Harley-Davidson, the iconic American bike maker, is making big moves toward electric bikes, aiming to mix its classic style with modern eco-friendly tech. Known for its roaring V-twin engines, the company is now focusing on electric two-wheelers to appeal to new riders and meet global demand for cleaner rides. Here’s a look at what Harley-Davidson has planned for its electric lineup.
Electric Models Already In Play
Harley-Davidson kicked off its electric journey with the LiveWire, launched in 2019. This bike has a permanent magnet electric motor, making 103.5 bhp and 116 Nm torque, with a city range of about 235 km and a highway range of 113 km. It’s got a cast aluminium frame, adjustable Showa suspension, and features like a 4.3-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation, and geo-fencing. The LiveWire also comes with an Electronic Chassis Control system, managing ABS and traction control for a safer ride. Priced around $29,799, it’s aimed at urban riders looking for a smooth, powerful, no-emissions ride.
They’ve also got the LiveWire S2 Del Mar, a more affordable option designed for city riding. It offers a city range of 110 miles and 184 foot-pounds of torque, focusing on agility and urban use. For kids, Harley-Davidson offers STACYC electric balance bikes, with two sizes for ages 3-5 and 6 and up, to get young riders started early.
What’s Coming Next
Harley-Davidson isn’t stopping with LiveWire. They’ve shared plans for more electric models, including a dirt-bike-styled lighter bike and a moped-style bike, initially set for 2022 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ve also teased an electric bicycle concept that looks like a mountain bike with a motor, though no firm launch date has been set. Posts on X mention a recent teaser for an e-bike inspired by their 1903 motorcycle, showing they’re still exploring new designs. The company aims to roll out more electric two-wheelers in the coming years, targeting a mix of riders, from urban commuters to younger folks looking for green options.
Long-Term Vision: Going Fully Electric
Harley-Davidson’s CEO, Jochen Zeitz, has said the brand will eventually go all-electric, but it’s a long-term goal that’ll take decades. They’re not ditching gas engines anytime soon those loud, big-displacement bikes are still their core. But with stricter emissions rules and a push for sustainability, they’re investing heavily in electric tech. They’ve already spent $150-180 million on electric vehicle development through 2022 and created a separate LiveWire division to focus on EVs, giving it the freedom to act like a tech startup while still using Harley’s resources.
Challenges And Setbacks
It’s not all smooth riding. Recent posts on X highlight some hurdles—Harley-Davidson withdrew its 2025 outlook due to unclear U.S. trade policies and a weakening economy, halting new spending on LiveWire e-bikes for now. They’ve also struggled with sales targets; an X post notes they aimed to sell 50,000 electric bikes by 2025 but are currently at just 1,000 units, burning cash in the process. The high price of models like the LiveWire ($30,000) has been a drawback, making it hard to attract a broader crowd. Plus, their traditional fanbase isn’t fully sold on electric bikes, preferring the classic Harley rumble.
Why It Matters
Electric bikes like the LiveWire are quiet, efficient, and need less maintenance—no oil changes or tune-ups. They’re better for the planet, with zero emissions, and perfect for city use where noise can be an issue. Harley-Davidson is betting on this to bring in younger riders and expand in markets like India and China, where they’ve also planned mid-size gas bikes (250-500cc) to rival Royal Enfield. But balancing their heritage with this new direction is tricky—some worry they might lose what makes a Harley a Harley.
Harley-Davidson’s Electric Future: A Work In Progress
Harley-Davidson is serious about electric bikes, with LiveWire leading the charge and more models on the way. They’re aiming to blend their iconic style with green tech, but it’s a slow shift. Economic challenges and high costs are hurdles, and they’ll need to win over both new riders and loyal fans. It’s a bold move for a 120-year-old brand, and only time will tell if they can make electric Harleys as legendary as their gas-powered classics.
Disclaimer: Specs and plans are based on available reports. Check with Harley-Davidson for the latest updates.
