Duty-free access for 800-1,600cc US motorcycles improves Harley-Davidson's import economics. However, India's motorcycle market remains driven by sub-350cc models, limiting any meaningful volume impact.
With the premium motorcycle market on the rise, Harley-Davidson executives have expressed satisfaction with their joint venture with Hero MotoCorp, the sources noted.
With a virtual monopoly in the 250-750cc motorcycle market for many years, the company recently faced competition from new motorcycles such as the Triumph Speed 400, Harley Davidson 440X, Hero Mavrick 440, and Bajaj Pulsar 400.
Estimated to be priced in the range of Rs 2,10,000-2,20,000 (ex-showroom), the roadster will be available in three variants- base, mid and top
The aggressive rejig of portfolios and pricing strategies by global motorcycle brands Harley and Triumph in Indian markets is set to dent RE’s market share
Royal Enfield is no stranger to competition since it really “started succeeding” 10-15 years ago when it had a lot of growth, said Lal
Hero MotoCorp will start production of the Harley-Davidson X440 in September at its Garden Factory in Rajasthan Neemrana and deliveries will commence the next month
The pricing and brand cachet of the Harley-Davidson X440 and Triumph Speed 400 could cut Royal Enfield's share of India's 250 cc-plus segment to 75% from over 90%, Kotak said.
India imposes 50 per cent customs duty on imported fully built up bikes, which makes the American cult bike-maker feel that partnering with Hero has turned out to be a good decision after deciding to exit its manufacturing operations in India three years back.
The premium end of the entry-level motorcycle segment just got richer with the arrival of the Harley-Davidson X440. The Hero MotoCorp designed 440cc power cruiser takes on some heavy competition as the motorcycle market opens itself to more varied forms of performance. With a price tag of Rs 2.3 lakh and the aspirational quality of brand Harley-Davidson, the X440 is off to a good start. But can it impress die-hard H-D fans and newcomers alike?
Playful chassis and dollops of torque mark Hero MotoCorp's impressive entry into premium motorcycling.