There are a lot of people who can afford $30K for one of these. Just look at all the $60k plus cars and trucks out on the road. I personally don't need the power and acceleration it provides but do like that the handling is getting great reviews.
Onoff314 no. You can get a soft tail fat bob 114 for under $20k. The large bagger touring bikes are 25-40k. 40k If you want s CVO with all the bells and whistles. Awesome bike, just not at the price point.
@@Nptz43 In my case yeah I would. They both are forms of transportation. The corvette though is faster and more comfortable and not much more expensive offering way more features and the ability to drive year round and much further distances while sti looking good and having fun. The livewire is a huge ripoff. Not even close to being worth the price, not even close.
An amazingly positive review. I kept waiting for the pricing problem to be listed, but it wasn't. Well, there are other $30,000 bikes out there, so there is a market. They aren't going after CB500 owners.
Most other 30k+ bikes make a lot more than 105hp. I get it that power isn't everything but if it's this or a seriously specced up V-rod it's not a hard choice for most bikers.
I'd love an electric motor cycle. However, here's the rub: The UK government is giving £3,500 as a subsidy for an electric car, such as the new ~ £25,000 Mini SE, whereas the grant is only £1,500 for this ~ £28,000 Harley Davidson.
@@RyanKirk99 actually I'm positive at least some states had the same subsidy which was only recently taken away because they decided electrics can compete on their own. But still this thing is way over priced. Im pretty sure there are many EV cars and even the new Tesla model that starts at 30k or less. HD really dosent know what they're doing anymore
I think that was on purpose, there was no need to mention the SR knowing that the SR/F exists and has better stats (power, weight, price) than the livewire.
Lots of folks posting about the 'pros and cons' of this bike, but fail to realize that EV's = zero tailpipe emissions, whether cars, motorcycles, buses, trains, etc. Governments will/or are already mandating more and more zero emissions vehicles and are therefore pressuring manufacturers to innovate. This is a good first step in the right direction. Like most things, costs will eventually come down and owning an EV will become easier in time. Just requires a mind shift and a change in attitude. In the mean time, hats off to a mainstream manufacturer for stepping up and giving it a shot!
I was lucky enough to test ride this Harley Live Wire in Huntington Beach, Ca. Everything this reviewer is claiming is true. I've been a Harley hater my whole life bc I ride off-road as much as I can & I hate loud bikes bc they annoy non-riders who then petition to close down our tracks & off-road areas. this Live Wire Harley is hands down the best street bike I've ever been on! Crazy fast! Dives into corners with ease bc there's no internal inertia fighting you... so smooth! so ease to ride with throttle on to go, throttle off to brake! & so refreshingly quite! & clean air to breathe with no exhaust! I could hear the waves crashing along the beach on the pch instead of a loud obnoxious rumble with exhaust fumes enveloping me at stop lights! Way to go Harley Davidson! I hope this is a raging success!
Good review. I tested the bike today and was blown away. Never ridden anything like it and was super impressed with the torque and suspension. Like you I quite liked the quiet (and I have two Harley's that make a ton of noise.). I worry about the price point, but this feels to me like a big potential winner for Harley.
@@fivespeed3026 I'd be seriously interested at low $20K but yes $30K is a bit steep when you could still own a Zero and a nice Petrol bike for the same $$$..
As a Zero owner also, I would NOT consider this. If I ever go back to a Harley (which I probably won't), I'd go with a used Street Glide for taking road trips with.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed the trend lately... They redid the VFR800 was slower and heavier than all of the competition, but just as expensive if not more . New cbr1000rr ... once again slower than the majority and it’s actually one of the oldest bikes on the market... except it’s priced higher than all the Japanese competition and one euro bike... literally only the duc and aprilia and MV are more expensive I. Could go all day with this... if you think Honda is bringing this to you cheap.. I pity you... This is a guy who buys nothing but Honda too
Just get a Zero. Seriously. They must feel like chopped liver, they've been in the electric game longer than Tesla and they are a full fledged american brand specializing in only electric. And they never get mentioned. I believe the dual sport model is even under 10k and still has more range than this thing. I'm not into the electrics najor manufacturers are coming out with. Buy from the guys who were doing it when it was all about eco-publicity lol.
Would like to see you compare this to the new Zero SR/F. Demoed one a few weeks back and walked away very impressed. Can't wait to demo the livewire for myself.
Well, he compared the livewire to the "SR" in the video (trashing the SR), when the "SR/F" is the newer eMC from Zero, competes directly with the livewire...is lighter, has more power, and is 10K cheaper. Given the blatant bias in this video, I doubt that he would ever do a fair comparison to the SR/F.
Great review, John, as always. I’m surprising myself at how drawn I am to this bike. Harley seems to have done a really good job with the styling and quality. Will take a look when they’re available in the UK. But I would like a bit more range as I do quite a lot of miles. Very interesting. Cheers, Matt.
