India’s mid‑displacement cruiser segment is about to get a major facelift. The Harley‑Davidson X500, a 500cc parallel‑twin touring cruiser, recently had its key price leaked hinting at an aggressive ₹5.60–₹5.90 lakh (ex‑showroom) price band. This puts it squarely in competition with the Benelli Leoncino 500, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, and Honda CB500X, but notably below the ₹6 lakh mark.
Let’s unpack what the leak means—and how the X500 could impact the cruiser market in India.
Table of Contents
Leaked Price – Aggressive Positioning
- Expected Price: ₹5.60–₹5.90 lakh (ex‑showroom) (dealer-level source)
- Why it’s disruptive: Undercuts entry-level Super Meteor and Leoncino, makes Harley viable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Confirmation?: Still unofficial, but aligns with previous speculation and strategic intent.
If true, Harley is clearly signaling a strategic push into India’s competitive mid‑cruiser space.
X500 Tech Specifications Overview
The X500 is derived from QJMotor’s QJ SRV500, rebadged with Harley tuning and styling:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 500cc liquid‑cooled parallel‑twin |
| Power | ~47.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | ~46 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6‑speed |
| Suspension (Front) | 50 mm inverted (USD) forks |
| Suspension (Rear) | Preload‑adjustable mono‑shock |
| Brakes | Dual 4‑pot front, single rear disc, dual ABS |
| Weight (Curb) | ~208 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | ~13 liters |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| LEDs | Full LED lighting |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital with gear & trip info |
| Mileage | ~20.6 kmpl overall |
| Top Speed | ~159 kmph |
Design & Ergonomics
While built on a shared platform, the X500 has distinct Harley design DNA:
- Round LED headlamp, muscular tank, blacked-out engine
- Styling cues echo Sportster tradition—mid-rise bars, compact frame
This gives it a unique identity—mid-sized yet undeniably Harley.
Strategy: CKD Assembly via Hero
Expectations are high the X500 will be assembled locally via CKD kits at Hero MotoCorp’s plant, following the recently announced partnership. This approach mirrors the X440 strategy, bringing down:
- Import duties
- Retail prices
- Servicing and parts availability
It’s a smart strategy aimed at maintaining global styling with India‑friendly pricing and support.
Launch Timeline – When It Hits India
- Expected Launch: July 2025
- Ideal Timing: Pre-festive season—a key window for bike sales
- Booking & Showroom Arrival: Likely soon after the official announcement
Competitive Landscape – How It Matches Up
| Model | Price Range (₹ ex-showroom) | Power (PS) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harley X500 (est.) | 5.60–5.90 lakh | 47.5 | 208 |
| Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 | 3.68–3.99 lakh | 47 | ~223 |
| Benelli Leoncino 500 | ~5.50 lakh | 47 | ~209 |
| Honda CB500X (adv) | ~6.30 lakh | 47 | ~197 |
| Kawasaki Vulcan S | ~7.10 lakh | 46 | ~229 |
Strengths of X500:
- Undercuts premium alternatives with Harley branding
- Fresh, lightweight platform vs heavier cruisers
- Adjustable suspension and dual-channel ABS
- Strong service network via Hero + HD tie-up
Why X500 Could Be a Game-Changer
- Affordable Iconic Badge
– Harley-quality at near-RE pricing - Nimble & Practical
– Lighter weight, better torque for city use - Modern Urban Appeal
– LED lights, semi-digital console, ergonomic ride - Local Assembly Advantage
– Price control + faster parts & maintenance - Expands Harley’s Reach
– Entry into accessible mid-range segment
Risks & Challenges
- Brand purists might shun a Chinese-platform bike
- Competition is fierce Royal Enfield’s legacy is strong
- Actual dealer price may creep up post-ons or showroom markups
- Test-ride & reviews will be critical
Final Take – Who Should Buy the X500?
- Urban riders wanting modern cruiser style at better pricing
- New-age enthusiasts eyeing international brands
- Young commuters wanting style + startup-oriented power
- But heritage enthusiasts may still lean toward RE
FAQs – Answering Your Burning Questions
Q1. Is the X500 made in India?
It will be assembled locally (CKD) through Hero facility—not fully manufactured here.
Q2. What is the expected launch date?
Targeted around July 2025, likely before festival season.
Q3. How does power compare to rivals?
At ~47.5 PS and 46 Nm, it’s right in line with Super Meteor and Leoncino.
Q4. Will spare parts be accessible?
With local assembly and Hero servicing, parts and maintenance should be easily available.
Q5. Is the X500 based on Benelli/Leoncino?
Yes it’s built on a QJMotor platform akin to the Leoncino 500 but tailored by Harley for global markets
Final Word & Call to Action
The Harley‑Davidson X500 is shaping up to be the most accessible Harley yet—aimed directly at India’s growing mid-range cruiser market. With its leaked under-₹6 lakh price point, modern design, and strong service backing, it has all the makings of a market disruptor.
Stay tuned for our detailed test rides, price announcements, and booking information as Harley gears up for the July 2025 official launch. Planning to pre-book? Or curious about how it stacks against your current ride? Drop your questions or thoughts below!
Also Read:- https://mukeshhonda.com/yamaha-fzx-vs-harley-x350-urban-retro-comparison-2025/
