Yamaha Recall 2021: Around 820 ROV Units Pose Injury, Crash Hazards

Yamaha is recalling about 820 units of its recreational off-highway vehicles or ROVs due to an issue with their shock absorbers.

According to the recall notice posted on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website, the 2021 Yamaha ROV's rear shock absorber can break and pose crash or injury hazards. So far, the company has received one report of the shock absorber breaking loose. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.

The recall affects three models of the ROV: the Wolverine RMAX4 1000, Wolverine RMAX4 1000 XT-R and Wolverine RMAX4 1000 LE. The specific model numbers of the affected ROVs can be found on the CPSC website.

Yamaha is already contacting registered owners of the affected vehicles, but consumers who own an affected product may also contact any Yamaha dealer for a free repair.

ROV Safety

ROVs have become more popular in recent years, CPSC said. However, some designs are safer than others. In fact, from 2003 to 2012, the number of deaths related to ROVs continued to increase.

Since 2009, the CPSC has been working with manufacturers to make ROVs safer to use. The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) was also created to promote the safe and responsible use of ROVs.

CPSC and ROHVA advise everyone to always wear a helmet and other protective gear while riding an ROV, fasten the seat belt and keep all parts of the body inside the vehicle.

It's also important to make sure that the number of people inside the vehicle is within the passenger limit and not let someone too small occupy the passenger seat. Additionally, ROVs should not be driven on paved roads as these are not what the vehicles are designed for. The ROHVA also reminds ROV users to read and follow the manual and, of course, to never drive an ROV when under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

"The safety of the driver and passengers of ROVs is the top priority of the ROHVA member companies," ROHVA Vice President Tom Yager said. "ROHVA and our member companies strongly recommend that ROV drivers and passengers follow these important safety rules to avoid crashes and injuries."