Harley Davidson X440 :When you hear the name Harley Davidson, you instantly think of powerful cruisers, iconic styling, and the roaring sound of freedom on two wheels. But what happens when Harley Davidson partners with Hero MotoCorp to create a middleweight roadster? You get the all-new Harley Davidson X440 – a machine that blends classic American cruiser DNA with modern-day efficiency and practicality.
In this in-depth review, we take a closer look at the Harley Davidson X440, covering its design, performance, handling, braking, features, fuel efficiency, and pricing. If you are considering this motorcycle, read on to discover if it fits your riding style and expectations.
The Collaboration Behind the X440
The Harley Davidson X440 is a result of a strategic collaboration between Harley Davidson and Hero MotoCorp, a partnership aimed at making Harley motorcycles more accessible to a wider audience, particularly in India. While Harley Davidson is known for its high-end luxury cruisers, this joint venture brings a smaller, more affordable option to the market without compromising on quality or brand heritage.
By leveraging Hero MotoCorp’s manufacturing expertise and Harley’s legendary design ethos, the X440 delivers an exciting mix of classic styling, robust engineering, and practical performance. This collaboration allows for lower production costs, making the X440 more competitively priced while still retaining Harley’s iconic DNA.
The Look: Classic Meets Modern
At first glance, the Harley Davidson X440 maintains the classic roadster charm that Harley lovers admire but with a modern twist. The bike boasts a muscular fuel tank, round LED headlamp, and a neatly contoured seat that enhances both aesthetics and comfort. The presence of alloy wheels, a wide handlebar, and a sculpted fuel tank adds to its urban roadster appeal.
Key design highlights include:
- Retro-style round LED headlamp with DRLs
- Sleek LED tail lamp
- Minimalistic yet bold graphics
- Alloy wheels with a beefy road presence
- Slightly raised handlebar for an upright riding posture
The overall styling stays true to Harley’s legacy while offering a fresh, contemporary feel, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned riders and new enthusiasts.
Engine Power: Strong Yet Efficient
Under the hood, the Harley Davidson X440 packs a 440cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine that delivers 27 bhp and 38 Nm of torque. Unlike traditional Harley cruisers that rely on V-twin configurations, this single-cylinder setup is designed to maximize efficiency while ensuring sufficient power for city commutes and highway rides alike.
Key Engine Features:
- 440cc single-cylinder engine
- Air/oil cooling for optimal performance
- 27 bhp power output
- 38 Nm of torque
- 6-speed gearbox for smooth transitions
The throttle response is crisp, and the bike offers a linear power delivery, making it easy to ride in various conditions, from traffic-heavy city streets to open highways.
Handling & Suspension: Balanced Comfort and Agility
The Harley Davidson X440 has been engineered to provide a balanced and agile ride, ensuring both comfort and control. Its trellis frame chassis offers excellent stability, while the 43mm upside-down front forks and gas-charged twin rear shocks provide a smooth ride even on bumpy roads.
Suspension & Handling Highlights:
- Trellis frame chassis for stability
- 43mm upside-down front forks for improved front-end control
- Twin rear shock absorbers for better comfort
- Wide handlebar for superior maneuverability
- 180 kg kerb weight ensuring a planted feel
Thanks to its upright seating position and well-tuned suspension, the X440 is comfortable for both daily commutes and long-distance touring.
Braking: Safety First
Harley Davidson has ensured that safety remains a priority with the X440’s advanced braking system. The bike features disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, coupled with dual-channel ABS for enhanced stopping power and safety.
Braking System:
- Front: 320mm disc brake with ABS
- Rear: 240mm disc brake with ABS
- Dual-channel ABS for controlled braking in all conditions
Whether you are navigating through city traffic or taking sharp turns on the highway, the X440’s braking performance is reassuringly responsive.
Comfort & Features: Rider-Friendly
Long rides demand comfort, and Harley Davidson has equipped the X440 with features that enhance the riding experience. The wide, cushioned seat, upright riding stance, and ergonomic handlebar positioning ensure a relaxed posture, making it ideal for extended rides.
It also comes loaded with features like:
- Fully digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity
- Bluetooth-enabled navigation and call alerts
- USB charging port for added convenience
- Side-stand engine cut-off safety feature
- All-LED lighting setup
These modern-day features not only make the X440 tech-friendly but also add to the convenience of daily usage.
Fuel Efficiency: Good Mileage for a Harley
One of the most significant advantages of the Harley Davidson X440 is its fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional Harleys that are often considered fuel guzzlers, the X440 delivers a respectable mileage of 30-35 km/l depending on riding conditions.
Fuel Economy Breakdown:
- City Riding: Around 30 km/l
- Highway Cruising: Around 35 km/l
This efficiency makes it one of the most fuel-conscious Harley models, ensuring riders can enjoy long-distance travel without frequent fuel stops.
Pricing and Variants: Affordable Luxury
The Harley Davidson X440 is available in multiple variants, catering to different budget segments. The pricing is designed to make it one of the most affordable Harley models ever launched.
X440 Pricing (Approximate):
Variant | Price (Ex-showroom) |
Denim | ₹2.29 lakh |
Vivid | ₹2.49 lakh |
S | ₹2.69 lakh |
With competitive pricing, the X440 presents an attractive entry point into the Harley Davidson lineup, making it accessible for both new and experienced riders.
Final Verdict: Is the Harley Davidson X440 Worth It?
The Harley Davidson X440 is a well-rounded motorcycle that brings together the best of both worlds – classic Harley styling and modern-day efficiency. Its powerful yet economical engine, comfortable ride quality, strong braking system, and feature-loaded package make it a fantastic option for those looking to own a Harley without breaking the bank.
If you are looking for a motorcycle that offers style, performance, and affordability, the X440 is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced rider, this bike promises an exciting and practical ride for daily commutes and weekend getaways alike.