Harley-Davidson X440 T: 3 reasons to buy and 2 to skip it

The Harley-Davidson X440 T represents what the X440 should have been from the beginning. With a completely redesigned rear section, improved finish quality, and modern electronic rider aids, the X440 T addresses many criticisms of the standard model. If you're considering the X440 T, here's what works in its favour and what might give you pause.

3 reasons to buy the Harley-Davidson X440 T

Redesigned rear makes it more proportionate

The X440's awkward tail section has been completely reimagined for the X440 T. A redesigned rear subframe supports sleeker side panels, a new tail-light, and reworked grab rails that give the motorcycle the XR1200-inspired silhouette it was always meant to have. The seat has been reprofiled for better pillion comfort, while the exhaust now features new heat shields and an updated end can. Elsewhere, premium touches include bar-end mirrors, better-finished handlebars and risers, metal heel plates replacing plastic ones, and improved fastening bolts with better chassis finish. 

Ride-by-wire brings modern rider aids

The X440 T upgrades from a cable throttle to ride-by-wire, unlocking two riding modes (Road and Rain), a traction control system, and switchable rear ABS. In Road mode, fuelling is responsive with torque arriving earlier than before, enabling quick overtakes. Rain mode delivers linear power for beginners or tricky conditions. The traction control works well without cutting power unnecessarily in Road mode, even on rough patches, though it's more intrusive in Rain mode. Both systems can be switched off entirely. The ride-by-wire system also brings exhaust pops and bangs on downshifts, making the riding experience more engaging. A new panic-brake alert system flashes all indicators at a faster rate under hard braking to warn following traffic.

Plush suspension and impressive handling

Harley has addressed the X440's tendency to bottom out on bigger bumps by reworking the suspension damping. The updated setup feels plush, gliding over rough surfaces and bad roads easily. Despite the 192kg kerb weight feeling heavy at a standstill, the weight disappears once moving. The bike's behaviour at gentle speeds is delightfully light and easy, making it a surprisingly low-effort motorcycle to ride. There's an unshakable sense of stability with no unpredictable behaviour. The rider's triangle remains unchanged, and the X440 T proves impressive in corners with its combination of agile yet planted feel. 

3 reasons to skip the Harley-Davidson X440 T

Heavy kerb weight

At 192kg, the X440 T carries 1.5kg more than other X440 variants. While the weight melts away when moving, it remains a consideration for newer riders or those of smaller stature. At a standstill, the bike feels heavy, which could be intimidating in tight parking situations or slow-speed manoeuvres. This bulk also impacts the overall agility compared to lighter rivals in the segment.

Premium pricing over more powerful rivals

The X440 T's Rs 2.79 lakh price tag positions it significantly above the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and even surpasses more powerful rivals like the Triumph Speed 400 (Rs 2.34 lakh) and Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450. The Speed 400 produces 40hp compared to the X440 T's 27hp, making the Harley's Rs 46,000 premium difficult to justify purely on performance grounds. While the X440 T offers premium finishing, modern rider aids, and the Harley-Davidson badge, buyers prioritising outright value or performance will find better options elsewhere. Even though Hero and Harley have absorbed the impact of higher GST 2.0 tax rates for bikes above 350cc, the X440 T remains an expensive proposition in its segment.

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/Hs4Qabj