Harley-Davidson X440 launched with dhakad look and engine

Harley-Davidson X440 : In the diverse landscape of India’s motorcycle market, few events have generated as much excitement as the launch of the Harley-Davidson X440.

This groundbreaking motorcycle represents not only Harley-Davidson’s commitment to the Indian market but also marks a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to make its iconic brand accessible to a wider audience.

Developed in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, the X440 combines Harley’s legendary design DNA with engineering tailored specifically for Indian roads and riding conditions.

With its muscular stance, thumping engine note, and unmistakable brand appeal, the X440 has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive mid-capacity segment.

Priced attractively between ₹2.39 lakh and ₹2.79 lakh (ex-showroom), it brings the prestigious Harley-Davidson badge within reach of many enthusiasts who previously could only dream of owning one. Let’s delve into what makes this motorcycle truly special and worthy of the “dhakad” (powerful/formidable) descriptor it has earned.

Harley-Davidson X440 The Birth of a New Icon: A Historic Collaboration

The story of the X440 begins with a strategic partnership forged between two giants in the motorcycle industry.

When Harley-Davidson announced its decision to partner with Hero MotoCorp in 2020, many wondered what the collaboration might produce.

The answer came in the form of the X440, which was officially unveiled on July 3, 2023, making history as the first Harley-Davidson motorcycle to be entirely developed and manufactured in India.

This partnership brought together Harley-Davidson’s legendary design language and brand ethos with Hero MotoCorp’s deep understanding of the Indian market and manufacturing capabilities.

The result is a motorcycle that successfully bridges the gap between international premium appeal and Indian practicality—a delicate balance that many global brands have struggled to achieve in the past.

The X440 is manufactured at Hero’s state-of-the-art Neemrana “Garden Factory” in Rajasthan, where approximately 250 units roll off the production line daily.

This facility represents not just manufacturing capability but also Hero’s commitment to sustainable production practices, with hydroponic farming and other green initiatives integrated into the factory design.

Harley-Davidson X440 Dhakad Design: Bold Aesthetics with Harley DNA

One glance at the X440 is enough to recognize its Harley-Davidson lineage, despite being a significant departure from the brand’s traditional cruiser designs.

The motorcycle features a neo-retro aesthetic that combines classic Harley elements with contemporary styling cues, creating a visual presence that commands attention on the road.

The front profile is dominated by a round LED headlamp with integrated daytime running lights, which gives the motorcycle a distinctive face while maintaining a connection to the brand’s heritage.

The headlight bears the Harley-Davidson name etched on the DRL strip—a subtle yet effective brand signature.

Perhaps the most visually striking element is the muscular teardrop-shaped fuel tank, which evokes memories of Harley’s iconic XR1200 model.

This tank isn’t just for show—with a capacity of 13.5 liters, it provides a practical range for both city commuting and highway touring. The tank’s broad shoulders and well-executed contours contribute significantly to the X440’s commanding road presence.

The seat follows a classic roadster design, with a single-piece configuration that offers comfort for both rider and pillion. The saddle’s slight upward slope toward the rear adds a sporty touch while ensuring the pillion rider has adequate support during long journeys.

While most design elements harmonize well, the rear section has received mixed reviews from motorcycle enthusiasts. Some find it somewhat underwhelming compared to the bold front and profile views—a minor design compromise in an otherwise cohesive package.

The X440 is available in seven attractive colors, with availability varying by variant. The base Denim variant comes exclusively in Mustard Denim, the mid-tier Vivid variant offers Vivid Dark Silver and Vivid Thick Red options, while the top-spec S variant is available in S-Matter Black with distinctive diamond-cut alloy wheels that add a premium touch to the overall aesthetic.

Harley-Davidson X440 Heart of the Beast: The 440cc Powerhouse

The soul of any motorcycle lies in its engine, and the X440 doesn’t disappoint in this crucial department. At its heart beats a newly developed 440cc, single-cylinder, air-and-oil-cooled engine that delivers an impressive blend of performance, character, and efficiency.

This powerplant produces 27 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm—numbers that might seem modest on paper but translate to a surprisingly engaging riding experience.

What’s particularly noteworthy is the engine’s torque distribution, with approximately 80% of peak torque available from as low as 2,500 rpm, resulting in excellent low-end grunt for urban riding and effortless highway cruising.

