HARLEY-DAVIDSON SPORTSTER 1000 (XLCH) Recalls

The Harley-Davidson Sportster 1000 (XLCH) has 3 recalls covering the 1975 and 1978 model years, all involving brake failures that can leave the rider with reduced or no braking ability. On 1978 models, two separate brake issues exist. The front brake master cylinder bore can be slightly oversized, which weakens the seal between the piston and cylinder wall, allowing hydraulic fluid to leak out and front braking force to fade or disappear entirely. Separately, the aluminum rear brake pedal casting can crack and break at the pedal arm, leaving the rider without rear braking. On 1975 models, one or both of the front brake caliper mounting bolts can fracture; a broken bolt can contact the spinning wheel spokes, and if both bolts fail, the inner caliper half can detach and front braking is lost entirely.