[EDoggN]

My own thoughts are pretty much represented by what Oldun said above.

While different demographics will potentially approach the LW differently (urban, suburban, rural), I think there is a role for each. In an urban environment, this could be the one and only bike very easily. When commuting on my LW I will intentionally route through the city because sport acceleration from light to light is just a blast. I live and operate in the suburban/rural environment and so for me the LW is in a stable of other ICE cruisers. It is not the bike for touring, and any attempt to compare in that category is a disservice.

As far as cost, I wanted to be able to work with a dealer. Way too much experience with BMW and Vanderhall losing a dealer and needing warranty work that is very frustrating. So in central Indiana, it is Zero or LW. I tested the Zero a heck of a lot more than the LW and was ready to move on that purchase until I took one test ride on the LW. The ride handling, feature integration, quality build/finish put this well ahead of the Zero. My personal position is that I knew if I bought the Zero I would wish I had just gone with the LW. I have no regrets and would do it again. I don't know how the cost of the bike tracks with HD R&D costs plus actual component/build costs, but for those who complain about the cost...well, nobody forces you to buy it. I hope that HD continues in the electric space and learns from the LW to introduce bikes that are more accessible to a broader market.

100% agree.

 

[EDoggN]

HD is about to discontinue the LiveWire. That tells me all I need to know. With the issues I have had and the fact HD is dropping it means I made a bad decision. I will echo what someone else has already said: I don't have enough time for these companies to make a good product. I may be able to ride for 10 more years. I bought because I couldn't wait. The result is less than stellar.

JJ

Do you have any ‘new’ info to support your claim the LiveWire is being discontinued?

 

[EDoggN]

Over quite a few years I have cut recognized losses with bikes, 2 jobs, and assorted boys' toys. But even if there are only 2 years of the LW ('20 and '21) I don't class buying a LW as a mistake or a decision I wish I had not made or a loss I want to cut.

It's a quality product and I have rediscovered the Joys of Leaning, Cornering, and Full-On Acceleration. And hey, if it's a Limited Edition, then my Smug will Rise further

I do hope of course that parts and repairs will remain available but that be true of all such toys. My venerable 2001 FXDXT is also sometimes a problem to get parts and repairs for... Sic transit gloria mundi....

I don’t share your ’glass half full’ mentality on this one..lol. I bet these bikes would lose 60%-70% of current value overnight if they were discontinued. We all lose money on depreciating assets, but due to limited future repairability, I suspect this would be worst case scenario. For example, how long would the small number of dealers that are authorized to work on Livewires continue to do so? I imagine a year or two max....not good.