Very good review. I notice you did not bring up the price of the bike. With the financial situation Harley Davidson is in, I was hoping they would price this around the $20-25K range. They NEED to sell this bike to lots of people to pull out of their financial slump. This bike is exciting, and they won't sell many. That's a shame.
This is the best LiveWire review I have seen. The only other mention is that the level 3 chargers will be offered for use at HD dealerships. Definitely going to give this one a try!
Thank you for the review. I have also ridden the Zero bikes, although not the new version admittedly, I look forward to a test ride on the Livewire and hat's off to Harley for being the first of the main manufactures to throw it in the ring. It looks OK too.
Sound is pretty important for safety though, no? Bikes should be heard on busy streets. Hopefully the lack of sound doesn't increase the risk of injury.
I want to like this but it's too early. I'm in the market again for a new bike and I'm just not sold on the idea yet. When all of the bike makers have a product out I'll step in until then I'm staying traditional.
SO good to hear a review and from somebody who actually knows and is a normal rider. They do look nice. I still a POTATO, POTATO guy but can open my mind...….Thanks for a real honest articulate overview. $30,000 is a wee bit high but only if you don't keep it.
The rear tail/seat section should be abit longer, thicker and orange to match the front where it could house a storage compartment. The rear guard needs to go and the tail light and number plate moved up under the tail.
Harley riders wave at my Zero supermoto. They are usually the first to come ask to take a look when parked too. After 2 years now I feel like a Zero salesman saying the same thing every time. I can only imagine it would be even more annoying on this bike.
When the v rod came out it was revolutionary and bold they claimed. That bike was a drastic departure from previous H-D designs and I gave it a shot. At around 17,000 it was by no means a bargain and once the novelty wore off I traded it. I predict price will end this model before it begins and I hate to say that because of all bike manufacturers this is the one who needs to engage future riders the most.
Seriously. Triumph can make a 2500cc engineering masterpiece for less than it takes Harley to throw a battery and a blender motor in a frame... American motorcycles are in a bad state, thank god for Indian, or we'd be s.o.l for good motorcycle makers
@@Hawkeye23456 Time has nothing to do with it. You can look up any article about the current state of Haley Davidson and you can quite clearly see for yourself that it is in fact not working
Oddly enough I really like it. The styling is spot on in today's modern world. I'm not sure I can link it back to Harley's heritage, but then I'm not sure I need to. If this steals a jump on our Japanese manufacturers then that's a good thing as Harley's traditional heritage may well be gently ebbing from today's younger purchasers. I say that as a more "mature" rider who recently chopped his Heritage Softail for a BMW R1200R and the reviewers reference for 0-110mph is that mid range that the BMW has in spades. Faster than that at I'm attracting the wrong sort of interest... So give it a range of 200 miles minimum and when it reduces price by £10k to be a more expensive super naked then it will sell in spades. I will be at the local Harley shop for its U.K. launch. You'll be able to tell it's me - I won't have a beard... Nor a hipster haircut...
I LOVE it! Now Harley is selling used LiveWires at a great price right on their website which fixes the price issue. Seriously thinking about getting this bike. Well done Harley Davidson. Well done.
Solid review, thanks. I just can’t get past the seat/rear wheel clearance, just looks like a crappy Bajaj 200 for the rear 1/3. Add a bit more range and more HD Sportster/Nightrod back end and that’s cooking on, er, electricity!
I have to say I like it. I've been trying to like Harleys for decades but nothing ever got to me enough to actually purchase one. Maybe this one. The $30k price tag is close to the Zero SR/F. Unfortunately, the prices don't have time to come down yet. Harley will always sell at a premium anyways but I don't knock them too bad for the price.
and the price? At $30,000 Harley isn't going to sell many. I am sure that will the be the big killer on this bike in addition to Harley boys not accepting anything but a v twin 65 hp noise maker
Looks like a cafe racer..Lacks the vintage Harley Look..should release more models..They need high speed charging on pods like cell phones.Charging points will be crowded.. Electricity becomes the new oil.. Prices will surge..
Most of the comments are about price and I would agree - in the US most people ride as a hobby, it’s a secondary vehicle for fun and for that - bust it out on the weekend, I wish it were $18-$22 top
I recently test rode a 2020 Zero SRF, and I am currently making a review video on it. Based on your review here, I am very interested to test ride this HD model as well, and be able to compare the two. " Wiped the floor with the Zero" is a pretty bold statement. The 2020 model is of course updated from the 2017 model you had test rode.
sorry I'm a combustion engine mechanic turned electric bike builder no gears no twitchy gear changes on bends so love them I would highly recommend building from scratch because of the price
I love this bike. I’ve been a Harley follower for all my riding life . Nothing comes close to the quality of build. Yes it is expensive but look at other manufacturers of high quality machines, £80,000 now that’s unobtainable. My mates just spent £37,000 on a CVO street glide so people will buy it, if I can get a decent part ex on my bike il be in the que.
