Bikesrepublic

x350

Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, is set to further expand its presence in the Asian market by introducing the X350 and X500 models to Japan in October 2023.

  • The introduction of the X350 and X500 comes as a result of a collaborative effort between Harley-Davidson and Chinese manufacturer QJ Motor.
  • The partnership aims to create small-displacement motorcycles designed to appeal to a wider range of riders.
  • These two models are based on existing QJ Motor and Benelli designs and have already made waves in the Chinese market.

The X350, drawing similarities to the Benelli 302S, features a 353cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine, generating 36hp @ 9,500 rpm and 31Nm @ 7,000 rpm. On the other hand, the X500, styled after the Benelli Leoncino 500, boasts a 500cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine, delivering 47hp @ 8,500 rpm and 46Nm @ 6,000 rpm. Both models are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

These new additions to the Harley-Davidson family represent a significant departure from the brand’s traditional cruiser styling, featuring a more standard and naked bike design. The move underscores Harley-Davidson’s commitment to adapting its product offerings to meet the preferences of diverse global markets.

With the Japanese launch just around the corner, enthusiasts and riders in Japan can look forward to experiencing these distinctive motorcycles, which reflect Harley-Davidson’s dedication to innovation and its evolving global strategy.

For motorcycle enthusiasts in Japan, the arrival of the X350 and X500 promises an exciting new chapter in the Harley-Davidson legacy, offering riders a fresh and dynamic riding experience.

Harley-Davidson held a huge event just last week to celebrate the firm’s 120th anniversary. 

  • The Chinese-build Harley-Davidson X350 is heading to the US.
  • The X350 is equipped with a parallel-twin 353cc engine similar to the Benelli 302s but with a bigger bore. 

The American motorcycle company took the opportunity to announced it’s 2023 lineup, including the Nightster Special and the Breakout. 

Unfortunately, the highly anticipated Chinese-build X350 and X350RA was not included in the announcement. 

However, latest report suggest that the X350 and X350RA, a product of Harley-Davidson’s partnership with China’s Qianjiang Motors is also heading to the US as confirmed by new VIN information. 

Interestingly, Motorcycle.com managed to obtained o copy of the X350 owner’s manual and an image of the motorcycle.

According to reports by Dennis Chung, the owner’s manual disclosed some of the bike’s information including the powertrain. That said, powering the Harley-Davidson X350 is a 353cc parallel-twin with  eight-valve liquid-cooled mill.

However, while the X350 makes 36hp the X350RA power output is restricted to just 26hp. 

The VIN information also confirms that the X350 is equipped with analog speedometer with small digital display, damping adjustable inverted front fork, ABS and dual-petal disc brakes.

Also, the X350 runs on 17-inch front and rear wheels shod with Pirelli’s Angel CT tires with 120/70-17 up front and 160/60-17 at the rear. However, the X350RA is equipped with slimmer wheels, 110/70-17 at the front and 150/60-17 at the rear. 

The X350 also claims a weight of 199.5kg and 12.8 litres of fuel tank. 

(source: Motorcycle.com)

Harley-Davidson first announced its partnership with China-based Qianjiang Group back in 2019 as part of a plan to expand its range to smaller-capacity motorcycles.

  • Harley-Davidson to roll out the Chinese-made X350 and X500 in Asia soon. 
  • The smaller capacity Harley-Davidson will be built by Zhejiang Jisheng Motor Vehicle Co. Ltd. 

Back then, the small Harley was referred to as the 338R, further confirmed by a leaked photo that revealed the side profile of the motorcycle. 

However, the latest type-approval filed in China has revealed that not just one but two bikes have been approved for sale in the country with the name X350 and X500. 

Accompanying the type-approval document is two photos that showcase the X350 and X500. 

Firstly the X350 looks identical to the early sketches Harley showed back in 2019, mainly the flat-track-inspired bodywork.

According to reports, the upcoming X350 shared most of its components from QJMotor’s SRK350 and Benelli’s 302S, including the same 353cc parallel-twin engine. 

That said, the document revealed that the X350 makes a good 36hp but tips the scale at 195kg, making it a pretty heavy bike.

In addition, the X350 is also fitted with the same rubber as the 302S, 120/70-17 at the front and 160/60-17 at the rear. 

Meanwhile, the X500 features the same frame and engine as Benelli’s Leoncino 500. The X500 makes 47hp and weighs in at 206kg.

Despite being fitted with the same front and rear wheels as the X350, the larger bike features radial-mount callipers and a bigger brake disc similar to the Leoncino 500.

For your information, both of these bikes will be made by Zhejiang Jisheng Motor Vehicle Co. Ltd, a joint venture company set up by Harley-Davidson and Qianjiang in China. 

Archive

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube