The midweight motorcycle segment in India is witnessing a revolution. For over a decade, Royal Enfield has reigned supreme with its blend of classic design, accessible power, and unmatched emotional connection. But now, two powerful challengers have entered the arena — the Harley-Davidson X440 and the Triumph Speed 400.
Both bikes bring legendary global brands to Indian soil, built in partnership with domestic giants. Harley-Davidson joins hands with Hero MotoCorp, while Triumph collaborates with Bajaj Auto. Together, they aim to dethrone the king — the Royal Enfield Classic 350.
The big question is: can heritage meet modernity to overthrow the timeless thump of the Classic? Let’s find out.
Design and Presence
Harley-Davidson X440 – American Soul, Indian Practicality
The Harley X440 brings unmistakable American attitude to the segment. It carries a muscular design with a wide tank, upright stance, and chunky 18-inch front wheel that immediately sets it apart. The circular LED headlamp with a signature DRL ring, metal fenders, and solid build make it look premium and rugged at the same time.
The X440 feels substantial, with quality that clearly justifies the Harley badge. Every detail — from the paint finish to the tank badging — speaks refinement. It’s a motorcycle that commands respect on the road.
Triumph Speed 400 – Modern Classic in Motion
If Harley’s design is about power, Triumph’s is about proportion. The Speed 400 perfectly blends retro design with modern sharpness. The round headlamp, teardrop tank, brushed metal finishes, and neatly executed tail section give it a balanced appeal that feels international but approachable.
What sets the Triumph apart is its minimalist design philosophy — no excess chrome, no flamboyance, just tasteful simplicity. Its compact dimensions make it easy to manage in urban traffic while retaining a strong visual identity.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 – The Timeless Icon
The Classic 350 hardly needs an introduction. Its silhouette is as familiar as it is adored — the round headlamp, teardrop tank, chrome exhaust, and vintage fenders. Every curve evokes nostalgia.
Royal Enfield hasn’t tampered much with the formula because it doesn’t need to. The current generation Classic feels more refined and solidly built than ever before. While it lacks the modern aggressiveness of the Harley or Triumph, it radiates a charm that no other bike can replicate.
Engine and Performance
| Specification | Harley-Davidson X440 | Triumph Speed 400 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 |
| Engine | 440cc, Single-cylinder, Oil-cooled | 398cc, Liquid-cooled, Single-cylinder | 349cc, Air-oil cooled, Single-cylinder |
| Power | 27 bhp @ 6,000 rpm | 40 bhp @ 8,000 rpm | 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 38 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | 37.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed | 6-Speed | 5-Speed |
Royal Enfield Classic 350 – The Heartbeat of Calm
Let’s start with the most familiar of the three. The Classic 350’s engine isn’t about racing numbers or dyno results. It’s about feel. The thump, the smooth torque delivery, and the relaxed character make it ideal for unhurried riding.
It’s not quick — 0 to 100 km/h takes over 13 seconds — but it delivers satisfaction in every beat of its exhaust note. It’s a motorcycle you ride for the soul, not the stopwatch.
Triumph Speed 400 – The Powerhouse Performer
The Speed 400, on the other hand, is an absolute weapon. Its 398cc liquid-cooled motor puts out a segment-leading 40 horsepower, and it feels alive the moment you twist the throttle. The acceleration is crisp and immediate — 0 to 100 km/h comes in just under 7 seconds.
But what’s even more impressive is how tractable it is. Despite its sporty nature, it pulls smoothly from low speeds without demanding constant downshifts. However, once the revs climb, a noticeable buzz creeps in near the redline, reminding you that this is a high-performance machine at heart.
Harley-Davidson X440 – The Balanced Brawler
Sitting between the two extremes is the Harley X440. Its 440cc engine offers a broad torque curve, ideal for real-world riding. It pulls cleanly from low revs, builds speed confidently, and delivers a meaty midrange punch.
It may not be as fast as the Triumph, but it feels stronger and smoother at cruising speeds. Between 100–120 km/h, it’s rock-steady and unstrained, making it the best highway companion in this trio. The soundtrack — a deep, bassy growl — is pure Harley flavor distilled into an Indian form.
Ride and Handling
Harley-Davidson X440 – Confidence on Every Curve
Despite its hefty stance, the X440 handles with surprising ease. The wide handlebar, well-balanced chassis, and low center of gravity make it stable yet maneuverable. It feels planted in corners and composed over long highway stretches.
The suspension setup, though slightly firm, offers confidence over rough patches. However, the front fork can bottom out over sharp potholes, a small flaw in an otherwise well-balanced ride.
Triumph Speed 400 – Precision with Comfort
The Triumph shines brightest here. Its ride quality is simply exceptional. It manages to offer plush comfort without compromising control. The chassis feels stiff yet forgiving, and the suspension setup absorbs bumps effortlessly.
Whether cornering hard or cruising through city streets, the Speed 400 feels eager, nimble, and remarkably sure-footed. It’s a sportbike wrapped in a classic body — refined, confident, and endlessly fun.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 – Steady and Soothing
The Classic 350 continues to favor comfort over agility. It rides like a steady cruiser, flattening rough roads with ease. The suspension setup is soft and tuned for soaking up bad roads, but the braking could use a bit more bite.
It’s not built for carving corners; it’s built for soaking in the journey — something it still does better than most.
Seating and Comfort
The Triumph offers the sportiest riding position, with slightly rear-set pegs and a flat seat. It’s engaging but never uncomfortable.
The Harley-Davidson X440, meanwhile, offers the most natural and relaxed ergonomics. The low seat height and upright posture make it ideal for long-distance rides.
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 remains the most traditional. Its wide seat and upright bars feel familiar and friendly, making it the easiest bike here for daily use or relaxed touring.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
In real-world conditions, all three motorcycles deliver around 28–33 km/l, depending on riding style and traffic. The Triumph, with its advanced liquid cooling and fuel mapping, is marginally more efficient.
In terms of service and ownership, Royal Enfield still enjoys the most extensive service network, while Hero’s partnership with Harley promises affordable maintenance and easy parts availability for the X440. Triumph, with Bajaj’s manufacturing setup, is also rapidly expanding its after-sales presence.
Pricing (Ex-Showroom, India)
| Model | Price Range |
| Harley-Davidson X440 | ₹2.39 – ₹2.79 lakh |
| Triumph Speed 400 | ₹2.33 lakh |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | ₹1.93 – ₹2.25 lakh |
Despite being the most affordable, the Classic 350 remains the emotional favorite. The Triumph delivers unmatched performance per rupee, while the Harley offers a unique mix of brand prestige and practicality.
Verdict: Choosing Your Midweight Machine
This isn’t just a comparison — it’s a battle of personalities.
- The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is for riders who appreciate heritage, calm cruising, and timeless design.
- The Harley-Davidson X440 is for those who want a slice of American muscle with Indian sensibility — torque-rich, confident, and well-built.
- The Triumph Speed 400 is for the thrill-seeker who values performance, sharp handling, and a hint of British refinement.
If your soul craves calm and nostalgia — go for the Classic 350.
If you want character and confidence on open roads — the Harley X440 is your companion.
If you want performance and precision wrapped in heritage — the Triumph Speed 400 wins the crown.