The engine’s character is distinctly different from Royal Enfield’s thumpers, offering a more responsive and rev-happy experience while still maintaining a satisfying exhaust note.

Hero and Harley engineers have worked extensively on the exhaust system to ensure it produces a deep, resonant sound that, while not mimicking Harley’s iconic V-twin rumble, has a character all its own.

Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission with well-spaced ratios that complement the engine’s torque curve. The clutch action is light, making it easy to manage in stop-and-go traffic, while the gearbox itself offers precise shifts that inspire confidence during spirited riding.

Performance-wise, the X440 impresses with its versatility. It accelerates with authority from standstill, pulls cleanly from low speeds in higher gears, and can comfortably cruise at highway speeds around 100-120 km/h without feeling strained.

Road tests have shown it capable of reaching top speeds around 135 km/h, although the bike feels most at home in the 80-110 km/h range where it strikes an ideal balance between performance and refinement.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point, with the X440 delivering a claimed mileage of 35 kmpl under standard testing conditions.

Real-world efficiency reported by owners hovers around 32 kmpl, which translates to a practical range of approximately 430 kilometers on a full tank—more than adequate for both daily commuting and weekend getaways.

Harley-Davidson X440 Chassis and Dynamics: Breaking the Cruiser Stereotype

While Harley-Davidson is traditionally associated with laid-back cruisers that prioritize straight-line stability over corner-carving agility, the X440 breaks this stereotype with a chassis that delivers surprisingly sporty handling characteristics.

The motorcycle is built around a steel trellis frame that provides an excellent balance of rigidity and compliance. This is complemented by 43mm upside-down front forks (a segment first) and twin gas-charged, preload-adjustable rear shock absorbers.

This suspension setup not only absorbs bumps and potholes with confidence but also provides the necessary feedback and control when pushing through corners.

The X440’s dimensions contribute significantly to its handling prowess. With a wheelbase of 1,405mm and a relatively low weight of 190.5 kg (for the alloy wheel variants; the base spoked wheel variant is a few kilograms lighter), the motorcycle feels nimbler than its visual bulk might suggest.

The riding position strikes a good balance between sporty and comfortable, with wide handlebars providing excellent leverage for quick direction changes.

Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc with a twin-piston caliper and a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. This setup delivers progressive stopping power with good feel at the lever, while dual-channel ABS provides an additional safety net in challenging conditions.

The braking performance inspires confidence without being overly aggressive—ideal for the intended usage of the motorcycle.

The wheel and tire combination varies by variant. The base Denim variant comes with wire-spoke wheels and tube-type tires, while the Vivid and S variants feature alloy wheels with tubeless tires.

The top-spec S model gets premium diamond-cut alloy wheels that enhance both aesthetics and handling by reducing unsprung weight. All variants use a 100/90-18 front tire and a 140/70-17 rear tire, providing a good balance of grip and stability.

Harley-Davidson X440 Technology and Features: Modern Convenience Meets Classic Appeal

Despite its retro-inspired design, the X440 doesn’t skimp on modern features and technology. The motorcycle comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of electronics and conveniences that enhance both the riding experience and everyday practicality.

At the center of the cockpit is a 3.5-inch TFT display that provides all essential information in a clean, easy-to-read format. This display includes speed, gear position, fuel level, trip information, and various warning indicators.

The top-spec S variant takes this further with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to access features like turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and music control through the Harley-Davidson app.

LED lighting is standard across all variants, including the headlight, taillight, and indicators. This not only enhances visibility and safety but also contributes to the motorcycle’s modern aesthetic. The collimator technology used in the turn signals ensures they are highly visible from multiple angles—a small but significant safety enhancement.

The X440 also includes practical features like a side-stand engine cut-off function that prevents the motorcycle from being ridden with the stand down—a common cause of accidents in India.

Other thoughtful touches include a USB charging port (on higher variants) for keeping devices powered on long rides, and well-designed pillion grab rails that provide security for the passenger without disrupting the motorcycle’s clean lines.

Harley-Davidson X440 Variants and Pricing: Something for Everyone

To cater to different customer preferences and budgets, the X440 is offered in three distinct variants, each with its own combination of features and finishes:

1. Denim (Base Variant): Priced at ₹2.39 lakh (ex-showroom), this entry-level variant comes exclusively in Mustard Denim color with wire-spoke wheels and tube-type tires. While it lacks some of the premium features of higher variants, it retains the core riding experience and Harley-Davidson design DNA.

