A Fresh Chapter for Harley-Davidson
The Harley-Davidson X440 is here, and it’s shaking things up in the motorcycle world. Born from a groundbreaking collaboration between Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle brand, and Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, this roadster is redefining what a Harley can be. Launched in July 2023, the X440 combines classic Harley style with modern tech and affordability, making it a game-changer for urban riders and new enthusiasts alike. Let’s dive into what makes this bike so special.
Design: A Modern Take on Classic Harley Vibes
Striking Looks That Turn Heads
The X440’s design is a love letter to Harley’s heritage while embracing a fresh, modern aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR1200, it blends retro charm with contemporary flair. The round LED headlight with integrated Harley branding, wide fuel tank, and chunky tank panels give it a bold, muscular presence. Retro-style round indicators and a side-slung exhaust add to its old-school cool, while the sleek, single-piece seat and sturdy grab rails keep it practical for both rider and passenger.
Available in seven vibrant colors—Matte Black, Baja Orange, Metallic Thick Red, Metallic Dark Silver, Mustard, Goldfish Silver, and Mustard Denim—the X440 lets riders express their personality. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or hitting the open road, this bike demands attention. However, some riders note that the fit and finish could be sharper, with minor inconsistencies like matte plastic around the instrument cluster feeling a bit flimsy. Still, the overall design grows on you the more you ride it.
Comfort Meets Command
The X440 is built for comfort without sacrificing control. Its wide, flat handlebars and upright seating position give riders a commanding view of the road, perfect for navigating busy urban environments or cruising on highways. The saddle-style seat is designed for long rides, while the narrow seat nose and fuel tank shape make it easy to grip during cornering or plant your feet firmly at a stop. With a seat height of 805 mm and a kerb weight of 190.5 kg, it’s accessible for most riders while feeling light and nimble.
Performance: Power and Personality
A Thumping 440cc Heart
At the core of the X440 is an all-new 440cc single-cylinder, air- and oil-cooled engine, delivering 27 bhp at 6,000 rpm and a beefy 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This long-stroke engine is a torque monster, offering strong low- and mid-range pull that makes city riding a breeze and highway cruising effortless. The six-speed gearbox is slick and precise, letting you short-shift for relaxed rides or push to the 7,000 rpm redline for some fun. Riders love the deep, bassy exhaust note—a signature Harley trait that announces your arrival without overpowering the senses.
The engine’s tractability is a standout, pulling cleanly from as low as 2,000 rpm. Whether you’re weaving through traffic or chilling at 90-100 kmph in sixth gear, the X440 feels responsive and refined. It’s not built for blistering speed (topping out around 140 kmph), but its torquey nature makes every ride engaging. Some vibrations creep in at higher revs, but they’re not a dealbreaker for most.
Handling and Ride Quality
The X440’s steel trellis frame, using the engine as a stressed member, prioritizes function over form, delivering impressive stability and balance. The 43mm KYB upside-down front forks and gas-charged, preload-adjustable twin rear shocks provide a firm yet comfortable ride, soaking up most bumps with ease. However, hitting larger potholes at speed can cause the front suspension to bottom out, so riders need to stay mindful on rough roads.
When it comes to cornering, the X440 surprises with its agility. It stays planted through bends, though aggressive lean angles might scrape the footpegs. The 320mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes, paired with dual-channel ABS, offer confident stopping power. MRF Zapper Hyke tires (100/90-18 front, 140/70-17 rear) provide solid grip, adding to the bike’s nimble handling.
Tech and Features: Modern Meets Retro
Smart and Connected
The X440 blends old-school charm with modern tech. Its 3.5-inch TFT digital display is a highlight, offering crisp readouts for speed, gear position, fuel range, and more. The top-spec S variant adds Bluetooth connectivity, bringing turn-by-turn navigation, music control, call alerts, and even dealer locator and roadside assistance features via the Harley-Davidson app. A USB charging port keeps your devices powered, making the X440 a practical choice for daily commuting or weekend adventures.
Variants and Pricing
The X440 comes in three variants: Denim, Vivid, and S. The base Denim variant (Rs. 2,39,500 ex-showroom) features wire-spoke wheels and a single-tone finish. The Vivid variant (Rs. 2,59,500) upgrades to alloy wheels and dual-tone colors, while the top-spec S (Rs. 2,79,500) adds diamond-cut alloys, 3D logos, and the full suite of connected features. These prices make the X440 the most affordable Harley-Davidson in India, positioning it as a strong rival to the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Hero Mavrick 440, and Triumph Speed 400.
Why the X440 Stands Out
The Harley-Davidson X440 is more than just an affordable entry into the Harley family—it’s a versatile, character-packed roadster that delivers on style, performance, and practicality. Its collaboration with Hero MotoCorp ensures widespread sales and service support, making ownership hassle-free. While it’s not perfect (fit and finish could improve, and vibrations are noticeable at higher revs), the X440’s torquey engine, nimble handling, and iconic Harley vibe make it a compelling choice.
For riders seeking a retro-styled roadster with a modern edge, the X440 is worth a test ride. It’s not just about the Harley badge—it’s about the thrill of the ride and the freedom of the open road. With Hero MotoCorp teasing another 440cc-based Harley model for late 2025, the X440 is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Harley-Davidson in India.
