How Does The Ultraviolette F77 Match Up To The Harley-Davidson LiveWire S2 Del Mar?

Harley-Davidson’s EV division, LiveWire, has recently revealed the specifications of the S2 Del Mar. Looking at the specifications, though, made us wonder how the e-motorcycle will fare against the Indian-made Ultraviolette F77, on paper? Let’s check it out:

Motor and Performance

The LiveWire S2 Del Mar has a clear advantage over the Ultraviolette F77 in terms of performance. But the downside of that is the S2 gets less claimed range than that of the F77, despite having similar battery capacity. However, the LiveWire makes up for it with quick charging times. 

Underpinnings

The S2 Del Mar is LiveWire’s “accessible” EV, but despite that it has premium hardware compared to the F77. While the Ultraviolette flaunts only preload adjustability at both ends, the S2 features fully-adjustable suspension at both ends which will help you to fine-tune the suspension as per the terrain and your riding style.

For the performance it offers, the F77’s ByBre-sourced braking hardware is apt, but LiveWire flaunts a Brembo monobloc brake at the front, which should offer better stopping power.

Next, it’s the choice of wheels for the S2 Del Mar. This American EV rolls on 19-inch rims at both ends, which should translate to slightly lazier and composed handling characteristics, despite being 10kg lighter than the Ultraviolette that rolls on 17-inch rims at both ends. 

Then, there are the tyres that these bikes use. The F77 uses MRF Steel Brace tyres which are W-rated tarmac-focused tyres, while the S2 flaunts specially-developed Dunlop DT-1 tyres which are flat-track inspired rubber and are H-rated. On tarmac, the F77’s units should fare better, but off the beaten path, the Del Mar’s Dunlops might be advantageous.

Dimensions

The longer wheelbase on the S2 Del Mar along with the 19-inch wheel setup should make the e-motorcycle more stable on straight roads but it won’t be as compact and agile as the Ultraviolette. Also, since the S2 Del Mar is a street tracker and has been developed to handle loose surfaces with ease, having a higher ground clearance and seat height along with a lighter kerb weight will work to its advantage in that scenario. Whereas, the Ultravioltte F77 is a sport naked e-motorcycle, so for the performance it offers and the wheel and tyre setup it gets, being slightly heavier and having a lower seat height and ground clearance won’t hamper the EV from serving its intended purpose. 

Features

Both e-motorcycles get similar features but the LiveWire S2 Del Mar gets a Custom riding mode where the rider can customise everything from percentage of power, throttle and regen available to traction control and ABS modes. 

The F77 does get smartphone connectivity with navigation features through an app. But, interestingly, the Ultraviolette app is actually not available to use yet. Whereas the LiveWire S2 Del Mar, on the other hand, gets bluetooth connectivity, navigation, horn and light control, tyre-pressure monitoring system, ride history and more features through an app. 

Price & Verdict

(all prices ex-showroom)

So, looking at all the factors, the LiveWire S2 Del Mar provides better performance, gets better hardware and more connectivity features, is lighter and able to handle rough roads more easily. Stylistically, both bikes have a striking presence with their own characteristic street tracker and sport naked design language. But the S2 Del Mar is Rs 8.16 lakh more expensive than the Ultraviolette F77! But since it is unlikely that the e-motorcycle from Harley-Davidson’s EV division will come to India anytime soon.  On the other hand the Ultraviolette F77 is available in India at a much more affordable price point, and even though it falls a little behind the Del Mar in some areas, gets a nod from us..