From Leo: A Harley Davidson that has no noise? How can that be? HD sues other vtwin engine makers for "sounding like a harley". Surely, the HD Screaming Eagle parts division will offer a PA speaker with a recording so you can sound like "A Harley".
Don't get hung-up about the £30k price tag. If you can afford the monthly payments, you can afford the bike. Let's be honest, not many people pay for bikes with what they've got going spare in their current accounts. And if you're already a Harley owner, you owe it to the world to make up for all the noise (and other) pollution you've been putting out up to now.
Brembo brake calipers were derived from last year leftover, there BMW stopped buying for their lineup. Seems to be most powerful brakes hd ever installed
I like the name. It looks like the wheelbase is quite long, but maybe the short seat accentuates that, so I wonder if the steering is correspondingly slow. I can’t justify the price. Pity.
Just got my license a few months ago, looking (still looking) for my first, really interested in this, just fear the test ride is gonna cost me $5k...:(
Allora ............ firstly great work John as always ..BUT .... just not feeling it ... i know , i know ... apparently electric is the future ... but to me it takes away some of the most important parts of owning a motorcycle ... have been pondering this for a few days now , and this is what i have come up with .. number one ...freedom ... as some one who loves going abroad on my bike , or just the idea of jumping on my bike and just heading out in who cares what direction . i find this idea of having to stop to recharge , for at lest 40mins , a ball busting no no .. even if there was a charing station ever ten miles it wouldn't change the time it takes , compared to filling up with gas .. number 2 .. the noise ... yes i know you have herd it a 1000 times , but let's just think about what it was that first made us all fall in love with bikes ... or the first thing we chuck in the bin on our new bikes ,,, the exhaust .. the sound of a slight twist of the throttle , the pop and bang as you change down gears on the over run ... the Fast Bikes days when we used to flick the kill switch to make a loud bang and shoot a pedestrian .. !!! my god isn't that how we even recognise different makes of bikes .... and thirdly for me .. working on my bike , getting greasy , oily and grubby hands . i just changed the cam belts on my Ducati for the first time , and loved it. i feel you learn so much about your bike when you take the time to look after it yourself. if this is the future then so be it , but i am damed if i will go running towards it .. you may take our two strokes , but your never take our combustion engines !!!! keep up the good work
Sean Ashenden ha! Love it. All valid points. If nothing else, I just wish RUclips comments were around when cars and bikes picked up where horses and carts left off.
Dear Mr Hogan ,or should i call you Mr Electric !! a massive thank you for your reply am very privileged that you put fingers to keys . i think you bring up a good point , i to love horses 🐴 all 87 of them from my Monster !! 😂 and who wouldn’t want a life size scalextric bike !! now crack on and bring us the next episode of that Desmo fix . love the channel and the reviews best thing on youtube. will it ever come back on TV ?
I see people complaining about the price, and it’s making me laugh. Remember how much flat screen televisions used to cost? And now you can pick one up for the price of a good meal. These companies have to make their money back on the r&d. Also you tree huggers better not start putting a price on clean living lol
How dare you dis my Zero! (Sarcasm). No, it looked like you were zooming around corners pretty easily in your Zero review also. (Great video.) Anyway, this is an interesting subject for me coming from owning a Harley to owning my 2018 Zero SR. The Livewire looks great and better be amazing for the price point. I'm sure it's awesome and I look forward to testing one. However, I'm not sure if Harley's going the Tesla route by marketing an expensive, "luxury" item first and then building cheaper EVs or if this is just vapor ware like I've been hearing form industry experts. I hope it's not but I have a feeling Harley will sell their current inventory of these and then they will drop off the radar as something Harley tried but didn't take with the average motorcycle rider. (Hard to swallow for 30k for 99.99% of riders.)
Would be curious to hear how it compares to the Zero SR/F, you compared it to the SR, which isn't in the same league, but the SR/F is a whole other beast
Do RC honestly, I said pretty much the same in the press conference. I found during the ride when we were stopped at lights, it helped me forget that I was on an ev. It’s one of a number of features that I didn’t expect to like, but was surprised to find I enjoyed.
@@johnhogan8177 I suppose. Honestly the biggest advantage of an electric bike for me is the lack of vibration so I don't think I'm the target demographic for that feature.
Most riders don’t know the first thing on how to fix their own e-moto at the first sign of trouble. Unless you are an electrical specialist, a brand new owner will be beholden to a Harley dealership for maintenance & repairs. If you are paying $30K for an experimental bike, Harley should not charge for anything for the first 2-5 years of ownership costs for unforeseen issues & maintenance. Furthermore, the tax rebate should be higher at about $3,000-5,000 per bike for the consumer to see any benefit in buying such a contraption. Perhaps, leasing this bike to the public would make more financial sense. Looks cool though, but the coolness factor is not enough in itself to justify purchasing one unless you have money to burn.
Who'd have thought that it would be Harley Davidson shunting motorcycles into the future ahead of all the other manufacturers? Go figure. Either way, I'm kinda psyched to try one out.
