New Delhi: The partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson is already making waves in India with the recent launch of the Harley-Davidson X440 motorcycle. However, with a price tag of Rs 2.39 lakh (ex-showroom), this impressive bike still remains beyond the reach of most Indian consumers.
In a strategic move to address this pricing challenge and make a more significant impact in the Indian two-wheeler market, the Hero-Harley collaboration is reportedly working on a more affordable Harley-Davidson bike tailored for the Indian audience.
Spy shots reveal promising developments
Recent spy shots have emerged, unveiling a test mule that bears a striking resemblance to the Harley-Davidson X440. However, upon closer inspection, the test mule sports an entirely different power unit.
Interestingly, the new power unit in the test mule bears a striking similarity to the one found in the Hero Karizma XMR motorcycle. This strategic choice not only promises to reduce development costs but also streamline production for the partnership.
View this post on Instagram
Introducing the ‘Harley-Davidson X210’
Speculation suggests that the upcoming motorcycle might be named the ‘Harley-Davidson X210.’ This new entrant is poised to compete head-on with formidable rivals such as the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and the Jawa range of motorcycles, among others.
In the Hero Karizma XMR, the 210 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-valve, DOHC engine delivers 25.15 bhp at 9,250 rpm and a peak torque of 20.4 Nm at 7,250 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
Comparatively, the Harley-Davidson X440 boasts a 440cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine tuned to produce 27 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
While the power figures may not differ significantly, the torque variance is substantial, promising distinct powertrain characteristics for both motorcycles. The partnership might even consider fine-tuning the Karizma XMR’s engine to align with the ‘Harley-Davidson X210.’
High Expectations for the ‘Harley-Davidson X210’
The eagerly anticipated ‘Harley-Davidson X210’ has the potential to revolutionize the Indian motorcycle market if Hero MotoCorp can price it competitively. Enthusiasts anticipate that this model will attract a new demographic of riders, significantly boosting sales figures for the Hero-Harley partnership.
