The Indian biking community is abuzz with fresh excitement as the much-anticipated Harley-Davidson X500 edges closer to its official debut.
In a surprising turn, pricing details for the X500 have surfaced ahead of the official announcement, setting the stage for a major shakeup in India’s competitive mid-cruiser segment.
Leaked Price Suggests Aggressive Strategy
According to dealer-level sources and industry insiders, the Harley-Davidson X500 is expected to carry an ex-showroom price tag of around ₹5.60 lakh to ₹5.90 lakh. While the company has not confirmed the leak, the figure aligns with earlier speculation about Harley’s intent to disrupt the growing sub-600cc segment with a competitive offering.
If the leaked pricing proves accurate, it positions the X500 directly against rivals like the Benelli Leoncino 500 and Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, while staying below the premium bracket of larger cruisers.
What to Expect from the Harley X500
The Harley-Davidson X500 is based on a platform co-developed with Chinese manufacturer QJMotor and is essentially a rebadged version of the QJ SRV500. However, Harley has reworked the design and tuning to appeal to global markets, including India.
Under the tank, the X500 is expected to house a 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine producing around 47.5 PS and 46 Nm of torque. It will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Suspension duties will likely be handled by USD forks up front and a mono-shock at the rear. Braking setup may include dual front discs and a single rear disc, backed by dual-channel ABS as standard.
The X500’s styling follows Harley’s typical muscular design language, complete with a round headlamp, blacked-out components, and a chunky fuel tank. It strikes a balance between modern design and traditional cruiser appeal, aimed at riders looking for everyday usability with weekend touring potential.
India Launch Timeline and Assembly Plans
While Harley-Davidson has remained tight-lipped on the exact launch date, reports suggest that the X500 will hit Indian showrooms by the end of July 2025. Sources indicate that the bike will be assembled locally through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits at Hero MotoCorp’s facility, which could help keep the pricing competitive and after-sales support more accessible.
This strategy mirrors Harley-Davidson’s recent moves in India, where it has partnered with Hero to expand its footprint and maintain affordability.
Mid-Cruiser Segment Heats Up
The X500’s entry is set to stir the waters in a segment that’s already brimming with action. While Royal Enfield continues to dominate the cruiser market with its Meteor and Super Meteor range, Harley’s entry adds a new level of brand value and design philosophy that could attract urban riders seeking something different.
Benelli’s Leoncino 500 and Honda’s CB500X are the other notable competitors in this range, but Harley’s strong legacy might give the X500 an upper hand if the pricing is officially confirmed under ₹6 lakh.
Also Read:- Harley-Davidson Low Rider S Review Surfaces Online – Bikers Praise Torque & Ride Feel
Final Word
The Harley-Davidson X500’s leaked pricing suggests a deliberate attempt to make a serious impact in the Indian mid-cruiser scene. While it’s yet to be officially confirmed, this move could be a game-changer for Harley’s re-entry strategy in India under its Hero partnership.
With a blend of global styling, practical power figures, and expected competitive pricing, the X500 may soon be the go-to choice for cruiser enthusiasts looking for a fresh badge in the sub-₹6 lakh bracket.
Stay tuned for more official details and launch updates in the coming weeks.
