India in focus: Harley-Davidson 4XX challenges Royal Enfield

A cooperation with India’s Hero MotoCorp

Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, are working together on a new motorcycle: the Harley-Davidson 4XX.  This motorcycle is intended to gain a foothold primarily in the Indian market and compete against Royal Enfield’s rivals, such as the Classic 350 and Meteor 350.

The Harley-Davidson 4XX – An exclusive bike for the Indian market

The 4XX Roadster was developed specifically for the Indian market and therefore has little of the typical Harley DNA.  The capacity of the single-cylinder, air-cooled engine is between 400 and 450 cubic centimeters, which should provide more than 20 PS (19.8 hp, 14.9 kW) of power.  This would make the 4XX more powerful than the Royal Enfield Classic 350. The motorcycle features high-quality components such as upside-down forks, axially mounted calipers for the disc brakes and gas-pressure rear shock absorbers.

Design and features

The design of the 4XX Roadster is inspired by the Harley-Davidson XR1200.  Eye-catching design elements include the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round LED headlight and short tail section.  The machine also features machined alloy wheels and retro round turn signals.  Features include full LED lighting, a digital instrument display and an ABS system.

Launch and pricing

The official launch of the Harley-Davidson 4XX in India is expected in October 2023, matching the festival season there.  The 4XX Roadster is estimated to be priced at around 2.50 lakh to 3 lakh INR (3,200 to 3,800 euros, 3,450 to 4,100 USD).

The competition

In addition to competition from Royal Enfield, the 4XX Roadster will also have to compete against the upcoming Bajaj Triumph Scrambler 250.  Despite the strong competition and exclusive focus on the Indian market, the Harley-Davidson 4XX Roadster is likely to excite many motorcycle enthusiasts thanks to its performance, appealing design and high-quality components.

The future of Harley-Davidson in India

The collaboration with Hero MotoCorp is an important step for Harley-Davidson to further establish a foothold in India.  The combination of Hero’s strong presence in the Indian market and the world-renowned Harley-Davidson brand will create a new generation of motorcycles tailored specifically to the needs of Indian buyers.  It remains to be seen how traditional Harley fans will react to this new development.

Export opportunities and global prospects

Although the focus of the Harley-Davidson 4XX is on the Indian market, it remains to be seen whether the motorcycle will be offered in other countries in the future.  Currently, it seems unlikely that the 4XX Roadster will be sold outside of India.  However, if the motorcycle is successful in India, Harley-Davidson may rethink its strategy and possibly introduce the 4XX in other markets as well.

Conclusion

The Harley-Davidson 4XX is an exciting project that combines the strengths of Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson.  With its appealing design, powerful engine and premium components, the 4XX Roadster could usher in a new era for Harley-Davidson in India.  It remains to be seen how the market will receive this new development and whether the 4XX Roadster will find success outside of India.

Overview:

• Harley-Davidson 4XX to be built in India in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp
• Competition for Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Meteor 350
• Estimated capacity: 400-450cc, air-cooled single cylinder
• Powertrain designed specifically for the Indian market
• Probably no exports to other countries
• High-quality components such as upside-down forks and axially mounted calipers for disc brakes
• Expected launch in India in October 2023
• Estimated price: between 2.50 lakh and 3 lakh INR

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