I posted a video about the Harley‑Davidson Softail recall announced on 9 June 2025 because my 2019 Heritage 114 is on the list. After calling my local dealer in Brisbane, removing my seat, and inspecting the rear shock area, here’s a clear, practical guide based on what I saw and what dealers are telling owners right now. I’ve kept the hands‑on details from the video so you can follow the same checks and next steps.

What the Harley Davidson recall covers and why it matters

The issue — A mounting tab on the rear shock preload adjuster can fatigue or fracture, allowing the adjuster/bracket to move rearward and contact the rear tyre. That contact can abrade the tyre, cause a sudden loss of tyre pressure, and create a serious crash risk at speed.

Scope — The recall affects Softail models from roughly 2018–2024 and has been reported to include over 82,000 motorcycles worldwide. VIN lookup is the only definitive way to confirm whether your bike is included.

Official verification — Check your VIN on Harley‑Davidson’s official recall lookup.

Which models are commonly listed and which usually aren’t.

Commonly listed affected models (examples owners are reporting): FLDE, FLHC, FLHCS (Heritage Classic), FLHCS Anniversary, FXLRS, FXLRST, FXRST.

Models generally not included because they use a different adjuster design: Fat Boy, Breakout, Fat Bob, Street Bob, Softail Standard, Sport Glide.

To make sure you’re not affected using the VIN lookup on the official recall page or call your dealer; model lists can vary by market and VIN lookup is final.

My hands‑on inspection and dealer call

What I did — I removed the seat on my 2019 Heritage 114 to access the rear shock area. The preload adjuster and bracket are visible once the seat is off. The mounting tab in my bike looked intact, but fatigue cracks can be tiny or internal and not obvious to the eye.

What my Brisbane dealer told me — Harley will provide a permanent bracket remedy that prevents the adjuster from contacting the tyre. The dealer estimated the install takes about 10 minutes once parts arrive. They also said parts were being distributed and that wait times vary by region; at the time I called they expected parts within about a week. Your dealer’s timing may differ, so call and ask to be placed on their recall repair list.

How to inspect your bike safely

Safety first — Do inspections on a level surface, engine off, and with the rear wheel secured. If you’re not comfortable, call your dealer and avoid riding until the repair is done.

Step‑by‑step inspection

1. Remove the seat to access the rear shock and adjuster.
2. Locate the preload adjuster and bracket and find the mounting tab that secures it to the frame.
3. Look for visible signs: cracks, bends, deformation, corrosion concentrated at the tab or bolt holes, or loose/missing fasteners.
4. Inspect the rear tyre for fresh cuts, gouges, or unusual wear on the sidewall or tread near the adjuster’s path.
5. Gently check for play in the adjuster assembly by hand; do not force anything.

Red flags — Any crack, bend, missing bolt, or evidence of contact with the tyre means do not ride; photograph the damage and contact your dealer immediately.

Dealer remedy, timing, and what to expect

Remedy — Harley will install a permanent bracket designed to keep the preload adjuster from contacting the tyre. The repair is performed at authorized dealers free of charge under the recall.

Timing — Parts are being manufactured and distributed globally; some dealers will have parts sooner than others. Expect regional variation and ask your dealer for their current estimate.

At the dealer — Call ahead, give your VIN, ask to be added to the recall list, and schedule the repair once parts arrive. You should receive documentation or a service record confirming the recall repair

Safety guidance while you wait

• If your VIN is affected, avoid riding until the remedy is installed whenever possible.
• If you must ride, keep speeds low, avoid highways, and inspect the adjuster and tyre before every trip. Visual checks cannot guarantee the tab won’t fail without warning.
• Do not attempt a DIY fix that alters the adjuster or bracket; this could create new hazards and may affect recall coverage.
• Document everything: take photos of any damage, keep dealer communications, and retain service receipts.

FAQ

Has Harley reported crashes or injuries from this defect?
As of the initial notices, Harley and regulators had not publicly reported crash‑related fatalities tied to this defect, but the potential for sudden tyre failure is considered serious.

Will Harley cover tyre replacement if damage is found?
If tyre damage is confirmed by the dealer to be caused by the defect, the recall remedy typically covers necessary repairs or replacements. Confirm specifics with your dealer.

How long will parts take to arrive?
Lead times vary by region and dealer. Some dealers reported short waits; others may have longer delays. Call your dealer and ask to be placed on their parts/repair list.

Can I ride to the dealer for the repair?
Many owners have ridden to dealers for the repair when no visible damage was present, but this carries risk. The safest option is to avoid riding until the remedy is installed.

What if I already had a related repair under a previous recall?
Tell your dealer about any prior recall repairs. Some units previously repaired may still require the new remedy; your dealer can confirm via VIN.

Final note and call to action

This recall hit home for me because my 2019 Heritage 114 is affected. I called my Brisbane dealer, inspected my bike, and I’m on their parts list. If your Softail is in the 2018–2024 range, check your VIN now, call your dealer, and schedule the free repair when parts arrive.

If you’ve already had the repair done, please share on my video in the comments your dealer name, how long you waited for parts, and whether tyre replacement was required — your experience helps other riders.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects the author’s observations and dealer reports at the time of publication. It is not legal, medical, or professional advice.

Accuracy and updates
I have made every reasonable effort to ensure the details are correct, but recall notices, remedies, part availability, and official guidance can change. Always verify recall status and remedy details using Harley‑Davidson’s official recall lookup and your local regulator’s recall notice.

Definitive source
Your VIN lookup and direct communication with an authorized Harley‑Davidson dealer are the definitive sources for whether your motorcycle is affected and what remedy applies. Do not rely solely on this article to determine your bike’s status.

Safety and inspections
Any inspection steps described are basic, observational checks. Visual inspections cannot guarantee a component is free from fatigue or imminent failure. If you are unsure or find any signs of damage, do not ride and contact your dealer immediately.

Liability
The author and publisher accept no responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, or expense arising from reliance on the information in this article. Use the guidance here at your own risk and follow official manufacturer and dealer instructions