Harley recalls several Softail models, rear shock adjustment mechanism may rub against rear tire

In the United States alone, a whopping 65,224 motorcycles are affected by the recall that Harley-Davidson has had to roll out for the FLDE, FLHC, FLHCS, FLHCS ANV, FXLRS, FXLRST and the FXRST, depending on the model ranging from model year 2019 until 2023.

In early June 2023, the Harley-Davidson Technical Subcommittee (TSC) was informed of a Service Request alleging that the rear shock adjustment mechanism on a Softail model had contacted the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.

An investigation was initiated by the TSC and forwarded to Harley’s Field Action Committee (FAC) in late July, which in turn presented its findings to Harley’s Executive Decision Authority (EDA) on August 8.

The investigation learned Harley that on Softail models equipped with a certain type of rear shock, the adjustment mechanism bolt, internal part number (P/N) 942 or 10200673, is susceptible to fatigue fracture. However, Harley does not explain why this bolt can break so easily.

Based on the information gathered, the EDA greenlighted a voluntary recall to address the issue, due to the risk of a crash if contact between the rear shock and rear tire goes unnoticed and the tire could become punctured.

Between June 28 and August 2, 2023, Harley-Davidson received 33 warranty claims reporting contact between the adjustment mechanism and the rear tire, which in 4 cases actually resulted in a rear tire puncture.

The recall affects various Softail models according to the overview below, produced between June 28, 2017 and August 7, 2023.

Softail model recall overview: