Car Recalls: Insights and Essential Information for Buyers
Understanding the reasons behind car recalls is crucial if your vehicle has an outstanding recall issue.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company is recalling over 82,000 motorcycles due to a defect that heightens the risk of a crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The rear shock pre-load adjuster’s mounting tab may break on certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles, the federal agency detailed in a recall notice released on June 12, which could cause the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire and lead to a loss of tire pressure.
This potential failure poses a risk of crash or serious injury, authorities warn.
As of early June, Harley-Davidson had not reported any fatalities or injuries related to this defect.
Some motorcycles involved in this recall had previously undergone repairs for recall 23V591 and will require a new remedy.
Here’s what to know regarding the recall, including affected years and how to address the issue.
A once-defunct line of motorcycles closely associated with Harley-Davidson is making a comeback.
Buell, previously owned by Harley and discontinued in 2009 amid organizational restructuring, is now being revived under new management.
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Buell motorcycles, pictured here in 2006, roaring back with hand-built models and lofty ambitions to compete with Harley-Davidson Credit: Getty
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Once shut down by Harley-Davidson, the iconic brand returns independently with bold new bikes and a vision for growth Credit: Getty
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The iconic firm aims to reclaim its legacy and ascend to become America’s third-largest motorcycle brand Credit: Getty
Under the leadership of Bill Melvin from Liquid Asset Partners, Buell is now operating independently of Harley-Davidson, crafting hand-built motorcycles in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The current offerings feature impressive models such as the Hammerhead 1190RX, 1190SX, 1190HCR dirt bike, and the 1190 Super Touring.
However, the standout in their lineup is the Super Cruiser.
With aspirations to rival major motorcycle brands in the American sector, Buell is expanding its facilities and laying out plans for future growth.
As reported by SlashGear, Melvin has invested significantly in the company’s future, including $18.5 million towards enhancing operations, increasing staffing, and boosting production capabilities.
Buell has developed a passionate following among enthusiasts, and upon its closure after the financial crisis, retained a strong fanbase due to a robust selection of motorcycles.
However, Harley-Davidson faced its crisis during this period, influenced by the recession and the leadership of new CEO, Keith Wandell, who wasn’t particularly a motorcycle enthusiast—which ultimately led to Buell’s downfall.
This marked a troubling chapter for America’s only sportbike manufacturer at that time.
Founded in 1983 by former motorcycle racer and Harley-Davidson engineer Erik Buell, the company was acquired by Harley in 1998.
It quickly gained acclaim for producing high-performance, racing-inspired street motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson dealership shuts for good after sudden sale to rival – but fans of the iconic brand can still get a bike
After Buell’s discontinuation, Erik Buell launched Erik Buell Racing, which specialized in high-performance racing bikes.
The owner of the historic outlet on Route 66 in St. Louis has acquired a local competitor, merging the two into a single entity under a new identity.
Doc’s Harley-Davidson, established in 1955 and located at 930 S. Kirkwood Road, is now managed by Indiana couple Evan and Dina Schipper, who operate several Harley dealerships across the Midwest.
With their recent acquisition, they have leveled the competitive landscape by merging with Gateway Harley-Davidson, previously one of Doc’s main rivals.
The combined dealerships will now operate from Gateway’s former site.
According to Biz Journals, the newly unified dealership is now functioning under the name St. Louis Harley-Davidson, having launched last Tuesday at the Gateway Harley-Davidson location.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across America.
However, numerous stores have shuttered over various reasons throughout 2024—many without public explanation.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year and their respective reasons:
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, wrapped up operations in October 2024 after being sold to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Kenny Wallace, the retired NASCAR driver and FOX Sports personality, recently showcased his black Harley-Davidson motorcycle on social media. The Missouri native claims it’s 114 pounds lighter than other models in its category. He has expressed his intention to ride alongside his older brother, Rusty Wallace, in Sturgis this summer.
Celebrity Net Worth, offered his followers a glance at his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He confirmed his plans to ride with Rusty in Sturgis, stating:
“Yes. I will be on my 2 wheeler with @RustyWallace in Sturgis.”
A different fan asked Wallace if he owned the carbon fiber Harley, to which he affirmed the assumption and clarified that the carbon fiber contributes to its lighter weight. He responded on X:
“Yes. My carbon fiber Harley is 114 lbs lighter than most Harleys. I LOVE IT 😁❤️”
Rusty Wallace, Kenny’s older brother, stands as one of the most celebrated NASCAR drivers in history. The former Team Penske driver had a remarkable career, winning 55 Cup races and securing the Cup championship in 1989. He retired after the 2005 season, with his last drive being the #2 car for Team Penske. In 2013, Rusty was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame and was selected as one of the sport’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.
