The middleweight motorcycle segment in India is experiencing intensified competition with the introduction of two new models – the Triumph Speed 400 and the Harley-Davidson X440. Both bikes aim to challenge the dominance of Royal Enfield in the market. The Harley-Davidson X440, offered in three variants (Denim, Vivid, and S), is the most affordable option from the American manufacturer in India, priced between Rs 2.29 lakh to Rs 2.69 lakh.
Hero MotoCorp, in collaboration with Harley-Davidson, recently announced the closure of online bookings for the X440 on 3rd August 2023 due to high demand. To meet the increased demand, the company has enhanced production capacity at its ‘Garden Factory’ in Neemrana, Rajasthan. As a result, prices of the new Harley bike are expected to increase once the booking process resumes. Customers interested in the X440 can test ride the bike starting from 1st September, with deliveries scheduled to begin in October.
The Harley-Davidson X440 is powered by a 440cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The engine produces a maximum power output of 27bhp at 6,000rpm and peak torque of 38Nm at 4,000rpm. The bike comes with a ground clearance of 170mm and is equipped with MRF Zapper Hyke tires. Its suspension system comprises a 43mm USD fork at the front and a twin shock absorber unit at the rear, all mounted on a steel trellis frame.
As for the Triumph Speed 400, the booking amount has recently been increased to Rs 10,000 (previously Rs 2,000), and the bike is currently available at an introductory price of Rs 2.23 lakh. Triumph will soon begin dispatching the Speed 400 to all its dealerships, and deliveries are expected to commence in the first week of August 2023. Furthermore, the company has plans to launch the Triumph Scrambler 400 X in October, featuring the same 398cc, single-cylinder engine as the Speed 400.
