New Harley-Davidson X 500 : Harley-Davidson is preparing to make waves in the Indian motorcycle market once again. The iconic American brand is expected to launch the Harley-Davidson X 500 in India by August 2025, entering the competitive mid-weight cruiser space that’s currently buzzing with activity.

This new model could be a major step in making the Harley brand more accessible, especially for younger riders who want the Harley experience without spending over ₹10 lakh. With a competitive price and modern features, the X 500 could redefine what owning a Harley means in India.

A Global Collaboration for Indian Roads

The Harley-Davidson X 500 is a collaborative product developed with QJMotor, a Chinese manufacturer known for partnering with several global brands including Benelli. While some traditionalists may raise eyebrows over this partnership, the result is a machine that combines Harley’s design language with proven engineering.

The bike is likely to be launched in India as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit, meaning it will be assembled locally. This strategy should help Harley-Davidson keep prices competitive, placing the X 500 around the ₹4.75 lakh to ₹5.25 lakh (ex-showroom) range. That pricing will put it directly up against some popular mid-weight cruisers and roadsters currently available in India.

Performance: Punchy & Practical

The X 500 is powered by a 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, the same unit seen in the Benelli Leoncino 500. It produces about 47.5 horsepower and 46 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. These figures promise a healthy mix of urban agility and touring capability—making it a solid performer both in the city and on open highways.

The chassis includes a steel trellis frame, USD (Upside Down) front forks, and dual disc brakes at the front, which suggest a focus on stable handling and safety. Combined with dual-channel ABS, the X 500 seems well-equipped for Indian road conditions.

Design – Modern Yet Classically Harley

One glance at the X 500 and it’s clear that Harley hasn’t strayed too far from its roots. It features a round LED headlamp, upright riding position, and muscular fuel tank, giving it a familiar yet updated cruiser silhouette. It maintains the dark, aggressive styling that many Harley fans love.

The motorcycle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and gets a fully digital instrument cluster, likely with speed, gear indicator, fuel levels, and trip meters. While it doesn’t shout “big cruiser,” it offers a blend of old-school cruiser charm with modern usability, perfect for Indian cities and highway runs.

Competition Is Fierce – But Harley Has a Brand Edge

The mid-weight cruiser market in India is heating up. With rivals like the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, Kawasaki Eliminator 400, and even Keeway V302C, the X 500 will need more than just a badge to win over buyers.

That said, the Harley-Davidson name still carries significant aspirational value. Many buyers dream of owning a Harley, and the X 500 might finally make that dream achievable without the high maintenance and heavyweight concerns of traditional models.

Launch Strategy and Market Impact

Sources suggest the official launch may happen in August 2025, with deliveries starting soon after. The timing is no coincidence—it aligns with the festive buying season, particularly Diwali, when big-ticket purchases peak across India.

The bike is expected to be distributed via Hero MotoCorp’s dealership network, thanks to the partnership between the two companies. This would ensure strong service reach and after-sales support, even in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities—something that Harley lacked in the past.

Why the X 500 Matters for Harley-Davidson in India

For Harley-Davidson, the X 500 isn’t just another model—it’s a strategic product. It bridges the gap between entry-level models like the X 440 and premium cruisers that cost over ₹10 lakh. It is Harley’s ticket into the growing ₹5 lakh segment, which appeals to a wide range of riders—from city commuters to weekend tourers.

If priced and marketed correctly, the X 500 could help Harley recover lost ground in India, where it once struggled with sales and service challenges. With Hero MotoCorp’s reach and manufacturing support, Harley is clearly aiming for a comeback—this time with a better plan.

A Cruiser Worth Waiting For

The Harley-Davidson X 500 promises to bring a blend of global performance, urban practicality, and aspirational style to Indian buyers. It’s smaller and more affordable than traditional Harleys but still carries the essence of the brand.

If the expected launch timeline holds, the X 500 could become the most talked-about mid-weight bike of 2025. For now, biking enthusiasts across India are watching closely—and saving up.