Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson joint venture is preparing to introduce a new middleweight motorcycle for the global as well as Indian market. It is reported that the new motorcycle in the middle weight segment (350-850cc) is likely to be launched by the end of 2023-24 (Financial Year 2024).
The new motorcycle will have two different derivatives and will be sold separately through the sales channels of Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson. This will be the first of the range of premium models Hero and Harley are co-developing. Niranjan Gupta, Chief Financial Officer, Hero MotoCorp said, “Over the next two-year time frame, you will see models in the volume and profitable segments of the premium, as well as the platform we are developing jointly with Harley.”
The new motorcycle is in advanced stages of development, which will be launched in the Indian market by the end of FY24. The middle-weight segment, which includes bikes in the 350-850cc category is dominated by Royal Enfield with over 75% market share.
The new motorcycle will be Harley’s most affordable offering globally. This is Harley’s second attempt in the affordable mass segment. The company had introduced the Street 750cc and the Street Rod in mass segment; however, both models were discontinued in 2021. The current most affordable Harley Davidson on sale in our market is the Iron 883 that costs Rs 11.97 lakh (ex-showroom).
Not just Hero & Harley, Bajaj-Triumph and TVS-BMW JV are also working on multiple middleweight motorcycles. Harley wants to position the upcoming model in a manner that its brand doesn’t get diluted & it is not seen as a “cheap Harley”. Thanks to the revamped sales network & intense marketing, Harley has regained its market leadership in the 1000cc and above segment in India. The brand’s America 1250 Special and the Sportster S motorcycles have received overwhelming response from buyers.
Hero is currently handling the distribution of Harley motorcycles, parts, accessories and merchandise in India. The company has expanded the distribution network of Harley to 13 dealerships and 10 authorised service centres, exclusively for Harley.
Source – Business Standard
