Harley-Davidson will this week reveal the first model in a new range of Chinese-built low-capacity motorcycles developed for global markets, dubbed X350.
While the X350 has yet to be confirmed for local showrooms, Harley-Davidson marketing manager Keith Waddell told INFO MOTO that the company is hopeful for an Australian release which will serve as a new entry-point into the brand that is both inexpensive and learner friendly.
Harley has not offered a LAMS-approved model since the popular Street 500 was discontinued in 2021.
INFO MOTO understands that the Harley-Davidson X350, as well as its larger X500 sibling, will launch in the US market later this year, and may be considered for Australia in 2024.
The new H-D platform will be built as part of a joint venture with Chinese company Qianjiang, which also owns QJMotor and Benelli, among other brands.
In 2020, INFO MOTO published leaked images of an early prototype X350 (then codenamed HD350), which showed a Harley-branded low-capacity motorcycle built on the same platform as Benelli’s 302S and Qianjiang’s QJ350.
It is believed that this platform features a 353cc parallel-twin engine that generates approximately 36 horsepower.
More to come.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
