Harley-Davidson motorcycles investigated after brake-failure complaints

The U.S. government is investigating complaints from Harley-Davidson riders who say their motorcycle brakes failed without warning.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the investigation covers 430,000 motorcycles with model years between 2008 and 2011. The investigation covers motorcycles with an anti-lock braking system.

Riders reported that the brakes on the hand lever and foot pedal did not work, causing one driver to crash into a garage door. The NHTSA says it received 43 complaints, three reports of crashes and two reports of injuries.

The NHTSA says it is possible that some riders who experienced brake failure did not change the motorcycle’s brake fluid every two years as recommended by Harley-Davidson.

Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson Inc. said Friday that it is aware of the investigation and is cooperating with the NHTSA.

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UPDATES:

12:57 p.m.: This article was updated with a comment from Harley-Davidson.

This article was originally published at 7:01 a.m.