The mid-range cruiser segment in India is heating up with two heavyweights locking horns—Kawasaki Eliminator 400 and Harley-Davidson X500. Both motorcycles are vying for attention in the sub-₹6 lakh category, a space that’s becoming increasingly popular among young riders and urban cruisers. As preferences shift towards stylish, performance-packed cruisers without breaking the bank, this showdown has captured significant attention.
Let’s dive into what makes each contender stand out, and where the real rivalry lies.
Design and Road Presence
Kawasaki Eliminator 400 sticks to its classic Japanese cruiser roots. It features a long wheelbase, low-slung stance, and a minimalist yet sharp styling approach. The round LED headlamp, slim fuel tank, and blacked-out components lend it a modern-retro appeal that works well on Indian roads.
In contrast, Harley-Davidson X500 brings a bolder and more muscular American design to the table. Inspired by traditional Harley design language, the X500 boasts a broader tank, upright stance, and chunkier front forks. It feels more old-school but in a charismatic way—something that Harley fans deeply resonate with.
When it comes to presence, the X500 has a more dominant visual impact, while the Eliminator keeps it sleek and urban-focused.
Engine and Performance
The Eliminator 400 is powered by a 398cc parallel-twin engine, borrowed and retuned from the Ninja 400. It produces around 48 PS of power, making it one of the most powerful bikes in this category. The liquid-cooled engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and tuned for smoother power delivery, ideal for long-distance cruising and city commutes alike.
The Harley-Davidson X500, on the other hand, features a 500cc parallel-twin engine that delivers approximately 47.5 PS. Developed in collaboration with QJMotor in China, this engine prioritizes torque and a laid-back riding feel. It is also paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
Despite similar power figures, the Eliminator has a rev-happy nature suited for those who want a bit more thrill, while the X500 leans toward traditional Harley low-end grunt.
Ride and Handling
Kawasaki’s Eliminator has the advantage of a lighter frame, making it more agile in traffic and better suited for newer riders. The lower seat height (around 735mm) also improves accessibility for shorter riders. The telescopic forks and twin rear shocks ensure a comfortable ride, even on patchy roads.
Harley’s X500 comes with a heavier frame, giving it more stability at highway speeds. It’s more planted on long rides but might feel slightly more demanding in urban conditions. The upright riding posture and wider handlebars make it ideal for long-distance touring.
Both bikes are equipped with disc brakes at both ends, dual-channel ABS, and alloy wheels, making them road-ready for Indian conditions.
Features and Equipment
In terms of tech, both cruisers stick to the essentials. The Eliminator 400 offers a digital LCD console with speedometer, tachometer, gear indicator, and Bluetooth connectivity in some international markets (India-spec details awaited).
The X500 features a more traditional analog-digital cluster, focusing on simplicity over tech. Harley hasn’t packed too many features, which might feel underwhelming for those seeking modern gadgetry but fits the old-school vibe.
LED lighting is standard on both, along with standard safety equipment.
Price and Value Proposition
While official pricing for the Eliminator 400 in India is still awaited, expectations put it around ₹5.5 to ₹6 lakh (ex-showroom). Given Kawasaki’s pricing of similar models, this seems realistic.
The Harley-Davidson X500 is expected to be priced just under ₹6 lakh as well, following the company’s aggressive strategy with the X440.
In this price-sensitive bracket, both bikes will cater to different audiences: Kawasaki for riders who want a performance-oriented cruiser with nimble handling, and Harley for those chasing legacy, character, and street presence.
Final Thoughts
The Kawasaki Eliminator 400 vs Harley-Davidson X500 battle is shaping up to be one of the most exciting rivalries in the cruiser space under ₹6 lakh. While the Eliminator promises modern performance wrapped in a sleek silhouette, the X500 appeals to those who prefer traditional muscle and timeless design.
Choosing between the two will depend on what a rider values more—agility and tech-forward engineering or bold design and brand heritage.
As India’s mid-range motorcycle segment evolves, these two are not just bikes—they’re statements.
