The long awaited LiveWire electric motorcycle headlines the 2020 Harley-Davidson model year announced Tuesday, but the lineup also includes new Softail and custom trike models.
Harley started accepting pre-orders for LiveWire in January, describing it as “the first in a broad portfolio of electric two-wheelers.” The company first started exploring the possibility of an electric motorcycle in 2010.
In addition to LiveWire, Harley-Davidson announced a new Low Rider S model in its Softail 2020 model year lineup. Harley says the model “takes a performance-first approach that emphasizes power, agile handling, and enhanced rider control combined with styling cues from the coastal build scene.” It starts at $17,999.
Harley also announced a custom vehicle operations or CVO Tri Glide, described as “a super-premium trike that offers distinctive style, powerful performance and long-haul touring capability.” It starts at $48,999 and has the Milwaukee 117 engine, Harley’s largest displacement and powerful offering.
“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.
New product development is a key part of Harley’s long-range business plan. The company said in 2017 that it planned to introduce 100 high-impact models by 2027.
The company started in on those efforts by unveiling its largest product development project with the combination of its Softail and Dyna lines for the 2018 model year. Last year, the company emphasized updated technology in its models.
In addition to the LiveWire, Low Rider S and CVO Tri Glide, the company again announced a number of technology upgrades for next year. This year’s updates include H-D Connect, a subscription-based cellular connectivity offering that allows riders to monitor vehicle health and security through their phone.
The new 2020 models and all 2020 Touring models, except Electra Glide Standard, will include Reflect Defensive Rider Systems or RDRS, a collection of technologies that helps match performance and traction during acceleration, deceleration and braking.
