Harley-Davidson, a name synonymous with premium American cruisers, has taken a bold new step with the launch of the Harley-Davidson X440 in India. This all-new motorcycle marks a significant shift in the brand’s strategy — entering the mid-segment bike market while retaining the Harley essence of muscle, style, and road presence.
Designed and built in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp, the X440 brings the Harley charm at a price point that makes it more accessible than ever before. Here’s everything you need to know about this muscular new machine.
A Fresh Yet Familiar Design
The Harley-Davidson X440 may be a departure from the brand’s usual big-bore cruisers, but its design doesn’t stray far from Harley’s DNA. The bike features a neo-retro styling with a round LED headlamp, metal fuel tank with deep creases, wide handlebars, and a sculpted seat.
It exudes an old-school roadster vibe while blending in modern touches like:
- All-LED lighting system
- Premium metallic paint schemes
- Exposed engine elements and twin-pod exhaust
Its streetfighter-like stance, slightly upright ergonomics, and bold presence on Indian roads make it clear — this is still a Harley, just more compact.
Engine and Performance: Built for Indian Roads
Powering the X440 is an all-new 440cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine, tuned to deliver around 27 bhp and 38 Nm of torque. The engine offers a strong low-end pull, which makes it perfect for urban cruising as well as highway rides.
The bike comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox, and its power delivery is refined yet responsive. It may not be the fastest in its class, but what it offers is a smooth, torquey, and laid-back ride that feels effortless, much like Harley’s bigger siblings.
Features and Technology
Harley has made sure the X440 is not just about style — it comes loaded with modern features that cater to today’s riders. Some key highlights include:
- Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument cluster
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call/SMS alerts
- Side-stand engine cut-off
- Slipper clutch
These features make the X440 a tech-savvy companion for city riders and weekend explorers alike.
Ride and Handling
Built on a trellis frame, the X440 features a USD fork setup at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This combination provides excellent stability, especially on bumpy Indian roads.
The bike rides on 18-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels, giving it a balanced feel. The upright riding position, wide seat, and ergonomic controls ensure long rides remain comfortable without sacrificing handling in urban traffic.
Braking and Safety
Safety is another area where the X440 doesn’t compromise. It comes equipped with:
- Disc brakes at both ends
- Dual-channel ABS
- Grippy MRF Zapper tyres
These systems ensure confident braking and road grip, whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising on highways.
Variants and Pricing
The Harley-Davidson X440 is available in multiple variants:
- Denim (Base)
- Vivid (Mid)
- S (Top-end)
Pricing starts at approximately ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to around ₹2.80 lakh, making it one of the most affordable Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever launched in India.
Final Verdict
The Harley-Davidson X440 is more than just a motorcycle — it’s Harley’s way of reconnecting with a wider Indian audience. With its unique blend of classic design, modern tech, and robust performance, it’s a compelling choice for riders who want Harley heritage without the premium price tag.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Harley but found the price or size intimidating, the X440 might just be your gateway to the cruiser life.