Honda recalls CB500 and CBR500 motorcycles

The rocker arm shaft retaining bolts may loosen during engine operation

By James Limbach of ConsumerAffairs

Honda is recalling 6,954 model year 2013 CB500 (FA, F, XA, X) and CBR500 (RA, R) motorcycles.

The rocker arm shaft retaining bolts may have been manufactured incorrectly resulting in the bolts loosening during engine operation. A loose bolt will initially result in a slow leak of engine oil, but if not addressed, the bolt can come out of the cylinder head entirely. Without a bolt, the engine will have reduced power which may result in a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rocker arm shaft retaining bolts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in March 2014.

Owners may contact Honda Customer Service at 1-866-784-1870.