Tag Archives: Motorbikes

Harley-Davidson plans VVT V-twin

Harley-Davidson has filed a patent application for a variable valve timing (VVT) V-twin engine, possibly for the Sportster to improve economy and reduce emissions.

The iconic American manufacturer has often been accused of old engine technology and faced barrage of criticism for going “backwards” from double to single overhead cam with the Milwaukee Eight engine despite it being more powerful, efficient and easier to maintain.

VVT history

BMW R 1250 GS and RT VVT
BMW’s 1250cc Shiftcam Boxer engine with variable valve timing

A move to VVT would see Harley join many other motorcycle manufacturers that use the technology including the four Japanese manufacturers, BMW (ShiftCam) and Ducati (Desmodromic Valve Timing).

VVT has been around in motorcycles since the 1980s, but is surprisingly banned from MotoGP.

The first bike with VVT was the Honda CBR400F in 1983, but their Variable Valve Timing and Electronic lift Control (VTEC) only became popular in the 2002 VFR800.

Honda VFR800 VTEC engine with variable valve timing
Honda VFR800 VTEC engine with variable valve timing

Variable valve timing, which is even used in your common garden-variety Camry, makes the engine more flexible in different conditions, which results in increased fuel economy, lower emissions and improved performance, particularly torque.

Development of this technology began in the 1970s and the 1980 Alfa Romeo Spider 2000 was the production car with a mechanical VVT system.

It’s now common in cars and is known as VVT-i and VVTL-i in Toyota, MIVEC in Mitsubishi, VVL in Nissan and VANOS by Ford, BMW, Ferrari and Lamborghini.

The formula for how and when the valves open varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Harley VVT

Harley-Davidson VVT
Harley-Davidson VVT patent drawing

While Harley likes to keep things simple, reliable and easy to maintain, VVT would add complexity to the cylinder heads and add to the price of periodic valve adjustments.

Their patent is not for VVT which already exists, but for a modular engine balancer on either side of a crankshaft of a VVT V-twin engine.

Harley-Davidson VVT

But which Harley model would get the new engine?

The patent drawings seem to show a Fat Bob, but it has a Milwaukee Eight engine which is only a few years old, so that’s unlikely.

Similarly, the water-cooled Street range engine is only a few years old and the Harley’s upcoming street fighter and adventure bikes are powered by the Revolution Max water-cooled engine.

Harley Revolution Max platform includes Pan America and Bronx Streetfighter
Harley Revolution Max platform includes Pan America and Bronx Streetfighter

This VVT engine is more likely to be fitted to the popular Sportster range whose Revolution engine is 34 years old.

It is in desperate need of a modern replacement as the Sportster will no longer be able to be sold in Europe because of tough new Euro5 emissions regulations coming next year for existing models.

Harley-Davidson Vintage Stripe Bell Bullitt retro helmet Sportster Iron 1200
Sportster is in much need of an updated powertrain

A VVT V-twin would give the Sportster a new lease on life.

While Sportster fans may be horrified at this modern tech in such a traditional motorcycle at least the drawings show air-cooling fins, so it is unlikely to have water cooling. Whew!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati e-Scrambler joins electric bicycle range

Ducati is adding an e-Scrambler urban electric bicycle to its small, but growing nascent range of e-bikes.

The e-Scrambler joins their first e-mountain bike, MIG-RR, which was launched in October 2018.

Ducati MIG-RR electric scooters mountain bike
Ducati MIG-RR electric mountain bike

e-Scrambler

Ducati says the e-Scrambler is “urban ready” with an aluminium frame and high-end components.

It features a 250-Watt Shimano Steps E7000 motor with 504Wh battery, Pirelli Cycl-e GT tyres, Sram NX 11-speed gearbox and Sram 4-piston brakes.

Their press release says:

The low centre of gravity and the geometry of the frame allow the e-Scrambler to offer the same riding sensations as a traditional bike, making it in fact the ideal companion for the city or to enjoy the country roads. The supplied telescopic seat post also increases comfort, allowing the rider to get on and off the saddle easily and guaranteeing safe support during stops.

