Harley-Davidson X350 (RE Rival) Launched, Gets Parallel Twin Engine

Harley-Davidson X350 1

Harley-Davidson X350 is powered by a 353 cc parallel twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine sourced from QJ Motor’s SRK 350

Harley-Davidson has today announced the launch of the X350 entry-level neo-retro roadster in the Chinese market. Priced at 33,388 Yuan (Rs. 3.93 lakh approximately), the motorcycle comes as a result of the brand’s partnership with QJ Motor Company. Following numerous leaked pictures and information, the Harley-Davidson X350 is finally here but do we have to really care?

The alliance between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson appears to be working on a range of middleweight motorcycles and thus the X350, or a motorcycle influenced by it, could be launched in India within a year. The India-bound model could have a high local content due to Hero’s expertise in local manufacturing and it could compete against 300-350 cc mid-capacity offerings.

Back to the Harley-Davidson X350, it takes design inspiration from the XR1200X. Some of the highlights are a round-shaped LED headlamp, a short front fender, a sleek fuel tank and minimalistic side panels, a compact tail section, LED turn signals, an LED tail lamp right below the seat, black finished alloy wheels, a wide handlebar setup, underbelly exhaust system, etc.

Harley-Davidson X350

The semi-digital instrument console has a small digital reading while the seat has wide padding. The sporty body graphics on the fuel tank and below the pillion seat add to the visual drama. It derives power from a 353 cc parallel twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine sourced from QJ Motor’s SRK 350. It develops a maximum power output of 36.2 bhp and 31 Nm of peak torque.

The powertrain is linked with a six-speed transmission. The Harley-Davidson X350 is suspended on adjustable upside-down front forks and an off-set rear monoshock suspension, adjustable for preload and rebound. The fuel tank capacity stands at 13.5 litres and it tips the weighing scale at 180 kilograms. The braking duties are handled by a single disc with four-piston callipers at the front and a single rotor with a single-piston at the back.

Harley-Davidson X350 2

The Harley-Davidson X350 will also give rise to a parallel twin bigger brother known as X500 and it will be good enough to produce around 45 bhp. Both motorcycles are tempting prospects for India and it will be interesting to see what really pans out!