2011 ZX-10R Recall

[Tim...]

Anybody have any further insight into the 2011 ZX-10R recall?  Apparently, Kawasaki have pulled all 2011's from the dealerships and are offering a full refund to those that have already bought one.  Kawasaki have not given any specific details but the rumors seem to indicate unacceptable piston wear rate.

Tim...

[Jared]

What I've read is motor issues also.  Sounds like there may have been some mis-matched parts assembled together in some of the motors.  Too bad, they had some serious momentum built up with the new bike.  This is definitely going to put a damper on that.

[Elk]

I have also seen references to engine issues.

Apparently the number sold to date is quite small so a complete buyback is a reasonable action.  These early buyers also get priority for a new production model.

I hope we learn at some point what the specific issue is.  My guess is con rods/bearings caused by a QC issue.

Tim, I have head that some of the new S1000RR engines have seized.  Any truth to this or is it just Internet rumor/haters?

[tk]

I'm sort of in the market for one of these. I got a quote from Monticello of about $12,500 without ABS. This is the first I have heard about a recall.
Geez, first a read disappointing HP for the Ducati 848 EVO and now engine issues on the new Kawasaki. Sheesh. Maybe I should get a sporttouring
bike instead.

[Tim...]

Not heard much on S1000RR engines seizing, but there was a lot of chatter over "fragile" cam shafts;  apparently the reason why BMW introduced the 9000 RPM limit during the break-in period, and included a heavier cam on post June production 2010 bikes.  People were racing the bike without a proper break-in according to BMW.

Tim...   

...

Tim, I have head that some of the new S1000RR engines have seized.  Any truth to this or is it just Internet rumor/haters?

[Elk]

Makes sense.  Thanks for the info.

I found interesting that the BMW will not rev to over 9k until the dealer removes this break-in restriction. 

Regardless of what one thinks of the legitimacy of break-in, I kind of like the idea of the ECU controlling maximum RPM until X number of miles if the manufacturer believes this is important.  I don't like that only the dealer can reset it in BMW's case however.  Let the ECU do it by itself.