Harley-Davidson X440 has surprised automobile experts and motorcycle enthusiasts in India with its affordable price tag of Rs 2.29 lakh. Automobile experts and industry magazines were expecting the “Made In India” Harley-Davidson X440 to cost between Rs 2.6 lakh to Rs 2.9 lakh. X440 will be manufactured and marketed in India by Hero MotoCorp. In October 2020 Harley-Davidson signed an agreement with Hero MotoCorp to manage the brand’s manufacturing and marketing in India.

The new Harley-Davidson will be competing with Royal Enfield Classic 350. Royal Enfield has strong presence and brand value in India. The bike can also compete with Royal Enfield Hunter 450 and Triumph-Bajaj partnership bike. Harley-Davidson couldn’t generate enough business through its Indian operations and had announced closure of operations in India in September 2020. However, Hero MotoCorp management was quick to offer a helping hand to Harley-Davidson. The exclusive Harley-Davidson stores will continue operating in India.

Harley-Davidson X440 will be available in three variants and was launched today among media personal and esteemed guests. The technical specifications are almost matching the specifications speculated in media before launch. X440 will be powered by newly-developed 398 cc single-cylinder air and oil-cooled motor. The six-speed transmission and 27 bhp of power will make the ride smooth. The disc brakes with dual-channel ABS will be a standard feature.

Harley-Davidson is trying a new strategy in markets where it has small presence. For China, the motorcycle major launched Harley-Davidson X 350 and X 500 models this year.

Hero MotoCorp is planning to increase the footprint of company in India in near future. Depending on demand for the bikes, Hero will be expanding dealership network across India.

Hero MotoCorp has strong presence in two-wheeler market in India and with this deal, the company will be able to cater the premium segment in India.