The retro motorcycle segment in India is witnessing a fierce battle in 2025, and at the center of it all are two heavyweight contenders — the Harley-Davidson X440 and the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650. Both bikes aim to dominate the mid-size cruiser space with bold design, distinctive engine character, and an unmistakable road presence.
As rider preferences continue shifting toward heritage-inspired machines with modern performance, this face-off is more than just about badges — it’s about who captures the heart of the Indian cruiser enthusiast.
The Return of Harley’s Affordable Muscle – X440
Harley-Davidson’s collaboration with Hero MotoCorp has brought the X440 into the Indian mid-size market at a surprisingly competitive price point. Designed to offer the Harley vibe without the premium sticker shock, the X440 gets a 440cc oil-cooled engine tuned for low-end torque and city-friendly power delivery. It delivers around 27 bhp and 38 Nm torque — numbers that might not scream performance on paper but hit the sweet spot for laid-back Indian road cruising.
The X440 stays true to Harley’s cruiser DNA with a flat handlebar, upright riding stance, round LED headlamp, and metallic finishes. Dual-channel ABS, a digital cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, and USD forks add a modern twist to its otherwise old-school appeal.
Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 – Muscle with British Roots
Royal Enfield’s latest 650cc platform addition — the Shotgun 650 — builds on the Interceptor and Super Meteor’s foundation but with a custom-inspired twist. It carries the signature 648cc parallel-twin engine producing 47 bhp and 52 Nm of torque. The Shotgun positions itself as more than just a cruiser — it’s a style statement for solo riders who value design just as much as displacement.
Its bobber-style single seat, chunky tank, short fenders, and upright ergonomics make it a visual departure from typical Royal Enfield designs. With a twin-shock rear suspension setup and upside-down forks up front, it balances ride comfort and urban aggression quite well.
On-Road Dynamics – Torque vs Character
The Harley X440 feels nimble, confident in low-speed traffic, and refined on the highways — a result of Hero’s engineering influence. It’s not about blistering acceleration but about stable, planted riding that feels premium for its class.
In contrast, the Shotgun 650 offers a more powerful engine and longer highway legs. It’s heavier but feels smoother at higher speeds. While it may not be as flickable in tight urban alleys, it shines on open roads and weekend getaways. The thumping exhaust note from the twin-cylinder unit also gives it an acoustic edge.
Features and Tech – Both Step Up
While Harley focuses on rugged aesthetics and simple tech — like turn-by-turn navigation and all-digital instrumentation — Royal Enfield steps it up with Tripper navigation (in select variants), better lighting, and a larger tank capacity.
The X440 appeals to younger, first-time Harley buyers, while the Shotgun 650 targets existing Royal Enfield fans seeking a step-up in performance and custom vibes.
Pricing and Market Pulse
The Harley-Davidson X440 starts at around ₹2.39 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most accessible Harleys ever sold in India. On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is priced closer to ₹3.59 lakh, reflecting its larger engine and higher premium positioning.
Still, both bikes are generating strong interest, with waiting periods already building up in metro cities. Rider communities are buzzing with comparisons, ownership experiences, and customization stories — a sign that this cruiser war has genuinely captured India’s biking imagination.
Also read: Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 2025 Gets Matte Black Finish – First Look Revealed
Final Word
The Harley-Davidson X440 and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 represent two different philosophies packed into retro cruisers. While one offers a taste of American muscle in a compact form, the other rides on British legacy fused with modern minimalism.
For Indian riders in 2025, the choice comes down to riding style, budget, and brand connection. Either way, the roads are about to get more stylish — and louder — as this retro cruiser war heats up.
