Silent Wheels of Justice: LiveWire's Electric Patrol Bikes Are Here
Image Credit: LiveWire.
LiveWire has decided that our boys and girls in blue (and presumably other shades of security personnel) could use a jolt of electric power. They've taken their S2 Del Mar and Alpinista models and slapped a "Patrol" badge on them. These electric steeds are built right here in the good ol' US of A, York, Pennsylvania to be exact. It's nice to see some homegrown electric muscle, even if it's silent muscle.
And the first customer to plug into this electrifying idea? The St. Cloud, Florida police department. Makes sense - all that sunshine probably makes them think about clean energy, or maybe they just like the idea of sneaking up on unsuspecting speeders in near silence. Either way, good on ya, St. Cloud!
Image Credit: LiveWire.
The standard S2 models, the civilian versions if you will, start at $15,999 and can climb up to $16,249. For that chunk of change, you get safety bits like cornering enhanced ABS (or C-ABS, for those of you who like acronyms), drag-torque slip control (sounds terrifying, but probably useful), and cornering enhanced traction control. Basically, these bikes are smarter than I am on a Monday morning. And to keep your anxiety at bay, they've slapped a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty on the high-voltage battery and a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty on the rest of the bike, which you can even stretch to five years. That's longer than some marriages I know!
But we're here for the souped-up cop versions, aren't we? The S2 Patrol models get all the bells and whistles that would make even James Bond jealous (well, maybe not Bond; he prefers Aston Martins, but you get my drift). We're talking tip-over protection – because even the most seasoned officer has a clumsy moment, right? Then you've got top and side cases for all their police-y things. And of course, no patrol bike is complete without a 120dB siren. That's loud enough to wake the dead, or at least startle a jaywalker into next week. They've also bolted on a dozen SpeedTech LED lights, an AUX power supply is thrown in, along with hand guards, and some extra controls that I'm guessing operate the aforementioned light show and sonic boom.
Image Credit: LiveWire.
The exact specifications for the Patrol versions weren't spilled like lukewarm coffee, but we can infer some things from their civilian cousins. We're likely looking at battery capacities that will allow for a decent amount of patrolling before needing a recharge. And while they might not have the roaring thunder of a traditional Harley, the electric powertrain offers a "simple twist-and-go operation." Sounds suspiciously easy, doesn't it? Almost like riding a very fast, very serious scooter. They also boast about low heat and minimal vibration, which I'm sure will be a welcome change for officers who spend hours in the saddle. Plus, excellent low-speed maneuverability? Perfect for navigating parade routes or, you know, chasing down someone on foot.
The real beauty, though, is the quiet operation and zero emissions. Police silently rolling up to a scene like ninjas, but on a motorcycle... what a sight! And the zero emissions? Mother Earth will certainly appreciate the lack of fumes, even if the perp being apprehended might not be thinking about air quality at that precise moment. LiveWire also points out that these silent steeds are ideal for indoor settings like conventions and stadiums.
Image Credit: LiveWire.
So, are electric patrol bikes the future? Well, LiveWire is definitely throwing their electric hat into the ring. They're even offering demos for interested departments. Smart move. You've got to let them feel the (silent) power. For all you law enforcement folks out there itching to ditch the gasoline and embrace the electron, you can apparently mosey on over to LiveWire's fleet page or give them a ring for a test ride. You can even find your nearest dealer – though I suspect they won't be selling these bad boys next to the leather chaps and skull-emblazoned bandanas.
Law enforcement on two electric wheels is a fascinating development. Electric motorcycles joining the police force. Quiet, clean, and certainly a conversation starter. Will it revolutionize law enforcement? Maybe. Will it at least make for some interesting traffic stops? Absolutely. I have a sudden urge to watch some old episodes of CHiPs. Just to compare the noise levels, you understand.
