More Than 82,000 Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Recalled
What Went Wrong with the Softail Models
Leadership changes are not unusual in the corporate world, especially when a company has been around for over a century. However, when it comes to a brand as iconic as Harley-Davidson, the search for a new CEO—and what happens while the position remains unfilled—can have ripple effects across the entire business.
Back in April, Harley-Davidson confirmed that it was actively searching for its next CEO. This process was part of what the company described as "the Board's succession planning responsibilities." That announcement came after current CEO Jochen Zeitz made it known that he intends to step down in 2025. He has been at the helm since 2020, leading the company through some challenging times and pandemic-related disruptions.
A month later, the company provided an update on the situation. However, there still wasn’t a new leader to introduce.
"The Harley-Davidson Board of Directors confirmed that the rigorous search process for Harley-Davidson’s next CEO continues at pace, led by the search committee," the company said in a follow-up statement. So, for now, Zeitz is staying on as the head of the company.
While the leadership search drags on, Harley-Davidson faced another issue to deal with—one that directly affects thousands of motorcycle owners.
Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that Harley-Davidson is recalling more than 82,000 motorcycles due to a defect that could cause serious safety issues. The recall affects several Softail models made between 2018 and 2024.
Harley-Davidson is recalling Softail models over a shock adjuster issue that could damage the rear tire and pose a safety risk.
According to the NHTSA, the problem lies with a part of the rear suspension system.
"The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure," the agency said.
In simple terms, a broken piece can lead to the shock adjuster rubbing against the rear tire, and if that goes unnoticed, it could result in a sudden drop in tire pressure, which is a clear safety hazard.
Here are the affected models: FLDE (2018–2019), FLHCS (2018–2024), FLHC (2018–2021), FXLRS (2020–2024), FXLRST (2022–2024), FLHCS ANV (2018, 2023), FXRST (2022).
The recall warning explains that if the issue isn’t addressed, the adjuster could cut a groove into the rear tire. That damage could build up over time and eventually lead to a loss of control. In other words, if you’re riding one of the affected bikes, it’s something to take seriously.
Riders might notice a strange noise from under the seat, or if they remove the seat, they could spot a loose rear shock adjuster. Another red flag is if the bike suddenly becomes harder to maneuver—that could be a sign that the adjuster is already pressing against the tire.
To fix the issue, Harley-Davidson is advising owners to bring their motorcycles in for service. The company says it will install a new bracket that limits how much the pre-load adjuster can move, which should prevent it from ever coming into contact with the tire again.
commons.wikimediaFounded in 1903, Harley-Davidson became a global icon known for its V-twin engines, wartime use, and rebellious image.
Harley-Davidson was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1903 by William S. Harley and the Davidson brothers, Arthur, Walter, and William. What started as a small shed operation quickly grew into one of the most recognized motorcycle brands in the world.
The company played a major role in both World Wars, providing bikes for military use, and became a symbol of freedom and rebellion in post-war America.
Through ups and downs, including near-bankruptcy in the 1980s, Harley-Davidson has remained an enduring icon in motorcycle culture, known for its V-twin engines, distinct sound, and loyal rider community.
commons.wikimediaHarley-Davidson is facing a challenging moment, balancing a leadership change while dealing with a recall that impacts tens of thousands of customers. After decades of highs and lows, the company’s future depends on how quickly and effectively it tackles both issues.
For now, riders want their bikes to be safe and ready to hit the road, and shareholders are eager to see who will steer Harley into its next chapter.
Industry Insight
According to Clayton Christensen, a renowned business scholar, leadership transitions can significantly impact a company’s operational stability, particularly in iconic brands like Harley-Davidson. He emphasizes that the uncertainty during a CEO search can lead to missed opportunities and misalignment in strategic direction.
Christensen suggests that companies should implement a clear succession plan to mitigate such risks. This includes identifying internal candidates and fostering a culture of innovation, making the transition smoother and ensuring business continuity.
Harley-Davidson's recall of over 82,000 motorcycles highlights potential lapses in quality assurance processes. A manufacturing expert points out that maintaining rigorous quality controls during production is essential to prevent such widespread issues.
Experts recommend conducting regular audits and ensuring cross-functional teams collaborate closely throughout the manufacturing process. This proactive approach not only addresses current problems but also fosters a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, crucial for maintaining brand loyalty and consumer trust.
Clinical Perspective & Next Steps
The recent recall incident serves as a reminder that proactive measures in both leadership and manufacturing processes are vital for a company's success. Experts like Dave Ramsey advocate for businesses to prioritize risk management and quality assurance to safeguard their reputations.
By implementing robust training programs and emphasizing a culture of excellence, Harley-Davidson can not only recover from this setback but also emerge stronger and more resilient in the highly competitive motorcycle market.
