Harley-Davidson · Motorcycle Issues

2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Problems & Issues

2016 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Hydraulic clutch can lose lift after the bike sits parked — recalls 15V216 and 16V471.

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All 1 Known Issue

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On the 2015-2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, a chemical reaction inside the sealed hydraulic clutch system with a black master cylinder creates gas bubbles, so after the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period the clutch may not lift enough to disengage. Starting in gear or first shifting into gear can then cause a loss of control. Applies to: 2015 Road Glide (FLTRX) and Road Glide Special (FLTRXS) covered by recall 15V216 (Harley-Davidson 0165; black-painted master cylinders 36700056 and 36700049, on motorcycles built April 28 to October 24, 2014 in the US plant or March 10, 2014 to March 25, 2015 in the Brazil plant), and 2016 Road Glide (FLTRX), Road Glide Special (FLTRXS) and Road Glide Ultra (FLTRU) covered by recall 16V471 (Harley-Davidson 0169; black master cylinders 36700049B, 36700056B, 36700146 and 36700186). Chrome original or accessory master cylinders are not included. Eligibility is by VIN.

Common Symptoms

Failure to disengage the clutch, especially after prolonged parking
Excess clutch-lever free play on the first squeeze after parking
Unexpected movement when starting or selecting a gear

How to Fix

A Harley-Davidson dealer confirms the motorcycle is covered and, free of charge, inspects the clutch system and, where needed, flushes it with the specified wash solution and rebuilds the clutch master cylinder with the recall kit (the 0165 procedure replaces the master cylinder if corrosion is found and checks clutch lift afterwards). Until the repair is done, Harley-Davidson's owner letters ask you to run their pre-ride check before every ride: clear space ahead, first gear, ignition on, Run/Off switch to Run, both brakes applied, clutch lever held to the grip, then press the starter. If the engine bogs and will not start, or the bike tries to creep forward as you gradually release the brakes with the clutch still held, reapply the brakes, switch Run/Off to Off, and have the motorcycle transported by truck or trailer (or picked up by the dealer). Passing the check does not replace the recall repair. Do not attempt the repair yourself.

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High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Oct 3, 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Harley-Davidson Road Glide problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: Hydraulic clutch can lose lift after the bike sits parked — recalls 15V216 and 16V471. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Harley-Davidson Road Glide reliable?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Hydraulic clutch can lose lift after the bike sits parked — recalls 15V216 and 16V471. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

What is the 2015-2016 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Hydraulic clutch can lose lift after the bike sits parked — recalls 15V216 and 16V471?

A chemical reaction inside the sealed hydraulic clutch system with a black master cylinder creates gas bubbles, so after the motorcycle has been parked for an extended period the clutch may not lift enough to disengage. Starting in gear or first shifting into gear can then cause… Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public motorcycle data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.