The Harley–Davidson Sportster is under recall in the North American market for a faulty headlamp. According to the NHTSA 14 products are under recall. These include the 2019 XL1200C, 2019-20 XL1200CX, 2019-21 XL1200NS, 2019-21 XL1200X, 2019 XL1200XS, 2019 XL883L and 2019-21 XL883N. The total number of potentially involved vehicles are 31,346 with 1% of the estimated defect.
The Problem
A number of Harley-Davidson Sportster (XL) model within the recall population may have a glossy, chrome finish on the interior of the bulb shield. This may lead to a thermal condition within the headlamp and further cause a hole in the tip of the bulb. The hole in the bulb may let gasses inside the bulb escape causing the dual-filament bulb to fail prematurely. Also, switching to a different beam (High-Beam/Low Beam) may also fail in some cases. The loss of both high-beam and low beam in the nighttime may cause the risk of a crash. Especially if such happens in succession. The indication of the failed headlamp in the nighttime is obvious. But in case the bulb fails during the day, the rider will be indicated through an illuminated Security Lamp.
The Solution
The motorcycle owners can arrange service appointment with an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer. The motorcycle dealership will perform the remedy free of charge. The solution involves installing a new headlamp bulb shield with a new part. From 23rd March 2021, Harley-Davidson motorcycles began receiving new headlamp assemblies with a bulb shield built with a matte inner surface finish. This new matte finish inner surface will not cause the bulb to overheat and fail.
In Other News
Harley-Davidson is planning to launch the Pan America 1250 and the Pan America 1250 Special in the Indian market. Both motorcycles are now listed on the Harley-Davidson website in India. According to the brand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 special will arrive in the Indian market by June 2021. Prices will start approximately in the INR 21 lakh ex-showroom range.
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