A recall of 21,643 motorcycles has been issued by Harley-Davidson in the U.S. due to an issue with the gear-position sensor, which can provide inaccurate information on the instrument display. The recall document notes that the sensor may transmit incorrect data to the engine control module, or ECM, resulting in the neutral indicator illuminating on the dashboard even when a gear is engaged. If a rider relies on this indication and releases the clutch, the motorcycle may move forward unexpectedly, posing a risk of loss of control, collision, or injury to nearby individuals.
The recall encompasses nine 2026 Harley-Davidson models, with the Street Glide and Road Glide models accounting for 13,253 of the affected motorcycles, representing over 60% of the total. Additionally, 5,208 Street Glide Limited and Road Glide Limited models are included, along with 2,853 CVO models and 329 Road Glide Police motorcycles, which are part of Harley’s police fleet.
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Although the number of affected motorcycles is relatively small compared to some of Harley-Davidson’s previous recalls, the issue is still considered serious. According to Harley-Davidson, the gear indicator may fluctuate between neutral and another gear or continue to display neutral while the motorcycle is in motion. The company estimates that only 0.1% of the recalled motorcycles, approximately 22 out of 21,643, are actually affected by the defect. However, owners may not be aware that their motorcycle is one of the affected ones until the faulty gear reading poses a risk.
Harley-Davidson became aware of the issue in April when a 2026 Road Glide was brought in for servicing, revealing excess plastic on the gear-position sensor that could prevent accurate gear reporting and cause the display to show neutral when the motorcycle was in gear. The company subsequently examined more sensors and tracked similar cases over the following months. By August 3, additional inspections were implemented at the York, Pennsylvania, factory, and the recall was approved on October 27.
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According to the recall filing, Harley-Davidson is aware of two injuries that may be related to the issue, although no warning has been issued advising owners not to ride their motorcycles. As this is an official safety recall, owners will not be required to pay for the necessary repairs. Harley-Davidson dealers will replace the faulty gear-position sensor with an updated part at no cost.
Recall notices are scheduled to be mailed between November 16 and November 23, 2026. In the meantime, owners can check their motorcycle’s status by entering the vehicle identification number (VIN) on Harley-Davidson’s recall website or the NHTSA’s recall lookup website. The recall number is 0194, and owners can also contact Harley-Davidson at 800-258-2464 for assistance. To locate the VIN on a motorcycle, owners can check the area around the frame near the steering neck.