There's just not enough charging stations in central Florida to make this bike worth it for me, until that or the range of the bike is addressed it's a hard pass. Not to mention that a LOT of the cost is for the Harley name on the bike.
As a product they've done a fantastic job, the retail price is ridiculous unfortunately 🙄
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Well maybe bc they know you'll be saving on maintenance...
Agreed, I think Harley should have looked to build an EV bike in the same price range as their Softail line (14k - 19k). They would sell a LOT more.
ki0ng, nope, HD is a t shirt and jacket company that on a very rare occasion sells a motorcycle
There are a lot of people who can afford $30K for one of these. Just look at all the $60k plus cars and trucks out on the road. I personally don't need the power and acceleration it provides but do like that the handling is getting great reviews.
Love it. I want one. But not for $ 30k... maybe when the price drops around 15k
$7500
Pretty comparably priced for most Harleys. The majority of them are 25-40K. Only the entry level sportser series or HD streets are near 15K
@tinwoods that's the sound my Walmart sneakers make when I walk, cheap, cheap, cheap, cheap...!
Onoff314 no. You can get a soft tail fat bob 114 for under $20k. The large bagger touring bikes are 25-40k. 40k If you want s CVO with all the bells and whistles. Awesome bike, just not at the price point.
If they price like a Japanese bike then they will sell boatloads, if they price like a Harley, they will be a rarity.
Dont care how good it rides. $30k is outrageous. Halfway to buying a c8 Corvette. I'll wait and save for the c8.
or a Viper....!
You guys need to watch Scotty Kilmer. Save to buy a Lexus.
Tesla Model S and Roadster will eat that C8 alive.
But you wouldn't cross shop a bike and a car, right? It's like saying "This $20 ice cream is crazy expensive I can get a quality steak for $40!"
@@Nptz43 In my case yeah I would. They both are forms of transportation. The corvette though is faster and more comfortable and not much more expensive offering way more features and the ability to drive year round and much further distances while sti looking good and having fun. The livewire is a huge ripoff. Not even close to being worth the price, not even close.
It's the first Harley Davidson I would ever consider buying.
go ride one of the traditional bikes, youll like it.
@@Killaknott27 Those are not electric ;) This costs quite a lot but it looks great and sounds to in my opinion.
I want one, but too expensive for me. First Harley I've wanted.
Burnzi850 ditto
And same here.
At 20k I’d have got one
I have a V rod and I want one, but yeah dumb expensive.
Raj Virdee same. 20k? Yup I would have thrown them a bag of money. But here in Canada it’s 37k before taxes... f-that. Lol
An amazingly positive review. I kept waiting for the pricing problem to be listed, but it wasn't. Well, there are other $30,000 bikes out there, so there is a market. They aren't going after CB500 owners.
Most other 30k+ bikes make a lot more than 105hp. I get it that power isn't everything but if it's this or a seriously specced up V-rod it's not a hard choice for most bikers.
Dont really think there's a market for this bike. Charging is going to be the main reason and 30k?? Not worth it...like most harleys.
BANANAHAMMER420 it’s worth it , for the petrol money 💰 you’ll save and the Fresh air we will be able to create for the next generation 😀
I'd love an electric motor cycle. However, here's the rub: The UK government is giving £3,500 as a subsidy for an electric car, such as the new ~ £25,000 Mini SE, whereas the grant is only £1,500 for this ~ £28,000 Harley Davidson.
At least you get something. Here in the US most states actually charge more for registration on EVs to make up for gas tax losses.
@@RyanKirk99 actually I'm positive at least some states had the same subsidy which was only recently taken away because they decided electrics can compete on their own. But still this thing is way over priced. Im pretty sure there are many EV cars and even the new Tesla model that starts at 30k or less. HD really dosent know what they're doing anymore
It's direct competitor is not the Zero SR, but the new Zero SR/F
Yes, Zero needs to send Bike World a demo immediately. The SR/F is a huge leap forward from the SR.
I think that was on purpose, there was no need to mention the SR knowing that the SR/F exists and has better stats (power, weight, price) than the livewire.
The sr/f is just a shinier SR, stop with the zero circle jerk
@KIRBOSKI Tops out at 70 mph? You need to check the facts before making up falsehoods.
@@grren1782 facts show otherwise, but i guess that is why you went with insults instead.
Lots of folks posting about the 'pros and cons' of this bike, but fail to realize that EV's = zero tailpipe emissions, whether cars, motorcycles, buses, trains, etc. Governments will/or are already mandating more and more zero emissions vehicles and are therefore pressuring manufacturers to innovate. This is a good first step in the right direction. Like most things, costs will eventually come down and owning an EV will become easier in time. Just requires a mind shift and a change in attitude. In the mean time, hats off to a mainstream manufacturer for stepping up and giving it a shot!
