Youth ATV Recall Expanded: Kawasaki and KYMCO ATVs also could lose speed control

Kawasaki Motors Corp. and KYMCO announced the recall of 2008 model year Youth ATVs due to a risk that the vehicles could lose speed control. A similar recall was issued earlier in the week by Arctic Cat for their Youth ATV. All three recalls indicate that the throttle could fail to return to the idle position when released, or could fail to be at idle when the vehicle is started. This could cause loss of vehicle control.

Combined, the three recalls impact approximately 13,700 vehicles sold between July / August 2007 and June 2008.

• The Kawasaki Youth ATV recall applies to the 2008 model year KFX 50 and KFX 90 vehicles. They are sold in green or white with a black trim, and contain the model name on either side below the handlebars.
• The KYMCO recall applies to the 2008 Mongoose 50cc, 70cc and 90cc Youth ATVs. These vehicles are available in a wide variety of colors and contain the brand name “KYMCO” on the front of the vehicle, and the model name on each side of the fuel tank.
• The Arctic Cat Youth ATV recall applies to 2008 DVX 50, DVX 90, 50 2×4 and 90 2×4 models.

The Youth ATV are designed for riders 12 years old and older, with features that allow parents to maintain control of the maximum speed of the vehicle and keyed ignition switches which prevent use without a key. The fact that they are designed for young riders who are learning how to handle an ATV makes the defect particularly hazardous, since the loss of speed control could pose a severe risk of injury.

Owners should immediately stop using the recalled Youth ATVs and contact KYMCO USA at (888) 235-3417, Kawasaki at (866) 902-9381 or Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851. All three companies are providing free repairs to correct the problems.