Published at March 9, 2023 by BikeJunction
Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 models will not be equipped with advanced riding aids found in higher capacity Harley bikes in order to maintain their affordability.
Harley-Davidson is gearing up to compete in the rapidly growing Chinese automotive market with its latest neo-retro roadsters designed for entry-level riders. The new X350 and X500 Harley bikes are developed in partnership with Qianjiang Motorcycle.
According to teasers, bikes are set to be launched on March 10. These bikes will be mostly manufactured in China and sold worldwide. The initial shipment has already arrived in the USA.
New information has been disclosed regarding the upcoming release of the Harley-Davidson X350 and X500. It includes a notable departure from the conventional V-Twin engine. Instead, the new bikes will be outfitted with liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engines. A design choice that may not align with Harley's traditional heritage. But it could be advantageous in terms of achieving a more competitive price point for these models.
The names of the new Harley models suggest their engine size. Although, there has yet to be any official confirmation of the specifications. These bikes will be one among other similar-capacity bikes manufactured by QJ Motor. The X350 may produce between 30-35 bhp, while the X500 could reach a maximum power output of around 50 bhp. Both bikes are expected to feature a 6-speed gearbox.
In an effort to lower production expenses, Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 will share numerous hardware components. Notable features that the two models have in common include USD forks, offset mono-shock rear suspension, dual front discs, and dual-channel ABS.
The X350 is fitted with petal discs, while its higher displacement counterpart employs conventional discs. In addition, both bikes utilise a chain drive, which is expected to reduce maintenance costs and improve performance on uneven terrain.
The neo-retro roadster design of both bikes draws inspiration from the Harley-Davidson XR1200. Further, they incorporate key elements such as a circular LED headlamp, halogen turn indicators, round rear-view mirrors, classic fuel tank shape, and underbelly exhaust. The bikes are also designed for comfortable riding with an ergonomically positioned handlebar and centrally mounted foot pegs.
The X350 and X500 models from Harley-Davidson feature a circular semi-digital instrument cluster that displays a combination of analogue and digital information. The display is relatively uncomplicated, with an analogue speedometer and a small rectangular LCD display. However, the semi-digital setup suggests that the new Harley bikes may not include advanced connectivity features.
In addition to the Chinese market, Harley-Davidson intends to focus on India's rapidly expanding middleweight segment. To expand in India, the American manufacturer has formed a joint venture with Hero MotoCorp.
The approach will be similar to that employed in China, with the Harley-Hero partnership primarily taking on competitors like Royal Enfield and the forthcoming Bajaj Triumph motorcycles. However, it remains to be seen whether Harley-Hero bikes will be able to significantly impact Royal Enfield's market share and devoted fan base.
Check out Royal Enfield Classic 500: Modified by Eimor Customs Will Take Your Breath Away.
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