Harley-Davidson is recalling about 46,000 Electra Glide, Ultra Limited, Police Electra Glide, Street Glide, Road Glide and Road King models from 2014 and 2015 over an issue with its clutch assembly.
The affected motorcycles have potentially defective clutch master cylinders that may fail to fully disengage the clutch when the machines are in gear — especially if they have been parked “for an extended period of time,” the NHTSA of USA said — increasing the risk of a crash. A rider could lose control of a bike if it was started in gear. Harley-Davidson Motor Company said in its press release that gas bubbles can cause the clutch malfunction. Harley Davidson dealers will flush the clutch and rebuild the part of that is affected by the problem – the clutch master cylinder.
The problem was found through customer complaints. So far, some accidents and minor injuries have been associated with the defect, but no fatalities.
The Milwaukee-based motorcycle manufacturer said in confirming the recall notice that it wanted to extend an apology to Harley riders. “First and foremost, we apologize to our customers for this issue,” the company said in a statement. “We’re riders, too, so share in the frustration. Customer safety is our first priority.”
In a second, smaller campaign, Harley is also recalling around 9,000 units of the 2015 XG500 and XG750. Some of these motorcycles might not be manufactured with a rear reflector assembly, and therefore they don’t meet federal guidelines in the USA. Dealers will install the part for affected owners.
No word on whether these recalls affect Harleys sold in India yet. To be on the safe side though, we recommend that you give your local Harley dealership a call stat.