Why Harley-Davidson’s Livewire is the two-wheeled Tesla

The iconic motorcycle brand has built a machine unlike anything it has before and it removes one of the bike’s biggest problems.

David McCowen

2 min read

August 26, 2021 - 8:02AM

Riding the electric Harley-Davidson LiveWire

Harley-Davidsons are known for their loud exhaust note, but its latest machine is much different than anything its built before.

1. This is Tesla’s two-wheeled cousin

Tesla wasn’t the first company to make an electric car.

But it was the first company to take a fast, attractive and high-profile electric machine to drivers around the world. Harley-Davidson’s Livewire is the two-wheeled equivalent of Tesla’s Model S, combining stirring performance with sharp looks and techno-cool that lesser known and less powerful electric bikes can’t match. It’s nothing like a regular Harley, which is why LiveWire is set to break out and become a stand-alone brand.

The 2020 Harley-Davidson Livewire is the first mainstream electric motorcycle sold in Australia.

2. It’s not cheap

Electric vehicles are usually more expensive than petrol counterparts, and the Livewire is no exception. Priced from $49,995 ride-away, the Livewire costs far more than an entry-level Harley, about $10,000 more than Ducati’s MotoGP-inspired Panigale V4S and almost as much as a four-door Nissan Leaf electric car. Electric motor aside, it comes with better hardware than a regular V-Twin from the American brand, including Brembo brakes, Michelin tyres and sporty Showa adjustable suspension. Cheaper models are on the way, and bargain-hunters might consider low-mileage dealer demonstrators spotted online for about $35,000.

The Livewire can be topped-up at home, or at public charging points.

3. Or particularly practical

The Livewire combines a 78kW electric motor with a 15.5kWh battery offering a claimed 200km range around town, where the ebb and flow of traffic helps recharge the battery. Cruising on the highway returns closer to 150 kilometres, which is bad news for folks who like long days on the road. Charging at home requires patience, as the machine takes on about 20 kilometres of range for every hour plugged in. Public fast-charging sites are a better bet, taking the Livewire from near-empty to an 80 per cent charge in about 40 minutes.

The LiveWire’s powerful motor, firm suspension and strong brakes make for a dynamic ride.

4. But a lot of fun to ride

Swing a leg over the Harley and you’ll find a relaxed if upright riding position and crisp digital dashboard. The big difference between the Livewire and regular bikes is that there is no clutch lever or gear shifter – you just turn it on, twist the throttle and go.

The LiveWire’s motor is responsive and effortless, delivering seamless progress to rival big-bore sports bikes. Hang on tight and it will hit 100km/h in three seconds, making it more than quick enough for the cut and thrust of urban traffic. Though it’s heavier than most bikes this size, the LiveWire’s low centre of gravity helps it change direction with more agility than you might expect of motorcycles from Milwaukee.

Fun around town, the Livewire is too compromised for cross-country touring.

5. Though something is missing

In the same way that a silent but deadly Tesla can’t match the visceral fire and brimstone of red-blooded V8 muscle cars, the Livewire falls short of the emotional thrill offered by the best bikes. The rumbling exhaust, spine-tingling induction roar and decisive gear shifts of regular motorcycles are missing, short-changing enthusiasts. Constraints around charging times and infrastructure also erode the sense of freedom enjoyed by thousands of riders.

That said, this Harley goes, stops and turns better than many other bikes. It feels special in its own way, perfectly suited to urban missions that play to its point-and-shoot strengths.