Electric motorcycles are no longer a futuristic fantasy. They’re tearing up streets and turning heads, and Harley-Davidson, the iconic American brand, is joining the party with its electric motorcycle arm, LiveWire. Their latest offering, the S2 Mulholland, might just be the perfect blend of classic cruiser vibes and modern electric muscle. But is it the right electric steed for you? Let’s take a closer look!
A Cruiser with a Modern Twist: Design that Demands Attention
Forget the chrome pipes and tassels – the S2 Mulholland isn’t your grandpa’s cruiser. LiveWire calls it a “performance cruiser,” and the design reflects that. The tall handlebars and relaxed riding position evoke the classic cruiser feel, but the overall silhouette is more akin to a chopper, giving it a unique and aggressive stance. Gone are the bulky body panels; the S2 Mulholland embraces a minimalist approach, showcasing the electric heart of the machine. Flat handlebars with bar-end mirrors and a centrally placed instrument cluster complete the look, and let’s not forget – it retains that futuristic edge that LiveWire is known for.
Power Up Your Ride: Performance Packed into Every Kilometre
The S2 Mulholland isn’t just about looks; it’s about exhilarating performance. It packs the same punch as its siblings, the S2 Del Mar and Del Mar Le, with a 10.5kWh battery powering a 63kW electric motor. This translates to a thrilling 0-to-100 km/h time in a mere 3.3 seconds, proving electric bikes can be seriously fast. But speed isn’t everything – the S2 Mulholland boasts a respectable range of 195 km in city riding conditions, so you can explore without range anxiety. Need to hit the highway? Expect a range of around 117 km at a cruising speed of 88 km/h.
Tech-Savvy Features: More Than Just a Motorcycle
The S2 Mulholland isn’t just a powerful machine; it’s a connected experience. Packed with advanced features, it puts you in complete control of your ride. Here’s a taste of what you get:
- LED Illumination: Bright and efficient LED lights ensure excellent visibility, no matter the time of day.
- 4-inch TFT Display: A crystal-clear display shows everything you need at a glance, from speed and battery level to navigation and ride modes.
- Smartphone Connectivity: Pair your phone with the bike for an even more personalized experience. Get calls, access music, and utilize navigation features seamlessly.
- Voice Control: Keep your hands on the bars and your eyes on the road with voice control for various functions.
- OTA Updates: The S2 Mulholland stays up-to-date with over-the-air updates, ensuring you always have the latest software running.
- Navigation: Get where you need to go with ease, thanks to the built-in navigation system.
- Multiple Ride Modes: Choose from a variety of ride modes to customize your experience, whether you’re cruising in the city or carving up open roads.
Built to Perform: Handling and Braking You Can Trust
The S2 Mulholland isn’t just about raw power; it’s built to handle it. A lightweight cast aluminum frame provides a rigid foundation, while fully adjustable Hitachi front forks and a preload and rebound adjustable mono-shock ensure a smooth and comfortable ride – even on those bumpy Indian roads (we know you feel our pain!). Braking duties are handled by high-performance Brembo M4.32 calipers, giving you confidence and control when you need it most. The bike rolls on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminum wheels, shod with premium Dunlop Roadsmart IV tires for excellent grip on any surface.
The Verdict: Is the S2 Mulholland Your Electric Dream Machine?
While the S2 Mulholland isn’t currently available in India (Harley-Davidson only lists the LiveWire for now), it offers a compelling package for cruiser enthusiasts in the US and Canada who want to experience the thrill of electric riding. It combines the classic cruiser aesthetic with modern performance and technology, making it a unique and exciting option.
However, at a price tag of USD 15,999 (approximately Rs. 13.37 lakh without taxes), it’s definitely an investment. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option within India, you can check out the Ultraviolette F77, another electric motorcycle with impressive performance.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and riding style. But one thing’s for sure – the S2 Mulholland is
