Livewire finally launches its second model, the Del Mar, a smaller, lighter companion to the Livewire One. 80bhp and 100 mile range in a package weighing 440lb. Limited edition of the first 100 sold out in 18 minutes!

Livewire Del Mar launched

If Livewire has taken its sweet time launching a second model, it seems as if the wait has been worth it. With the Del Mar, Livewire not only declares itself as a serious manufacturing proposition but also debuts its new Arrow platform.

The platform comprises battery, motor, charging and control systems and forms the basis of a new modular system that can be configured into different models by bolting different angle headstocks and alternative-length swing-arms to the central structure. This can only mean that we should expect more new Livewire models in the near future.

The key factors of the Del Mar over the Livewire One are lighter weight and reduced cost and Livewire claims the equivalent of 80bhp and a 100 mile range in a package weighing in at only 440lb.

To mark the occasion of the introduction of the new model, the first 100 Del Mar models have unique paint jobs and wheel designs and have been given the snappy title of Del Mar Launch Edition. If the paint job appeals to you - there are two options: Comet Indigo and Jasper Gray - then it's tough luck, I'm afraid, as all 1200 sold out in 18 minutes!

Interestingly, Harley Davidson branding is pretty noticeable on the Del Mar: interesting because Livewire was parted out to be a stand-alone brand last year. Apart from the bar-and-shield logo appearing in various places, the words 'Harley Davidson Motor Company' appears on the side of the motor and the headlight is Harley's signature long oval design, as seen on the Fat Bob and, in slightly different form, on the Pan America.

Livewire have obviously taken inspiration from flat track bikes for the overall design of the Del Mar and the company refers to the new model as an 'urban street tracker.' Designer Eric Stafford was present at the unveiling and said that inspiration for aesthetics and ergonomics were taken from classic H-D flat-track machines like the XR750. Wheels sizes are 19" front and back and they wear Dunlop DT-1 tyres that have a distinctly flat-track style tread pattern, designed to work on and off-road.

The Del Mar is a distinctive machine, although it will be interesting to see what colours the non-launch editions will come in. It will also be interesting to see how the public takes to the Del Mar, even more so given the Livewire One's minuscule sales figures for the past year.

Del Mar models are expected to launch with a target MSRP of $15,000. Had you been quick enough, the Launch Edition sold for $17,699.

For more information visit www.livewire.com