HARLEY-Davidson is set to introduce a new line of smaller cruiser motorcycles aimed at attracting a broader audience.
The company intends to leverage the success it has found with sub-500cc models in India, China, and Australia.
2
2
Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz announced late in 2024 that the company planned to boost investment in entry-level motorcycles.
This announcement is likely to be welcomed by potential customers who have longed to own a classic Harley but may be deterred by their large size.
A few months back, enthusiasts on Reddit debated what the perfect entry-level bike should be, with one user cautioning, “Honestly, there isn’t a great Harley for beginners.”
The beloved brand currently offers three sub-500cc models in other regions, as noted by Topspeed.
READ MORE ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON
The X 440 was launched in India in 2023 through a licensing agreement between Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp for a co-developed premium motorcycle.
Another collaboration with QJMotor has resulted in the introduction of the X 350 and X 500 available in China, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
However, Topspeed points out that “Neither of these has made their way to the West, with the exception of the X 350, which is used as part of Harley’s Rider’s Academy program in the U.S.
“Thus, it’s clear that a small Harley-Davidson bike with a global focus would significantly aid the brand in attracting a wider customer base.
“Additionally, the cruiser segment holds vast unrealized potential today.”
Topspeed suggests that many current small cruiser models available in the United States provide bikers with a “non-authentic experience, often featuring engines from sports bikes or ADV with limited cruiser character.”
Entry-level cruiser options presently on the market include the Kawasaki Eliminator 500, Honda Rebel 500, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, and the CFMoto 450CL-C.
The automotive outlet anticipates “high expectations” for Harley-Davidson’s forthcoming entry-level addition.
This is particularly relevant as Hero MotoCorp announced in January its plans to widen its partnership with Harley-Davidson.
Hero MotoCorp is recognized as one of the largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturers globally.
The firm stated: “We have extended our partnership with Harley-Davidson to develop new variants of the Harley-Davidson X440 and to create a new motorcycle for both domestic and select international markets.”
What new and refreshed Harley-Davidson motorcycles can we expect for 2025?
The lineup of all-new 2025 models includes:
The Street Glide Ultra for extensive touring and the Pan America 1250 ST versatile adventure sport motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson has also upgraded six classic Cruiser models for 2025: the Low Rider S; Low Rider ST; Breakout; Heritage Classic; Fat Boy; and Street Bob.
The brand’s Sportster S has also received enhancements.
A series of limited-edition Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles includes four models: CVO Street Glide; CVO Road Glide; CVO Road Glide ST; and CVO Pan America.
The motorcycle manufacturer stated that these new models complete the 2025 lineup for Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring, and Trike motorcycles.
It’s believed that Harley-Davidson could effectively target Western markets, while Hero MotoCorp could produce bikes for the American brand, helping to maintain low costs.
The company is currently developing a Nightster 440, a name already trademarked by both Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp in India.
REVENUE DECLINE
The new initiatives surface as the brand looks to recover from disappointing financial results in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of decline.
In the fourth quarter, Harley-Davidson’s global motorcycle shipments fell by 53 percent compared to the prior year.
Revenue was down 47 percent, partly due to reduced sales volume, as stated by Jochen Zeitz, the CEO.
The company anticipates another challenging year in 2025 after closing several dealerships to cut costs.
Nevertheless, Zeitz is optimistic that the iconic brand will persevere.
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships across the United States.
However, numerous dealerships were closed for various reasons throughout 2024.
TOO EXPENSIVE
The company recently showcased its new models for 2025.
However, some bikers expressed concerns over the hefty pricing.
Harley-Davidson has been advised by fans to lower motorcycle prices in order to remain competitive in the U.S. market.
“Harley will be outta business because regular middle class won’t be able to afford them,” one individual cautioned on social media.
The century-old American brand has been steadily losing market share in the U.S. amid declining retail sales.
Zeitz mentioned back in 2021 that he aimed to broaden the brand’s appeal beyond just middle-aged and wealthy riders.
The U.S. Sun recently reported on upcoming Harley-Davidson models anticipated to launch in 2026.
The all-electric LiveWire division of Harley-Davidson, developed in collaboration with Taiwanese scooter manufacturer KYMCO, will introduce a new series of high-performance maxi-scooters.
The company aims to commence shipping these scooters in the first half of 2026, with plans for global distribution.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to Harley-Davidson for comments regarding its ambitions for new entry-level motorcycles.