Kenny Wallace achieved nine career Xfinity Series victories. Though he didn’t win a Cup race over 344 starts, he notably finished second to Dale Earnhardt at Talladega in 2000, marking the latter’s final win. Kenny later transitioned to television and co-hosted NASCAR RaceDay until the conclusion of the 2013 season.
Kenny Wallace described his X account as a “place for relief” for followers
Through his “Coffee With Kenny” videos and frequent posts on X, Kenny Wallace remains actively engaged on social media. In a recent interaction with a fan, he clarified the purpose of his X profile.
In response to a fan’s appreciation for his “Coffee With Kenny” videos, who noted that NASCAR offers a respite amidst national turmoil, Wallace quoted the comment, saying:
“Like I say. My @X channel is the place for relief 😁💯”
Kenny Wallace last participated in NASCAR for Joe Gibbs Racing during an Xfinity Series race in Iowa in 2015, with his career’s final victory occurring at Rockingham in 2001. As the youngest of the three Wallace brothers, alongside Rusty and Mike, he hails from St. Louis, Missouri.
John Breeden is a NASCAR content writer at Sportskeeda with over three years of experience in sports journalism. His journey started in 2021 when he began contributing to The Breeze, a student-run publication at James Madison University focusing on various collegiate sports. John graduated from JMU in May 2022 with a degree in media arts and design, specializing in journalism. He is currently working for the Daily News-Record in Harrisonburg, VA, where he covers high school and collegiate sports.
Having been a passionate NASCAR fan since 2005, John keeps up with the sport’s latest developments through social media, NASCAR.com, and various NASCAR podcasts, all of which help him craft engaging narratives. A career highlight for John was interviewing Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, at Martinsville Speedway, where he reported on William Byron returning the iconic No. 24 car to the Championship 4.
Aside from motorsports, John enjoys covering other sports such as football, baseball, and basketball. He believes NASCAR can achieve a global following similar to that of Formula 1 by broadening its international presence and enhancing its mainstream appeal like F1 has accomplished.
On January 24, 2025, HARLEY-DAVIDSON unveiled its newly designed and updated motorcycles for the 2025 model year. Among the exciting additions to this diverse lineup are the fully equipped Street Glide® Ultra for long-distance touring and the all-terrain Pan America® 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle.
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® Cruiser motorcycle lineup features six models with notably improved performance and technological advancements. The powerful Sportster® S model has received a suspension upgrade for enhanced comfort. The limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation™ (CVO™) series includes three models and showcases the most coveted collection of motorcycles ever presented by Harley-Davidson.
These new Harley-Davidson® bikes complete the comprehensive 2025 collection of Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, and Adventure Touring motorcycles, all showcased on H-D.comand available through licensed Harley-Davidson® dealers around the world.
NEW 2025 Cruiser Models
The revitalized 2025 Cruiser collection introduces six unique motorcycles, each enhanced with innovative technology, improved performance, and updated aesthetics. Every Cruiser model now comes equipped with a new Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain and advanced technological features, utilizing the Harley Davidson® Softail® chassis with a concealed mono-shock rear suspension. The 2025 Cruiser lineup encompasses the following models, highlighting distinct stylistic identities: Low Rider® S, Low Rider® ST, Breakout®, Heritage Classic, Fat Boy®, and Street Bob®.
NEW 2025 Street Glide® Ultra Model
The call of the open highway awaits. The new Street Glide® Ultra model enhances the experience of long-distance touring. This latest edition fuses comfort, technology, performance, and design elements featured in the 2024 model, while integrating new features to facilitate long-haul travel for two, catering to riders craving freedom and adventure. This model is the most competent standard production Grand American Touring motorcycle from Harley-Davidson.
NEW 2025 Pan America® 1250 ST Model
The Pan America® 1250 ST model is a versatile adventure sport motorcycle capable of serving as a practical daily commuter, a thrilling backroad performer, and a competent weekend touring companion. It is engineered to attract riders transitioning from sport bikes or streetfighters towards a nimble bike that excels in comfort and extended travel capabilities. The Pan America 1250 ST model features a commanding upright riding position, the adaptable power of the liquid-cooled Revolution® Max 1250 engine, a 17” front wheel, and premium suspension and braking features.
