If you thought Harley-Davidson had already done enough to shake up India’s mid-cap motorcycle market, think again. The American legend through its Indian partner Hero MotoCorp just dropped the all-new Harley-Davidson X440 T, a more tech-laden, feature-rich version of its popular X440, priced at ₹2.79 lakh (ex-showroom). Alongside it, the brand also pulled the wraps off its 2025 Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) line-up, including the mighty CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide.
Let’s just say it’s been a busy week in Harley-land.
A Premium Upgrade for Everyday Riders
When Harley launched the X440 back in July 2023, it wasn’t just another bike—it was a statement. The most “approachable” Harley ever built for India, it gave riders a way to wear the Bar & Shield without breaking the bank. Fast forward to 2025, and the X440 T builds on that foundation with tech and features no one expected in this segment.
The motorcycle retains the familiar 440cc air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine, tuned for smooth torque delivery. But the similarities stop there. The X440 T introduces Ride-by-Wire—a first for this platform—along with switchable traction control, dual-channel ABS, and even switchable rear ABS, giving riders finer control based on road conditions.
Riders now get two ride modes—Road and Rain—that tweak throttle response and traction settings accordingly. It’s a smart move, considering India’s unpredictable monsoon roads can turn slippery without warning.
Functional Changes That Matter
Harley hasn’t just slapped on some electronics and called it a day. The rear sub-frame has been redesigned, resulting in a new tail section, sleeker grab rails, and better pillion comfort—something Indian riders (and their partners) will truly appreciate on long rides.
One of the cleverest additions is the Panic Braking Alert system. During sudden deceleration, all indicators flash rapidly to warn vehicles behind—a simple yet potentially life-saving touch. The system feels especially relevant for India’s chaotic highways.
And then there’s the design: tighter wiring, a slightly tweaked fuel tank, improved switchgear with more tactile feedback, and a new exhaust setup with an upgraded catalytic converter, heat shield, and end can. The exhaust note, according to early reports, sounds meatier too—more Harley, less commuter.
Pricing Shake-Up and Model Line-Up
In a move that’ll make existing customers grin, Harley has also announced price cuts on the standard X440—up to ₹25,000 cheaper, depending on the variant.
Here’s how the updated price structure looks:
| Variant | Price (Ex-Showroom, India) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| X440 Vivid | ₹2,34,500 | Entry-level, traditional styling |
| X440 S | ₹2,54,900 | Sportier look, better finish |
| X440 T | ₹2,79,500 | Ride-by-Wire, traction control, new tail design |
Bookings open December 7, 2025, both online and through Harley-Davidson and Hero Premia dealerships across India. Deliveries are expected to start early next year, possibly aligning with the 2026 riding season.
The Big Boys Are Back: CVO Street Glide & Road Glide
At the other end of Harley’s pricing spectrum, the company has relaunched its halo products—the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide. Both models arrive as CBUs (Completely Built Units), priced at ₹63.03 lakh and ₹67.36 lakh, respectively.
Under their sculpted fairings sits Harley’s most advanced mill yet: the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121, putting down 115 horsepower and a monstrous 189 Nm of torque. The Road Glide retains its iconic Sharknose fairing, while the Street Glide gets a reworked Batwing fairing—each with its own cult following among long-distance riders.
Both bikes come loaded with a 12.3-inch TFT display running Harley’s Skyline OS infotainment system, complete with navigation, connectivity, premium audio, and customization options. Paint schemes and detailing are pure CVO—handcrafted finishes, limited-edition hues, and more chrome than you can count.
A New Chapter for Harley in India
This double-launch signals Harley-Davidson’s renewed commitment to India after a few turbulent years. By leveraging Hero MotoCorp’s vast sales and service network, the brand seems to have found its balance between mass appeal and luxury positioning.
The X440 T clearly aims to keep younger riders hooked on the Harley experience without diluting the brand’s legacy. Meanwhile, the CVO lineup ensures loyalists still have something aspirational to drool over in showrooms.
And that’s the interesting part Harley’s playing both ends of the market beautifully. Affordable entry models to bring in new riders, and ultra-premium cruisers to remind everyone who still wears the crown in the big-bike segment.
