In 2025, Harley-Davidson and Royal Enfield are going head-to-head in the mid-range cruiser bike segment, especially appealing to riders in both the U.S. and globally. With the new Harley-Davidson X440 entering the market and Royal Enfield refining its classic lineup, buyers looking for a stylish yet affordable cruiser are spoiled for choice.
But which one is right for you? Let’s break down the Harley-Davidson X440 and the Royal Enfield Classic 350 (and other models) to help you choose the better ride.
🏍️ Overview: Cruiser Showdown
- Harley-Davidson X440
- Engine: 440cc single-cylinder
- Price (U.S. equivalent): ~$4,000–$5,000 (expected)
- Style: Neo-retro American cruiser
- Developed in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp (India)
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 / Meteor 350
- Engine: 349cc single-cylinder
- Price (U.S.): ~$4,500
- Style: Retro British cruiser
- Manufactured by Royal Enfield (India) with global presence
⚙️ Performance & Engine Comparison
Harley-Davidson X440:
- Power: 27 hp
- Torque: 38 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Fuel-Injection, Oil-cooled
- Top Speed: ~90 mph
Royal Enfield Classic 350 / Meteor 350:
- Power: 20.2 hp
- Torque: 27 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed
- Fuel-Injected, Air-oil cooled
- Top Speed: ~75 mph
Verdict:
The X440 is more powerful, especially in terms of torque, which gives it better pickup and highway cruising. Riders who prioritize performance will likely lean toward the Harley.
🎯 Design & Aesthetic Appeal
Harley-Davidson X440:
- Muscular stance with American cruiser DNA
- LED headlight with H-D signature DRL
- Upswept exhaust for a sporty touch
- Tank design inspired by Harley’s classic lineage
Royal Enfield Classic/Meteor 350:
- Timeless retro British look
- Teardrop fuel tank and chrome details
- Classic spoked wheels or alloy options
- Low-slung stance with upright ergonomics
Verdict:
For those who love modern-retro style with American attitude, the X440 stands out. If you want a true vintage look, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 nails it.
💺 Ride Quality & Ergonomics
Harley-Davidson X440:
- Upside-down front forks (USD)
- Gas-charged rear shocks
- Wider handlebar and split seats
- 805mm seat height
Royal Enfield 350:
- Telescopic forks
- Twin tube emulsion shocks
- Softer suspension setup
- 790mm seat height
Verdict:
The Royal Enfield 350 series offers a smoother, more relaxed ride on city streets. The X440, with its stiffer USD forks, provides better high-speed handling.
🔧 Technology & Features
Harley-Davidson X440:
- TFT digital display with Bluetooth
- Navigation and call alerts
- Dual-channel ABS
- Slipper clutch
Royal Enfield Classic/Meteor:
- Semi-digital instrument cluster
- Tripper Navigation (Meteor only)
- Dual-channel ABS
- USB charger
Verdict:
The X440 takes the lead in tech, offering modern connectivity features and a full TFT screen. Royal Enfield’s tech feels more traditional in comparison.
💸 Price & Availability in the U.S.
Harley-Davidson X440:
Expected to launch in the U.S. in late 2025, priced around $4,000–$5,000 as an entry-level Harley for younger buyers and city riders.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 / Meteor 350:
Already available in the U.S. through dealerships, priced at $4,499–$4,699, depending on trim.
Verdict:
Royal Enfield has the early mover advantage, but Harley’s brand name and tech-loaded package could disrupt the segment once it launches stateside.
🔧 Maintenance & Reliability
Both bikes are built for durability and everyday usability. Royal Enfield has improved reliability significantly in recent years, while the X440 benefits from Harley’s global brand standards and Hero’s engineering.
- Service cost: Comparable (~$150–$250/year)
- Availability of parts: Royal Enfield has wider U.S. service reach at present
- Aftermarket mods: Both have strong support, especially in the cruiser segment
🏁 Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the Harley-Davidson X440 if you want:
✅ Better power and performance
✅ Modern tech features (TFT, Bluetooth)
✅ American-style cruiser at a low price
✅ A more aggressive, muscular ride
Buy the Royal Enfield Classic/Meteor 350 if you want:
✅ True retro charm
✅ Proven global reliability
✅ Comfortable, relaxed daily ride
✅ Wider dealership network in the U.S. (as of now)
📈 The Cruiser Market in the U.S.
With younger riders seeking smaller, more affordable bikes and eco-conscious buyers moving away from big engines, mid-range cruisers are in high demand. Both Harley and Enfield are targeting this niche aggressively in 2025.
Whether you’re a weekend rider or a daily commuter, these bikes offer excellent value — it’s just a matter of style vs. tech, heritage vs. performance.