On August 20, 2026, KTM North America announced a critical safety recall affecting more than 25,000 Husqvarna and GasGas off-road motorcycles across the US and Canada. The recall centers on a defective rear brake caliper that poses a serious risk to riders.

The Safety Issue at Hand

The rear brake caliper assembly on the affected motorcycles can unexpectedly crack or break during normal riding conditions. When this happens, riders lose braking function on the rear wheel, creating an immediate crash hazard. The potential consequences are severe: loss of control, inability to slow down or stop, and significant risk of serious injury or death.

This is classified as a Fast Track Recall by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission in coordination with Transport Canada, meaning federal regulators determined the issue presents a substantial hazard to consumer safety.

Which Bikes Are Affected

motorcycle brake system repair
Photo by Mick Haupt

Approximately 21,040 motorcycles are recalled in the United States, with an additional 4,140 units in Canada. The affected models span both GasGas and Husqvarna brands across multiple model years and configurations. All recalled bikes were manufactured at KTM’s facility in Austria and sold through authorized dealerships between September 2020 and June 2023. These motorcycles were originally priced between $7,300 and $13,000.

Because the recall affects numerous models across different years, owners should verify their specific machine by contacting an authorized dealer or using the recall notification channels provided by the manufacturers.

What Owners Should Do Immediately

If you own one of the recalled motorcycles, stop riding it right away. Do not operate the bike until the caliper has been inspected and repaired by a factory-authorized technician. The CPSC and manufacturer strongly advise against any further use of these machines.

Owners can schedule a free recall repair service by calling the toll-free recall hotline at 1-888-985-6090. The line is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Authorized GasGas and Husqvarna dealers will perform the necessary repairs at no cost to the owner.

What This Means for Shoppers

For current owners of affected Husqvarna and GasGas models, the message is straightforward: take immediate action. Safety recalls exist to prevent injuries and deaths, and this one carries significant weight given the brake system’s critical role in rider safety.

For prospective buyers evaluating off-road motorcycles, this recall highlights the importance of checking the CPSC database and manufacturer announcements before purchasing any used motorcycle from the 2020-2023 timeframe. Verify that any bike you consider has either been repaired under this recall or is not on the affected list. Real-world riding accidents demonstrate how critical braking systems are to avoiding serious injury.

Similarly, KTM owners should monitor recalls affecting the parent company’s other brands. While this recall specifically targets Husqvarna and GasGas models, it reflects manufacturing or design quality control that could affect other products in the KTM family.

The Broader Safety Picture

dirt bike maintenance service
Photo by Gabriel Sanchez

Brake system failures represent some of the most dangerous mechanical issues in vehicle operation. Off-road riding environments demand fully functional braking systems, as riders navigate unpredictable terrain where instant stopping power can mean the difference between a safe dismount and a catastrophic crash.

The good news: no injuries had been reported at the time the recall was issued, and KTM is offering free repairs to all affected owners. The manufacturer is addressing the issue proactively rather than waiting for accident reports to mount.

Moving Forward

Owners of affected Husqvarna or GasGas motorcycles should prioritize scheduling their free recall service. Delaying this repair puts you and your passengers at unnecessary risk. The recall process is straightforward, the repair is complimentary, and it will restore your machine to safe operating condition.</n

Check your motorcycle’s documentation against the recall list, note your vehicle identification number, and contact the dealer support line this week if you believe your bike is affected. Safety on the trail begins with maintaining critical systems like brakes, and addressing this caliper issue is a non-negotiable step.