There is also a set of accessories including luggage racks, mudguards, stand and signal lights.

Ducati e-Scrambler
Ducati e-Scrambler

Booming sector

Ducati’s move into e-bikes is designed to plug into the booming market in Europe where sales have boomed from about 500,000 to almost 3m in the past decade.

BMW, Harley-Davidson and other motorcycle and car manufacturers now have e-bikes available in Europe and the USA.

rude boy bicycles ebikes
Harley e-bikes

Ducati Australia is yet to import the MIG-RR and has not yet commented on bringing in the new e-Scrambler.

However, the market for electric bicycles is growing rapidly, so it may not be a long wait.

Electric Ducati?

More importantly, how long do we have to wait for an electric Ducati motorcycle?

In 2017, VW Group Chairman Matthias Mueller and Ducati Western Europe manager Edouard Lotthe said the company would have an electric motorcycle and scooter by 2020.

Well, that didn’t happen!

In 2017, Ducati licensed the Milano Scuola Politecnica di Design (Design Polytechnic School) to produce the Ducati Zero futuristic design concept.

And in 2015, an electric pedal-assisted moped was made under licence and painted in the Ducati Scrambler Urban Enduro colours. 

Neither were real Ducatis.

Nor is the embarrassing Chinese-made, Ducati-branded, Aussie-imported electric Super Soco scooter!

‘Ducati’ electric scooter under $5000

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

40 Years Edition GS models coming

To celebrate BMW Motorrad’s fourth decade of adventure models, 40 Years Editions of their F series will arrive in Australia at the end of 2020 and early next year.

BMW Group Australia Product Communications Manager Nick Raman says prices and final specifications of the F 750 GS, F 850 GS and F 850 GS Adventure will be available closer to the release date.

He also says details of Australian celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the GS will be released soon.

Apart from special GS 40th anniversary paint and graphics, they will come with full LED lighting and a USB charging device in the cockpit.

ABS Pro and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) will become standard fittings.

BMW Motorrad Australia General Manager Andreas Lundgren says the new models will also have a “raft of new option packages to complement their celebrated handling prowess on all road conditions including gravel”.

“They also make a statement by evoking BMW’s legendary models of the past in a significant year for the GS model line.”

40 Year Editions

Here is the official BMW press release on the 40 Years Editions anniversary models:

F 750 GS

BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

In Light white, sports style or as “40 Years GS Edition”, and with expanded standard equipment

The new BMW F 750 GS now steps up in the new basic Light white paintwork with the tank centre cover painted in the vehicle colour. The black matt painted rims, black handlebars and seat bench in red/black make for a striking contrast.

The sports style in San Marino blue metallic is also new for the BMW F 750 GS, while a tinted windscreen delivers a sporty touch. BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

Granite grey metallic rims, silver handlebars and a black-grey seat bench and galvanised radiator cowl additionally make a high quality impression.

Conversely, the visually eye-catching BMW F 750 GS “40 Years GS Edition” with the “40 Years GS” logo on the fairing side panels is dedicated exclusively to the “40 Years GS” anniversary.BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

Its yellow hand-protector bars and seat bench in black/yellow with GS logo unmistakably evoke an icon from 40 years of GS history, the BMW R 100 GS. Black matt painted rims, silver handlebars and a galvanised radiator cowl round off this exclusive anniversary appearance.

F 850 GSBMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

In Racing red, Rallye style or as “40 Years GS Edition”, and with expanded standard equipment:

The new BMW F 850 GS comes in the new basic Racing red paintwork with tank centre cover also painted in the vehicle colour. This contrasts with the black-coated fixed fork tubes, black rims and seat bench in black/grey.

