June 14, 2025
Milwaukee, WI — Harley-Davidson has announced the recall of more than 82,000 Softail motorcycles due to a potentially dangerous defect that could cause rear tire failure and lead to crashes. The recall affects several models manufactured between 2018 and 2024.
Defect Could Lead to Tire Damage and Crashes.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue centers on the rear shock absorber’s pre-load adjuster. The mounting tab on this component is at risk of fracturing. If it breaks, the pre-load adjuster could shift and make contact with the rear tire, possibly puncturing it and resulting in a sudden loss of air pressure while riding.
Harley-Davidson acknowledged that this flaw could increase the likelihood of a crash and acted to prevent injuries by issuing the voluntary recall.
Affected Models and Production Dates
The recall applies to a range of Softail models produced between June 28, 2017, and August 7, 2023. The specific models include:
• FLDE (2018–2019)
• FLHC (2018–2021)
• FLHCS (2018–2024)
• FLHCS ANV (2018, 2023)
• FXLRS (2020–2024)
• FXLRST (2022–2024)
• FXRST (2022)
Harley-Davidson reported that it became aware of the issue through field reports and subsequently conducted testing to confirm the risk.
Free Repairs Offered to Owners
To address the problem, Harley-Davidson will replace the existing pre-load adjuster bracket with a redesigned, more durable version. The repair will be provided at no cost to affected motorcycle owners.
Notification letters will be mailed starting June 16, 2025. Owners are urged not to ride the affected motorcycles until the issue is resolved.
How to Check If Your Motorcycle Is Affected
Owners can check if their motorcycle is part of the recall by:
• Visiting Harley-Davidson’s recall site
• Using the NHTSA recall lookup tool
For more information, Harley-Davidson customer service is available at 1-800-258-2464.
A Call for Vigilance and Safety
With riding season in full swing, Harley-Davidson encourages all owners of Softail models to verify their motorcycle’s status and arrange service as soon as possible. Safety advocates stress the importance of heeding recalls to prevent accidents and ensure rider safety.
This is one of the largest Harley-Davidson recalls in recent years and underscores the importance of regular equipment inspections and prompt manufacturer action when defects are detected.
