Vespa 946 Recalled for Leaking Fuel Line, Rodia Helmets Recalled as Well

The affected scooters have a fuel line that may leak, leading to inconsistent engine operation and even stalling, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the leaking fuel could also catch on fire in contact with an ignition source or very hot parts of the engine, potentially resulting in a crash, injury and/or property damage.

Data supplied by Piaggio mentions no accident, injuries or fatalities attributed to this defect. However, one report of failure in the US and a warranty claim have been entered for the affected part, which appears to have been manufactured incorrectly. Piaggio adds that the affected vehicles have VINs beginning with ZAPM808GOD5000003 and ending with ZAPM808G9D5000369.

Customers will be notified and authorized Vespa dealers will inspect and install a new fuel line free of charge. Piaggio customer service can be reached at 1-212-380-4433, and owners should mention the recall campaign number 14V364000. Follow the link for more details and photos of the Vespa 946.

Another (rather funny) recall in the motorcycling world affects the Rodia RHD 500 helmets. The funny part of the recall is that these helmets, manufactured by Sunright have been manufactured October 1, 2009 through to November 1, 2009, and this makes them really old, with the possibility of having already been involved in a crash being really high.

Anyway, the NHTSA has launched the recall campaign number 14E032000, targeting 2,473 RHD 500 braincaps. The official report mentions that “the affected helmets may not adequately protect the user's head in the event of a crash, and thus fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218, "Motorcycle Helmets." Sunright says it will notify owners, but has not provided the NHTSA with a remedy or notification schedule.

Frankly, I’m having a hard time remembering where is the helmet I wore in 2009…