In June 2025, Harley-Davidson recalled over 82,000 motorcycles due to a manufacturer defect in the rear shock preload adjuster.
This component is designed to absorb force when going over bumps, but the NHTSA reported that Harley’s defective adjuster can break and cause sudden loss of tire pressure or damage to the tire.
Which Motorcycle Models Are Impacted by the 2025 Harley-Davidson Recall?
The 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle recall impacts the following Softail bikes:
- 2018-2019 FLDE
- 2018-2024 FLHCS
- 2018-2021 FLHC
- 2020-2024 FXLRS
- 2022-2024 FXLRST
- 2018 & 2023 FLHCS ANV
- 2022 FXRST
Owners should have received recall notices by June 16.
How Do I Get My Motorcycle Fixed After a Recall?
If your motorcycle is one of the recalled models, you can take it to any local Harley-Davidson dealership to have the affected bracket replaced for free.
You can also contact Harley-Davidson with any questions at 1-800-258-2464. Be sure to mention the recall number 0188 to let them know which issue you are contacting them about.
What to Do If You Are in a Motorcycle Accident Caused by a Manufacturer Defect
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident that you think was caused by a manufacturer defect, you may be able to hold them responsible by filing a personal injury claim.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Get Medical Help Right After the Accident
Whether you feel injured or not, it’s imperative to get medical attention as quickly as possible after the accident.
Some injuries may not present symptoms right away. This includes serious issues like internal bleeding, whiplash, and traumatic brain injuries.
You’ll also benefit from establishing medical records sooner, since the other side could try to use waiting to go to the doctor after an accident against you.
2. Document the Scene and Other Critical Details
It’s very important to try to gather what evidence you can from the scene of the accident. You can ask someone else to do this for you if you’re on the way to the hospital or otherwise unable to.
The most critical info to gather includes:
- Photographs of the scene, ideally before the bike or anything else is moved
- Photographs of the surrounding area, including road conditions, signage, and debris
- Photographs of injuries
- Witness contact information
3. Have Your Motorcycle Inspected
Your motorcycle and all its parts serve as crucial physical evidence in your legal case. Your motorcycle may be inspected by multiple parties, like your lawyer’s expert witness, the other party’s insurance adjusters, and others.
Ideally, you should avoid repairing, cleaning, or disposing of your motorcycle until it has been inspected or even until your case is complete.
4. Report the Accident to the NHTSA
If you suspect your crash was caused by a defective motorcycle part, you should file a complaint with the NHTSA. This is a federal agency that tracks dangerous trends in vehicle safety and oversees recalls.
Motorcycle owners can dial the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 to submit a complaint, or go to www.nhtsa.gov to send one online.
You will need to include information like the make, model, and year of your motorcycle and a brief summary of the accident.
5. Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle crash, you should get in contact with a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case. This is when you will learn about your legal rights and what next steps you should take.
Your attorney can independently investigate the crash, handle insurance negotiations, and file your lawsuit. They will also help guide you through each stage of the case.
Further Reading: Why Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
How Mazow | McCullough, PC Can Help
At our law office, we advocate for the rights of average people like you who were injured in a motorcycle accident by someone else’s negligence or carelessness.
Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC in Salem, MA today to schedule a no-cost case consultation at (978) 744-8000 or toll-free at (855) 693-9084.
