SUZUKI has launched a massive worldwide recall of GSX-R600s, 750s and 1000s sold since 2004.

The sports bikes are being recalled to fix an issue with the front brake which can lead to a ‘spongy feel’, Suzuki says.

The cause is moisture absorption in the brake fluid, according to the firm.

The recall affects GSX-R600s and GSX-R750s made since 2004, and GSX-R1000s made since 2005.

The bikes will have their front brake master cylinder replaced free of charge.

Suzuki GB's Denis Houston said: "Investigations into reports of the front brake lever developing a ‘spongy’ feeling over time have revealed the cause to be moisture naturally absorbed by the brake fluid, affecting the return spring inside the master cylinder. As the braking system is safety critical and there are no external indications that corrosion of the spring has begun the brake master cylinder assembly is to be replaced free of charge."

A Suzuki spokesman said he was waiting to learn the number of individual machines affected, but said the UK had been a “big market” for the models.

He said there had been “no incidents” in the UK related to the issue.

A release from the firm said: ‘Suzuki GB has announced a recall on selected GSX-R models built between 2004 and 2013.

‘Instigated due to a potential issue that can affect the Front Brake Master Cylinder where a 'spongy feel' may develop over time the recall affects GSX-R600, 750 and 1000 models as listed below.

GSX-R600 - K4, K5, K6, K7, K8, K9, L0, L1, L2 and L3 models

GSX-R750 - K4, K5, K6, K7, K8, K9, L0 , L1, L2, and L3 models

GSX-R1000 - K5, K6, K7, K8, K9, L0, L1, L2 and L3 models’

‘Customers with officially imported road registered machines will be notified via post using DVLA sourced data and advised to contact their local authorised Suzuki dealer to arrange fitment of the replacement components free of charge. Suzuki will also use organisations such as the ACU to reach owners of race and track day bikes.’