The Harley-Davidson X440 2025, launched in India on July 3, 2023, and updated with new color options in 2024, is the most affordable Harley-Davidson motorcycle, co-developed with Hero MotoCorp. Priced between ₹2.40 lakh and ₹2.80 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes with the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42 Bobber, and Triumph Speed 400 in the sub-500cc cruiser segment. Targeting riders seeking Harley’s iconic style at a budget-friendly price, it blends retro design with modern features. Here’s a detailed review of its price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of August 30, 2025.
Iconic Design and Build
The Harley-Davidson X440 2025 features a retro-modern roadster design with a round LED headlamp, wide fuel tank, and side-slung exhaust, embodying Harley’s classic aesthetic. Available in seven colors—Mustard Denim, Metallic Thick Red, Metallic Dark Silver, Goldfish Silver, Mustard Vivid, Matte Black, and Baja Orange—it measures approximately 2168 x 826 x 1115 mm and weighs 190.5 kg (kerb). The 13.5-litre fuel tank and 805 mm seat height ensure accessibility for most riders, while the 170 mm ground clearance handles Indian roads well, though it may scrape on large speed breakers.
The bike offers spoke wheels (Denim variant) or diamond-cut alloy wheels (Vivid and S variants), with tubeless tires (100/90-18 front, 140/70-17 rear). The IP54 splash resistance protects against light rain, but the exposed wiring and average fit-and-finish slightly detract from the premium feel. The muscular tank and 3D Harley-Davidson branding enhance its road presence, though the rear-end design may feel plain compared to rivals.
Modern Features and Ergonomics
The X440 features a 3.5-inch TFT digital instrument cluster (S variant) with Bluetooth connectivity, offering turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and readouts for speed, odometer, trip meter, gear position, and fuel gauge. Lower variants (Denim, Vivid) use a simpler LCD cluster. Additional features include LED lighting, USB charging port, side-stand engine cut-off, and hazard lights. The upright riding posture, with a flat handlebar and forward-set footpegs, ensures comfort for city and highway rides, though the firm seat may cause discomfort on long journeys.
The S variant adds premium touches like diamond-cut alloys and 3D logos, while the Vivid variant offers dual-tone colors and alloy wheels. The lack of advanced features like traction control or riding modes may disappoint tech-savvy riders compared to the Triumph Speed 400.
Robust Performance
Powered by a 440cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled, 2-valve engine, the X440 delivers 27 bhp at 6000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm, with 90% of torque available from 2000 rpm for strong low-end performance. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slip-and-assist clutch, it achieves a top speed of 137 kmph and 0-100 kmph in ~10 seconds, ideal for city commuting and highway cruising at 90-110 kmph. The engine’s long-stroke configuration ensures a throaty exhaust note mimicking Harley’s V-twin, though vibrations are noticeable above 4500 rpm.
The ARAI-claimed mileage is 35 kmpl, with real-world figures averaging 30-32 kmpl, offering a range of ~400-450 km per tank. The steel trellis frame, 43mm KYB inverted front forks, and gas-charged, preload-adjustable twin rear shocks provide stable handling, though the rear suspension may feel firm on rough roads.
Safety and Braking
Equipped with dual-channel ABS, a 320 mm front disc brake with an axially mounted ByBre caliper, and a 240 mm rear disc brake, the X440 ensures confident stopping power. The traction control (S variant) enhances safety, while the 170 mm ground clearance and low center of gravity improve maneuverability. The suspension setup absorbs potholes well, but the firm rear shocks may cause discomfort on long rides, especially without a pillion.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at ₹2.40 lakh (Denim), ₹2.60 lakh (Vivid), and ₹2.80 lakh (S, ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from ₹2.80 lakh to ₹3.25 lakh, including RTO (₹19,160-₹22,360) and insurance (₹20,912-₹21,596). Available at Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp Premia dealerships, BikeDekho, Zigwheels, and Bajaj Finserv outlets, it offers EMI starting at ₹7,674/month (Denim, 10% down payment, 3-year tenure), ₹10,000-20,000 exchange bonuses, and bank discounts (HDFC, SBI, ICICI). Maintenance costs average ₹6,000-10,000 annually, supported by Hero’s 500+ service centers. Delivery times range from 1-4 months, with high demand for Baja Orange and Black Mirror. The warranty includes 2 years/unlimited km (extendable to 5 years) and 1-year roadside assistance.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Users praise the affordable Harley branding, torquey engine, retro styling, and comfortable ergonomics, with the throaty exhaust and low-end torque ideal for cruising. The 32 kmpl mileage and LED lighting add practicality. Drawbacks include:
- Vibrations at mid-range RPMs, affecting long-ride comfort.
- Firm rear suspension, causing discomfort on rough roads.
- Limited service network, with fewer Harley-Davidson outlets than Royal Enfield.
- Average fit-and-finish, with exposed wiring and plastic parts.
- No pillion seat on base variants, requiring aftermarket customization.
Comparison with Competitors
The Harley-Davidson X440 2025 competes with:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 (₹1.97 lakh, 349cc, 20.7 bhp): Higher mileage (33 kmpl) and wider service network, but less power and modern features.
- Jawa 42 Bobber (₹2.10 lakh, 334cc, 29.5 bhp): Similar retro styling, but firmer suspension and single-seat design.
- Triumph Speed 400 (₹2.33 lakh, 398cc, 39.5 bhp): More powerful and refined, but pricier and less distinctive styling.
The X440 excels with its Harley badge, torque, and modern features, but its service reach and vibrations are limitations.
Final Thoughts
The Harley-Davidson X440 2025, updated with new colors in 2024, is an accessible cruiser with a 440cc engine delivering 27 bhp, a 3.5-inch TFT cluster (S variant), and dual-channel ABS. Its retro design, low 805 mm seat height, and 32 kmpl mileage make it ideal for urban and highway cruising. Priced from ₹2.40-2.80 lakh, it offers strong value, though vibrations, firm suspension, and limited service reach are drawbacks. With Hero’s robust service network, it’s a compelling choice in India’s 400cc cruiser segment.
