Model Year 2020 - Harley-Davidson New Models and TechnologyThe headline news from Harley's much anticipated MY 2020 announcement (August 20, 2019) is the long awaited debut of the much hyped LiveWire and what will be a welcome comeback for the "legendary" Low Rider S.
"New models, new technologies and more customer choices are featured in the expansive line-up of Harley-Davidson motorcycles for 2020," the company says. "The new Harley-Davidson Low Rider S model brings aggressive style and all-out performance to a 2020 Harley-Davidson model line-up that also includes the all-electric LiveWire model and the new CVO Tri Glide - the ultimate three-wheel motorcycle.
 |
| NEW TOURING LINE-UP (click image to enlarge) |
"The new models and advanced technologies are components of the 'More Roads to Harley-Davidson' plan to accelerate building the next generation of riders through new products in additional motorcycle segments, broader access and a commitment to strengthen dealers globally."
Harley-Davidson Chief Marketing Officer Heather Malenshek was quoted as saying that "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. This year Harley-Davidson offers more choices for more riders than ever before."
 | |
| SPORTSTER MODELS (click image to enlarge) |
Though it may no longer feel all that new to those who have witnessed its five-year gestation period, the LiveWire model is an "all-new, all-electric motorcycle, an exhilarating and evocative new model designed to offer the rider a high-performance motorcycling experience infused with a new level of technology, and the premium look and feel of a Harley-Davidson product.
"Propelled by the immediate torque of the H-D Revelation all-electric powertrain, the LiveWire motorcycle is capable of rapid acceleration with just a twist of the throttle - no clutching or gear shifting required. With up to 146 miles of range" (city) or 95 miles (combined), based on the SAE J2982 Riding Range Test Procedure and expected performance of a fully charged battery when operated under specified conditions.
With "performance optimized for the urban street rider, the LiveWire model is the first in a broad portfolio of electric two-wheelers designed to establish Harley-Davidson as the leader in the electrification of motorcycles.
 |
| STREET MODELS (click image to enlarge) |
The H-D Connect service introduces "subscription-based cellular connectivity to select Harley-Davidson motorcycles to keep riders connected to their motorcycle through their smart phone using the latest version of the Harley-Davidson App" (not available in all markets).
The H-D Connect service "allows owners to connect remotely to their motorcycle and view key vehicle health information. It also provides the owner with the reassurance of being able to remotely monitor their motorcycle's security, including tamper alerts on the Harley-Davidson App and stolen-vehicle assistance.
 |
| SOFTAIL MODELS (click image to enlarge) |
The Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) is a new collection of technology designed to "match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration and braking, utilizing the latest chassis control, electronic brake control and powertrain technology. The RDRS features are standard on the 2020 LiveWire, Trike and CVO models, and optional on all 2020 Touring models in the U.S." (except Electra Glide Standard models).
The Reflex Brembo electronic, linked Antilock Braking System (ABS), that was previously optional on some Touring models, is now standard on all 2020 Touring motorcycles. ABS is designed to prevent the wheels from locking under braking and helps the rider maintain control when braking in a straight line.