Wired for thrills

Harley-Davidson's electric LiveWire is as alluring as its loud rumbling tailpipe-equipped siblings

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The Straits Times senior correspondent Zaihan Mohamed Yusof was in Portland, Oregon to test ride the Harley-Davidson 2020 LiveWire. The electric motorcycle will be available in the US in late September for about US$29,000 (S$39,600).
As the Harley-Davidson electric LiveWire is near-silent, one can ride and hold a conversation with a fellow rider.
As the Harley-Davidson electric LiveWire is near-silent, one can ride and hold a conversation with a fellow rider. PHOTO: HARLEY-DAVIDSON
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It is sleek and fast and hugs corners with the precision of a guided missile. And despite a 15,000rpm rev ceiling, it is uncharacteristically quiet.

Such traits are not usually associated with Harley-Davidson motorcycles, known for their cool-looking cruisers and loud V-twin engines. But they describe LiveWire, Harley's first production electric motorcycle.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 27, 2019, with the headline Wired for thrills. Subscribe