One of the most talked about motorcycles in recent times, Harley-Davidson LiveWire has been unveiled in India. LiveWire is Harley-Davidson’s first electric motorcycle and the company has ensured that it comes with flawless styling and hi-tech features.
The bike draws inspiration from Harley-Davidson’s Sportster range, but it has a far more compact and sculpted design. It makes a dominating stance with its striking features and is easily noticeable with the large belly cage that carries its massive battery.
International-spec LiveWire gets its power from a 15.5 kWh Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS), a high-voltage battery that Harley has named ‘Revelation’. The electric motor makes 105 hp of max power and 116 Nm of max torque. LiveWire has a number of features that help ensure optimal performance for the bike.
For example, the permanent magnet electric motor improves torque output, which in turn helps achieve a higher rate of acceleration. LiveWire can go from 0 to 60 in just around 3 seconds. Another key feature is the lightweight cast aluminium frame that not only improves range and power to weight ratio, but also ensures effortless riding.
LiveWire has enough juice to take care of any range anxiety, as it can travel 235 km in city and 152 km in stop-and-go conditions and on highways. The bike is equipped with regenerative braking, which improves overall range. Users can choose what they want from the bike by utilizing pre-programmed modes of Sport, Range, Road and Rain. LiveWire also comes with three ride modes that can be customized by users.
Charging socket for LiveWire is located in its fuel tank. When charging at home, the bike can be fully charged overnight. For faster charging, one needs to visit nearest commercial DC fast charging stations. At these points, the bike can be charged 80% in 40 minutes, while full charge will take an hour.
LiveWire is equipped with a 4.3-inch, full-colour touchscreen LCD display that shows a wide range of information. The bike also comes with internet connected features that can be used for real-time tracking, collision alerts, etc.
In international markets, LiveWire is priced at $29,799, which is roughly Rs 21.5 lakh. When launched in India by end of 2019 (expected), actual price of LiveWire could be in the range of Rs 50 lakhs, thanks to import duty and local taxes.
Three colours are on offer, Yellow, Orange and Black. After its debut today in India, which also marks the 10th anniversary of Harley in India, the Livewire electric motorcycle will go an an exclusive 5 city tour. The bike will not only be on display at select dealership, but test rides will also be given to Harley owners. Harley Davidson India has confirmed that the Livewire will be launched in a few weeks.
