Harley-Davidson recalls over 82,000 motorcycles for tire pressure hazard

In an announcement made to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Harley-Davidson revealed that it is recalling over 82,100 Softail motorcycles due to a defect that could lead to rear tire damage and sudden pressure loss. This recall affects specific models manufactured between 2018 and 2024, including the FLDE, FLHC, FLHCS, FXLRS, FXLRST, and FXRST. This issue arises from a faulty rear shock adjuster mounting tab, which can fracture and cause contact with the rear tire, potentially resulting in tire pressure loss. As of mid-June 2025, Harley-Davidson is set to inform owners of the affected motorcycles through a letter regarding the recall procedures. Owners are encouraged to visit authorized Harley-Davidson dealers to have the problem addressed, which will be performed at no cost to them. The corrective measure will involve the installation of new hardware to limit the movement of the pre-load adjuster, preventing it from making contact with the tire. Additionally, some of the motorcycles being recalled had been previously repaired under an earlier recall from August 2023, but they will require the new remedy as well. The company has not received any reports of crashes or injuries linked to this defect. However, the NHTSA has highlighted that a sudden loss of tire pressure significantly elevates the risk of accidents, underscoring the urgency for affected owners to have their motorcycles serviced promptly. It is important to note that Softail models with different types of rear shock adjusters are not affected by this recall. In response to changing consumer needs and a growing market, Harley-Davidson reported that it shipped nearly 149,000 motorcycles across various models in 2024. This recall emphasizes the manufacturer's commitment to safety and the well-being of their customers, ensuring all models comply with rigorous safety standards. The company’s proactive steps in informing and rectifying the issue reflect an effort to maintain customer trust and brand integrity in an increasingly competitive motorcycle market.