filed against motorcycle and component manufacturers for the following defects:
- Design Defects—poorly designed equipment may have a high risk of failure, and the motorcycle manufacturer or the company that designed the defective component part can be held legally liable in a civil lawsuit.
- Manufacturing Defects—poorly manufactured and low-quality parts; or improperly assembled equipment can lead to successful lawsuits against a manufacturer. If a defective motorcycle results in a personal injury, an accident victim can file a claim against the company. When a manufacturer fails to exercise reasonable care in the manufacture of a product, they can be held liable for a manufacturing defect. Regardless of the type of defect, manufacturers, distributors and retailers of the product can be found equally liable for a defective product.
- Improperly Maintained Equipment—mechanics or motorcycle dealerships responsible for a vehicle’s maintenance may be held legally liable. Also, if the rider and owner are not the same individual, the owner of a motorcycle may be named in a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
- Failure to Warn—any manufacturer that fails to properly warn the consumer of known dangers can be sued for gross negligence.
In a defective product claim, you can hold any party in the commercial stream of distribution responsible for the injuries sustained. Following an accident, contact an attorney to have a qualified expert look at the motorcycle. Always keep the motorcycle in the post-accident condition for evidence of possible motorcycle defects.
Defective Motorcycle Litigation
Why Choose The Lyon Firm for Motorcycle Defect Claims
Motorcycle defect litigation requires specialized expertise combining mechanical engineering knowledge, product liability law experience, and understanding of motorcycle dynamics. The Lyon Firm brings extensive background in complex product liability cases, particularly those involving vehicle defects causing catastrophic injuries.
Our legal team works with leading experts in motorcycle engineering, metallurgy, accident reconstruction, and biomechanics. These specialists provide credible testimony establishing defects, causation, and damages. We have successfully litigated against major motorcycle manufacturers and their corporate defense teams, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for injured riders.
Taking on powerful motorcycle manufacturers demands significant resources and unwavering commitment. These companies employ teams of lawyers and experts to defend their products and minimize liability. The Lyon Firm possesses the financial resources and litigation experience necessary to match their efforts. We conduct thorough investigations, preserve critical evidence, and build compelling cases that withstand aggressive defense tactics.
Our contingency fee arrangement means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation. We advance all case costs including expert fees, investigation expenses, and litigation costs. This structure eliminates financial barriers to pursuing justice and aligns our interests completely with yours.
