LiveWire, Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle brand, geared up to unveil its latest model, the S2 Alpinista, on January 15, 2025.
A new era for LiveWire
LiveWire continues its expansion in the electric motorcycle world with the announcement of the S2 Alpinista. This new addition, set to debut alongside the S2 Del Mar and Mulholland models, highlights the brand’s commitment to innovative urban mobility solutions.
As a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, LiveWire aims to cater to modern city riders with a balance of practicality and performance. The S2 Alpinista has been described as an urban motorcycle that blends versatility with power, offering customization options to meet the diverse needs of its users. This strategy reinforces LiveWire’s dedication to innovation while maintaining the distinct identity of the brand.
Impressive technical specs
Although LiveWire has not yet officially released detailed specs for the S2 Alpinista, leaked Swiss homologation documents have provided key insights. The bike will feature a motor with a continuous power output of 30 kW (approximately 40 horsepower) and a striking 263 Nm of torque. The top speed is expected to reach 99 mph (159 km/h).
These specifications align closely with other S2 models, suggesting a share platform. The battery capacity is expected to be around 10.5 kWh, consistent with other S2 motorcycles. In terms of weight, the certified mass is listed at 604 pounds (274 kg), with a dry weight of 430 pounds (195 kg), making it slightly lighter than the Mulholland.
City-focused design and ergonomics
The initial images of the S2 Alpinista, though partially obscured, hint at a design similar to the S2 Mulholland but with notable enhancements. A tall windshield and side panniers indicate a focus on rider comfort and practicality for urban commuting.
The rear of the bike appears to sit slightly higher compared to the Mulholland, potentially enhancing the rider’s comfort. A standout feature is the shift to a 17-inch front wheel (120/70 ZR17), aligning it with the LiveWire One and diverging from the 19-inch wheels used in other S2 models. This change could improve the bike’s agility and handling in tight urban environments.
Performance and range
The S2 Alpinista is expected to offer strong performance, especially in acceleration. Although exact figures for this model haven’t been confirmed, it will likely mirror the S2 Del Mar’s impressive 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h) time of 3 seconds. The high torque of 263 Nm should deliver quick starts and responsive handling in city traffic.
While LiveWire has yet to share official range estimates for the Alpinista, a city range of approximately 93 miles (150 km) is anticipated, based on other S2 models. Charging is expected to be convenient, with a Level 2 charge taking about 78 minutes to go from 20% to 80%, and a Level 1 charge taking around 6 hours.
Market positioning
The S2 Alpinista represents LiveWire’s continued efforts to diversify its lineup and capture different segments of the electric motorcycle market. By offering a model tailored for urban and suburban use, LiveWire aims to attract riders seeking a practical yet powerful electric vehicle for daily commutes.
The inclusion of side panniers and a taller windshield signals an appeal to users who need to carry essentials or take short trips beyond city limits. Additionally, the bike’s A2 license compatibility broadens its appeal to newer riders and those transitioning to more powerful motorcycles.
Future outlook for LiveWire
The launch of the S2 Alpinista comes at a time when the electric motorcycle market is still gaining traction. However, LiveWire is betting on the future by introducing models that cater specifically to urban riders. This forward-thinking approach could pay off as environmental regulations tighten and demand for electric vehicles grows.
The S2 Alpinista marks a significant step in LiveWire’s evolution, showcasing the brand’s ability to expand its offerings while preserving its strong identity. With its emphasis on customization and city-friendly design, the Alpinista could help LiveWire stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Time will tell if this strategy positions the brand as a major player in the electric two-wheeler segment.
The unveiling of the S2 Alpinista on January 15, 2025, underscores LiveWire’s ambition to lead in the electric motorcycle space. With its 40-horsepower motor, 263 Nm of torque, and urban-focused design, the S2 Alpinista is poised to capture the attention of city riders looking for both performance and convenience. As part of Harley-Davidson’s vision for the future, LiveWire’s latest model could redefine the urban riding experience for the modern age.