In the past eight or nine months, we’ve had a few Harley-Davidson recalls already. Yet, the tally has now risen once again. This time, the recall applies to varying Softail models, spread over several model years. Some of these have manufacturing dates from 2017, making this one of the largest Harley-Davidson recalls in the recent past. Let’s dive in.
The Harley-Davidson Softail Recall Is Due To A Faulty Rear Shock Mounting Tab
According to H-D’s filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, certain Softail models from 2018 to 2024 have faulty rear shock mounting tabs. These tabs on the pre-load adjuster can break/fracture due to fatigue. If so, they can damage the rear tire, and the result can be a loss of pressure for the rear tire. We all know that this can be catastrophic at speed.
Harley-Davidson explains:
The rear shock pre-load adjuster mounting tab installed on certain Model Year 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles may fracture under normal use, potentially allowing the rear shock adjuster to contact the rear tire. If the defect condition occurs and remains undetected, contact between the adjuster and tire may create a groove in the tire, which may eventually lead to a sudden loss of pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chronology Of The Defect
The issue first came to light in late 2024 when Harley’s Technical Subcommittee received a service request. It mentioned the rear shock pre-load adjuster mounting bracket failed and got wedged between the shock and the rear fender. An investigation was launched soon after, and a total of six motorcycles with the same issue came to light. H-D’s Field Action Committee (FAC) was looped in May 2025, which has now led to the said recall. It’s a bit surprising how long it took Harley-Davidson to do this, considering some of these bikes date back to eight years ago (2017).
Over 50,000 Harley-Davidson Softails Fall Under The Recall
Yes, you read that right. Nearly all your favorite Harley Softails from yesteryears fall under the recall, and we’ve listed them below for easier understanding.
Models Affected In The Recall
- FLDE/2018-2019 (3,875 units)
- FLHCS/2018-2024 (24,718 units)
- FLHC/2018-2021 (8,756 units)
- FXLRS/2020-2024 (25,887 units)
- FXLRST/2022-2024 (16,058 units)
- FLHCS ANV/2018, 2023 (2,084 units)
- FXRST/2022 (739 units)
What do you do if your Harley makes the cut? Well, fret not, as the Motor Company has a free-of-cost remedy. Your nearest H-D authorized service center will reach out, arrange an appointment, and install the hardware in the recall kit. In case you’re curious, the kit includes a new bracket which limits the movement of the pre-load adjuster and also prevents the adjuster from making contact with the rear tire. Owner notifications will roll in between June 16 and June 23, 2025.
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