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Reverse & Roll-Forward Regen Now Available for Your LiveWire® S2 Motorcycle

How to unlock new features.

LiveWire has just released a free software update for S2 Del Mar®, S2 Mulholland™, and S2 Alpinista™ and it's a big one. Based directly on rider feedback, this update introduces two powerful new features: Reverse and Roll-Forward Regenerative Braking (RFR).

These enhancements are designed to give you more control, and smoother maneuverability. But to access them, you’ll need to perform the software update and opt-in via your bike’s Ride Customization menu.

How to Get These Features

These features are not enabled by default. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Perform the Software Update
    LiveWire has sent instructions to all S2 owners. If you haven’t received them, reach out to us at customersupport@livewire.com
  • Opt-In via Ride Customization Menu
  • Access the settings before entering propulsion mode.
  • Enable Reverse and Roll-Forward Regen individually.
  • Once enabled, they’ll be available every time you ride.

Let’s break down what these features do, how they work, and why they matter.

Reverse Function: Effortless Maneuvering in Tight Spaces

Whether you're backing out of a garage, navigating a crowded parking lot, or repositioning on an incline, the new Reverse gives you the confidence and control to do it smoothly.


How It Works:

  • Activation: Reverse is available once the bike is in propulsion mode (key fob present, run/stop switch in “run,” and starter pressed).
  • Indicators: An amber “R” means reverse is available; a green “R” means it’s engaged.
  • Throttle Input: Twist the throttle forward (away from you) while at zero speed to engage reverse.
  • Speed Ramp: Reverse ramps up gently over ~3 seconds to a max speed of ~2 mph.

Smart Engineering:

  • Reverse is tuned with both a speed target and a maximum torque limit, allowing for controlled movement uphill, downhill, over bumps, and on flat ground.
  • Reverse disengages automatically when you release the throttle.
  • Always sit on the motorcycle while using reverse, and be cautious on steep grades where balance and foot placement are critical.

    To learn more about Reverse, consult the owner's manual at LVWR.co/s2ownersmanual

Roll-Forward Regen: Precision Braking at Your Fingertips

LiveWire’s S2 regenerative braking system just expanded beyond rider modes. In addition to coast-down regen (which activates when you release the throttle), you can now actively engage maximum regen by rolling the throttle forward past neutral while in motion.

How It Works:

  • Activation: Opt-in via the Ride Customization menu before riding.
  • Throttle Input: Roll the throttle forward (clockwise) while moving to engage RFR.
  • Disengage: Return the throttle to neutral to stop regen.

Smart Engineering:

  • Immediate Feel: While technically ramped to avoid abruptness, regen feels instant and responsive to the rider.
  • Low-Speed Boost: Even in ride modes configured with full regen, RFR adds extra regen braking power at speeds below 20 mph.
  • High-Speed Behavior: At higher speeds, RFR does not exceed the regen already provided by roll-off regen braking.
  • Global Setting: RFR is not tunable per ride mode—it’s a global on/off feature applied across all enabled modes.

Safety Notes:

  • Brake lights automatically illuminate when regen reaches a certain threshold, alerting vehicles behind you.
  • Regen availability depends on battery temperature and state of charge (SOC). It may be limited when the battery is cold or nearly full.
  • Regen is not a substitute for friction brakes! Always be ready to apply them when needed.

To learn more about Reverse, consult the owner's manual at LVWR.co/s2ownersmanual

These updates are more than just new features; they’re a reflection of LiveWire’s commitment to rider-first innovation. Whether you're navigating urban environments or carving through scenic routes, Reverse and Roll-Forward Regen give you more control, more confidence, and more connection to your ride.


Already updated and riding with the new features? We’d love to hear how they’re changing your experience. Let us know at customersupport@livewire.com