Harley-Davidson is issuing a recall for more than 82,100 Softail motorcycles due to a defective component that may compromise the rear tire, leading to a sudden loss of pressure.
The manufacturer reported in a statement submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that certain 2018-2019 FLDE, 2018-2021 FLHC, 2018-2024 FLHCS, 2018 and 2023 FLHCS ANV, 2020-2024 FXLRS, 2022-2024 FXLRST, and 2022 FXRST Softail motorcycles may feature a rear shock adjuster mounting tab that is susceptible to fracturing.
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If the mounting tab fails, the adjuster may come into contact with the rear tire, potentially creating a groove that could lead to a sudden loss of tire pressure, according to the recall report.
“A sudden loss of tire pressure heightens the risk of a crash,” stated the NHTSA.
FOX Business has reached out to Harley-Davidson for remarks.
The logo of Harley Davidson Motorcycles is displayed. (Credit: Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)
The company plans to notify owners of the potentially affected Softail motorcycles with a letter regarding the recall by mid-June.
Owners must take their motorcycle to an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for the necessary repairs, in line with the recall report.
The service will involve the replacement of “new hardware,” including a new bracket that restricts the movement of the preload adjuster and prevents contact with the rear tire, as described in the recall report. The service will be complimentary.
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Some Softail motorcycles currently recalled were “previously serviced” under a different recall and “will need the new remedy applied,” according to the NHTSA. That previous recall, which took place in August 2023, affected over 65,200 units.
Harley-Davidson indicated in the latest NHTSA recall announcement that no incidents of crashes or injuries linked to this issue have been reported.
“Other Softail models that use a different style of rear shock adjuster are not part of this recall,” the company also mentioned in the report.
Harley-Davidson provides a webpage where motorcycle owners can verify if their bike is subject to a recall using their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is usually located on the steering head or on a label attached to the right front down tube of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as indicated on the website.
On a global scale, the company reported the shipment of nearly 149,000 motorcycles across various categories throughout 2024.
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