tntmo
Well-Known Member
I recently saw the local dealership was offering test rides of the HD LiveWire. I have ridden a couple electric motorcycles, I like them but I don't think that I would buy one. I am not for or against electric vehicles, I initially hated the idea but have moved to more of a neutral stance on them. There are definitely times that it could make sense. For me, I have a solar system on my home that produces more than I use. I could charge a vehicle with that excess production and essentially have "free" transportation costs (yes, I did have to pay for the solar system).
Anyway, no matter how you feel about electric bikes it's always interesting to ride something new. I was concerned that it was going to be a pain in the backside to do the test ride, but they dealership had it set up to be very simple. Show your license, go over the controls and features of the bike and get your gear on....away you go. The bike is narrow and neutral seating/handlebar locations like an 80's UJM sort of. There is a start button, but obviously all that does is fire up the screen. No clutch, no gears, just twist the grip and go. Low speed handling was great, the throttle response is nice and the center of gravity is low. The bike felt substantial, I didn't know the weight until now, 550 pounds or so.
There are four modes: rain, eco, street and sport. They started us in rain mode and suggested we try all of them. I was in rain mode for a block and quickly cycled through them all to sport mode. WOW, this thing boogies! Very responsive throttle (0-60mph in three seconds) and lots of "engine braking". I would probably have it in sport mode as much as I could get away with if I had one of these, but the range is likely cut down significantly. HD claims a range of about 150 miles for these, real world numbers are anyone's guess. Supposed to be able to recharge to 80% in less than an hour. Battery system has a five year warranty.
Only got to go on the freeway for one exit but I would have absolutely no qualms about keeping up with any traffic outside of the Autobahn. I believe they have it limited to just under 100 mph. With the sit up riding position and no wind protection you likely don't want to go that fast anyway.
The elephant in the room: The price. This bike has a list price of $34,000. I can't see spending that for any motorcycle, especially a first year all new technology machine that has limited range. I find it very interesting that HD was the first major manufacturer to the plate with an all electric bike, but knowing their customers I don't believe that it will be a sales success. I would love to have one for a week or a month but I wouldn't pay for one. Maybe if I win the lottery? Well, anyway I got a free shirt and poster along with some chips and a drink. HD dealerships are definitely customer oriented, I will give them that!
I made a video, I'm an amateur so my video skills are not great but watch it if you like. What do y'all think of the idea of electric motorcycles?
Anyway, no matter how you feel about electric bikes it's always interesting to ride something new. I was concerned that it was going to be a pain in the backside to do the test ride, but they dealership had it set up to be very simple. Show your license, go over the controls and features of the bike and get your gear on....away you go. The bike is narrow and neutral seating/handlebar locations like an 80's UJM sort of. There is a start button, but obviously all that does is fire up the screen. No clutch, no gears, just twist the grip and go. Low speed handling was great, the throttle response is nice and the center of gravity is low. The bike felt substantial, I didn't know the weight until now, 550 pounds or so.
There are four modes: rain, eco, street and sport. They started us in rain mode and suggested we try all of them. I was in rain mode for a block and quickly cycled through them all to sport mode. WOW, this thing boogies! Very responsive throttle (0-60mph in three seconds) and lots of "engine braking". I would probably have it in sport mode as much as I could get away with if I had one of these, but the range is likely cut down significantly. HD claims a range of about 150 miles for these, real world numbers are anyone's guess. Supposed to be able to recharge to 80% in less than an hour. Battery system has a five year warranty.
Only got to go on the freeway for one exit but I would have absolutely no qualms about keeping up with any traffic outside of the Autobahn. I believe they have it limited to just under 100 mph. With the sit up riding position and no wind protection you likely don't want to go that fast anyway.
The elephant in the room: The price. This bike has a list price of $34,000. I can't see spending that for any motorcycle, especially a first year all new technology machine that has limited range. I find it very interesting that HD was the first major manufacturer to the plate with an all electric bike, but knowing their customers I don't believe that it will be a sales success. I would love to have one for a week or a month but I wouldn't pay for one. Maybe if I win the lottery? Well, anyway I got a free shirt and poster along with some chips and a drink. HD dealerships are definitely customer oriented, I will give them that!
I made a video, I'm an amateur so my video skills are not great but watch it if you like. What do y'all think of the idea of electric motorcycles?
