Harley-Davidson is all set to make it big in the entry performance segment with the new X350 and X500. The new modern-retro offerings have been co-developed by Harley and China’s QJ Motor, the parent company to brands like Benelli, Colove/Kove and many other motorcycles. The Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 are aimed to help the OEM make it big in emerging markets, particularly China.
The new X500 and the X350 were recently showcased at Auto Shanghai 2023. This was the new X range’s public debut and get the distinct Harley appearance, while borrowing certain underpinnings from the QJ Group. Do note, these are distinctly different models from the Harley 4XX that’s being specifically designed for India in association with Hero MotoCorp.
For starters, the Harley X350 and X500 are based on the same platform as the Benelli Leoncino 350 and 500. The styling is different though with the American touch more prominent, keeping it in line with the larger Harley motorcycles. The engine though remains the same 500cc twin-cylinder mill that powers the Leoncino 500. The unit makes about 47PS and 45Nm of peak torque. On the other hand, the smaller Harley X350 gets a 335cc parallel-twin engine that belts out 36.5PS and 31Nm of peak torque.
The Harley-Davidson X500 and X350 are fairly modern despite all the retro cues. The semi-digital instrument console is wrapped in a round pod with a singular gauge. The round headlamp gets LED lighting, while the taillight also gets the LED treatment. The bikes also come with ABS as standard. The X350 and X500 are primarily built for the Chinese market and prices start at 33,388 Yuan (around Rs. 3.96 lakh) for the former and 44,388 Yuan (around Rs. 5.27 lakh). India will not get these models and instead, we will get the Harley 4XX.
Harley is working on a two-pronged strategy to take on Royal Enfield in the 350-750cc segment. RE’s impressive growth trajectory has made many OEMs take notice and Harley aims to beat the company in this space with products catering to specific markets. While the X350 and X500 will be sold in China, the US and other related markets. The 4XX will be India-specific and also make it to other emerging markets globally. Will the company succeed though? We’ll have to wait to find out.
