If you’ve been dreaming of getting your hands on a proper cruiser but can’t decide between the American legend and the Indian icon, you’re not alone. The Harley-Davidson X440 and Royal Enfield Classic 350 are two completely different philosophies of what makes a great cruiser bike. One brings modern muscle to the table, while the other relies on decades of proven charm.
Both bikes are vying for space in your garage but couldn’t be more different in how they go about winning your heart.
Design and Street Presence
The Harley X440 is not fooling around about first impressions. With its muscular fuel tank, broad handlebars and intimidating stance, this motorcycle signals that it’s better than the rest. The bike makes a business-like impression with sharp lines and a modern rendition of classic cruiser looks that gets nods at the traffic lights.
The Classic 350, however, has played the nostalgia card to perfection. Its teardrop tank, old-school chrome touches and classic profile have been the points that riders saw and felt generations ago. It’s the kind of bike that would look at home in old Bollywood movies, which is precisely its charm.
Engine Performance and Power Delivery
Here’s where it starts getting interesting. Power comes from a 440cc oil cooled single that generates approximately 27 horsepower and 38 Nm of torque. This means you get quite some pulling power, a good thing in stop-and-go city traffic where you need to whip past autorickshaws and cut past gaps.
The 349cc air-oil cooled engine on the Classic 350 makes for a lesser 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm. But you know what the thing about Royal Enfield engines is – they’re not about the power. There’s a solid thump that reminds you that power is being delivered and it makes every ride seem like a meditation session. It’s silky smooth, linear, just about enough power for cruising the highways at 80-90 km/h.
Ride Quality and Handling
You can feel a bit more planted and confident pushing the X440 around corners. And thanks to its USD front forks and gascharged rear shocks, it manages potholes as well as anything, making it startlingly more able on twisty roads than you might expect. The riding position is comfortable enough even for city commuting and weekend getaways. The Classic 350, however, has a different idea. It’s meant for comfort, softer suspension that absorbs road bumps, so to speak, like a magic carpet. Yes, sure it’s not the most nimble in a corner but it’s not supposed to be. This is a bike that wants you to lean back and let yourself go.
Technology and Features
The Harley spares no modern convenience with digital console and Bluetooth connectivity. You can connect your phone, glance at navigation and even configure a few bike settings from the app. Good to have these accessories on an entry level cruiser.
The Classic 350 takes the straightforward path. Analog speedometer, basic warning lights, full stop. Some would say that it feels a little antiquated but there’s something pure in using this system that some riders looking to escape the digital world are overwhelmed by.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Harley X440 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 440cc, Oil-cooled | 349cc, Air-oil cooled |
| Power | 27 bhp @ 6000 rpm | 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm |
| Torque | 38 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 5-speed |
| Fuel Tank | 13.5 liters | 13 liters |
| Weight | 190 kg | 195 kg |
| Price Range | Rs. 2.39 – 2.79 lakh | Rs. 1.93 – 2.25 lakh |
Read more : Best Low Seat Bikes in India for Comfort, Control and Daily Commutes
Price and Value Proposition
The Classic 350 is the more budget-friendly option, starting at around Rs. 1.93 lakh. Reaction Price/ Premium Features For charging 1.3 Lakh INR, you get proven reliability, wide service network and a bike which sells for a good price when it comes to resale market.
The X440 is priced about Rs 40,000-50,000 over the Classic but then you get more power, better suspension and modern features. Whether that premium is worth it will depend on whether you value tradition more than technology.
Verdict
Choosing between these two isn’t about finding the better bike – it’s about finding the right bike for you. The X440 is for those who want more performance and modern features without breaking the bank. The Classic 350 is for those who value heritage, simplicity and that unmistakable Royal Enfield character.
Both will put a smile on your face, just in different ways. The good news? You can’t go wrong with either.
FAQs About Harley X440 vs Classic 350
Which bike is more fuel efficient? The Classic 350 delivers around 35-40 kmpl, the X440 around 30-35 kmpl due to its bigger engine and more aggressive tuning.
Which bike is better for long highway rides? Both are highway cruisers but the X440’s extra power makes overtaking easier, the Classic 350’s comfort tuned suspension is better for all day riding.
What about service and maintenance costs? Royal Enfield has a wider service network across India, maintenance will be more convenient and potentially cheaper. Harley service costs are higher.
Which bike has better resale value? The Classic 350 holds its value better due to Royal Enfield’s established presence and loyal customer base in India.