In Rallye style and Racing blue metallic colour, the BMW F 850 GS together with the hand-protector bars, black fixed fork tubes and black-red seat bench emphasises its sporty character. The gold rims and galvanised radiator cowl accentuate its luxury feel.BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

The “40 Years GS Edition” BMW F 850 GS celebrates the 40th anniversary of the BMW GS models in Black storm metallic with “40 Years GS” logo on the fairing side panels. Exclusive yellow hand-protector bars, gold rims and a seat bench in black/yellow with GS logo also ensure a high level of recognition. Black fixed fork tubes and a galvanised radiator cowl are further hallmarks of this anniversary model.BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

The standard equipment of the BMW F 850 GS has been further enhanced with a windscreen adjustment mechanism and a TFT display including convenient Connectivity functions.

F 850 GS Adventure

BMW F 850 GS Adventure
F 850 GS Adventure

In Ice grey, Rallye style or as “40 Years GS Edition” and with expanded standard equipment

In the new basic Ice grey paintwork with tank centre cover painted in the vehicle colour, the new BMW F 850 GS Adventure fulfils aspirations for adventure, off-road competence and touring capability.

The black fixed fork tubes and rims and grey-black comfort seat blend in homogeneously and harmoniously.

F 850 GS Adventure Style Rallye
F 850 GS Adventure Style Rallye

The new BMW F 850 GS Adventure in Rallye style and Kalamata metallic matt paintwork signifies sporty talents and a sense of adventure. With its gold rims and fixed fork tubes, the new BMW F 850 GS Adventure appears both dynamic and aesthetically-pleasing at the same time.

The sports windscreen and a black/grey upholstered Rallye seat with 890mm seat height enhance the BMW F 850 GS Adventure’s sporty appearance.

The new BMW F 850 GS Adventure as “40 Years GS Edition” is also dedicated to the special anniversary of the BMW GS models. The “40 Years GS” logo and yellow hand-protector bars are distinctive hallmarks of the anniversary GS in Black storm metallic paintwork.

Black-coated fixed fork tubes, gold rims and a black/yellow upholstered seat bench for two with 860 mm seat height round off the BMW F 850 Adventure’s tribute to the GS family’s 40th anniversary.
A TFT display including convenient Connectivity functions is now also standard on-board.

New and modified optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories for F 750 GS and F 850 GS

The new BMW F 750 GS, BMW F 850 GS and BMW F 850 GS Adventure all feature new components of the Pro riding modes optional equipment.

As per GS models with boxer engines, a reworked throttle response in DYNAMIC riding mode now ensures elevated dynamics and riding enjoyment.

Furthermore, dynamic engine brake control and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) now feature in Pro riding modes. Other new Pro riding mode features include the preselection of up to four riding modes for the button assignment on the right handlebar controls (only in conjunction with the Connectivity optional equipment in the BMW F 750 GS).BMW 40 Years anniversary F series GS models

An extra low seat bench as well as modified lowered suspension will be available as optional equipment for all three models in the future, ensuring even better ground accessibility when stationary.

Original BMW Motorrad Accessories now supply a holder for the BMW F 850 GS and BMW F 850 GS Adventure for mounting the BMW Motorrad Navigator above the standard TFT display; a beneficial element when the driver is stationary off-road. This holder was previously reserved exclusively for GS trophy machines and deployment vehicles.

The ex-works “Preparation for navigation device” optional equipment is still available for positioning on the handlebar clamp as before.

Since completely switching off the ABS will no longer be permissible under legal homologation regulations in the future, the Enduro and Enduro Pro riding modes provide suitably adapted controls for this purpose.

The ABS function can still be switched off on the rear wheel in Enduro Pro riding mode (BMW F 850 GS and BMW F 850 GS Adventure only). The HP logo will be omitted in future in all optional equipment scopes and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories.

The sports silencer for the BMW F 750 GS will only be provided via Original BMW Motorrad Accessories.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

MV Agusta adds French flair

Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta has been known for importing design talent to make their undoubtedly beautiful machines and now they are adding some French flair.

Monaco Design Studio in Monte Carlo will now provide the Italian brand with some French styling for their limited-edition and one-off motorcycles.

