Harley-Davidson is recalling multiple 2014 and 2015 touring models because of a clutch problem. The recall affects 45,901 motorcycles from the following models:

2014 CVO Road King

2014-2015 Electra Glide Ultra Classic

2014-2015 Ultra Limited

2014-2015 Street Glide

2014-2015 Street Glide Special

2014-2015 CVO Street Glide

2015 Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low

2015 Ultra Limited Low

2015 Road Glide Special

2015 Road Glide

The affected motorcycles have black-painted clutch master cylinders. Chrome master cylinders and those purchased from Harley-Davidson’s Parts & Accessories are not included in the recall.

According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a chemical reaction in the clutch system may generate gas bubbles that can prevent the clutch from disengaging after the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period. Customers may notice a large amount of free play in the clutch lever when this occurs.

Harley-Davidson began investigating the issue in October 2014 after receiving eight warranty claims and two customer complaints about the clutch master cylinder. Harley-Davidson and its part supplier inspected the affected master cylinders and found evidence of gas generation in the DOT4 fluid. By January 2015, Harley-Davidson had received 15 reported incidents with two minor injuries.

An external chemist was called in to help with the investigation while Harley-Davidson contacted more customers for more information. An updated search found 313 warranty claims, 31 customer complaints and 27 accidents resulting in four minor injuries.

Harley-Davidson dealers will inspect recalled vehicles and, if necessary, flush the clutch system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder, replacing it if it shows signs of corrosion.

[Source: NHTSA]