NEW Sportster® S Model
Featuring newly enhanced suspension, the Harley-Davidson® Sportster® S model promises an exhilarating ride characterized by immediate torque delivery for a thrilling burst of speed and excitement. Its lightweight build, advanced features, and striking design cater to both experienced riders and newcomers eager to stand out on a motorcycle that breaks away from conventional styling norms. The newly adjusted front and rear suspension provides a 60 percent increase in rear wheel travel without compromising seat height, enhancing comfort on various road surfaces. Both suspension types are fully adjustable for compression/rebound damping and preload.
NEW 2025 Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operation™ Models
In its 26th annual edition, Harley-Davidson® CVO™ models bring forth three super-premium, limited-production motorcycles that make a bold statement of power and luxury, representing the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson’s style and craftsmanship, complete with new finishes and design features for 2025.
CVO™ Street Glide® and CVO™ Road Glide® models take design, technology, and performance to new heights, meeting the demands of discerning bagger riders.
CVO™ Road Glide® ST model, drawing inspiration from the Screamin’ Eagle® Factory Team Road Glide® bikes that compete in the MotoAmerica® Mission Foods King of the Baggers championship, merges an exclusive Milwaukee-Eight® 121 H.O. engine with high-performance components and meticulous custom detail, crafting a sophisticated, quick, and powerful bagger.
The availability, timing, variants, colors, specifications, and pricing may differ by market. Customers are encouraged to reach out to their local H-D dealerships for further information.
MANILA:Harley-Davidson has announced that certain models from its 2025 lineup are now available at authorized dealerships around the globe.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Which Harley-Davidson model families are currently accessible at authorized dealers worldwide?
According to Harley-Davidson, models from both the Grand American Touring and Trike families for 2025 are now available at authorized dealerships.
What custom program has Harley-Davidson introduced for 2025?
Harley-Davidson has launched the Custom Paint and Graphics program for 2025.
The available models include motorcycles from the Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring and Trike families.
Photo from Harley-Davidson
Grand American Touring
Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring motorcycles are crafted to ensure that riders traverse long distances with unparalleled comfort, performance, and advanced technology that elevates the journey.
The 2025 models in this series comprise the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Road Glide, and Road King Special motorcycles.
Trikes
From the Harley-Davidson Trike collection, you can find the Road Glide, Freewheeler, and Tri Glide Ultra motorcycles.
According to the American manufacturer, Harley-Davidson Trikes provide an attractive alternative for those who value the stability of a three-wheel design.
Factory Custom Paint and Graphics
The Wisconsin-based company has also introduced the Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics program. This initiative enables customers to select premium paint-and-graphics options for specific motorcycle models.
In 2025, three options from the Harley-Davidson Custom Paint and Graphics offerings will be available for customers:
Mystic Shift
Midnight Firestorm
Whiskey Firestorm
Each of these paint options features a distinctive black tank medallion with chrome details and a mother-of-pearl textured background available in either purple or orange.
According to Harley-Davidson, the finishes from their Custom Paint and Graphics program are applied to select components during the motorcycle assembly process. As a result, customers will receive a motorcycle with unique paint-and-graphics backed by a full factory warranty, without the hassle or expense of aftermarket customizations.
A specific batch of oil filters has a manufacturing flaw that may lead to a loose threaded connection at high RPM.
This defect can cause oil leaks, which may result in an engine stall or, if there is an ignition source, potentially lead to a vehicle fire.
These oil filters might have been installed during service or oil changes.
What are the hazards?
An engine stall or vehicle fire presents a heightened risk of serious injury or death to riders, other road users, bystanders, and may also cause property damage.
What should consumers do?
Owners of the affected models should urgently contact their nearest authorized BMW Motorrad dealer or call BMW Australia’s hotline at 1800 243 675.
The installed oil filter will be inspected and replaced if necessary, with all services provided at no cost.
Models – 2023 FLHXSE CVO Street Glide and 2023 FLTRXSE CVO Road Glide
Year range – 2023-2024
Affected units – 130
View the VIN List.
What are the defects?
A manufacturing irregularity may cause the regulator output wiring harness to rub against the crankcase, leading to damage. This could result in the loss of propulsion and electrical power while riding.
What are the hazards?
Experiencing a loss of propulsion and electrical power during operation could heighten the risk of a crash, posing potential injury or death to the rider(s) and other road users.
What should consumers do?
Owners of the affected motorcycles are advised to reach out to their nearest Harley-Davidson dealer to arrange an inspection and repair at no cost.
HARLEY-Davidson offers a unique benefit that can assist riders in managing their expenses, yet it’s a feature that many consumers may not be aware of.
The motorcycle manufacturer has an in-house solution designed to help bikers cover unforeseen repair costs.
