Harley-Davidson has announced one of its largest recalls in recent years, affecting 82,117 Softail motorcycles manufactured between 2018 and 2024, due to a critical defect in the rear shock adjuster support. The flaw may cause the component to contact the rear tire, creating a groove that could lead to sudden air pressure loss and significantly increase the risk of a crash.

According to the official report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on June 6, 2025, under recall number 25V375 (campaign 0188), the problem stems from a tab on the adjuster support that can fracture over time due to fatigue—even after a previous repair was issued in 2023. Although a stronger 5/16" bolt was used in that campaign, new incidents reported in 2025 prompted a broader recall.

The affected models include FLDE (2018–2019), FLHC (2018–2021), FLHCS (2018–2024), FLHCS ANV (2018, 2023), FXLRS (2020–2024), FXLRST (2022–2024), and FXRST (2022). Harley-Davidson will begin notifying owners between June 16 and 23, after informing dealerships earlier from June 9 to 16.

Riders should look out for warning signs such as unusual noises beneath the seat, uneven tire wear, or loss of handling precision. In some cases, the defect may be visually detectable by removing the seat.

Harley-Davidson will provide the repair free of charge at authorized dealerships, installing a redesigned support that limits adjuster movement and prevents contact with the tire. All 2025 Softail models are already equipped with the updated hardware.

To date, no crashes or injuries have been linked to this issue. However, the NHTSA warned that “a sudden loss of pressure increases the risk of an accident.”

The recall comes amid internal challenges at Harley-Davidson, including a 31% drop in stock value and an ongoing search for a new CEO to replace Jochen Zeitz.

Owners are encouraged to contact 1‑800‑258‑2464 (recall 0188) or the NHTSA at 1‑888‑327‑4236, and to check their motorcycle’s VIN status on the official Harley-Davidson website.