The motorcycles being recalled are the Boxer and K models, BMW said.
It was not immediately clear where the motorcycles had been sold or whether any accidents prompted the recall.
BMW said the problem would not manifest itself in normal use of the motorcycles and that customers can have the repairs done at no cost within two hours.
There is no indication if South African models are effected by the recall and Wheels24?s bike editor Brett Hamilton is awaiting comment from BMW SA.