Clutch Issue Forces Recall of 27,232 Harley-Davidson Models

Harley-Davidson has issued a recall covering 14 different models due to a potential issue with the bikes’ clutch.

The recall includes certain model year 2016 Electra Glide Ultra Classic (FLHTCU), Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low (FLHTCUL), Ultra Limited Low (FLHTKL), Ultra Limited (FLHTK), CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE), Street Glide (FLHX), Street Glide Special (FLHXS), Road Glide Special (FLTRXS), Road Glide (FLTRX), Police Electra Glide (FLHTP), Road Glide Ultra (FLTRU), Fat Boy S (FLSTFBS), Softail Slim S (FLSS), and CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout (FXSE) motorcycles. In total, some 27,232 units are affected.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the clutch master cylinder in affected motorcycles may lose the ability to generate enough lift to disengage the clutch, especially if the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period of time.

2015 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low

If the clutch cannot be fully disengaged when the engine is running and the motorcycle in gear, the motorcycle may move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Riders of affected vehicles may notice a large amount of free play in the clutch lever when they first squeeze the clutch after the bike’s being parked for an extended period of time.

The issue is partially related to a major clutch-related recall that affected 2014/2015 models. According to NHTSA documents, Harley-Davidson believes that process changes made in the wake of the 2014/2015 recall “may not have effectively eliminated or mitigated the condition.”

2016 CVO Pro Street Breakout. CVO.

It is unclear whether there have been any rider injuries or damage to vehicles as a result of the issue.

Harley-Davidson will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the clutch master cylinder for the presence of gas in the fluid. If gas is found, the dealer will flush the clutch system and rebuild the clutch master cylinder free of charge. Concerned owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at (800) 258-2464. Harley-Davidson's number for this recall is 0169.