2021 HARLEY-DAVIDSON Fxlrs

NHTSA Complaint Description — This complaint concerns two unrepaired safety recalls (23V591 and 25V375) on a 2021 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (FXLRS) Softail motorcycle that were never remedied prior to a fatal crash on April 12, 2023. Recall 23V591 (issued August 2023) involves a fastener that may fracture, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to contact the rear tire, creating a groove and causing sudden loss of tire pressure — increasing crash risk. Recall 25V375 (issued June 2025) involves the rear shock pre-load adjuster mounting tab, which may fracture under normal use, with the same potential tire contact and pressure loss hazard. Neither recall was repaired prior to the fatal crash. The motorcycle was impounded following the crash and subsequently transferred before any inspection for recall-related defects could be conducted. It is unknown whether either defect was present at the time of the crash, as no inspection for recall compliance was performed post-crash. Safety was placed at severe risk — the operator died. The vehicle was not inspected by the manufacturer or dealer for recall defects after the crash. No dealer service was ever performed to remedy either recall. The vehicle is no longer available for inspection.