Is Harley Davidson LiveWire Expensive? A Comprehensive Analysis

Harley-Davidson's latest addition, the LiveWire electric motorcycle, has become a topic of interest among riders, particularly in terms of its pricing. Here, we will examine whether the LiveWire is indeed expensive by comparing it with other electric motorcycles and conventional Harley-Davidsons.

LiveWire Pricing Context

The starting price for the LiveWire is at USD 29,799, which, although higher than the typical new bike starting price of around USD 5,000 to 7,000 in the US, is relatively more reasonable for a Harley. Historically, Harleys have aimed for a higher price range, with many models priced between USD 7,000 to USD 30,000. Nevertheless, compared to other electric motorcycles in the same class, LiveWire is positioned as a mid-range offering.

Competition in the Market

In the electric motorcycle segment, LiveWire competes with several established and emerging models. Let's take a closer look at some key players:

1. Zero SR/F

The Zero SR/F is a popular naked street bike that also competes in the electric motorcycle market. It lists at USD 20,995, which is lower than LiveWire but represents one of the more affordable e-motorcycle options available. Zero is known for producing cost-effective electric motorcycles.

2. Energica Eva

Energica Eva is another player in the electric motorcycle market, though its pricing remains somewhat ambiguous due to limited availability. According to reliable sources, the suggested retail price for Energica Eva is around USD 34,544, which is slightly more expensive than the LiveWire. Other brands in this segment are generally more expensive than Energica.

3. Lightning Strike

Lightning is promising a USD 13,000 bike named Strike, but it remains to be seen if this model will hit the market. The company currently focuses on higher-end boutique bikes like the LS-218, which is priced at USD 40,000. This pricing structure makes it less competitive against established motorcycle makers like Harley-Davidson.

Production and Sales Model

Harley-Davidson is building only 1,600 copies of the LiveWire for the first year, with a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of USD 29,799 for the standard black version and USD 30,149 for color options. The motorcycle is being sold exclusively through the 200 plus Harley-Davidson dealers who have received specific training and invested in dedicated charging solutions for LiveWire owners.

The current market situation is that the LiveWire is sold at USD 30,000, and unlike some of the speculative answers floating around, Harley is actively producing and selling these bikes. Currently, there are only around 150 LiveWire dealers in the US, and many traditional dealers have not pursued the LiveWire due to the additional training and the cost of installing a dedicated charging station.

Conclusion

The LiveWire from Harley-Davidson is expensive compared to other motorcycles but is relatively more affordable for an electric motorcycle of its class. Its positioning makes it a value proposition for riders looking for a high-quality, well-established brand in the electric motorcycle market. As we continue to see advancements in electric motorcycle technology, the LiveWire stands out as a reliable and exciting addition to the market.