Made-in-India Harley-Davidson bike: 5 things to know

Harley’s new entry-level offering appears to be near production-ready.

Published On Apr 07, 2023 07:00:00 AM

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Made-in-India Harley-Davidson bike: 5 things to know

Harley-Davidson’s upcoming, made-in-India motorcycle has been seen in spy images ahead of its launch soon. Developed in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp, this motorcycle will be Harley-Davidson’s new entry-level model. Here are five key points.

Made-in-India Harley-Davidson design

At first glance, this new Harley’s design seems to be inspired more by roadsters than the typical, large cruisers the manufacturer is famous for. The round headlight with the horizontal LED daytime running lamp and sculpted fuel tank help give it a good presence. And while the big round indicators are a Harley-Davidson signature, the rectangular tail-light looks similar to the one of the Yamaha FZ-X. On the whole though, it appears to be quite a substantial motorcycle.

The rider’s triangle also seems to be neutral, as the footpegs and the handlebar don’t look to be very forward-set.

Made-in-India Harley-Davidson underpinnings

Harley is yet to disclose what type of frame underpins this new model, but what’s known is that it’ll be suspended by a USD fork up front and twin shock absorbers with progressive springs and piggyback reservoirs at the rear.

Braking duties will be handled by Bybre discs at both ends and it’ll run on CEAT Zoom Cruz tyres with a 140-section rear and a 100-section front.

Made-in-India Harley-Davidson features

The new affordable Harley will get features such as all-LED lighting, diamond-cut alloy wheels, and dual-channel ABS. Also on offer will be a round, fully digital display although it remains to be seen whether it's an LCD or a TFT unit. Other things that can be seen in the images are a pillion seat (this may be standard or an extra) as well as the RTO-mandated saree guard.

Made-in-India Harley-Davidson engine

While specifics remain under wraps, what is known is that this new bike will be powered by an all-new air and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine. If the number plate on this mule (HD 4XX) is anything to go by, the new Harley’s engine will displace 400-odd-cc. And seeing as Harley has an 883cc V-twin engine in its line-up, we won’t be surprised if this new single-cylinder engine displaces 440cc.

Furthermore, judging by the relatively low redline, this is likely to be a long-stroke engine that’ll prioritise torque and mid-range performance over a big power figure and top-end performance.

Made-in-India Harley-Davidson: expected price and rivals

Judging from the images, this new Harley motorcycle appears to be near production-ready. While a launch time frame is yet to be defined, it is likely to go on sale in the coming months.

We expect Harley-Davidson to price this motorcycle quite aggressively, around the Rs 2.50 lakh mark. At this price point, Harley’s new motorcycle will see competition in the form of the smaller-capacity and more affordable Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda H’ness CB350.

From what you’ve seen so far, would you pick this upcoming Harley over its rivals? Let us know in the comments.

Also see:

Harley-Davidson Nightster Special launched alongside other 2023 models