I was lucky enough to test ride this Harley Live Wire in Huntington Beach, Ca. Everything this reviewer is claiming is true. I've been a Harley hater my whole life bc I ride off-road as much as I can & I hate loud bikes bc they annoy non-riders who then petition to close down our tracks & off-road areas.
this Live Wire Harley is hands down the best street bike I've ever been on! Crazy fast! Dives into corners with ease bc there's no internal inertia fighting you... so smooth! so ease to ride with throttle on to go, throttle off to brake! & so refreshingly quite! & clean air to breathe with no exhaust! I could hear the waves crashing along the beach on the pch instead of a loud obnoxious rumble with exhaust fumes enveloping me at stop lights! Way to go Harley Davidson! I hope this is a raging success!
Probably the best bike they have made.
Good review. I tested the bike today and was blown away. Never ridden anything like it and was super impressed with the torque and suspension. Like you I quite liked the quiet (and I have two Harley's that make a ton of noise.). I worry about the price point, but this feels to me like a big potential winner for Harley.
Thanks, you should tell some of the guys commenting on here who think we work for Harley.
As a Zero owner, I would consider this for my next EV bike. I like not having to do any maintenance. I also like quiet wheelies in the night :)
Ryan Kirk As a former Zero owner, I agree, but not at nearly $30,000.
@@fivespeed3026 I'd be seriously interested at low $20K but yes $30K is a bit steep when you could still own a Zero and a nice Petrol bike for the same $$$..
As a Zero owner also, I would NOT consider this. If I ever go back to a Harley (which I probably won't), I'd go with a used Street Glide for taking road trips with.
I'll just wait for Honda to bring out their version that pisses all over this, for half the price. 👍
I don’t know if you’ve noticed the trend lately...
They redid the VFR800 was slower and heavier than all of the competition, but just as expensive if not more .
New cbr1000rr ... once again slower than the majority and it’s actually one of the oldest bikes on the market... except it’s priced higher than all the Japanese competition and one euro bike... literally only the duc and aprilia and MV are more expensive
I. Could go all day with this...
if you think Honda is bringing this to you cheap.. I pity you... This is a guy who buys nothing but Honda too
"Pisses all over this"
Uh. It's a battery mate. You can't make batteries piss all over each other
Me too. Honda will deliver range and reliability. I'll get a Zero DS for cheap until the Honda's are ready.
Well said
Just get a Zero. Seriously. They must feel like chopped liver, they've been in the electric game longer than Tesla and they are a full fledged american brand specializing in only electric. And they never get mentioned. I believe the dual sport model is even under 10k and still has more range than this thing. I'm not into the electrics najor manufacturers are coming out with. Buy from the guys who were doing it when it was all about eco-publicity lol.
Nice bike! Good review! But in all fairness, compare it to a 2020 Zero SR/F, not a 2016 SR.
Would like to see you compare this to the new Zero SR/F. Demoed one a few weeks back and walked away very impressed. Can't wait to demo the livewire for myself.
Well, he compared the livewire to the "SR" in the video (trashing the SR), when the "SR/F" is the newer eMC from Zero, competes directly with the livewire...is lighter, has more power, and is 10K cheaper. Given the blatant bias in this video, I doubt that he would ever do a fair comparison to the SR/F.
I like it. The fuel cap cover for the charging port genius. Brembo brakes, yes.
Great review, John, as always. I’m surprising myself at how drawn I am to this bike. Harley seems to have done a really good job with the styling and quality. Will take a look when they’re available in the UK. But I would like a bit more range as I do quite a lot of miles. Very interesting. Cheers, Matt.
Very good review. I notice you did not bring up the price of the bike. With the financial situation Harley Davidson is in, I was hoping they would price this around the $20-25K range. They NEED to sell this bike to lots of people to pull out of their financial slump. This bike is exciting, and they won't sell many. That's a shame.
its $19K after tax incentives now.
This is the best LiveWire review I have seen. The only other mention is that the level 3 chargers will be offered for use at HD dealerships. Definitely going to give this one a try!
Wow. This thing is epic. Nice review. Thanks so much!!
Thank you for the review. I have also ridden the Zero bikes, although not the new version admittedly, I look forward to a test ride on the Livewire and hat's off to Harley for being the first of the main manufactures to throw it in the ring.
It looks OK too.
Plugs into the wall and will do 115 while giving me a rhythmic thrumming up the bum?
I'll take 2
xxLumian relaxxx bud
@@ophrasbankaccount7716 why don't you relax, stupid
Finally a Harley that doesn't make your ears hurt when it cruises down main street.
Sound is pretty important for safety though, no? Bikes should be heard on busy streets. Hopefully the lack of sound doesn't increase the risk of injury.
80's kid 4ever I think you’re right. There’s clearly still some work to be done in that respect. Dynamically, this bike was very impressive.
John Hogan
Clearly. It’s doubtful this fact would be unrecognized. Safety needs equal attention and recognition of course.
If you're concerend with it being silent, install an aftermarket exhaust and make sound with your mouth.
