Harley-Davidson has pulled the wraps off its 2020 model range, with the high-profile new LiveWire getting its formal introduction alongside a more traditional focused line-up, including a new Harley-Davidson Low Rider S.
The Harley-Davidson LiveWire is due to hit the US and European market this Autumn and will potentially open up a new demographic for the American firm as one of the first mainstream manufacturers to focus on electric motorcycles.
Marking a sizeable shift in approach for Harley-Davidson, which remains associated with the Low Rider and Softail models it has developed it globally renowned image over the decades, it nonetheless comes at a crucial time for a firm that suffered with dipping sales and narrowing profit margins in the fact of trade tariff spats and an diversifying customer base.
The Livewire, which is intended to marry the synonymous design traits of Harley-Davidson and harness them in a more modern, technological package to appeal to a younger ‘Silicon Valley’ audience, offers 146km of range from H-D Revelation all-electric powertrain.
The 2020 Low Rider S & CVO Tri Glide
Though the Livewire is the most significant addition to the 2020 model range, the newest announcement is the new Low Rider S [see separate story].
Intended to provide a more engaging riding performance from its tuned Softail chassis, the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S is targeted at the more focused H-D rider.
Meanwhile, the new Harley-Davidson CVO Tri Glide brings the CVO trim level to the ‘trike’ range has – according to the official communication – ‘attention to detail that borders on obsessive’…
Innovation meets tradition
Elsewhere, Harley-Davidson is attempting to better corner the technology corner of the market with the launch of H-D Connect, an App that allows owners to remotely connect to their motorcycle and view key vehicle health information.
Perhaps more interestingly in light of a spike of bike thefts, owners can better monitor their motorcycle’s security status and set tamper alerts via the app.
In addition, the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) offers chassis control technology which provides greater strength under acceleration, deceleration and braking by utilising the latest brake and powertrain technology. It will be included on the new LiveWire.
“Harley-Davidson offers riders a host of new models, gear and accessories for 2020 as we leverage our unmatched ability to blend style, performance and technology in products designed to elevate the motorcycling experience,” said Heather Malenshek, Harley-Davidson Chief Marketing Officer. “This year Harley-Davidson offers more choices for more riders than ever before.”
