Electric Harley Harleyarley hits UK

UK’S first Livewire owner tells Bike about life with a silent high-tech Harley

⏢ The Harley Livewire is the first production electric bike from a major motorcycle manufacturer and was due in UK showrooms late last year. However, a production problem meant only a few bikes turned up on schedule, so we still know precious little about the ownership experience… until now. Bike tracked down Adam Dixon, 43, who got his £28,995 Livewire before Harley turned off the supply tap.

⏢ Why did you buy one?

I was looking for something for city riding – London. That the Livewire is electric is what attracted me. There was also the performance aspect. I’m fortunate that my work place has charging units.

⏢ How’s the electric experience been?

I’ve done around 200 miles so far and I’ve been using it almost daily. I’ve done just one recharge and that was at home using the mains 240v system. I’m not sure what the mileage was – I saw it was down to around 25% so I thought I would charge it up. I just left it overnight.

Because I’m riding roads through the city and it’s in regenerative Eco mode, I’m getting a lot more mileage than I thought I would. Where I would normally call into a petrol station once or twice a week, now I don’t have to think about doing that.

⏢ Comparisons between the Livewire and a petrol bike?

Because I got a puncture, Warr’s Harley-davidson lent me a bike while they sorted the Livewire. I noticed all the gear-changing and cluttered cockpit area which detracted from the riding. It’s the same with the brakes – the Livewire regenerative Eco mode is so good I barely use the brakes anymore.

⏢ Stand out point so far?

I love the performance, the instant drive and knowing there’s more available. And it feels planted.