Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1979 Harley-Davidson 1200 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but 2 recall campaigns apply to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
2
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
2 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
THE REAR BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER PLASTIC PISTON EMPLOYS A NON-SPECIFIED MATERIAL WHICH MAY ALLOW EXCESSIVE WATER ABSORPTION. AS A RESULT, THE PLASTIC PISTON MIGHT STICK IN THE MASTER CYLINDER PISTON BORE AND CAUSE BRAKE DRAG.
Remedy
DEALER WILL REPLACE REAR BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER PISTONS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Defect
CERTAIN VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BRAKE MASTER CYLINDERS WHICH HAVE FISSURES IN THE CYLINDER BODIES. THIS WOULD ALLOW BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE THROUGH THE FISSURED SECTION.
Remedy
DEALER WILL REPLACE DEFECTIVE FRONT BRAKE MASTER CYLINDERS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNERS.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 2 recalls should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns affecting the 1979 Harley-Davidson 1200. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.