Anas Suhaimi playing cards through the spokes
need swap and go battery module where u pull up servo and pull 1 of 3 out plug 1/3 in 2/3 out 2/3 in 3/3 out 3/3 in ride off after swiping card
Exactly. $30k for a 95 mile range and no quick fill up to keep rolling? 🤣 Meh. I'll stick to my Sportster.
I want to like this but it's too early. I'm in the market again for a new bike and I'm just not sold on the idea yet. When all of the bike makers have a product out I'll step in until then I'm staying traditional.
SO good to hear a review and from somebody who actually knows and is a normal rider. They do look nice. I still a POTATO, POTATO guy but can open my mind...….Thanks for a real honest articulate overview. $30,000 is a wee bit high but only if you don't keep it.
The rear tail/seat section should be abit longer, thicker and orange to match the front where it could house a storage compartment. The rear guard needs to go and the tail light and number plate moved up under the tail.
Made in Thailand, with the current strength of the Baht, no wonder it has a hefty price tag.
There's a Milwaukee in Thailand?
@@vector6977 no, but there is a massive Harley Davidson factory there.
@@TheCryptonomatron that makes Harleys only for Eurasia.
Any bike sold in North America is made in Milwaukee, Kansas City, or York.
@@vector6977 the street 750s sold in the U.S. are made in India... so theres that
@@michaelmorgan2880 They aren't.
Where did you hear this?
Will other Harley riders wave at Live wire riders? Or will they suffer wave anxiety as well as range anxiety.
Harley riders wave at my Zero supermoto. They are usually the first to come ask to take a look when parked too. After 2 years now I feel like a Zero salesman saying the same thing every time. I can only imagine it would be even more annoying on this bike.
Harley riders waved at me when I had my crotch rocket. Harley riders are insanely friendly to the community, you've just been misled
Adam Priest I will wave, could be somebody’s mom that finally got her own Harley.
When the v rod came out it was revolutionary and bold they claimed. That bike was a drastic departure from previous H-D designs and I gave it a shot. At around 17,000 it was by no means a bargain and once the novelty wore off I traded it. I predict price will end this model before it begins and I hate to say that because of all bike manufacturers this is the one who needs to engage future riders the most.
Great review. I’ve been riding Harley’s for decades. Hadn’t given this bike much thought until now.
I already love the sound of electric vehicles - sound of clean air for pedestrians
and bike looks great - modern classic
30k is way to high, rather have the TFC -Rocket 3
Seriously. Triumph can make a 2500cc engineering masterpiece for less than it takes Harley to throw a battery and a blender motor in a frame... American motorcycles are in a bad state, thank god for Indian, or we'd be s.o.l for good motorcycle makers
Would rather have a Ducati
Again,overpriced,which has been the sticking point for many potential Harley buyers for decades.
For the price of a Harley I could buy everybody I know a Japanese bike
Since they have done it for decades, it must be working.
@@Hawkeye23456 Time has nothing to do with it. You can look up any article about the current state of Haley Davidson and you can quite clearly see for yourself that it is in fact not working
It is working. Quality has its price. As time goes by, that price will moderate.
@@sdefiel3719 I'm not here to bash Harley, I'm here sharing facts based on numbers. It is not working.
Great achievement by Harley, way ahead of the Japanese majors as well
Oddly enough I really like it. The styling is spot on in today's modern world. I'm not sure I can link it back to Harley's heritage, but then I'm not sure I need to. If this steals a jump on our Japanese manufacturers then that's a good thing as Harley's traditional heritage may well be gently ebbing from today's younger purchasers. I say that as a more "mature" rider who recently chopped his Heritage Softail for a BMW R1200R and the reviewers reference for 0-110mph is that mid range that the BMW has in spades. Faster than that at I'm attracting the wrong sort of interest...
So give it a range of 200 miles minimum and when it reduces price by £10k to be a more expensive super naked then it will sell in spades. I will be at the local Harley shop for its U.K. launch. You'll be able to tell it's me - I won't have a beard... Nor a hipster haircut...
I LOVE it! Now Harley is selling used LiveWires at a great price right on their website which fixes the price issue. Seriously thinking about getting this bike. Well done Harley Davidson. Well done.
Solid review, thanks. I just can’t get past the seat/rear wheel clearance, just looks like a crappy Bajaj 200 for the rear 1/3. Add a bit more range and more HD Sportster/Nightrod back end and that’s cooking on, er, electricity!
The sound is simple to fix. They put a speaker and you can choose any sound you want.
I have to say I like it. I've been trying to like Harleys for decades but nothing ever got to me enough to actually purchase one. Maybe this one. The $30k price tag is close to the Zero SR/F. Unfortunately, the prices don't have time to come down yet. Harley will always sell at a premium anyways but I don't knock them too bad for the price.
and the price? At $30,000 Harley isn't going to sell many. I am sure that will the be the big killer on this bike in addition to Harley boys not accepting anything but a v twin 65 hp noise maker
£28,995 staring price.