The studio will have no influence in providing design flair to MV Agusta’s upcoming models such as the hi-tech scrambler model and cruiser that new CEO Timur Sardarov recently announced to Facebook followers.

“If there had to be one place where to take MV Agusta’s prestige and exclusivity one step further, it had to be Monaco, and (studio founder) Virginio Ferrari had to be the man at the helm,” Timur says.

“The launch of the Monaco Design Studio is only the due official recognition of Virginio’s extraordinary work in all these years. He and his team deserve every success in this exclusive venture.”

French and Italian flair

French and Italian flair
French and Italian flair: (from left) Kazuhito Shimizu, Virginio Ferrari and Alexandre Dauly

Despite the French location, Monaco Design Studio was founded by three-time Italian champion and World champion Virginio Ferrari who has had a long association with MV Agusta.

In 1994, he established Virginio Ferrari Racing, which in 1998 became the official MV Agusta importer in the Principality.

“In the mind of every biker, we find a desire for the personalisation of their motorcycle, so that it gets even closer to their absolute ideal,” Virginio says.

“Over 100 MV Agusta one-offs prepared by us for customers from all walks of life under the guidance of our designer Alexandre Dauly, have proven us right.”

The design studio will get plenty of chances to show their design flair as MV Agusta has made a lot of limited edition models over the past few years.

Top of the range of limited-edition models is the $A125,012 Claudio F4 which pays homage to former company president Claudio Castiglioni.

MV Agusta Claudio F4
Claudio F4

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Is Jawa developing long-range electric?

Former Czech motorcycle company Jawa is now developing an electric motorcycle in India that could have the longest range yet.

There is hardly a motorcycle company in the world that is not developing an electric motorcycle, so it comes as no surprise that rumours have surfaced that the now Indian manufacturer is also working on an electric bike.

But what is surprising is the look and performance of the bike.

Rather than developing something that looks like a sci-fi movie prop, the traditional manufacturer is developing an electric bike with similar design to the modern retro models.

It will also have similar range!

Since the current Jawa 42 model has a 14-litre tank and sips fuel at 37.5km/l, that’s range of 525km.

Jawa Classic Legends
Jawa 42

That would make it the longest range of any electric motorcycle on the market.

Interestingly, Indian startup Mankame Motors is working on an affordable electric motorcycle capable of 250km/h and 480km range to hit the market in 2022.

Mankame Motors EP-1 electric motorcycle with a claimed 480km range vector
Mankame Motors EP-1 electric motorcycle

The current (pun intended) longest range record is 360km which belongs to Zero Motorcycles with the extended battery fitted.

Jawa developing bike independently

Indian auto manufacturer Mahindra bought the rights to make Jawa for the Indian market and in November 2018 they released their Classic Legends models.

Jawa Classic Legends
Mahindra relaunches Jawa in 2018

Mahindra has an electric department that is making various electric vehicles, but Jawa is developing the electric Jawa project totally independently.

It is believed Jawa is outsourcing some of its development which would allow them to cherry-pick the latest developments in battery and motor technology.

But most interestingly, the companies working on the project have been told to make the motorcycle close to their petrol models, including design, mileage and power.

That’s interesting, because a traditional look and long range would certainly appeal to motorcycle riders.

However, there would be little appeal in the low power of the modern Jawa which has output of just 20kW (27bhp) and 28Nm of torque.

Jawa Classic Legends
Jawa Classic

In fact, the main attractions of electric motorcycles are their speed, acceleration, instant maximum torque and linear power delivery.

Furthermore, the brief to developers is to make power delivery less linear and more like a conventional bike!

Rumours say the bike will be available in 2023, but probably only in the local market.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

CFMoto 300SR price announced

The first fully faired sports model from Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto, the 300SR, has arrived in Australia.

Importers Mojo Motorcycles say the 300SR is available in Nebula Black or Turquoise Blue for $5790 ride away with a three-year warranty.

In fact, all CFMoto bikes purchased from until the end of the year receive the extended warranty up on the standard two-year factory unlimited km warranty.

