Another Major Recall By Harley-Davidson Due to Front Brake Issue

Table of Content

1. The Issue 2. Harley-Davidson Briefing 3. Models Included 4. Steps Taken By Harley-Davidson 4.1 Notice for Affected Models’ Owners 4.2 Removing the Assembly Error 5. Recall Amid DEI Backlash

Another bad news for Harley-Davidson fans and the company’s brand image. Harley-Davidson has announced a recall due to a problem with the front brake lines. The issue can potentially damage the front brake, risking riders' safety. It is unfortunate for the company’s reputation.

The American motorcycle brand is already under a lot of criticism and scrutiny. Customers are already questioning the reliability of Harley motorcycles. With another recall, the question is surely going to gain some momentum.

1. The Issue

According to the reports, the affected Harley-Davidson models are unsafe to ride due to front brake issues. The front brake lines can get in contact with the fuel tank. It probably happened during the assembly phase.

The front brake lines of the affected models have an unintended bend. There is a chance that the front brake may fail in such a situation. The brake fluid can also leak while going unnoticed.

Also Read: 101 Guide on Motorcycle Brake Service and Maintenance

2. Harley-Davidson Briefing

The briefing provided by Harley-Davidson to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) says:

“Contact between the brake lines and the fuel tank, over time, could lead to a breach in the brake lines and a loss of brake fluid. If brake fluid loss remains undetected, front braking may be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash. This concern does not affect the functioning of the rear brakes.”

- Harley Davidson

3. Models Included

Though it doesn’t seem to be a major negligence, it can still be riskier if the rider continues to ride without resolving the issue.

According to the safety recall reports, the below model years have been recalled and are expected to have the following issues:

Harley-Davidson FXRT : All models manufactured in 2022
Harley-Davidson FXLRT : Specific models manufactured on specific dates between 2022-2024.

4. Steps Taken By Harley-Davidson

4.1 Notice for Affected Models’ Owners

As per the company’s directions, the affected models’ owners are advised to visit their nearest dealership store for the service. The customers will not be charged for the recall service.

4.2 Removing the Assembly Error

The company ensured the assembly error would be removed on August 8, 2024. The assembly lines were modified to ensure the error in the front brake lines does not persist in future Harley-Davidson models.

5. Recall Amid DEI Backlash

Harley-Davidson is already facing backlash on its DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. It is not good for the company. Many of the customers are switching to other brands.

The company finally had to drop its diversity initiatives and DEI policies to support LGBTQ+ sponsorships. It happened due to the serious pressure from anti-diversity activist Robby Starbuck.