Harley Davidson, converting petrol to noise without the adverse effects of horsepower.
I can’t wait to see how these evolve in the next five years
Looks like a cafe racer..Lacks the vintage Harley Look..should release more models..They need high speed charging on pods like cell phones.Charging points will be crowded..
Electricity becomes the new oil..
Prices will surge..
Looks cool, I like it
Within 5 years this will probably have double the range for half the price.... something to think about
More like 8 years, at least.
I ride the Livewire last week at the dealer show. Fantastic bike. Loads of fun. Responsive. Wish I had an extra thirty grand in the bank....
Most of the comments are about price and I would agree - in the US most people ride as a hobby, it’s a secondary vehicle for fun and for that - bust it out on the weekend, I wish it were $18-$22 top
I recently test rode a 2020 Zero SRF, and I am currently making a review video on it. Based on your review here, I am very interested to test ride this HD model as well, and be able to compare the two. " Wiped the floor with the Zero" is a pretty bold statement. The 2020 model is of course updated from the 2017 model you had test rode.
sorry I'm a combustion engine mechanic turned electric bike builder no gears no twitchy gear changes on bends so love them I would highly recommend building from scratch because of the price
I love this bike. I’ve been a Harley follower for all my riding life . Nothing comes close to the quality of build. Yes it is expensive but look at other manufacturers of high quality machines, £80,000 now that’s unobtainable. My mates just spent £37,000 on a CVO street glide so people will buy it, if I can get a decent part ex on my bike il be in the que.
From Leo: A Harley Davidson that has no noise? How can that be? HD sues other vtwin engine makers for "sounding like a harley". Surely, the HD Screaming Eagle parts division will offer a PA speaker with a recording so you can sound like "A Harley".
just clothes pin a playing card on the spokes.
you can customize the HD and add some speakers ;)
I had no interest in this bike. But after this review I really REALLY want to ride one
Great looking and 0 - 60 in 3 seconds.
A home run.
Don't get hung-up about the £30k price tag. If you can afford the monthly payments, you can afford the bike. Let's be honest, not many people pay for bikes with what they've got going spare in their current accounts. And if you're already a Harley owner, you owe it to the world to make up for all the noise (and other) pollution you've been putting out up to now.
Brembo brake calipers were derived from last year leftover, there BMW stopped buying for their lineup. Seems to be most powerful brakes hd ever installed
I like the name.
It looks like the wheelbase is quite long, but maybe the short seat accentuates that, so I wonder if the steering is correspondingly slow.
I can’t justify the price. Pity.
The only Harley I've really lusted after!
Lol, I'm thinking the same!
I'm surprised nobody has mentioned that production is already canceled.
Just got my license a few months ago, looking (still looking) for my first, really interested in this, just fear the test ride is gonna cost me $5k...:(
A HD Iron 883 cost around 22K USD in my country. I'm still buying it because its my dream bike.
Allora ............ firstly great work John as always ..BUT .... just not feeling it ... i know , i know ... apparently electric is the future ... but to me it takes away some of the most important parts of owning a motorcycle ... have been pondering this for a few days now , and this is what i have come up with .. number one ...freedom ... as some one who loves going abroad on my bike , or just the idea of jumping on my bike and just heading out in who cares what direction . i find this idea of having to stop to recharge , for at lest 40mins , a ball busting no no .. even if there was a charing station ever ten miles it wouldn't change the time it takes , compared to filling up with gas .. number 2 .. the noise ... yes i know you have herd it a 1000 times , but let's just think about what it was that first made us all fall in love with bikes ... or the first thing we chuck in the bin on our new bikes ,,, the exhaust .. the sound of a slight twist of the throttle , the pop and bang as you change down gears on the over run ... the Fast Bikes days when we used to flick the kill switch to make a loud bang and shoot a pedestrian .. !!! my god isn't that how we even recognise different makes of bikes .... and thirdly for me .. working on my bike , getting greasy , oily and grubby hands . i just changed the cam belts on my Ducati for the first time , and loved it. i feel you learn so much about your bike when you take the time to look after it yourself. if this is the future then so be it , but i am damed if i will go running towards it .. you may take our two strokes , but your never take our combustion engines !!!! keep up the good work
Sean Ashenden ha! Love it. All valid points. If nothing else, I just wish RUclips comments were around when cars and bikes picked up where horses and carts left off.
Dear Mr Hogan ,or should i call you Mr Electric !! a massive thank you for your reply am very privileged that you put fingers to keys . i think you bring up a good point , i to love horses 🐴 all 87 of them from my Monster !! 😂 and who wouldn’t want a life size scalextric bike !! now crack on and bring us the next episode of that Desmo fix . love the channel and the reviews best thing on youtube. will it ever come back on TV ?
Welcome to the new age.
Thanks for the review.If it wasn't so expensive Id be all over it.
That's the only Harley I'd actually buy. Well done Harley, keep them coming.
