KTM North America has issued a major recall affecting nearly 23,000 off-road motorcycles sold in the United States and Canada, raising serious concerns for riders of GASGAS and Husqvarna models. The recall, announced on May 15, 2025, targets a potentially dangerous defect in the front brake caliper that could lead to crashes. With no reported injuries so far, the company is urging owners to act quickly to ensure their safety. This article explores the details of the recall, the affected models, and what riders need to do to stay safe.
What’s the Problem?
The issue lies with the front brake caliper on specific GASGAS and Husqvarna off-road motorcycles from model years 2022 through 2025. According to KTM, the caliper can develop cracks, which may reduce the effectiveness of the braking system. A compromised brake system is a serious hazard, as it can hinder a rider’s ability to stop or slow down, increasing the risk of a crash. While no incidents or injuries have been reported, the potential for danger is significant enough to prompt this large-scale recall.
The recall affects approximately 19,310 motorcycles in the U.S. and an additional 3,870 in Canada. These numbers highlight the scope of the issue and the importance of addressing it promptly. KTM, the parent company of both GASGAS and Husqvarna, is taking a proactive approach by reaching out to known purchasers and offering free inspections and repairs.
Which Motorcycles Are Affected?
The recall covers a wide range of off-road motorcycles from GASGAS and Husqvarna, spanning model years 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. These bikes are designed for off-road adventures, including motocross, enduro, and cross-country riding, making the brake issue particularly concerning for riders tackling rugged terrains.
To identify whether a motorcycle is part of the recall, owners should check the vehicle identification number (VIN), located on the right side of the steering head. The 10th position of the VIN indicates the model year:
2022 models: Letter N 2023 models: Letter P 2024 models: Letter R 2025 models: Letter S
The model names and numbers are typically found on the rear fender or rear side panel of the motorcycle. Below is a comprehensive list of the affected models:
Husqvarna Models 2022: FE 350, FE 501, TE 150i, TE 250i, TE 300i 2023: FE 450, FE 450 HERITAGE, FX 350 BT, FX 350 HERITAGE BT, FX 450, TE 150, TE 250, TE 300, TE 300 HERITAGE, TX 300 BT, TX 300 HERITAGE BT 2024: FE 350w, FE 450, FE 501w, TE 150, TE 250, TE 300
GASGAS Models 2022: EC 250, EC 300 2023: EC 250, EC 300, EX 250 BT, EX 250F BT, EX 300 BT, EX 350F BT, EX 450F BT, MC 125 BT, MC 250 BT, MC 250F BT, MC 350F BT, MC 450F BT 2024: EC 250, EC 300, EC 450F, EW 500F, EX 250, EX 250F, EX 300, EX 350F, EX 450F, MC 125, MC 250, MC 250F, MC 350F, MC 450F 2025: EC 250, EC 300, EC 450F, EX 250, EX 250F, EX 300, EX 350F, MC 125, MC 150, MC 250, MC 250F, MC 300, MC 350F, MC 450F
GASGAS motorcycles are easily recognizable by their red color with a white GASGAS logo on the shrouds, while Husqvarna models feature a white, blue, and yellow design with the Husqvarna logo on the shrouds.
What Should Owners Do?
KTM is advising all owners of the affected motorcycles to stop riding immediately to avoid potential accidents. The next step is to contact an authorized GASGAS or Husqvarna dealer to schedule a free inspection. During the inspection, a technician will examine the front brake caliper to determine if it’s defective. If a problem is found, the dealer will replace the caliper at no cost to the owner.
To make the process as smooth as possible, KTM, GASGAS, and Husqvarna are directly notifying known purchasers. However, owners can also take the initiative by reaching out to a dealer or checking their motorcycle’s VIN on the official GASGAS or Husqvarna websites. The recall is being conducted under the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Fast Track Recall process, which emphasizes quick action to protect consumers.
For assistance, owners can contact KTM, GASGAS, or Husqvarna customer service at 888-985-6090, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. Additional information is available online at the GASGAS and Husqvarna websites, where owners can navigate to the “Service” or “Safety Information” sections to verify if their motorcycle is affected.
Where and When Were These Motorcycles Sold?
The recalled motorcycles were sold at authorized GASGAS and Husqvarna dealers across the United States and Canada from January 2022 through August 2024. Prices ranged from $10,000 to $13,000, reflecting the premium quality and performance of these off-road machines. Manufactured by KTM AG in Austria, these bikes are popular among enthusiasts for their durability and handling in challenging environments.
Why This Recall Matters
While no injuries have been reported, the potential for a front brake caliper to crack is a serious concern, especially for off-road riders who rely on precise braking to navigate trails, jumps, and obstacles. A sudden loss of braking power could lead to dangerous situations, particularly at high speeds or on steep terrain. By addressing the issue now, KTM aims to prevent accidents and maintain the trust of its customers.
This recall also underscores the importance of regular maintenance and prompt action when manufacturers issue safety notices. Off-road riding is inherently demanding, and equipment failures can have significant consequences. Riders are encouraged to stay informed about their motorcycle’s condition and respond quickly to recalls like this one.
How to Stay Safe and Informed
For owners of GASGAS or Husqvarna off-road motorcycles, the recall is a reminder to prioritize safety. Here are some steps to follow:
- Check Your VIN: Locate the VIN on the right side of the steering head and verify the 10th character to confirm the model year. Use the GASGAS or Husqvarna websites to check if your bike is part of the recall.
- Contact a Dealer: Schedule an appointment with an authorized dealer for a free inspection and, if needed, a replacement of the front brake caliper.
- Stop Riding: Avoid using the motorcycle until the inspection is complete to minimize the risk of a crash.
- Stay Updated: Monitor communications from KTM, GASGAS, or Husqvarna for any additional recall updates or instructions.
Riders can also visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for more details about this recall (recall number 25-283) or to explore statements from individual commissioners on related topics.
The Bigger Picture
This recall is one of several issued by KTM in recent years for its off-road motorcycles, reflecting the company’s commitment to addressing safety concerns as they arise. While the absence of reported injuries is reassuring, the large number of affected units—over 19,000 in the U.S. alone—highlights the scale of the issue. For riders, this is an opportunity to ensure their bikes are in top condition before hitting the trails.
As off-road motorcycling continues to grow in popularity, manufacturers like KTM, GASGAS, and Husqvarna play a critical role in delivering safe, reliable equipment. By responding swiftly to potential defects, they help protect riders and maintain the sport’s reputation for thrilling yet responsible adventure.
