US motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson has provided updated specifications for its 2020 LiveWire model; its first all-electric motorcycle, with details of the battery technology, connectivity and rider assistance features revealed on Friday.
Propelled by the immediate torque of the H-D Revelation electric power train, the LiveWire motorcycle is capable of rapid acceleration with just a twist of the throttle – no clutching or gear shifting required.
It will launch with a peak range of 235km, and will rush from 0-100km/h in 3.0 seconds. It’s optimised center of gravity, rigid aluminum frame and premium adjustable suspension components will also give the LiveWire outstanding dynamic handling capabilities.
Paired with an impressive Brembo braking package and premium co-branded H-D/Michelin Scorcher Sport tyres, the new electric bike will also offer power regeneration mode to add charge to the battery.
The H-D Revelation electric power train produces minimal vibration, very little heat, and minimal noise, all of which enhance rider comfort. The new model is also designed to produce a mechanical signature Harley-Davidson sound as it accelerates and gains speed.
It’s a new sound that represents the smooth, electric power of the LiveWire motorcycle, which will also come loaded with a full suite of electronic rider aids and interfaces for a completely connected experience.
There are seven selectable riding modes (Sport, Road, Range, Rain and three Custom offerings) that control the performance of the bike, and the level of intervention of the bike’s defensive rider systems.
Those systems include cornering enhanced ABS, cornering enhanced traction control and drag-torque slip control, all aimed at giving the rider more confidence and control in less-than-ideal situations.
In terms of charging, DC Fast Charge technology will provide a 0-80 per cent battery charge in 40 minutes or 0-100 per cent charge in 60 minutes. And as an added bonus, maintenance costs are reduced without the need to service an engine.
The Harley-Davidson LiveWire motorcycle will of course require inspection or service of some mechanical and consumable items, such as the drive belt tension, gearbox oil, brake fluid, brake pads, and tyres, at recommended intervals and pre-ride.
The high-voltage battery has a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. The bike itself will be available in three colours, Vivid black, Yellow Fuse and Orange Fuse. Harley-Davidson will also offer a range of accessories, once the LiveWire is launched.
These include a two-up seat and tail section, a speed screen blade, decorative trim, hand and foot controls, and a motorcycle cover with a charging cord port. Getting the latest information when riding will be easy too, thanks to a 4.3-inch color TFT touchscreen.
Located above the handlebar, the screen offers the rider everything from the selected drive mode, battery charge and warning lights, to Bluetooth connectivity, and a range of regular riding information.
H-D Connect technology will also link a LiveWire owner with their motorcycle through their smart phone using the latest version of the Harley-Davidson app. This will allow owners to be able remotely monitor their Livewire’s security and battery charge.
The new bike is the first in a broad portfolio of electric two-wheelers designed to establish Harley-Davidson as the leader in the electrification of motorcycles.
The Harley-Davidson LiveWire motorcycle will launch in Australia in 2020. Local specifications and pricing will be available closer to launch.