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Harley-Davidson has a little-known financial services division Credit: Getty
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The motorcycle giant even offers a Visa credit card Credit: Harley Davidson
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Harley-Davidson’s program has been criticized by some customers Credit: getty
Harley-Davidson Financial Services, which commenced in 1993, is a branch of the company that facilitates financing for customers looking to purchase motorcycles and related accessories.
This division also provides options for motorcycle insurance and extended service plans to cover possible repair expenses.
The Rider-to-Rider program assists with the buy and sell process of used Harleys, offering support throughout—from securing financing to completing the transaction and conducting a bike inspection prior to sale.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides a Visa credit card.
READ MORE ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON
The division is supported by two banks: the US Bank National Association, the fifth-largest commercial bank in the U.S., which is part of US Bancorp.
Another partner, Eaglemark Savings Bank, has been a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson Financial Services since 1997, assisting with loans.
Customers can effortlessly apply for loans, check their status, and manage their accounts online in just a few clicks.
Contact numbers for loans, insurance, and Visa cards can be found on the Harley-Davidson contact page.
However, some customers have voiced concerns regarding the financial group.
On platforms like Reddit, some riders reported instances of salespeople trying to upsell them on unnecessary products.
Harley-Davidson dealership shutting after just 5 years for very different use – customers know what to blame for closure
Others have criticized the company for charging higher interest rates on loans than other banks and credit unions.
At present, Harley-Davidson offers loans with an APR of 7.64% with $0 down, and rates as low as 7.09% for individuals who have completed the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course.
Despite the criticisms, Harley-Davidson Financial Services offers certain conveniences.
The service permits riders to secure financing easily, while the Rider-to-Rider program ensures peace of mind during transactions.
Motorcycle equipment tips
BEFORE mounting a motorcycle and hitting the road, riders must be aware of the essential equipment necessary for safety.
Riders are advised to prioritize their safety by investing in a high-quality motorcycle helmet that fits properly.
It is also crucial to wear protective gear such as pants and a riding jacket to cover as much skin as possible.
Safety-conscious riders may go further by always having riding gloves available and wearing road-appropriate boots.
Cycle World succinctly states, “When you are trying to justify spending your money on gear, just ask yourself this question: What is that body part worth? And then spend accordingly.”
At the current EICMA show in Italy, Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire announced a collaboration with Taiwanese company Kymco to manufacture electric scooters (shown below), while California-based Zero showcased its new XB and XE lightweight trail models designed to take on the Chinese-made Sur-Ron electric dirt bikes (shown above). LiveWire has yet to disclose pricing, but Zero has confirmed plans to introduce six new models over the next two years, each priced under $10,000.
Image: LiveWire
I’m particularly enthusiastic about the Zero XB and XE models. The XB is priced at an attractive $4,195 and includes a removable 2.4 kWh battery, switchable traction control, and enhanced suspension for enjoyable all-electric trail driving. It reportedly offers 47 miles of trail range. The XE, an upgraded version, features a larger 4.3 kWh battery and a high-resolution TFT display with a range of around 65 miles, retailing at $6,495. Both models promise a thrilling experience at an excellent value in the electric motorcycle sector, with the XB serving as a trail-specific bike and the XE available in full street-legal configuration.
“The new X Line delivers the best performing models in one of the most exciting growth categories from the most trusted electric brand in powersports,” stated Sam Paschel, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “Our mission from day one has been to revolutionize the two-wheeled transportation industry, and we will stop at nothing to deliver on that promise to our growing global community of riders.”
Meanwhile, the maxi scooters being developed by LiveWire and Kymco are perfectly suited for the current European demand. Kymco aims to introduce a more robust and premium model to the Euro market, while LiveWire seeks a high-volume product to maintain profitable margins. These new scooters will feature LiveWire’s established S2 Arrow powertrain, complemented by Kymco’s Ionex swappable battery system. They are expected to launch globally in 2026, although details on pricing and branding remain undisclosed. Nonetheless, they appear visually appealing.
“The belief and recognition that we could create a class-leading maxi-scooter using our S2 Arrow powertrain has been a constant, KYMCO sharing their expertise has changed belief into reality, and we are excited to commence on this journey with such a globally recognized leader in the category.” – Karim Donnez, CEO LiveWire
The electric two-wheeler market faces challenges at the moment, highlighted by the recent closure of Italian firm Energica. If LiveWire and Zero aspire to thrive long-term, they must continue to innovate with products that resonate with consumer preferences. Both companies are making prudent strides in this direction.