CarRecallWatchThe 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA.
The most-reported problem area is Structure (2 reports).
2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S recalls
Steering Part May Crack, Risking Loss of Control
The upper triple clamp, a part that connects the front forks to the handlebars, can fracture on certain motorcycles.
Motorcycle Upper Triple Clamp May Crack, Risking Loss of Control
Certain Sportster S motorcycles may have an upper triple clamp that can fracture while the bike is being ridden.
Speedometer and neutral light may not show at startup in freezing cold
On certain 2021 Pan America and Sportster S motorcycles, the instrument cluster may fail to display the speedometer and neutral indicator when it starts up in below-freezing temperatures.
Most common 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S problems
Problem areas named in the 3 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Structure | 2 |
| Engine | 2 |
What owners report
While riding the motorcycle, engine suddenly began making a loud clacking noise. Brought motorcycle in to Harley Davidson dealer and it was diagnosed that they cam chain tensior had become loose and was destroyed inside the engine causing small bits of metal to clog oil ports and damage the engine. The remedy was an engine replacement. Through deliberate research this appears to be an issue with the 2021-2023 model year Sportster S Harley-Davidson motorcycles and should be recalled to remedy the issue before engine failure due to manufacturing negligence.
There is a known issue with he engines in these motorcycles where the bolt for the timing chain tensioner comes loose and causes excessive wear in the timing chain guid with causes the timing chain tensioner to come apart inside of the engine which will cause the engine to have to be replaced due to loose metal fragments in the engine. I went to my local dealer yesterday 12/27/2025 to talk to them about my issues and one of the mechanics pulled me back too look at a bike with the same issue and the engines was completely disassembled so they can fix it.
The contact owns a 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S. The contact stated that the motorcycle was ridden 17-miles to work. The contact stated that after completing the workday and riding back to the residence, there was an abnormal whizzing sound coming from the motorcycle while riding on the Interstate. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the bolts on the frame tube were damaged. The contact stated that another motorist motioned for him to stop. The contact pulled over and noticed that the hold assembly had detached from the motorcycle and was being dragged by the signal and brake lights. The bolts had sheared off. The local dealer was not contacted. The motorcycle w
2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S questions
Does the 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S: Steering Part May Crack, Risking Loss of Control; Motorcycle Upper Triple Clamp May Crack, Risking Loss of Control; Speedometer and neutral light may not show at startup in freezing cold. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S?
Based on 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Structure (2), Engine (2).
How do I check if a recall on my 2021 Harley-Davidson RH1250S has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.