The Harley Davidson X440 has been on the market for quite some time, but we thought it prudent to take another look and assess its value in 2025 after spending extensive time riding and living with it for a week.
We had the opportunity to test the X440 for a week, and here’s what it was like to own and ride it.
Harley Davidson has long been an aspirational brand, with enthusiasts dreaming of owning their iconic bikes. Many riders band together in a community that spans the globe. Owning a Harley has traditionally been a luxury, often hindered by high import taxes. However, everything changed with the introduction of the X440. Now, nearly two years after its launch, we reassess its value in 2025.
It’s important to understand that the Harley Davidson brand thrives on passionate enthusiasts. While many are drawn to its offerings out of love, this has sometimes led to internal struggles, particularly with the launch of the X440. Despite reducing the entry price to an accessible level, initial reactions were mixed, as some felt it diluted the brand’s legacy.
Over the course of a week, we clocked more than 500 kilometers on the motorcycle, using it for daily commutes, highway stretches, and grocery runs. We felt that many first impressions were underestimated, and the bike has been misinterpreted in a market ripe for performance comparisons.
Harley X440: Aesthetic Appeal
We received the premium S model with a matte black finish and diamond-cut alloy wheels, and pictures fail to capture its true beauty. The motorcycle’s proportions make it eye-catching, attracting attention even from taller riders. The sleek LED headlights and stylish tank contribute to its appeal, though the rear profile may take some getting used to. Overall, it’s a striking motorcycle.
One of the critiques facing the X440 is its design; many expected it to resemble a traditional Harley. However, we believe it stands out on its own. While it doesn’t conform to the typical Harley aesthetic, it’s certainly an attractive roadster, particularly in matte black. The subtle branding on components suggests its heritage without being a mere replica of its larger siblings.
Harley X440: Build Integrity
In terms of build quality, the X440 faces some shortcomings. The roots of its design are evident, with some components feeling less robust. Issues like peeling paint on the engine casing and impractical mirrors do suggest a cost-conscious production approach. However, the switchgear and frequently touched parts maintain good quality, indicating areas where Harley can enhance their budget offerings.
Harley X440: Technological Features
Harley has integrated a wealth of thoughtful features into the X440. The round instrument cluster, which incorporates a rectangular screen, may seem odd at first but is user-friendly once you acclimate. Smart features, like automatic activation of low beams in darkness and well-designed headlamps, enhance the riding experience. The display is clear and adapts between light and dark modes, includes features like turn-by-turn navigation, music playback control, and even an SOS button for emergencies. The controls are intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate through them without feeling overwhelmed by information.
The technology on the X440 feels seamless and complements daily activities without becoming intrusive. The RPM gauge may be small, but the large speedometer is easy to read and essential during rides.
Harley X440: Riding Experience
What truly matters is the riding experience. We started our journey with zero expectations and concluded with genuine admiration. The sound that greets you upon starting is a deep, pleasing exhaust note. The clutch is light, though its action is extended, and gear transitions are smooth, allowing for drama-free takeoffs. The riding posture is comfortably forward-set, making it suitable for taller riders, but appearances aside, it’s an enjoyable ride.
The X440 prioritizes rideability over raw power. The 440cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine delivers 27 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Despite the seemingly modest power output for a 440cc engine, the abundant torque manifests noticeably during rides. It supports smooth acceleration in various scenarios. It’s not about sheer speed but enjoyable riding, particularly when navigating through urban sprawl. The engine remains composed even at low speeds and higher gears.
We were pleasantly surprised by its takeoff from traffic signals and its in-gear torque, facilitating rapid overtakes without needing to downshift. Engine heat is adeptly managed, even in dense traffic, and vibrations only make an appearance at higher speeds of 110 km/h.
The exhaust note is rich and resonant, easily competing as one of the best-sounding single-cylinder motorcycles available today. Harley has undoubtedly crafted an enjoyable auditory experience, complete with charming pops and crackles during deceleration.
The suspension feels notably firm, lending the ride stability in turns while maintaining decent grip. However, the stiffness can lead to discomfort when riding with a passenger. On bumpy roads, we frequently found ourselves avoiding potholes and reducing speed significantly.
Braking performance is generally satisfactory; the front brakes work exceptionally well, while the rear brakes could use improvement, leading to a reliance on the front braking system.
Harley X440: Pricing Consideration
With a starting price of Rs 2.39 lakhs (ex-showroom), the X440 represents excellent value for money. This motorcycle excels as a daily rider and enjoyable commuter, boasting a balanced array of features.
Harley X440: Conclusion
Ultimately, the value of the motorcycle is subjective. The X440 may not victory in the specifications department against its competitors, but this often overlooks the essence of these motorcycles, which many seize behind their keyboards in comparison. It’s not solely about the top performance or speed; rather, it embraces the unique Harley experience. While it may not be the fastest option, it certainly delivers the joy of riding, capturing the spirit of the motorcycle community.
Special thanks to our friends Gaurang and Humayun for assisting with the photography.
The internet can sometimes miss the mark, as keyboard critics can express views that might lack depth. The X440 represents Harley’s effort to make their legendary ownership experiences accessible to a broader audience. While many brands keep their products confined to higher price points, Harley has embraced this challenge creatively, creating a bike that captures the joys of motorcycling.
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