The Harley-Davidson X440 is the American motorcycle company’s strategic entry into the affordable premium segment in India. Developed in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp, this roadster combines Harley-Davidson’s renowned design philosophy with practical specifications for everyday users. The X440 targets young enthusiasts and first-time Harley buyers who want authentic cruiser DNA without the premium price. With its distinctive styling, torquey engine, and competitive positioning, this motorcycle caters to the growing market segment between mainstream commuters and heavyweight cruisers.
Engine and Performance
The Harley-Davidson X440 features a 440cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces 27 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This air-oil-cooled mill utilizes a single overhead camshaft configuration, ensuring smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The six-speed gearbox delivers precise shifts with the right ratios, optimized for both city riding and highway cruising. The engine produces a strong exhaust note, typical of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, making it a pleasant listen. Low-end torque makes commuting in the city a breeze while maintaining plenty of mid-range punch for spirited riding on open roads.
Mileage and Efficiency
The Harley-Davidson X440 delivers a fuel efficiency of approximately 35-38 kilometers per liter in mixed riding conditions. City riding typically delivers around 32-35 km/l, while highway cruising can increase efficiency to 38-42 km/l, depending on riding style and throttle input. The 13.5-liter fuel tank offers a practical riding range of 450-500 kilometers between refills, making it ideal for both weekend trips and daily commuting. The oil-cooled engine design provides excellent thermal management and consistent fuel consumption. The combination of adequate displacement and efficient combustion ensures that running costs remain manageable for regular use.
Dimensions and Usability
The Harley-Davidson X440 measures 2,145 mm in length, 843 mm in width, and 1,095 mm in height, giving it a compact yet imposing presence on the road. The 805 mm seat height makes it accessible to riders of varying heights, while the 190 kg curb weight keeps the motorcycle manageable at parking speeds. The 1,510 mm wheelbase strikes a balance between stability and agility, making it capable on both urban traffic and on winding roads. Ground clearance is 170 mm, which is sufficient for typical Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and uneven surfaces. The riding position combines a slightly forward-set footpeg placement with a wide handlebar for comfortable cruising ergonomics.
Variants and Trims
The Harley-Davidson X440 comes in three variants: Denim, Vivid, and S. The Denim variant features a single-tone matte finish with blacked-out components for a minimalist look. The Vivid variant features a dual-tone color scheme with chrome accents and premium paint quality. The top-spec S variant includes additional features such as a USB charging port, touring windscreen compatibility, and exclusive color options. All variants share similar mechanical specifications, with differences primarily in cosmetics and accessory packages. Harley-Davidson also offers a wide range of genuine accessories for customization, allowing owners to personalize their motorcycle to their liking.
Safety and Technology
The Harley-Davidson X440 features a single-channel ABS system on the front 320 mm disc brake, which delivers confident braking performance in a variety of conditions. The rear 240 mm disc brake provides significant stopping power without ABS interference. The motorcycle features a fully digital instrument cluster that displays speed, gear position, trip meter, fuel level, and clock. The minimalist dashboard design complements the roadster’s classic look while maintaining legibility. The tubular steel frame construction provides structural strength and crash protection. LED lighting for the tail lamps enhances visibility, while the headlamp retains traditional styling cues and uses a halogen bulb.
Features and Comfort
The Harley-Davidson X440 features conventional telescopic front forks with 43 mm stanchions and dual rear shock absorbers, both of which provide optimal damping for Indian road conditions. The split seat design provides optimal comfort for both rider and pillion on long rides. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear cast aluminum wheels are shod with CEAT tires developed specifically for this motorcycle. The sculpted design of the fuel tank provides natural knee grip while maintaining the classic Harley-Davidson teardrop silhouette. Attention to detail, including quality switchgear, durable plastics, and premium paint finishes, enhances the ownership experience beyond typical mid-capacity motorcycles.
Pricing and Ownership
Pricing for the Harley-Davidson X440 starts at around ₹2.30 lakh for the Denim variant, going up to ₹2.80 lakh for the S variant, with prices varying between cities depending on local taxes. This motorcycle directly competes with Royal Enfield’s 350-450cc models while being priced significantly lower than Harley-Davidson’s larger models. Service intervals are set at a standard 5,000-kilometer period, and maintenance costs are reasonable given the single-cylinder architecture. Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network across India ensures regular servicing and availability of spare parts. Insurance and running costs make the X440 an easy entry point into Harley-Davidson ownership.
Final Verdict
The Harley-Davidson X440 successfully distills the brand’s heritage into a package tailored for Indian riders seeking a premium motorcycle experience without a significant investment. The 440cc engine delivers good performance for varied riding styles, while fuel efficiency remains practical for regular use. Build quality, distinctive styling, and comfortable ergonomics make it a premium offering over mainstream options. With a competitive price, manageable running costs, and comprehensive service support, the X440 is a great option in the growing mid-capacity roadster segment, delivering authentic Harley-Davidson character in a simple format.