Over 82,000 Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycles are now subject to a critical safety recall due to a rear shock component that can fracture and groove the tire, leading to sudden pressure loss and crashes. This isn’t just another routine recall; it’s the latest in a troubling pattern that has riders questioning whether the Motor Company can still deliver on its promise of reliability.
What’s Actually Failing
The defect centers on the rear shock pre-load adjuster mounting tab, which can fracture under normal use on certain Softail models manufactured between 2018 and 2024. When this tab breaks, the adjuster can contact and damage the rear tire, potentially creating a groove that leads to a sudden loss of air pressure.
The recall affects 82,117 motorcycles across seven model variants: FLDE (2018-2019), FLHCS (2018-2024), FLHC (2018-2021), FXLRS (2020-2024), FXLRST (2022-2024), FLHCS ANV (2018, 2023), and FXRST (2022). What makes this situation particularly concerning is that some affected bikes were previously “fixed” under recall 23V591 but now require additional repairs.
According to NHTSA documents, Harley knew about this issue as early as September 2024, with the Technical Subcommittee initially determining that “further action was not warranted.” By April 2025, with nine total failures reported, the company finally authorized a voluntary recall. The irony? Reddit owners note that the actual repair is surprisingly simple—”about 10 minutes and involves just one bolt.”
Riders React to Another Recall
The motorcycle community’s response has been mixed with frustration. Reddit discussions reveal that this issue has been “available since early 2024” but is only now being officially addressed. One user commented, “Are people only just discovering this? This information has been available since early 2024”.
YouTube content creators and forum members are raising pointed questions about Harley’s quality control. The broader motorcycle community is discussing Harley’s pattern of recalls, including the 41,000 bikes recalled in September 2024 for electrical issues that could cause complete power loss while riding.
Warning signs riders should watch for include unusual noises from under the seat, visible adjuster damage when the seat is removed, and potential handling difficulties. As one forum member discovered, finding “a broken bolt just laying in there” on a supposedly inspected used bike highlights the scope of the problem.
Part of a Larger Quality Crisis
This recall fits into a concerning pattern for Harley-Davidson. The company has faced multiple manufacturing interruptions, including production suspensions due to brake hose assembly issues from tier-2 suppliers. Recent recalls have included clutch problems affecting over 238,000 bikes worldwide between 2017 and 2018, as well as brake line issues affecting nearly 16,000 motorcycles in 2024.
The timing is particularly challenging as Harley-Davidson navigates leadership transitions and faces criticism over corporate policies that have sparked customer backlash. With declining sales and market challenges, each recall chips away at the brand’s reputation for reliability and American craftsmanship.
What Harley Owners Must Do Now
If you own an affected motorcycle, take immediate action. Check your VIN status using NHTSA’s recall database and schedule free service with authorized dealers for bracket installation. Contact Harley-Davidson at 1-800-258-2464, referencing recall number 0188, for questions.
The company will install a new bracket designed to limit the movement of the pre-load adjuster and prevent tire contact. Notification letters will begin going out to owners the week of June 16, 2025. While no injuries have been reported yet, the potential for sudden tire pressure loss makes this a priority repair.
This recall represents more than a technical fix—it’s a test of Harley-Davidson’s commitment to rider safety and quality control. With the company’s reputation already under scrutiny, how quickly and effectively they handle this crisis will determine whether riders continue to trust America’s most iconic motorcycle brand.
