Harley-Davidson has initiated a significant recall affecting over 82,100 Softail motorcycles, a move that underscores the ongoing complexities of maintaining stringent quality control within large-scale global manufacturing operations. This action highlights the paramount importance of component integrity in ensuring rider safety, particularly for a brand globally recognized for its legacy of reliability and performance.
Critical Safety Flaw Identified
The crux of the issue revolves around a specific rear shock adjuster mounting tab. According to a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this component is susceptible to fracturing. Should such a fracture occur, the adjuster could potentially make contact with the rear tire, leading to the formation of a groove. The NHTSA explicitly states that this could result in a sudden loss of tire pressure, significantly elevating the risk of a crash and posing a severe safety hazard to riders.
Affected Models and Remedial Actions
The recall encompasses a range of Softail models from various production years. These include the 2018-2019 FLDE, 2018-2021 FLHC, 2018-2024 FLHCS, 2018 and 2023 FLHCS ANV, 2020-2024 FXLRS, 2022-2024 FXLRST, and 2022 FXRST motorcycles. Owners of these potentially affected vehicles are anticipated to receive official notification letters by mid-June. Harley-Davidson will provide the necessary remedy free of charge, with authorized dealers installing new hardware. This repair involves a specially designed bracket intended to limit the movement of the pre-load adjuster, thereby preventing any contact with the rear tire.
It is pertinent to note that some motorcycles included in this latest recall were also part of a previous recall in August 2023, which affected over 65,200 units. This recurrence indicates a continued focus on the performance and integrity of certain components within the Softail line.
Mitigating Risk and Preserving Brand Integrity
Despite the substantial scale of this recall, Harley-Davidson has reported no crashes or injuries directly linked to this specific defect. This is a critical factor for preserving brand reputation and maintaining consumer confidence, especially for a company that globally shipped nearly 149,000 motorcycles across its diverse models throughout 2024. Such proactive safety measures are an integral part of Harley-Davidson’s operational strategy and reflect its commitment to rider welfare. This recall aligns with industry best practices for major automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to promptly address potential safety concerns and uphold product integrity.
Owner Resources and Information
To assist owners in determining if their motorcycle is affected by this recall, Harley-Davidson provides a dedicated resource on its official website. Riders can ascertain their vehicle’s recall status by entering its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the online tool. This direct and accessible method empowers consumers to remain informed about product safety actions impacting their motorcycles, exemplifying a commitment to transparency and customer support.
Sophia Patel brings deep expertise in portfolio management and risk assessment. With a Master’s in Finance, she writes practical guides and in-depth analyses to help investors build and protect their wealth.