Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle brand LiveWire has warned that it will not survive next year. Recurring losses and limited funding have raised serious doubts about its ability to continue operating, leaving Harley’s electric ambitions on shaky ground.
LiveWire reported $7.9 million in third-quarter revenue in addition to an $18.6 million net loss. Selling more motorcycles did not bring the company to cover its costs.
Why the future of LiveWire is in doubt
LiveWire’s cash reserves fell from $82.8 million at the end of 2025 to $39.9 million as of September 30. It ends the last quarter with less than half of the previous balance and continues to absorb losses.
Its board formed a special restructuring committee on October 22, and Roy Gallagher was appointed chief restructuring officer. The company also withdrew its forecast of a $70 million to $80 million operating loss for 2026.
LiveWire is seeking fresh funding and exploring potential partnerships. A sale is also among its options, although the company warns that none of these efforts are guaranteed to be successful.
Why are sales not increasing enough?
LiveWire sold 241 electric motorcycles in the third quarter, up 31% from a year earlier. These sales generated $2.7 million in revenue against a $17 million operating loss for the motorcycle division.
STACYC, its business that sells electric balance bikes and other electric bikes, contributed $5.2 million in revenue. The smaller bikes brought in almost twice as much as the motorcycles that bear LiveWire’s name.
That allows the motorcycle business to grow from a base that is still too small to support its current costs.
Can cheaper motorcycles help it survive
The S4 Honcho range offers a more affordable entry point, with starting prices below $5,000. US deliveries of the Trail model began in August, while the Street version reached dealers in October.
These prizes give LiveWire an opportunity to reach more riders. Whether that translates into enough sales to improve its financials is still unproven, especially if the company needs financing to continue operating.
The next date to watch is November 9. LiveWire expects a fuller update on its financial position and plans by then.