Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a renowned manufacturer of iconic motorcycles, has issued a critical safety recall affecting a range of its Softail models. This recall comes in response to a potential safety concern that could impact the rear shock absorbers of certain Harley-Davidson motorcycles, potentially jeopardising rider safety.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V591000
Safety Concern: The specific issue revolves around the rear shock absorber fastener, which may break under certain conditions. If this fastener were to fail, it could allow the rear shock absorber adjuster to come into contact with the rear tire, leading to a loss of tire pressure. A sudden loss of tire pressure can result in a loss of vehicle control, greatly increasing the risk of a crash.
Affected Models: This recall affects a substantial number of motorcycles spanning multiple model years, including:
- 2018-2019 FLDE
- 2018-2021 FLHC
- 2018-2023 FLHCS
- 2018 and 2023 FLHCS ANV
- 2020-2023 FXLRS
- 2022-2023 FXLRST
- 2022 FXRST
Total Number of Units Affected: A staggering 65,224 units of these Harley-Davidson motorcycles are believed to be affected by this recall.
The Potential Risk: The potential risks associated with this issue are clear and concerning. A loss of tire pressure while riding can lead to a sudden loss of control, endangering the rider, and anyone nearby on the road.
Remedy: In response to this safety concern, Harley-Davidson is taking proactive measures to address the issue. Dealers will replace the shock absorber fastener on affected motorcycles entirely free of charge.
Owner Notification: Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed out on September 5, 2023. Owners of affected motorcycles are urged to take prompt action upon receiving the notification.
Contact Information: For any questions or concerns regarding this recall, Harley-Davidson has established a dedicated customer service hotline at 1-800-258-2464. When contacting them, please refer to recall number 0181.
Additional Resources: Owners may also seek information and assistance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit the NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.gov.
Harley-Davidson is committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its riders, and this recall is a demonstration of that commitment. Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to motorcycle riding, and addressing potential issues promptly is essential to maintaining the trust of the Harley-Davidson community.
As we await further information regarding which countries may be affected by this recall, we strongly advise all owners of the mentioned models to stay vigilant and be prepared to respond promptly once the official recall notice arrives in your mailbox. Your safety on the road is of paramount importance.