Introduction
- Harley-Davidson is introducing two new small-displacement machines, the X350 and X500, to the Australian market. These bikes were initially launched in China.
- The brand has a distinct “Harley-Davidson X” category, suggesting a series of models under this line. In India, only the X440 (built by Bajaj) is listed, while in Australia, the X350 and X500 are featured.
X350 Specs
- Engine: 353cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin producing 36 hp at 9,500 rpm and 31 Nm (23 lb-ft) of torque at 7,000 rpm.
- Gearbox: Six-speed.
- Suspension: Front – 41mm upside-down fork with rebound adjustability; Rear – Oil and gas shock with rebound and preload adjustability.
- Tires: 17-inch cast aluminium wheels with Maxxis Supermaxx ST tires.
- Dimensions: Wheelbase of 1,410mm, rake of 24.8 degrees, trail of 140mm, seat height of 777mm, and weight of 195 kg.
X500 Specs
- Engine: 400cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin producing 47 hp at 8,500 rpm and 46 Nm (33.9 lb-ft) of torque at 6,000 rpm.
- Gearbox: Six-speed.
- Suspension: Front – 50mm upside-down fork with rebound adjustability; Rear – Same as X350.
- Tires: Similar to X350.
- Dimensions: Wheelbase of 1,485mm, rake of 24.5 degrees, trail of 100.4mm, seat height of 820mm, and a weight of 208 kg.
Colors, Availability, and Pricing
- Colours: Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, Supersonic Silver, and Pearl White.
- Launch Date: December 2023 in Australia.
- Price: X350 – $8,495 AUD ($5,492 USD) and X500 – $11,495 AUD ($7,418 USD).
- Note: Both bikes qualify for Australia’s Learner-Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS).
Analysis
Harley-Davidson’s move towards the small- and mid-displacement segment reflects the brand’s efforts to capture newer and younger riders, especially in markets where such bikes are popular due to licensing tiers, affordability, or city commuting needs. The Asian market, including countries like China and India, is a growing hub for two-wheelers, and smaller bikes have a significant market share.
The collaboration with local manufacturers like QJ-motors and Bajaj allows Harley to tap into established production networks and possibly reduce manufacturing costs, which can make these bikes more competitive price-wise.
Specs
These motorcycles, given their specs, seem to target beginner riders and those looking for city-friendly bikes with the reliability and prestige of the Harley-Davidson brand. It’s interesting to note the differentiation in the specs between the X350 and X500, catering to varied preferences among riders.
In terms of competition, they’ll likely be up against other mid-displacement bikes from brands like KTM, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and others already popular in these markets. The success of these models will be a combination of branding, performance, and pricing, and it’ll be exciting to see how they are received once they hit the roads.
