The motorcycle world witnessed history in the making when Harley Davidson X440 roared onto Indian roads in July 2023. Born from an unlikely partnership between America’s legendary Harley Davidson and India’s Hero MotoCorp, this 440cc cruiser represents more than just a bike—it’s a bridge between heritage and accessibility.
What makes the X440 special isn’t just the iconic Bar & Shield badge on its tank. It’s the way Harley’s century-old DNA flows through modern engineering, creating something that feels authentically American yet distinctly suited for Indian roads.
Let’s explore five standout features that make the Harley Davidson X440 a game-changer in the premium motorcycle segment.
Powerful 440cc Long-Stroke Engine
The heart of any Harley is its engine, and the Harley Davidson X440 doesn’t disappoint. Its 440cc single-cylinder powerplant delivers performance that surprises many riders.
This air-oil cooled engine produces 27 PS at 6,000 rpm and a healthy 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The long-stroke design (79.6mm bore x 88.4mm stroke) ensures strong low-end grunt—perfect for city riding and highway cruising.
The engine pairs with a smooth 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slipper clutch. This combination makes gear changes effortless while reducing rear-wheel lockup during aggressive downshifts.
| Engine Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 440cc |
| Max Power | 27 PS @ 6,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 38 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
According to Autocar India’s real-world testing, the Harley Davidson X440 delivers 31.8 kmpl on highways and 29.4 kmpl in city conditions.
Signature Harley Davidson Design Language
Step back and admire the X440, and you’ll immediately recognize the Harley DNA flowing through every curve and line.
The round LED headlight with integrated DRLs commands attention upfront. Chrome accents on the engine cases and exhaust add premium touches. The teardrop fuel tank, split seat design, and forward-set footpegs create that classic American cruiser stance.
The side-mounted exhaust delivers the signature Harley rumble—deeper and more characterful than typical single-cylinder engines. Chrome heat shields and machined engine fins add visual appeal while serving functional purposes.
Advanced TFT Display and Connectivity
Modern riders expect smart features, and the X440’s top S variant delivers with a 3.5-inch TFT color display.
This isn’t just a basic screen—it’s a comprehensive information hub that includes:
- Gear position indicator with shift light
- Real-time fuel consumption data
- Turn-by-turn navigation (via smartphone connectivity)
- Call and message alerts
- Music control functions
The base Denim and mid-spec Vivid variants get the same TFT screen but without smartphone connectivity features.
Premium Suspension and Handling Setup
Despite its cruiser styling, the Harley Davidson X440 handles with surprising agility thanks to its well-tuned chassis.
Upfront, 43mm USD forks provide 120mm of travel, while the rear features twin gas-filled shock absorbers with 7-step preload adjustment. The trellis frame, borrowed from modern Harley design philosophy, offers excellent rigidity without excessive weight.
Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, both equipped with dual-channel ABS for confident stopping power in all conditions.
Extensive Color and Variant Options
The Harley Davidson X440 caters to diverse tastes with seven color options across three variants:
Denim Variant (₹2.40 lakh):
- Mustard Denim (yellow tank with black bodywork)
- Features spoke wheels with tube-type tires
Vivid Variant (₹2.60 lakh):
- Mustard
- Metallic Thick Red
- Metallic Dark Silver
- Goldfish Silver
- Comes with alloy wheels and tubeless tires
S Variant (₹2.80 lakh):
- Matte Black
- Baja Orange
- Features machined alloy wheels and premium 3D badges
Each variant offers unique styling touches while maintaining the core Harley Davidson character.
How X440 Compares with Key Rivals
In the premium 300-500cc segment, the Harley Davidson X440 faces stiff competition from established players.
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Price | Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harley Davidson X440 | 440cc | 27 PS | 38 Nm | ₹2.40-2.80 lakh | 35 kmpl |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | 349cc | 20.2 PS | 27 Nm | ₹1.97-2.33 lakh | 35 kmpl |
| Triumph Speed 400 | 398cc | 40 PS | 37.5 Nm | ₹2.92 lakh | 30 kmpl |
While the Royal Enfield Classic 350 offers better value, and the Triumph Speed 400 delivers more performance, the Harley Davidson X440 provides the perfect middle ground with authentic Harley character.
Partnership Success Story
The X440 represents a successful collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson that began in October 2020.
Hero handles manufacturing at its Neemrana facility in Rajasthan, while Harley Davidson provides design guidance and quality oversight. This partnership has been so successful that both companies announced an extension in December 2024 to develop new variants and an all-new motorcycle.
The bike is sold through Hero’s premium Premia dealerships as well as standalone Harley Davidson showrooms, ensuring wide availability across India.
Performance and Efficiency Balance
Real-world testing shows the X440 strikes an impressive balance between performance and efficiency.
The bike achieves a top speed of 137 kmph while returning ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 35 kmpl. City riding typically yields 29-30 kmpl, while highway cruising can stretch to over 31 kmpl.
This makes the X440 practical for daily commuting while retaining weekend touring capabilities.
Conclusion
The Harley Davidson X440 proves that dreams can become accessible without losing their essence. At ₹2.40 lakh onwards, it brings authentic American cruiser DNA to Indian roads through a package that’s practical, powerful, and undeniably charismatic.
Whether you’re drawn to its signature styling, impressed by its 440cc torquey engine, or excited about joining the Harley family, the X440 offers a compelling entry point into premium motorcycling. Ready to experience the legend? Visit your nearest showroom and feel the Harley magic for yourself.
What is the service interval for Harley Davidson X440?
The X440 requires service every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Does the X440 come with a warranty?
Yes, it comes with a standard 2-year manufacturer warranty with option to extend.
Can I customize the X440 with official accessories?
Harley Davidson offers touring seats, backrests, saddlebags, fog lamps, and various chrome accessories.
Is the X440 suitable for long-distance touring?
Yes, its comfortable ergonomics, 13.5-liter fuel tank, and relaxed riding position make it tour-friendly.
How does the X440 sound compared to other Harleys?
While it’s a single-cylinder engine, the X440 produces a distinctive Harley rumble thanks to careful exhaust tuning.
Prachi is a bike enthusiast who loves exploring the world of two-wheelers. On AutoNewsWala, she writes about the latest bike launches, reviews, mileage updates, and riding experiences. Whether it’s commuter bikes or premium motorcycles, Prachi brings practical information and honest opinions for riders across India.
