Harley-Davidson LiveWire

The Harley-Davidson LiveWire is the first electric cruiser from the American motorcycle manufacturer. The Harley-Davidson LiveWire is powered by an all-new electric powertrain which Harley-Davidson calls the “Revelation”. It uses what is called an internal permanent magnet synchronous motor which has a power output of 78 kW or 104.6 bhp and with a peak torque output of 116 Nm. The LiveWire has a claimed acceleration time from 0-100 kmph in 3.5 seconds, and is claimed to reach 128 kmph from 100 kmph in less than two seconds. Top speed is rated at 177 kmph.

The 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery gives a claimed range of up to 235 kilometres in the city, and 113 km on the highway, with a combined claimed efficiency of 152 km. On a typical household charger, the LiveWire requires 10 hours or slightly more to be fully charged. The LiveWire will also get some high-end components like Showa Separate Function Forks with Big Piston adjustable upside down fork, and a fully adjustable rear monoshock. Electronics include a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a system what H-D calls Reflex Defensive Riding System, a collection of technology that optimises traction during acceleration, deceleration, and braking and all systems available during cornering as well. There is cornering ABS, rear-wheel-lift mitigation, cornering traction control system, and what is described as a drag-torque slip control system, designed to manage rear wheel slip and prevent rear-wheel lock during regenerative braking.  There are four modes on offer – Sport, Road, Rain, Range and personal modes which can be fully customised.

In terms of other handy features, the LiveWire is H-D Connect compatible, which will allow the owner to download an app and connect the motorcycle directly to the app. Battery status, available range, riding modes, riding stats, security, charging status, charging locations, as well as service reminders and notifications will be available on the app. Harley-Davidson will offer a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty on the battery. So far, it’s not clear when the LiveWire will be introduced in India.