Triumph Braking Issue Investigation Closed

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has closed its investigation into front brake performance concerns on certain Triumph motorcycles. Opened in 2021, the evaluation reviewed allegations of extended stopping distances due to a soft front brake lever. After thorough testing and analysis, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) found no conclusive evidence linking the issue to a safety defect, citing improper maintenance as a key factor.

Key Highlights

  • Investigation Scope: ODI examined 2016-2019 Triumph Thruxton and Speed Triple motorcycles for alleged braking issues, including unexpected extended stopping distances.
  • Testing Results: Triumph testing showed that improper maintenance led to increased lever travel but minimal reduction in braking force, with the system still capable of full stops.
  • Crash Data Analysis: ODI reviewed six fatal crashes involving subject vehicles but found no evidence of braking problems contributing to these incidents.
  • Maintenance Impact: Triumph’s recommended two-year brake fluid replacement proved critical to performance, as many affected motorcycles were overdue for service.
  • Final Decision: ODI concluded the investigation due to insufficient evidence of a safety defect after nine years of service for the oldest models.

The investigation, initiated on July 9, 2021, was prompted by reports from motorcycle owners experiencing soft front brake levers, potentially leading to extended stopping distances. Triumph responded to NHTSA’s inquiries, providing detailed testing and analysis. The testing revealed that while lever travel increased with poorly maintained systems, caliper force—a critical factor in braking performance—decreased by only 2-3%.

Triumph attributed the soft brake lever to overdue maintenance rather than a manufacturing defect. Their findings emphasized that properly serviced motorcycles exhibited consistent braking performance. Triumph also demonstrated that pulling the brake lever twice in quick succession reduced travel distance, suggesting that even improperly maintained systems retained sufficient braking capability.

ODI conducted independent testing, confirming Triumph’s findings. Hard braking tests failed to show any measurable impact on stopping distances. Furthermore, ODI reviewed six fatal accidents involving subject motorcycles and found no evidence linking braking issues to these incidents.

The NHTSA closed the investigation without identifying a safety-related defect. The decision reflects the importance of adhering to maintenance schedules to ensure optimal braking performance. The agency emphasized that the closure does not rule out future action should new evidence arise. For more details on the investigation, visit www.NHTSA.gov.

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