Known for its roaring V-twin engines and rebellious spirit, Harley-Davidson has taken a bold leap into the future — not with a new motorcycle, but with an electric bicycle. Yes, you read that right. The legendary American motorcycle brand has launched a sleek, pedal-powered machine under a new e-bike sub-brand called Serial 1, a name inspired by Harley’s first-ever motorcycle built in 1903.
The move may surprise purists, but Harley-Davidson isn’t abandoning its roots. Instead, it’s tapping into the growing demand for electric mobility in urban environments, offering a stylish, powerful alternative for city commuters and bike enthusiasts alike.
A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
The Serial 1 e-bike is more than just a nod to Harley’s early days — it’s a modern machine with vintage aesthetics. The debut prototype, painted in glossy black and white with gold pinstripes, mirrors the look of the original 1903 model. With fat white tires and a brown leather seat, it exudes retro charm. But make no mistake — this is a state-of-the-art electric bicycle under the skin.
Behind Serial 1 is a dedicated team within Harley-Davidson, focused entirely on developing premium e-bikes. The result is a product line that combines motorcycle DNA with high-end bicycle engineering.
Built for Urban Freedom
The production models, launched under the Serial 1 brand, come equipped with powerful mid-drive motors, integrated batteries, and automatic gear shifting. These bikes are designed to offer effortless rides with speeds of up to 28 mph (about 45 km/h), depending on the model. They’re ideal for city commutes, recreational rides, and even replacing short car trips.
Integrated lights, a carbon belt drive (instead of a traditional chain), and clean, minimalist lines make the bikes both practical and visually striking. The battery is removable for easy charging, and depending on the riding mode, riders can expect a range of roughly 50 to 150 km.
A Strategic Pivot
Launching Serial 1 signals Harley-Davidson’s intent to stay relevant in an age where electrification is rapidly changing the transportation landscape. While the brand continues to develop electric motorcycles — like the LiveWire — this e-bike range opens the door to an entirely new audience: urban dwellers, casual riders, and younger consumers who may not be ready for a full-sized motorcycle but still crave Harley’s iconic style.
Available Now
Serial 1 e-bikes are available for purchase in select markets, including the U.S. and parts of Europe, with prices ranging from US$3,399 to US$4,999 depending on the model. While there’s no official confirmation for Singapore availability just yet, local enthusiasts are already watching closely.
Whether you’re a lifelong Harley rider or just someone looking for a stylish, high-performance commuter bike, the Serial 1 offers an intriguing ride — where history meets the electric future.