The main rivals to the 300SR are the Honda CBR300R at $5749, KTM RC390 ($5995), Suzuki GSX250R ($5790) and Yamaha YZF-R3 ($6299).

CFMoto 300SR featuresCFMoto 300SR

The novice sports bike has low handlebars and an aggressive riding stance and is powered by a 300cc single-cylinder engine with 21kW (29hp) at 8750rpm and 23.5Nm of torque at 7250rpm.

It features all LED lighting and a new colour TFT display with Sport and Eco modes and auto-adjust screen brightness that matches ambient light.

The display offers integrated functions such as rpm, gear, speed and even mobile phone connectivity.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Is a Ducati really a Ducati if it’s white and not red?

White is the new red at Ducati after last week unveiling a gorgeous White Rosso livery for the Panigale V2 and now a Multistrada 950 S in “GP White” livery.

To many, a Ducati is only a Ducati if it’s red. The same could be said for Kawasaki’s that are not green, Yamahas that are not blue and Harleys that are not black. But Ducati really “owns” the colour red!

However, I have owned three Ducatis and only one was red!

Which do you think looks most like a Ducati?

Of course red is faster, especially Ducati Red, and many great Ducatis have been red, but I do like the pearly white paint Ducati uses on their bikes.

White is more

Mind you, it will cost extra.

The white V2 is expected to be in European showrooms next month and in Australia in September.

Price in Australia will be $23,350 ride away which is $450 more than the red V2, although it does a few minor upgrades including a more comfy seat.

Ducati Panigale V2 in white
Ducati Panigale V2 in white

And, of course, there is Ducati Red in the rims, the front air intakes and the deflectors of the upper half-fairings.

The Multistrada 950 S “GP White”, both in the alloy wheels and spoked wheels versions, will be available in Ducati dealers within July and should be in Australia in September.

Ducati Multistrada 950 S white red
Ducati Multistrada 950 S in GP White

There is no word yet on the price of the Multistrada 950 S, but it also features Ducati Red in the frame and in the graphics on the alloy wheels.

To launch the Multistrada 950 S, Ducati released this video set among the unmistakable landscapes of the Motor Valley in Emilia-Romagna.

Multistrada 950 S comes with a suite of hi-tech components: electronic suspension with Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evo (DSS) system, Ducati Quick Shift up & down (DQS), full-LED headlamp with Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL), 5” colour TFT display, Hands Free system, Cruise Control and backlit handlebar controls, as well as Bosch ABS Cornering.Ducati Multistrada 950 S white red

For the 2021 model year, all Multistrada 950 models will be powered by the Testastretta 11° engine (937cc and 113hp) that comply with Euro 5 standard in all countries where it is in force.

On all models of the Multistrada family, Ducati offers a “4Ever Multistrada” warranty, valid for four years with unlimited mileage.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

KYMCO add two Agility scooters

KYMCO Australia have released two new Agility models as scooters take another dive in the Australian market. 

The new models are the Agility City 125i 16+ at $3290 (plus on-road costs) and includes a top case, plus the Agility 300i at $6490.

Both models feature the larger 16-inch front wheel to avoid being bumped out of line over city potholes.

They arrive as scooter sales have dipped 12.8% in the second quarter following a 14.1% drop in the first quarter after a promising rise of 5.6% last year.

KYMCO Australia spokesman Michael Poynton says their sales were “flat” over the past two quarters.

“We saw a drop-off in our entry-level models, commonly used for food delivery, however an increase in our mid-range commuting models,” he says.

City

Kymco agility scooters
Agility City

The Agility City 125i 16+ features a 4-valve, EFI 125cc engine that meets Euro 4 standards.

It also comes with longer travel suspension including a twin rear shock for a smoother ride and front and rear hydraulic disc brakes in a new combined braking system. 

Other highlights include a new ergonomically designed seat, larger under seat storage space, updated digital dashboard, 12 Volt charging outlet, new LED lights and a colour code top case as a standard feature. 

