Hero-Harley HD 4XX images reveal almost all the details about the upcoming motorcycle from the alliance; launch this year
In late 2020, Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson signed a partnership to develop and sell a range of premium motorcycles in India. Fast forward two and a half years, images of the first motorcycle from the alliance have come up on the internet. It is clear that the largest two-wheeler producer in the world and the famed American brand are targeting the middleweight segment.
At the back of the motorcycle, you could see the HD 4XX nameplate suggesting that it could be powered by a new 400 cc single-cylinder and perhaps oil-cooled engine, paired with a six-speed transmission. Taking design inspiration from the XR 1200, you could also find its resemblances with the recently unveiled X350, which will also spawn a 500 cc sibling.
The neo-retro roadster boasts a circular LED headlamp with a premium casing and the fuel tank has a sharp finish with a deep recess to tuck in the knees. The floating all-digital instrument cluster is positioned in the middle and we can assume Bluetooth connectivity and navigation to be offered along with all the necessary info like gear indicator, DTE and average fuel economy.
The single-piece seat is neatly laid out and sweeps to the back and it looks wide and flat for the rider. The motorcycle gets a flat handlebar and slightly rearward set footpegs. Thus, the rider’s triangle won’t appear to be aggressive. The Harley Davidson 4XX will target touring-based customers and it rides on 140/70-17 front tyres.
The performance output could be in the range of 30-35 hp and thus it could be positioned above the existing crop of Royal Enfield 350 cc motorcycles while peeking into the territory of KTM. It is suspended on upside-down front forks and twin rear shocks and the exhaust system is mounted on the side. The rear comes with horizontal LED tail lamps neatly tucked behind the seat.
The split grab rail and round-shaped LED turn signals can also be seen in the images. The motorcycle has a wide stance and the rear tyre appears to be wider than the front and it could be an 18-incher. It will be equipped with front and rear disc brakes assisted by a dual-channel ABS system and the alloy wheels have a dual-tone finish as found in bigger Harleys.
Expect the launch of the Harley-Davidson 4XX to happen in the coming months and it could be priced at around Rs. 2.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