2. Vivid (Mid Variant): Available at ₹2.59 lakh (ex-showroom), this middle-tier option adds alloy wheels with tubeless tires for enhanced convenience and safety. It’s offered in two color options: Vivid Dark Silver and Vivid Thick Red.

3. S (Top Variant): The flagship variant priced at ₹2.79 lakh (ex-showroom) comes in S-Matter Black with premium diamond-cut alloy wheels, bronze highlights on the engine, and the full suite of connectivity features. It also features a 3D-embossed Harley-Davidson logo on the fuel tank for added exclusivity.

This tiered approach allows potential buyers to choose based on their preferences and budget constraints, while ensuring that the fundamental character of the motorcycle remains consistent across the range.

Harley-Davidson X440 Ownership Experience: Beyond the Purchase

Harley-Davidson motorcycles have always been about more than just transportation—they represent a lifestyle and community.

The X440 extends this tradition, providing owners with access to the prestigious Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.), a global community of enthusiasts who share a passion for the brand.

On the practical side, the partnership with Hero MotoCorp ensures that X440 owners have access to a vast service network across India, addressing what has traditionally been a concern for premium motorcycle owners in the country.

Hero’s reputation for efficient service and spare parts availability adds significant value to the ownership experience.

Warranty coverage is another highlight, with the X440 coming with a standard two-year warranty that can be extended for an additional two years at a nominal cost.

This provides peace of mind for new buyers, especially those stepping up to a premium motorcycle for the first time.

The motorcycle’s service intervals are set at 5,000 kilometers, with the cost of routine maintenance being relatively affordable compared to larger-displacement Harley models.

This combination of premium ownership experience and reasonable maintenance costs contributes significantly to the X440’s value proposition.

Harley-Davidson X440 Market Reception and Competitor Landscape

Since its launch, the X440 has generated substantial interest and has steadily built a loyal following. Hero MotoCorp reported selling 8,974 units of the Harley-Davidson X440 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2025, indicating healthy demand for this premium offering.

The motorcycle competes in a rapidly growing segment that includes established players like the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda H’ness CB350, as well as newer entrants such as the Triumph Speed 400 and Hero’s own Mavrick 440 (which shares its platform with the X440).

This competitive landscape has pushed manufacturers to continuously improve their offerings, resulting in better products for consumers.

What sets the X440 apart in this crowded field is its unique combination of brand heritage, distinctive design, and engaging performance.

While competitors may excel in specific areas, the X440 delivers a well-rounded package that appeals to both emotion and rationality—a rare balance in the motorcycle world.

The success of the X440 has been significant enough for Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp to extend their partnership, with plans to expand the X440 lineup with new variants and to jointly develop additional motorcycle models.

This ongoing collaboration suggests confidence in the platform and indicates that the X440 is just the beginning of a broader strategy to strengthen Harley-Davidson’s presence in emerging markets.

Harley-Davidson X440 Conclusion: A New Chapter in Harley-Davidson’s Legacy

The Harley-Davidson X440 represents a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution—a successful adaptation to changing market dynamics without compromising core values.

By combining the emotional appeal of the Harley name with practical considerations like affordability, efficiency, and serviceability, the X440 has created a new entry point into the Harley universe.

For Indian motorcycle enthusiasts, the X440 offers a compelling proposition: authentic Harley-Davidson character in a package that makes sense for local conditions and budgets.

The “dhakad” look and feel of the motorcycle, combined with its capable performance and premium features, justify its position in the market and set a high benchmark for competitors to follow.

As Harley-Davidson continues to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing industry, the X440 stands as testament to the brand’s adaptability and enduring appeal.

By embracing collaboration and localization without diluting its core identity, Harley has ensured that its legacy will continue to resonate with new generations of riders around the world.

Whether you’re a long-time Harley enthusiast looking for a more accessible option or a first-time premium motorcycle buyer seeking something with character and heritage, the X440 deserves serious consideration.

It may not be the loudest, fastest, or most feature-packed motorcycle in its segment, but it delivers something perhaps more valuable—an authentic riding experience wrapped in an iconic badge that continues to represent freedom, adventure, and individuality on roads across the globe.