Harley Davidson showcased the new LiveWire all electric bike at the 2018 EICMA Show earlier this month. This is a production ready electric bike which the company plans to launch in 2019 in countries across US and Europe. Launch in India is not on the cards, at least as on date, due to lack of infrastructure.
Harley Davidson LiveWire will use a permanent magnet electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery. However, the company has yet to release information on weight, range of batteries and price. This electric Drivetrain will be positioned on the chassis so as to offer lower center of gravity resulting in better handling and performance.
Being an all electric motorcycle, LiveWire sports no clutch or gearshifter. The bike will be charged via a Level 1 charger while for quick charging there is Level 2 or 3 DC fast chargers. On board features will see a full color, touchscreen TFT display positioned above the handlebars. It offers info on speed and range while the TFT screen also gives the rider access for Bluetooth connectivity, navigation and music.
Harley Davidson LiveWire will be powered by a permanent magnet electric motor offering 10 kWh capacity and claims a 148 kmph top speed. The Drivetrain will offer 74 bhp power and 70 Nm torque. It will ride on 18” front and 17” rear wheels and get an additional 12 volt lithium ion battery to power its lights, controls, horn and instrument panel.
In terms of suspension, LiveWire will get high performance, fully adjustable Showa suspension while braking is via Brembo Monobloc front brake calipers dual 300mm dia discs with cornering ABS and traction control system. There will be 7 selectable riding modes out of which four are set as standard from the factory while the balance three modes can be as per user requirements.
Pre orders for the Harley Davidson LiveWire open from January 2019 when pricing details will also be revealed along with complete technical details and performance information. Harley Davidson plans to enhance their electric bike portfolio in the future with lighter and more agile models by 2022 in a bid to become the world leader in electric motorcycles.
