The Livewire is Harley-Davidson's first electric motorcycle
We don’t normally do motorcycles on TopGear, but every now and then something quite interesting comes along that forces us to make an exception. Today’s something is the Harley-Davidson Livewire, the brand’s first all-electric motorcycle. And boy, doesn’t it look good.
Based on a 2014 concept and set to go on sale early next year, details remain relatively scant. We don’t have performance figures, for example, but Harley promises “incredible acceleration performance” from the permanent magnet electric motor, which is mounted low and used as a stressed member in the bike’s construction.
Power is drawn from a lithium-ion battery (the lights, horn, TFT display and so on are powered by a separate 12-volt supply) which can be recharged from a standard household plug socket, or a commercial fast-charger. Harley says dealers who’ve signed up to sell the Livewire will have DC fast-chargers installed, too.
Meanwhile the all-aluminium chassis, Brembo brakes and fully adjustable Showa suspension give the Livewire “confident control on urban streets and a thrilling ride on curving backroads,” says it maker. Seven drive modes – three of which can be set by the rider – alter things like the standard-fit ABS, traction control and power delivery.
The styling follows Harley’s tradition of drawing attention to the engine – only here the engine is an electric motor instead of a V-Twin. What little bodywork there is uses special paint to give the look of anodized metal.
More information, including prices, range, performance and so-on, will be released next year. You like?
