Milwaukee, Wisconsin – May 3, 2026 – Harley-Davidson is recalling nearly 90,000 motorcycles in the United States over a defect that could cause engine oil to spray onto the rear tire. The company warned that the issue increases the risk of a crash or injury.
The recall covers certain 2023 and 2024 model year motorcycles equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight engine. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a faulty oil line fitting can detach under pressure. This could allow hot oil to leak onto the rear wheel, reducing traction.
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Models Affected
The recall applies to the following models: Road King, Street Glide, Electra Glide, Road Glide, and Ultra Limited. All are touring bikes with the 117 or 114 cubic-inch engine options.
Harley-Davidson said the issue stems from a supplier manufacturing error. The company has received 12 reports of oil leaks and three reports of rear-wheel slippage. No injuries have been reported so far.
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What Owners Should Do
Owners can check if their bike is affected by visiting the NHTSA recall website or Harley-Davidson’s recall portal. The company will replace the oil line fitting free of charge at authorized dealers.
Dealers have been instructed to inspect the oil line assembly and replace it if necessary. Harley-Davidson said it will begin notifying owners by mail starting May 15, 2026.
For now, the company advises riders to inspect the oil line area for signs of leakage. If oil is visible, riders should stop using the motorcycle immediately and contact a dealer.
Broader Implications
This is the second major recall for Harley-Davidson in 2026. In February, the company recalled 25,000 bikes due to a brake line issue. Industry watchers note that repeated recalls can dent brand trust, especially among loyal touring riders who rely on these bikes for long-distance travel.
The recall also comes at a time when Harley-Davidson is trying to stabilize sales. The company reported a 4% drop in global motorcycle sales in 2025, citing higher interest rates and competition from cheaper rivals. Quality control problems add to the pressure.
What this means for investors is that Harley-Davidson faces potential warranty costs and legal exposure. The company has set aside $12 million for recall-related expenses in the current quarter.
For riders, the immediate concern is safety. The NHTSA recommends that all affected owners schedule a repair appointment as soon as they receive notification.
Harley-Davidson stock closed at $34.50 on May 2, down 1.2% for the week. The recall news is expected to weigh on shares in the coming days.
More information: Visit the NHTSA recall database or Harley-Davidson’s recall page for details.
This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.
