Grips on Honda CRF Bikes Can Fall Off, “Stop Using” Order Issued for 40K American Riders

Although it may not seem like it at first glance, the grips on a motorcycle are crucial for a rider’s safety. Installed on the handlebar, the grips are there to prevent the hands of the person in control from slipping. If this happens, there is a serious risk of crashes and injuries. So much so, in fact, that bikes in this condition should not be ridden.

You all know Honda’s lineup of off-road motorcycles. Collectively called CRF (which stands for close ratio four-stroke), they are meant for several extreme riding needs, including trail and motocross. This means these things are to be used in the most extreme of conditions, where good control of the bike is crucial.

That’s why when Honda learned that three of the family’s models may have an issue with the left hand grips, it immediately issued a “stop using” order for over 40,000 American riders and announced a sizeable recall. It is also in the process of contacting the owners directly to warn them of the danger.

The reason is the risk of the handlebar detaching from the handlebar, increasing the risk of a crash and injury. The bike maker does not say why that seems to be happening, or what the fix for the issue may be.

The problem affects around 40,700 CRF bikes manufactured in China as part of the 2023 and 2024 model years. The exact models affected are the CRF50F, CRF110F, and CRF125F, and they were sold across the United States between September 2022 and May 2024.

To make it easier for people to identify whether the bikes they own are included, Honda says the CRF50F and CRF110F that may have this problem come in red or white, while the CRF125Fs are red. All bikes have the word Honda printed on the seats and the name of the model inscribed above the engine, on the frame.

You can check if your bike’s VIN is included in the recall (you can find the VIN on the left side of the steering head) by following this link. Alternatively, Honda will also answer the call at 866-784-1870. The recall number is 24-288. As per the bike maker, there is one report of a crash that resulted in a knee injury as a result of this issue.

It is unclear at this point whether the models currently being sold by Honda are also affected by this issue. To remind you of how things stand, the CRF50F is a kid’s bike, one of the most appreciated in its segment (or, as Honda says, “the most successful 50-class trail bike in the world”). And it sells from $1,799.

The CRF110F, also a bike for newbies, was just refreshed in May 2024, and it is selling for prices that start at $2,699. Last but not least the CRF125F is going for $3,499.