The LiveWire S2 Mulholland is a polarizing addition to the electric motorcycle world. This electric cruiser revealed in March, boasts impressive engineering but challenges traditional notions of motorcycle design. As the second model in LiveWire’s S2 range, following the Del Mar, the Mulholland seeks to redefine the cruiser segment with its electric powertrain.
Powered by a 10.5 kWh battery, it offers a respectable range of 121 miles in urban settings and 73 miles on highways. While these figures might not be groundbreaking, they are sufficient for most daily commutes. Charging options include both Level 1 and Level 2 compatibility, with recharge times varying from under two hours to over five, depending on the charger.
The Mulholland’s performance is undeniable, with an 84-horsepower electric motor propelling it from zero to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. LiveWire’s S2 Mulholland marked a significant departure in motorcycle design by prioritizing sustainability through the innovative use of eco-friendly materials.
This commitment was evident in the integration of hemp-based components and repurposed materials like recycled fishing nets, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious motorcycle production. However, the Furholland custom project introduced an intriguing yet somewhat incongruous element.
While alpaca wool undoubtedly represents a renewable resource, its application to a motorcycle’s exterior raised questions about its alignment with the bike’s overarching sustainable philosophy. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of chopper cultures, including Indonesia, Japan, and Southern California, Furholland’s design showcased a bold fusion of styles.
The bike retained the original wheel design, albeit with a charcoal finish, and featured extended, polished forks that contributed to a stretched appearance. While visually striking, the aesthetic seemed to diverge from the clean, minimalist lines commonly associated with electric vehicles. The juxtaposition of the organic, textural alpaca wool against the typically sleek electric motorcycle design created a fascinating contrast.
While the Furholland undoubtedly represents a creative endeavor, one cannot help but question whether it fully capitalized on the groundbreaking potential of an electric custom cruiser. Given LiveWire’s initial emphasis on sustainability, the choice of materials and the design direction might have benefited from a more cohesive approach.
Nevertheless, the Furholland remains a testament to the boundless creativity within the custom motorcycle scene, even as it prompts discussions about the evolving relationship between sustainability, aesthetics, and electric vehicle design.
While the Furholland’s appearance is undeniably eye-catching, its functional implications remain unclear. The alpaca wool, a luxurious and undeniably costly material, seems an unusual choice for a motorcycle component exposed to the elements. Its durability and maintenance requirements are also uncertain.
The bike’s weight distribution, handling, and performance might be influenced by this unconventional design choice, though these aspects have not been publicly discussed. Ultimately, the Furholland is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a statement.
It’s a declaration that form can sometimes trump function, and that luxury can be expressed in unexpected ways. Whether this bold experiment in motorcycle design will resonate with riders remains to be seen.