It is available in Bright Blue.

Agility 300i

Kymco agility scooters
Agility 300i

The Agility 300i is powered by KYMCO’s 279cc EFI Euro 4 engine producing 17.1kW of power and 22.5NM of torque.

It also has front and rear hydraulic disc brakes and a Bosch ABS braking system.  

Features include large under seat storage space with enough room for two full-face helmets and a wider seat with a wider backrest.Kymco agility scooters

This scooter comes with Kymco’s recently introduced Noodoe interactive dashboard that connects a smart phone to the scooter.

It provides navigation, a customisable dash display and allows riders to share their ride through the Noodoe cloud – an online social community.  

Additional features include a large windscreen and handle bar wind deflectors, all-LED lighting, keyless start technology and dual rear shock absorbers. 

The Agility 300i is available in two colour schemes, Matte Silver or Dark Blue.

Both scooters come with KYMCO’s three-year factory warranty. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati unveils White Rosso Panigale V2

Ducati has unveiled a gorgeous White Rosso livery for the Panigale V2 which debuted at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan last year in Ducati Red.

It is expected to be in showrooms in the next month.

Price has not yet been revealed, but the red V2 is $A22,900 ride away and if previous white editions are a guide, it should cost about $200-300 more.

Ducati says the White Rosso livery has “Star White Silk” as its main colour with Ducati Red colours the rims, the front air intakes and the deflectors of the upper half-fairings.Ducati Panigale V2 in white

This new livery is complemented by a large Panigale V2 logo on the lower half fairings, inspired by the graphics of Ducati Corse motorcycles.

To showcase the new livery, the bike in the photos was “modelled” by Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia of the Pramac Racing Team at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli”.

Poetry in motion

Ducati Panigale in whitePecco with V2

As usual, the official Ducati press release has a lot of poetic description as well as some flowery “quotes” from Pecco:

“Since 2016, my personal motto has been #GoFree. For me it means living in a light-hearted and carefree way, having fun and giving priority to the things you love to do. I think the Panigale V2 fits well with this definition and reflects my way of being “, said Pecco Bagnaia after trying the Panigale V2.

“The new livery, so white, is very beautiful and different from the usual. Despite being a street bike, it surprised me how much speed it can have when cornering. It is a fun, very stable and very sincere bike that allows you to go fast, safely, without becoming tired, while having a very strong and decisive character and personality.”Ducati Panigale V2 in white

Panigale V2 power

Panigale V2 is Ducati’s entry model Panigale.

It is powered by the Euro5-compliant 955cc Superquadro twin-cylinder engine with 115kW of power (155hp) at 10,750rpm and 104Nm of torque at 9000rpm.

More than 70% of the maximum torque is available above 5500rpm, allowing riders to exit corners quickly.

The chassis is based on the monocoque frame inspired by the Panigale V4 with a single-sided swingarm and under-engine silencer.Ducati Panigale V2 in white

The electronic rider-aid package includes “cornering” Bosch ABS, an electronic gearbox with up/down quickshift and wheelie control.

All controls are integrated into the three Riding Modes (Race, Sport and Street) that can be modified via the 4.3” TFT colour dashboard.

It comes with fully-adjustable suspension with 43mm Showa Big Piston Forks and a Sachs shock absorber.

The V2 is shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II multi-compound tyres.

There is also a Sachs steering damper, Brembo brakes with M4.32 monobloc callipers activated by a radial brake master cylinder. The discs are 320mm at the front and single 245mm rear disc.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Harley’s electric LiveWire available in September

Harley-Davidson’s electric LiveWire has arrived in Australia for testing ahead of its media launch in August and market release in early September.

The Tesla Model 3 Australia Facebook Group has published the above photo of a LiveWire being charged in Australia.

Harley-Davidson Australia/New Zealand marketing guru Keith Waddell confirms the photo was taken “while we were testing a range of public charge stations with a pre-production unit”.

September release

Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycleHarley LiveWire

“A press release on the ANZ release is due this week however I can confirm that we will release in early September.

