[Digital Today reporter Hyunwoo Choo] LiveWire, the electric bike maker under Harley-Davidson, is unveiling a pre-launch prototype of its small electric motorcycle, the S4 Honcho, across the United States. Electrek, an electric vehicle outlet, reported on May 24 (local time) that the launch, initially expected in spring 2026, is now increasingly likely to be delayed to summer after recent motorcycle shows.

The S4 Honcho is a model based on LiveWire's new S4 platform. LiveWire is preparing two versions: the road-legal S4 Honcho Street and the off-road-focused S4 Honcho Trail. The company described the model as a "125cc-class" electric motorcycle. Its peak output is cited at 10 to 15 horsepower, and top speed is mentioned at about 85 km per hour.

The S4 Honcho targets the lightweight "fun bike" market, where demand has recently been growing. The Street model in particular is drawing attention as one of the few lightweight electric motorcycles that can be legally ridden on public roads.

For the drivetrain, it adopts an electric motor mounted in the middle of the body and a chain drive. Unlike small electric motorcycles that use a hub motor, it focuses on delivering a more traditional motorcycle feel.

Both models place two removable battery packs under a bench-style seat. This is the first time a swappable battery system is being applied to a LiveWire model. The batteries are presumed to be based on Kymco's Ionex standard.

Official range has not yet been disclosed. Some have estimated about 160 km per charge, but if each Ionex battery pack has a capacity of 1.7 kWh, total capacity is 3.4 kWh. A range calculated on that basis is about 109 km under ideal conditions, and real-world range is likely to be less than 80 km.

Detailed specifications also show a clear distinction between the models. The Street model has lights, mirrors, turn signals and a display, along with 12-inch road tires and lower suspension. Seat height is 30.5 inches. The Trail model has higher suspension, off-road tires and higher ground clearance, and omits road equipment. It was also reported to include a reverse function.

Weight is expected to exceed 90 kg. It is likely to be the lightest model in LiveWire's lineup, but it is still heavy by electric minibike standards. For LiveWire, it is expected to be a test of expanding beyond a strategy centered on large premium electric motorcycles to a broader base of demand.