Let’s face it, everyone loves surprises. And this stands even more true when the surprise comes from a brand like Harley-Davidson. Yes, we’re talking about the MoCo’s startling teaser of the HD4XX entry-level roadster that set the internet ablaze in early April. The thumper marks the first product under the Hero MotoCorp-Harley tie-up and intends to shake up the world’s biggest market for two-wheelers, India. In the latest news, the two parties have now given us a full look at the upcoming roadster, along with its name and official launch date. Here it is in all its glory.
The New Roadster Is Called The Harley-Davidson X440
The upcoming roadster will go by the name Harley-Davidson X 440. Though the name might seem a bit odd at first, the suffix is exactly half of the now-discontinued XL883 Sportster, which gives it some relevance in Harley’s American lineage. Whereas, the ‘X’ is in line with the company’s Chinese-built entry-level duo, the 2023 X 350 and X 500.
But that’s where the relevance ends. One look at the production-ready X 440, and you’ll know it’s a new motorcycle from the ground up. At the front, it features a tri-element round LED headlight, placed inside a chrome nacelle. This is followed by a Harley-Davidson XR1200-like edgy fuel tank design which joins hands with muscular side panels and a flat tail.
Rounding off the aesthetic is a rectangular-oval tail lamp and dual-tone wheels, clearly identical to two popular Hogs, the Sportster S and the Iron 883, respectively. The only oddity is the long exhaust, which appears too vanilla in our opinion. As for features, the X 440 flexes all-LED lights, dual-channel ABS, and an all-digital instrument cluster. The latter shows all necessary information and is expected to boast smartphone connectivity as standard.
The Harley-Davidson X 440 Will Employ An All-New Powerhouse
Unlike its other ‘X’ siblings (with QJ Motor-derived engines), the X 440 will be powered by an all-new 440cc powerhouse. It’ll be a simple single-cylinder thumper with an oil cooler, expected to produce 35–40 horsepower. All the power will kick in low in the rev range via a six-speed gearbox (as revealed by its tachometer).
Meanwhile, the engine sits inside a double-cradle chassis that relies on upside-down forks and dual shock absorbers to iron out bumps. We can also confirm the 18/17-inch wheels, shod with 100/80 and 140/70 tires. Topping this is a single disc at both ends, bit by ByBre calipers. Judging from the previous images, all these work together to offer ample cornering clearance in the twisties.
When Will The Harley-Davidson X440 Debut?
Finally, Harley-Davidson will reveal the X 440 (and launch it in India) on July 3, 2023, at Hero’s official testing facility. Once out, the motorcycle will lock horns with the Royal Enfield 350s and the Honda CB300R. Its real threat, however, will come later in the form of the 350cc Triumph roadster and a Royal Enfield Hunter 450.