Lovely bike, however can they not give an option where you can switch on a simulated engine sound of sorts?
sweet looking bike. if they could bring the price closer to the Zero range I'd try it out
Gee I wonder if HD will honor the warranty any better on a $30k electric bike than they do on a $30k gasoline bike?
cheap speed controllers are not very responsive not rode this bike so I'm hoping it's good
At last, a Harley worth listening to!!
Harley without brot brot brot? It's like you buy ambulance without ngiung ngiung
I see people complaining about the price, and it’s making me laugh. Remember how much flat screen televisions used to cost? And now you can pick one up for the price of a good meal. These companies have to make their money back on the r&d. Also you tree huggers better not start putting a price on clean living lol
How dare you dis my Zero! (Sarcasm). No, it looked like you were zooming around corners pretty easily in your Zero review also. (Great video.) Anyway, this is an interesting subject for me coming from owning a Harley to owning my 2018 Zero SR. The Livewire looks great and better be amazing for the price point. I'm sure it's awesome and I look forward to testing one. However, I'm not sure if Harley's going the Tesla route by marketing an expensive, "luxury" item first and then building cheaper EVs or if this is just vapor ware like I've been hearing form industry experts. I hope it's not but I have a feeling Harley will sell their current inventory of these and then they will drop off the radar as something Harley tried but didn't take with the average motorcycle rider. (Hard to swallow for 30k for 99.99% of riders.)
Ha ha, already rode it 5 years ago in Long Beach at the Cycle world MC show. Loved it !!!
The thing is that it's not silent it has that weird sound Harley Davidson added.
Would be curious to hear how it compares to the Zero SR/F, you compared it to the SR, which isn't in the same league, but the SR/F is a whole other beast
You don't roll the'gas'(oline) that can be confusing.but very good video
Nice seeing more electric vehicles and moving forward. But how long until it won’t be able to hold a full charge and the battery life degrades.
You didn’t mention the price, that’s this bikes biggest flaw, otherwise I’d be very interested
VeeFour in the description.
This would be the only Harley I would buy as long as it's not over priced like most of there bikes that break down and a general crap
I reckon it sounds good, just different. I definitely would love to have a go on one.
Question? Is this considered a motor-cycle or engine-cycle?
david tappe Motors are electric,engines are gas,or so i thought!!!
wayne miller Exactly. Being what it is and a motorcycle has an engine, this financial trap should aptly be called engine cycle.
Will it still leak like my Street glide?
Ur reviews r straight 2d point. Good man
Man that really looks like the future is here, when does Ducati release their new e-motorbike?
Great review. Thanks!
Cheers
They have fake vibration in the seat at a stop? I hope that crap can be disabled. I think I can remember I'm sitting on a motorcycle......
Do RC honestly, I said pretty much the same in the press conference. I found during the ride when we were stopped at lights, it helped me forget that I was on an ev. It’s one of a number of features that I didn’t expect to like, but was surprised to find I enjoyed.
@@johnhogan8177 but why would I want to forget I'm on an ev?
Do RC you wouldn’t want to forget, but it helps things feel familiar.
@@johnhogan8177 I suppose. Honestly the biggest advantage of an electric bike for me is the lack of vibration so I don't think I'm the target demographic for that feature.
Most riders don’t know the first thing on how to fix their own e-moto at the first sign of trouble. Unless you are an electrical specialist, a brand new owner will be beholden to a Harley dealership for maintenance & repairs. If you are paying $30K for an experimental bike, Harley should not charge for anything for the first 2-5 years of ownership costs for unforeseen issues & maintenance. Furthermore, the tax rebate should be higher at about $3,000-5,000 per bike for the consumer to see any benefit in buying such a contraption. Perhaps, leasing this bike to the public would make more financial sense. Looks cool though, but the coolness factor is not enough in itself to justify purchasing one unless you have money to burn.
200 mile rural range and I may be interested.
Who'd have thought that it would be Harley Davidson shunting motorcycles into the future ahead of all the other manufacturers? Go figure. Either way, I'm kinda psyched to try one out.
Does it have a speaker that give you that Harley sound 😱,Tony from Canada 🇨🇦
Lynne Languedoc You can download the sound and play it on your headphones.
Is the clutch lever a front Brake lever now ?
The 2 Harleys I would concider.
Vrod & this.
Accessory brochure?? Where??
It’s a really neat bike coming from a cool manufacturer but, I remember the concept looking cooler.
Concepts are always cooler -- they don't have to actually work.
There's just not enough charging stations in central Florida to make this bike worth it for me, until that or the range of the bike is addressed it's a hard pass. Not to mention that a LOT of the cost is for the Harley name on the bike.
Review, or HD marketing material?
If they make some "loud noise" add-ons then I'll buy it.
I think it looks amazing,even has a Buell look about it.Shame H-D didnt retain them....Could have been their sportbike and new ev brand.....
I like it! Thanks for the video!
Well done Harley Davidson! That is incredible and I'm so happy to see them lead the e-mobility.
That was great!