ELECTRIC LIVEWIRE
Livewire starts electric bike charge
Four years after Harley-Davidson unveiled the Livewire concept to the world, they’ve staked their claim as the first major manufacturer to bring a finished road-going production bike to the world. As well as the finished production bike due out next year, there will also be an expanded range of lower powered bikes.
Electric avenue
“We’re going big into electric with a family of products that’s going to range is size, power and price point,” says Michelle Kumbier, COO at Harley-Davidson. “They’re going to be easy to ride, twist-and-go and be less intimidating for new customers. “We did the Livewire tour and put thousands of customers on those vehicles. People had no idea how much fun it would be. We plan on having demo models in dealers so people can try it.” Described by Harley as highpowered and performance-focused, the Livewire is expected to be a premium product with a price to match. Harley wouldn’t be drawn on power or range figures, but say neither will be an issue when the bike is available in dealers in 2019.
Starting small
Alongside the Livewire will be two middleweight bikes that will arrive between 2021-2022. These will be smaller, lighter and lowerpowered bikes but you will still need a motorcycle licence to ride them. They should be more affordable than the Livewire.
Harley will also produce some smaller lightweight urban bikes. They will be like high-powered mountain bikes with two models initially. “We’re so excited for electric,” adds Kumbier. “This is just the beginning.”