The battle for supremacy in India’s sub-₹2.5 lakh motorcycle segment heats up with two contrasting contenders – the Harley Davidson X440, a mini-cruiser with American heritage, and the Yamaha FZ-X, a stylish urban commuter. While both target young riders, their approaches couldn’t be more different. Let’s break down which bike suits your riding style best.
1. Design & Road Presence: Bold Cruiser vs Minimalist Streetfighter
Harley Davidson X440:
- Classic teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, and muscular stance scream old-school cruiser.
- Chunky tyres, chrome accents, and wide handlebars give it massive road presence.
- Looks bigger than its 440cc engine suggests.
Yamaha FZ-X:
- Neo-retro styling with a round LED headlamp and minimalist bodywork.
- Lightweight and compact, ideal for city traffic.
- Flat seat and upright ergonomics prioritize comfort over aggression.
Verdict: Want head-turning appeal? X440. Prefer sleek, urban styling? FZ-X.
2. Engine & Performance: Power vs Efficiency
| Specs | Harley X440 | Yamaha FZ-X |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 440cc, Air-Oil Cooled | 149cc, Air-Cooled |
| Power | 27 BHP | 12.4 BHP |
| Torque | 38 Nm | 13.3 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 5-Speed |
| Fuel Efficiency | ~30 kmpl | ~45 kmpl |
Harley Davidson X440:
- Strong mid-range punch – great for highway cruising.
- 6-speed gearbox ensures relaxed long-distance riding.
- Thumpy exhaust note adds to the cruiser feel.
Yamaha FZ-X:
- Smooth & refined for city commuting.
- Lightweight – easier to flick through traffic.
- Superb mileage (45 kmpl) makes it budget-friendly.
Verdict: Need power & highway stability? X440. Want fuel efficiency & city agility? FZ-X.
3. Features & Tech: Premium vs Practical
| Features | Harley X440 | Yamaha FZ-X |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | Full Digital | Digital LCD |
| ABS | Dual-Channel | Single-Channel |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth (Calls/Nav) | Y-Connect App |
| Extra Features | LED Lighting, Premium Badging | LED DRLs, Lightweight Chassis |
Harley Davidson X440:
- Premium feel with Bluetooth-enabled console.
- Dual-channel ABS for better braking safety.
- Better-suited for long rides with comfortable ergonomics.
Yamaha FZ-X:
- Basic but functional features for daily use.
- Y-Connect app for call/sms alerts.
- Lighter & more flickable in traffic.
Verdict: If you want premium tech, go X440. For no-nonsense practicality, FZ-X wins.
4. Price & Value for Money
- Harley-Davidson X440: ₹2.39 – ₹2.79 Lakh (Ex-showroom)
- Yamaha FZ-X: ₹1.37 Lakh (Ex-showroom)
- X440 justifies its price with a bigger engine, premium branding, and cruiser appeal.
- FZ-X is a budget-friendly stylish commuter with great mileage.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Harley Davidson X440 if you:
- Want a powerful mini-cruiser with highway capability.
- Love Harley’s iconic styling and brand prestige.
- Don’t mind paying extra for premium features.
Pick the Yamaha FZ-X if you:
- Need a fuel-efficient, lightweight city bike.
- Prefer easy handling in traffic.
- Want a stylish commuter under ₹1.5 lakh.
FAQs –
Which has better mileage?
→ FZ-X (45 kmpl) vs X440 (30 kmpl).
Is the X440 good for city rides?
→ Yes, but the FZ-X is more agile in traffic.
Does the FZ-X feel underpowered?
→ Not in the city, but highway overtakes need patience.
Which one would you pick? Let us know in the comments!
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