Clearwater, FL — Defective Tire Pressure System Prompts Massive Harley-Davidson Recall

Clearwater, FL (June 18th, 2025) – Harley-Davidson has issued a major recall affecting nearly 65,000 motorcycles from its 2023 model lineup. The problem? A software defect in the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that can mislead riders into thinking their tire pressure is safe when it’s not.

At Light & Wyatt Law Group, we monitor dangerous recalls like this one to help protect riders and families across Clearwater and the surrounding areas. If you were injured, or lost someone you love, because of a defective motorcycle or faulty equipment, contact our firm. We can help you pursue compensation for your losses and hold negligent manufacturers and retailers accountable.

Which Models Are Affected?

The recall impacts 2023 models from Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring and Trike series, including the FLTRXSE Road Glide CVO, FLHXSE Street Glide CVO, and FLHTCUTG Tri Glide Ultra. These bikes were built between July 2022 and March 2024.

Riders can confirm whether their bike is included by checking the VIN through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup or by contacting their local dealership.

The affected motorcycles were manufactured between July 2022 and March 2024, and include popular models in the company’s Grand American Touring and Trike lineups. Riders often rely on these bikes for long-distance travel, where consistent tire performance is critical. A defect that undermines tire safety on heavy, high-performance motorcycles poses a serious crash risk, not only to riders, but to others on the road.

What Prompted the Harley-Davidson Recall?

The Harley-Davidson motorcycle recall stems from a defect in the TPMS software installed on several 2023 model motorcycles. According to documents filed with the NHTSA, the software misreports tire pressure levels by showing readings that are 3.1 PSI higher than the actual tire pressure.

This overestimation may lead riders to believe their tires are properly inflated when they are, in fact, underinflated. Underinflated tires may increase the risk of poor handling, reduced traction, and blowouts while riding.

Harley-Davidson first became aware of the problem in late 2023, when internal testing and reports from dealerships raised red flags about pressure readings. By March 2024, the company had confirmed the issue and launched a formal investigation. In May, Harley-Davidson submitted a voluntary recall notice to the NHTSA and began preparing a fix. The recall was officially posted by the agency in June 2025.

Why the Tire Pressure Defect Is Dangerous

When a motorcycle’s tires are underinflated, even by a few PSI, it can lead to reduced traction, increased stopping distances, and instability while cornering. Misleading pressure readings give riders a false sense of security. Further, such incorrect readings may stop them from checking or correcting unsafe levels.

In Florida, where roads are often hot and storm-slick, the risks are amplified. An underinflated tire may blow out or fail during a turn or sudden stop, leading to a crash. And unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists don’t have airbags or steel frames to protect them.

Common Injuries from Motorcycle Tire Failures

When tire problems lead to a crash, the outcome can be life-altering. Motorcycle accidents often result in:

• Head and brain injuries, especially in riders not wearing helmets
• Fractures and crush injuries from impact with the pavement or other vehicles
• Spinal cord damage that may lead to partial or total paralysis

Soft-tissue trauma, internal bleeding, and severe road rash are also common. Medical costs add up quickly, and many riders need long-term rehabilitation or are left unable to return to work.

Legal Recourse for Injured Riders

Injured riders may have a valid claim against Harley-Davidson or other parties involved in the manufacturing and distribution of the motorcycle. Under Florida product liability law, manufacturers can be held responsible for injuries caused by defective products, even if they weren’t negligent.

There are several legal theories that could apply, including:

• Design Defect: If the TPMS was flawed from the start.
• Manufacturing Defect: If something went wrong during production.
• Failure to Warn: If Harley-Davidson failed to adequately inform riders about the risks or delay in issuing the recall.

A successful claim may allow the injured rider to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. In fatal cases, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.

What To Do If You Own a Recalled Bike

If your Harley-Davidson is included in the recall, take it seriously. Contact your dealership to arrange the software update, and avoid riding until the fix is complete. While waiting, use a reliable manual gauge to verify tire pressure before each ride.

Even if you haven’t experienced a crash, document everything. Keep service records, screenshots, or emails related to the recall. If you’ve noticed handling problems or had to add air more frequently, make a note of those details too.

How a Recall Impacts Your Case

A recall notice doesn’t automatically prove product liability claims in court, but it can support your claim. To build a strong case, you’ll still need to show that the defect caused your injuries. If your crash occurred before you were notified, or before the software fix was available, you may have a stronger argument.

Timing is critical. Courts will consider whether the rider followed maintenance guidelines, responded to recall notices, and used the motorcycle as intended. The manufacturer’s actions, such as delay in issuing the recall, may also come under scrutiny.

Contact a Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle riders place trust in their bikes, and in the systems that help keep them safe. When that trust is broken due to a defective product, the consequences can be life-changing or deadly.

If you were injured in a crash involving a recalled Harley-Davidson motorcycle, the Light & Wyatt Law Group can help. Our legal team investigates product liability claims for injured riders in Clearwater and throughout the Tampa Bay area. We work to hold manufacturers accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 727-499-9900 for a free consultation.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association