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x500

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 has made headlines once again with the launch of its new X 500 roadster, just weeks after unveiling the X 350 and “leaked” spy shots of the Hero MotoCorp-developed 4XX.

  • The X500 is the result of a partnership between Harley-Davidson and Chinese brand QJ Motor.
  • The motorcycle is based on the Benelli Leoncino 500.

Sharing many components with the Leoncino, the X500 boasts a 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, producing 47hp and 46Nm, as well as a steel tube frame, 50mm USD fork, offset monoshock, and 17-inch alloy wheels. However, the X500 sets itself apart visually with its neoteric styling, taking cues from the Harley-Davidson XR1200X.

The bike’s features are minimal, including a monopod semi-digital instrument console with a digital inset and dual-channel ABS as the only electronic aid.

The only notable departure from the classic Harley-Davidson aesthetic is the integration of rear indicators with the tail lights.

With a kerb weight of 208kg, the X500 is a heavy machine that promises to deliver the signature Harley-Davidson riding experience while appealing to a wider global audience.

Selepas memperkenalkan Harley-Davidson X300 bulan lalu, Harley-Davidson dengan kerjasama QJ Motor telah melancarkan Harley-Davidson X500 di pasaran China dengan harga jualan CNY44,388 (RM28.5k). 

Menurut Harley-Davidson, X500 itu datang dengan tiga pilihan warna; Vibrant Orange, Bright Silver dan Dazzling Black.

Kerjasama dengan QJ Motor menyaksikan Harley-Davidson X500 dikuasakan enjin sama yang terdapat pada Benelli Leoncino 500, dengan enjin parallel-twin 500cc itu menawarkan 47hp dan 46Nm. Kuasa enjin pula disalurkan kepada tayar belakang menerusi transmisi manual 6-kelajuan. 

Selain daripada enjin, Harley-Davidson X500 juga berkongsi kerangka yang sama dengan Leoncino 500. 

Antara ciri lain ditawarkan termasuk tangki 13L, lampu LED penuh depan dan belakang, panel meter digital, fork USD dan ABS dwi-saluran.

Harley-Davidson X500 merupakan model kedua hasil kerjasama antara jenama motosikal Amerika Syarikat itu bersama QJ Motor. Mengambil kira kedua-dua model ini dibina berlandaskan model di bawah jenama QJ Motor, pastinya bakal ada juga model akan datang yang berkongsi platform dengan model lain.

Persoalannya, adakah model mampu milik ini akan turut menembusi pasaran Malaysia?

Harley-Davidson is set to debut the X350 and X500 on March 10, 2023. 

  • The X350 and X500 is a result of Harley-Davidson partnership with Chinese manufacturer, QJ Motor. 
  • The X350 and X500 features the same mill from Benelli’s 302S and Leoncino 500 respectively. 

The Harley-Davidson X350, the most affordable two-wheeler bearing the H-D badge, is based on the Benelli 302S, while the X500 is based on a slightly larger Benelli Leoncino 500. 

While the bikes’ technical foundation already exists, the new Harleys feature altered designs, styling, and ergonomics, giving them a much smaller and more compact appearance than their American counterparts.

Poweringthe X350 is a 353cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine capable of producing 36 horsepower. 

Meanwhile, the X500 boasts a 500cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a maximum output of 47 horsepower. Both bikes share inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes equipped with ABS, and LED lights all around.

The Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 will compete with cruisers and neo-retro roadsters such as the Royal Enfield Meteor and Hunter 350, Honda Rebel 300 and 500, and the Benelli Leoncino and 502C. 

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. 

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