Harley-Davidson Introducing Electric Motorcycle Next Week

Harley-Davidson will unveil its first electric motorcycle next week, and President Matt Levatich said he expects the company known for its big touring bikes and iconic brand to become a leader in developing technology and standards for electric vehicles.

Harley will show handmade demonstration models Monday at an invitation-only event in New York. The company will then take several dozen riders on a 30-city tour to test drive the bikes and provide feedback. Harley will use the information it gathers to continue refining the bike, which might not hit the market for several more years.

The venture is a risk for Harley because there’s currently almost no market for full-size electric motorcycles. The millions of two-wheeled electric vehicles sold each year are almost exclusively scooters and low-powered bikes that appeal to Chinese commuters. But one analyst said investment by a major manufacturer could help create demand, and Levatich emphasized in an interview with The Associated Press that Harley is interested in the long-term potential, regardless of immediate demand

 

TheSteve - 6/19/2014 12:42:31 PM

+2 Boost

If this is a real product, then I predict a flop.

Remember Buell motorcycles? Shunned by more sports bike riders because it's a Harley, and shunned by most Harley riders because it's not a real Harley. So who's the market for an electric motorcycle? I predict it's even smaller than the tiny electric car market. (BTW, I'm not talking about those electric scooters, essentially motorized bicycles, which don't require a license in many places).

vdiv - 6/19/2014 1:20:12 PM

0 Boost

It is not real yet. So why do you think they are trialing it?

Dexter1 - 6/19/2014 2:34:31 PM

+2 Boost

Are they going to pump the trademark "potato-potato" sound through onboard speakers? If not, why have a Harley?

skytop - 6/19/2014 6:45:18 PM

+3 Boost

Harley Davidson is all about vibration, leaks, noise and excessive weight.
This electric will have to have factory electric shorts and blown fuses to satisfy the diehard HD buyer.

ParadoX - 6/19/2014 9:42:58 PM

+1 Boost

I think this would be better on a sport bike where the acceleration is needed.

kysrsoze1 - 6/19/2014 11:10:02 PM

+1 Boost

I think it's cool, but man, it sounds like an electric skateboard. Companies spend a LOT of effort on a good exhaust sound, and IMO, the operating sound needs to be considered when you're creating a new Harley, even if it's electric.