NHTSA Complaint #11437642 — 2017 BMW R1200 GS

The contact owns a 2017 BMW R1200 GS. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, there was a sudden loss of motive power and the motorcycle was going at a slower speed, After an hour the motorcyclist was informed by another rider that the contact needed to pull over because they noticed smoke coming from motorcycle saddle bag due to the bag being next to the fuel pipe on the motorcycle. When the contact pulled over their saddleback was on fire due to the catalytic converter becoming so hot it started to catch the item in the saddleback on fire and melting. The contact removed the saddlebag off the bike and threw into a nearby puddle to extinguish the fire. The contact was able to place the saddlebag on top of their seat and continue to drive to their destination. The contact took the motorcycle to a local dealer was able to be diagnosed with a fractured valve spring. The motorcycle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000.