Admittedly, I have never really been a huge HD fan as far as motorcycles go. They're loud, not super powerful compared to their Japanese counterparts, and I don't feel like I am their target demographic: a 50 something dad with a chip on his shoulder over a robbed youth.
However, they have a certain aesthetic that when you see one you generally know it's a Harley. I personally like the styling of the Sportster 883. Anyway, the main question...
Should Harley Davidson be making e-bikes?
Absolutely! I love the idea of Harley Davidson getting back to its roots and making a more basic motorized bike. Harley has a very iconic design motif throughout their lineup and I'd love to see them make e-bikes sexier. Most premade e-bikes still look very dorky, which is cool if that's what you're going for, but some of us like to ride motorcycles and go fast, etc., etc.
Enter the Serial 1. According to its website, HD boasts:
Optimized handling with an integrated battery and a mid-drive motor.
I have to give them points for this- we all know how much a battery or hub motor can
throw off your center of gravity if it is put in the wrong place.
Clean Styling with internally-routed brake lines and integrated LED lights.
This is to be expected from a pre-made e-bike, nothing special here.
Easy to Ride due to auto-shifting on select models, self-adjusting hydraulic brakes, and a maintenance-free belt drive.
HD is offering four bikes starting in spring of 2021 which will set you back anywhere from $3,300 to $4,999 depending on the model you select.
The fact that they didn’t go 750w makes me suspicious that they are not made in the USA and rather abroad, where law limits power to lower levels. I hope that’s not the case. If HD wants a resurgence they need to make their bikes in the USA, if not, it’s bye bye HD!
Check out the bikes for yourselves on their website, serial1.com
Totally agree.. I dont fit in that demographic!! Made in the usa a must.. and the more big names the better for what we love