In the midst of the shadow of the automotive industry recalls, motorcycle industry recalls have almost gone unnoticed. In August 2010, Kawasaki Motor Corporation announced a recall of about 4,000 of its 2010 KLX110 model off-road motorcycles. This news comes at the same time that Yamaha has recalled nearly 20,000 ATVs and 54,000 motorcycles. Unlike the Yamaha brand issues of National Highways and Traffic Safety standard violations and crash hazards, Kawasaki's voluntary recall relates to faulty ignition switches.

Originally formed in 1896, the company became a leading manufacturer of motorcycles in the 1960s. Along with its success, Kawasaki has had to face issues with its designs. The KLX110 recall is not Kawasaki's first regarding its motorcycle and/or ATV lines. In 2003, the motorcycle giant conducted a recall of about 3,000 of its V-Force ATVs. Throttle issues created risks that drivers could lose control of their vehicles. Two years later in 2005, Kawasaki recalled its 2005 model KLX110-A4 off-highway motorcycle for issues with the rear shock absorber. The motorcycle manufacturer announced a recall in 2006 of its Mule series ATV because of steering hazard concerns. As recently as January 2010, Kawasaki recalled select 2009 Super Sherpa KL250G9F motorcycles. Issues with oil passage blockage increased risks for crashes.

For the current recall, Kawasaki worked in cooperation with the United States Consumer Protection and Safety Commission (CPSC). Kawasaki reported that faulty housing in the ignition switch of the KLX110CAF and KLX110DAF off-road motorcycle models. Based on their current design, if the vehicle is operated in wet conditions, water can get into the ignition system and activate the electric starter unintentionally. While no incidences or injuries have been reported, the CPSC warned that the ignition defect posed a serious threat of "injury or death."

While Kawasaki and the CPSC have warned consumers about continued use, the agency has warned that any person attempting to resell either of these models will be violating the law. In those cases where consumers continue to knowingly use recalled vehicles, the law may presume assumption of any risks that result. In the event that a person sells a recalled vehicle, they could be held liable for the uninformed buyer's injuries.

Diligence is the key to reducing injury and liability risks. In the case of Kawasaki, a consumer should contact the company with questions and pursue repairs with their local Kawasaki Motorcycle dealer.