If that is true, and it seems likely, I would think that it represents a major disadvantage to the UCE over what we have. Perhaps the pawl could be replaced, but recalling all the work people on this forum have done on their transmissions for one reason or another, means that such activities would be greatly hampered and likely need the help of a trained mechanic. Not in keeping with R Es tradition of DIY.
It becomes more like the Japanese bikes, extreme reliability, generally, but often a pain to work on.
I should probably keep quiet about such issues because it is unlikely that I would be able to afford one anyway with transport and duty costs. I would be looking at a price of upwards of $14,000, possibly somewhat less if purchased from India, and anyway like what I have, but all aspects of R E interest me!