“We are looking to have an ANZ media launch closer to the end of August and are watching the COVID restrictions and related border closures.”

While Keith would not releaser the price of the LiveWire, it starts at $US29,799 (about $A42,900 and $NZ45,900 at current exchange rates) in the USA.

That would make it more expensive than all but the Harley CVO and Trike ranges, but even more expensive than the feature-laden Ultra Limited tourer at $A41,495 ride away.

Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited cure brain cancerHarley-Davidson Ultra Limited

Electrifying LiveWire

I rode the LiveWire last year in Portland, Oregon, at the world media launch.

Check my test ride here.

livewire mother earth NAWAMBW rides the LiveWire in Portland, Orgeon

It will be available in vivid black, orange fuse and yellow fuse.

The bike’s 15.5 kWh battery is capable of up to 235km of city range, 113km of highway range and 152km of combined conditions on a single charge.

LiveWire has an on-board level 1 240V charger which will take about about 12.5 hours from flat to reach full capacity at a cost of less than $4.

If you can find a Level 3 DC fast charger (CCS2), it will charge to 80 in 40 minutes, or full in an hour.

Harley-Davidson LiveWire tech specs

  • Price: $US29,799 (about $A42,900, $NZ45,900)
  • Colours: Orange, lime and black
  • Battery warranty: five-year, unlimited-km
  • Motor: H-D Revelation permanent-magnet, water-cooled electric motor
  • Power: 78kW (105hp)
  • Instant torque: 116Nm (86ft lbs)
  • Battery: Air-cooled 15.5kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery (Rechargeable Energy Storage System)
  • Transmission: motor output shaft, 9.71:1 gear reduction, belt drive
  • Acceleration: 0 -100km/h 3 seconds; 100-130km/h 1.9 seconds
  • Top speed: 177km/h
  • Range: 235km (city), 152km (combined stop-and-go and highway range using MIC City and MIC Combined tests), 158km (World Motorcycle Test Cycle)
    Harley-Davidson electric LIveWire paradeCharging points on the LIveWire are under the “fuel” cap.
  • Charging: 120/240-volt outlet 20km (13 miles) per hour of charging; DC Fast Charge (DCFC) 0-80% in 40 minutes or 100% in 60 minutes
  • Weight: 210kg
  • Suspension (rear): fully adjustable Showa Balanced Free Rear Cushion-lite mono-shock
  • Suspension (front); Showa Separate Function Fork-Big Piston
    Sporty Harley-Davidson electric LiveWireFully adjustable Showa rear shock
  • Brakes: Dual Brembo Monoblock calipers, 300mm rotors
    Tyres: H-D/Michelin Scorcher (180mm rear and 120mm front)
  • Rider aids: Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), Cornering Enhanced Anti-lock Braking System (C-ABS), Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System (C-TCS) and Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS)
  • Technology: 4.3” colour TFT touchscreen, Daymaker LED headlamp, LED lighting, H-D Connect service connectivity and Harley- Davidson App
  • Riding modes: Seven selectable Ride Modes electronically control motor performance and level of RDRS intervention
  • Accessories: dual seat and tail, speed screen blade, decorative trim, hand and foot controls and cover with charging cord port

Sporty Harley-Davidson electric LiveWireTouchscreen instruments

More tech specs

2020 Harley-Davidson LiveWire

Dimensions

84.1 in. (2,135 mm)

Overall Width

32.7 in. (830 mm)

Overall Height

42.5 in. (1,080 mm)

Seat Height, Laden / Unladen

30 in. (761 mm) / 30.7 in. (780 mm)

Ground Clearance

5.1 in. (130 mm)

Rake (steering head)

4.3 in. (108 mm)

58.7 in. (1,490 mm)

Tires, Type

Michelin® Scorcher® “Sport”

Scorcher® “Sport”

Tires, Front Specification

120/70 ZR17 58W

Tires, Rear Specification

180/55 ZR17 73W

Transmission Capacity

0.34 qt (0.32 L)

