Harley-Davidson X440: The American Icon Goes Accessible The name most often associated with big, burly cruisers and a cult-like following, Harley-Davidson threw a curveball of sorts when they launched the X440 in India. Co-developed with Hero MotoCorp, the X440 is Harley’s attempt to broaden their horizons and make motorcycles for a more extensive audience.
The X440 is Harley’s more affordable and practical offering while maintaining the brand’s trademark DNA. Hailing from the competitive mid-capacity market, the X440 combines the strengths of its peers and its halo brand.
Design and Styling
The X440 maintains Harley-Davidson’s visual identity, but at the same time, it responds to local market needs.
It takes on a muscular and purposeful stance, with a large, round LED headlamp and a prominent Harley badge.
The fuel tank is wide and sculpted, and the stance is naturally upright, ticking all the boxes of a regular cruiser.
The metal front fender, thick tires, and exposed frame add to the motorcycle’s brutal appearance.
Considering the X440 is a small-displacement Harley, it is neither small nor does it feel that way.
It is heavy-set and has all the visual heft the motorcycle needs to take on the streets today.
The material quality appears robust and long-lasting, and the instrument cluster is minimal in design but has a digital readout for modernity’s sake.
Engine and Performance
The X440 is propelled by a 440cc, single-cylinder, air-and-oil cooled engine with a power output of around 27hp and 38 Nm of torque.
The single provides enough low-end and mid-range grunt for city commuting and highway riding, urging you to twist the throttle a little more.
The exhaust note offers a slight threat of the Harleys of yore, but it is more muted and simple for the segment.
The X440 comes with a 6-speed transmission that shifts smoothly, and overall gearing makes for a relaxed ride on the open highway.
The bike has a planted feel as it’s heavy and has a long wheelbase, it feels stable on the straights and decent on corners as well.
Comfort and Practicality
The X440 is comfortable to ride, sitting upright, large bars and a plenty padded seat.
The suspension, telescopic forks up front and gas-charged dual shocks in the rear, is geared for a good ride over Indian-sized potholes too.
Although it soaks up the majority of undulations some hard edged bumps can be felt, it is still very firm.
Equipped with essentials such as dual channel ABS, slipper clutch and assist feature, X440 makes safety and convenience its priority.
Higher versions offer additional function with built-in bluetooth of the bike.
Pros:
real Harley styling: The X440 accomplishes the Harley look and feel at the price points.
Good Torque At Bottom: The engine has a nice tractable midrange for around town and on the hwy.
Nice Build Quality: The bike is well built using the quality materials in the right places.
Ergonomics – comfortable: It has a relaxed riding posture, which enables longer trips.
Cons:
Firm Ride Over Poor Roads: The bike’s suspension feels a bit too stiff and sharp edged potholes tend to make the motorcycle nervous, especially at slower speeds.
More than some competitors: At over 190 kg, it can be a bit heavy to handle in heavy traffic.
Limited Dealer Network: Although Harley’s service coverage has progressed for the better, it is still limited compared to other makes.
Harley-Davidson X440: Final Verdict
The fact that a reliable, practicable version of the Harley-Davidson X440 exists at all speaks to the level of simplicity and economy that that last word underwent by the time that project died on the vine.
The X440 ticks all the right boxes for riders who have longed to be part of the Harley lifestyle without melting the credit card, combining looks, performance and comfort in one package.