Harley-Davidson recalls more than 82,000 motorcycles due to crash risk, check affected bike models

Harley-Davidson, an American motorcycle manufacturer, is recalling more than 82,000 bikes following an issue that increases the chances of a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reporting.

In a recall notice issued on June 12, 2025 (Thursday), the federal agency stated, “The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break on certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.” The possible malfunction can lead to a risk of crash or death, officials stated.

As of early June 2025, Harley-Davidson had not reported any deaths or injuries in connection to the issue. Some vehicles included in the recall were repaired in the past under recall 23V591 and will require a new remedy to be completed.

Which models are affected?

The recall affects the following 82,117 Harley-Davidson Softail bikes: FLDE: 2018-2019, FLHCS: 2018-2024, FLHC: 2018-2021, FXLRS: 2020-2024, FXLRST: 2022-2024, FLHCS ANV: 2018, 2023, FXRST: 2022.

The NHTSA recall notice stated that dealers will install a new bracket on the bike, free of charge. Notification letters are likely to be mailed to owners by June 16.

According to Men’s Journal, the NHTSA claimed that if the defect condition occurs and remains undetected, contact between the adjuster and tire might create a groove in the tire. It can eventually lead to a sudden loss of pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.