Coolant Capacity

0.8 qt. (0.72 L)

Weight, As Shipped

549 lb. (249 kg)

Weight, In Running Order

549 lb. (249 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

949 lb. (430 kg)

Gross Axle Weight Rating, Front

434 lb. (197 kg)

Gross Axle Weight Rating, Rear

580 lb. (263 kg)

Drivetrain

Primary Drive (*Cert)

Spiral bevel gear , 55/17 ratio

Final Drive (*Cert)

Belt, 3/1 ratio

Transmission

Single Speed

Gear Ratios (overall) 1st (*Cert) (X.XXX)

Aluminum cast

Aluminum cast

Front Fork

SHOWA® 43 mm Inverted Separate Function Forks – Big Piston (SFF-BP®), fully adjustable

Rear Shocks

SHOWA® Balance Free Rear Cushion Lite (BFRC-lite®), fully adjustable

Wheels, Type

Black, Split 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum

Wheels, Front Dia. / Width

17 in. (432 mm) / 3.5 in. (89 mm)

Wheels, Rear Dia. / Width

17 in. (432 mm) / 5.5 in. (140 mm)

Brakes, Caliper Type

Dual 4-piston monoblock radial mount front, dual-piston rear

Brakes, Rotor Type

Dual floating rotors (front), floating rotor (rear)

Brakes, Front Diameter / Thickness

11.8 in. (300 mm) / 0.2 in. (5 mm)

Brakes, Rear Diameter / Thickness

10.2 in. (260 mm) / 0.2 in. (5 mm)

Brakes, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Suspension Travel, Front / Rear

4.5 in. (115 mm) / 4.5 in. (115 mm)

Performance

Lean Angle Testing Method

Lean Angle, Right / Left (deg)

Lithium Ion, 12.8V , 24 Wh, 120 A

Onboard DC to DC conversion

Lights (as per country regulation), Headlamp

All LED, low beam, high beam and signature position lamp

Lights (as per country regulation), Tail/Stop

LED with light pipe tail

Lights (as per country regulation), Front Signal Lights

Lights (as per country regulation), Indicator Lamps

High beam, turn signals, ABS, traction control, EV fault

Lights, Rear Turn Signals

LED, Amber

4.3” WQVGA 480×272 TFT Color Display with Ambient Light Sensor, 9 warning lights, Real Time Clock and Integrated Bluetooth Connectivity to a Smartphone to provide infotainment features including turn-by-turn navigation, telephone, music, and voice recognition.

Electric Power Outlet

USB C-type; output 5V at 3A

EV Specific Content: Motor

116Nm (86ft-lb)

Internal Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor with Water Jacket cooling

Motor Name

Revelation®

Inverter type

Pole Count

Power (hp/kW)

105HP (78kW)

6.69 in. (170 mm)

Stack Length

3.94 in. (100 mm)

EV Specific Content: RESS

Lithium Ion

15.5kWh total, 13.6kWh min usable

EV Specific Content: Charging

Charge Plug Type

SAE J1772 Combo Inlet (CCS1) / IEC 62196 Combo Inlet (CCS2)

On-board charger, charge rate

AC wall charging time (not verified)

Target – Full charge in 12.5 hrs – Capable of 12.6 miles/hour charge rate (MIC city cycle)

DC fast charging time (not verified)

Target – Full charge in 1.0 hr – Capable of 192 miles/hour charge rate (MIC city cycle)

DC to DC conversion

450W at 14.2V

EV Specific Content: Range

146 mi (235 km)

Highway (70 mph sustained)

70 mi (113 km)

95 mi (152 km)

WMTC (World Motorcycle Test Cycle)

98 mi (158 km)

Infotainment

Hands-free Mobile Phone – via Bluetooth

Voice Recognition Languages: Phone functions only

Via paired iOS or Android device

Voice Recognition Languages: Tuner/Media/ Navigation

Via paired iOS or Android device

USB Type-C

Phone/media supported

Telematics

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com