Zero and LiveWire Launch Affordable Electric Motorcycles for the US Market

Zero Motorcycles and LiveWire are launching affordable electric motorcycles for the US market, targeting a wider customer base. Zero's XE and XB models start at $4,395 and are currently off-road only, while LiveWire's new models are expected to be street-legal and priced under $17K. Both brands aim to disrupt the small-displacement market with premium build quality and dealer support, attracting younger or less-wealthy riders.

Title: Honda, LiveWire, and Zero Motorcycles: Affordable Electric Motorcycles Targeting the US Market

Honda, LiveWire, and Zero Motorcycles are making significant strides in the electric motorcycle market, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. These companies are targeting a broader customer base, including younger or less-wealthy riders, by introducing models with premium build quality and dealer support.

Honda recently revealed patent images of an ultra-affordable electric motorcycle, leveraging the proven chassis of the Honda Shine 100. This design, which repurposes the Shine’s sturdy frame and chassis mounting points, is aimed at reducing development costs and manufacturing complexity. The electric powertrain is housed in a mid-motor setup, with lithium-ion battery packs positioned on either side of the frame. The bike is expected to have a top speed of around 80-85 km/h (50-53 mph), similar to the original gasoline-powered commuter bike. Honda aims to bring this design to market at a price point significantly below the $5,000 mark, potentially creating a new baseline for affordability in electric mobility [1].

LiveWire, spun out of Harley-Davidson, has unveiled two smaller, lower-cost electric motorcycles at the HD Homecoming festival. These models, with 12-inch tires and a seat height of 30 inches, are designed to be accessible and fun for new riders. Early testing shows speeds of around 53 mph (85 km/h) and a range of 100 miles (160 km) from the removable batteries. The company is developing both a trail and a street version, targeting urban commuters and off-road enthusiasts. Although no pricing details have been revealed, these models are expected to cost significantly less than LiveWire’s current offerings, which range from $16k to $17k [2].

Zero Motorcycles, known for their high-performance electric motorcycles, is launching the XE and XB models in the US market. These models start at $4,395 and are currently off-road only. Zero aims to disrupt the small-displacement market with premium build quality and dealer support, attracting younger or less-wealthy riders. The company’s focus on affordability and accessibility is a strategic move to expand its market reach and compete with traditional motorcycle manufacturers [1].

These developments suggest a growing trend towards affordable electric motorcycles, driven by the need to democratize electric mobility and attract a wider range of customers. The competition between Honda, LiveWire, and Zero Motorcycles is likely to push innovation and drive down prices, making electric motorcycles more accessible to the mainstream market.

References
[1] https://electrek.co/2025/07/14/hondas-super-low-cost-electric-motorcycle-revealed-in-new-patent-images/
[2] https://electrek.co/2025/07/13/livewire-gives-surprise-unveil-of-two-smaller-lower-cost-electric-motorcycles/