In a significant development that could reshape the affordable cruiser segment in India, Harley-Davidson’s next big motorcycle may be a 350cc entry-level model built specifically for the Indian market. According to recent internal leaks, the new model is being co-developed with Hero MotoCorp and could be positioned below the Harley-Davidson X440, marking a new direction in the American brand’s India strategy.
A New Chapter in Harley’s India Strategy
Since the launch of the Harley-Davidson X440 in collaboration with Hero, the iconic American manufacturer has been making careful moves to establish a stronger foothold in India’s mid-capacity bike segment. While the X440 competes in the 400cc class with rivals like the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda H’ness CB350, this rumored 350cc bike could take the battle even further down the displacement ladder.
Insiders familiar with the development process suggest that the new 350cc model is currently under the prototype testing phase. Hero MotoCorp, which manages production and distribution of Harley-Davidson bikes in India, is reportedly taking the lead on the engineering and manufacturing front.
What the Leak Reveals
The internal leak, first spotted on an automotive industry job listing platform, points to a new model being tested on Indian roads. The project reportedly focuses on a lightweight, air-cooled single-cylinder engine, expected to be in the 350cc range. This would make it the smallest Harley-Davidson motorcycle yet for India and possibly the world.
Unlike the X440, which features a 440cc oil-cooled engine and more premium underpinnings, this upcoming bike is expected to be a more accessible and city-friendly cruiser. Industry experts believe Harley is targeting first-time premium motorcycle buyers—those looking to move beyond commuter bikes but still not ready to jump into high-displacement territory.
Targeting Royal Enfield’s Territory?
It’s no secret that Royal Enfield dominates the 350cc segment in India. The Classic 350 alone has been a consistent best-seller. Harley’s potential entry into this category signals a direct challenge to Enfield’s long-standing dominance.
By offering a cruiser-styled motorcycle at an expected price range between ₹1.9 lakh to ₹2.3 lakh (ex-showroom), Harley could appeal to urban youth and Gen Z riders seeking a brand with legacy appeal but at a relatively affordable entry point.
If priced strategically, the model could even attract riders considering the likes of Honda CB350RS, Jawa 42, or the Yezdi Roadster.
Design and Features – What to Expect
Although official images or specs haven’t surfaced yet, enthusiasts speculate that the motorcycle will carry forward Harley’s unmistakable cruiser DNA—low-slung seat height, wide handlebars, and a relaxed riding posture.
To keep costs in check, the motorcycle may feature a digital-analogue instrument cluster, telescopic front forks, and a dual shock rear setup, possibly with single-channel ABS as standard. However, if Hero and Harley manage to add a few segment-first features like Bluetooth connectivity or riding modes, the bike could stand out further in a crowded field.
Launch Timeline and Market Impact
While there is no official confirmation from either Hero or Harley-Davidson yet, the leak suggests the launch could take place sometime in early 2026. Given the development cycle and homologation requirements, a showcase at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo or Auto Expo is not out of the question.
If the model lives up to expectations, it could create a ripple effect in the Indian motorcycle market, much like the X440 did upon launch. More importantly, it could cement Harley-Davidson’s place as not just a premium lifestyle brand but a competitive player in the mass-market segment as well.
Also read: Harley-Davidson LiveWire S2 Del Mar Bookings Open in U.S. – India Rollout May Follow
Final Thoughts
For Harley-Davidson, which has traditionally been associated with heavyweight cruisers and a loyal enthusiast base, the move into the 350cc space represents both an opportunity and a challenge. If executed well with the right balance of pricing, performance, and brand pull, this could be Harley’s most impactful India-built model yet.
With the mid-capacity segment heating up and buyers increasingly open to exploring newer brand options, Harley’s next big move might just be small in size but big in impact.
