In the past several years, there has been a lot of movement in the 300–400cc motorcycle segment. While major bike manufacturers have stepped up to compete for market share, several smaller bike manufacturers have broadened their product lines. Additionally, two names are particularly noticeable in this segment’s cruiser section: the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and the Harley-Davidson X440. After a paper comparison, these are the features that the two motorcycles have to offer.
Engine
The 349cc single-cylinder J-series engine that powers the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 produces 20.2bhp and 27Nm. It has a gearbox with five speeds. When traveling long distances on the highway, the Meteor can maintain a speed of about 100 kmph, based on our experience touring it. However, the bike’s powerplant is stretched beyond that point.
The Harley-Davidson X440, on the other hand, has a 440cc single-cylinder engine that produces 27 horsepower and 38 Nm. A six-speed gearbox on the X440 facilitates riding at faster speeds. As a point of reference, this bike can go continuously for a long-range at speeds of about 120 kmph.
The X440 is superior for long rides because of its larger engine and additional gear.
Hardware
For the Meteor 350, Royal Enfield Bikes has opted for twin rear springs and traditional telescopic front forks. It boasts dual-channel ABS on a single front and rear disc. With 100/90 front and 140/70 rear tyres, this arrangement is mounted on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. The Meteor 350 in the arrangement above provides good highway stability but requires a little more effort to change directions.
Harley-Davidson outfits the X440 with dual rear shocks and USD front forks. For the top-spec vehicle, it also has diamond-cut alloy wheels and disc brakes on both the front and back axles. While the X440’s wheel and tyre sizes are comparable to those of the Meteor, the X440 is marginally more enjoyable to drive because of its somewhat tighter rake.
Features
The Fireball, Stellar, and Supernova models of the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 have alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, whereas the Aurora variation has tubed tyres. Split seats and a semi-digital instrument console are standard on the cruiser. The Supernova, Aurora, and Stellar models come with a pillion backrest. For an additional fee, you may also purchase the Tripper Navigation pod, which provides smartphone connectivity for navigation. In terms of the safety net, it also receives ABS.
Although this Harley-Davidson motorcycle is designed to be affordable, it has some great features. The TFT console in the highest specification variant has phone and SMS alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, and Bluetooth capability. In addition to the tell tail lights, the lowest two types provide the TFT with typical readouts like real-time mileage, distance to empty, and gear position indicator.
Design
The low stance, raked-out front end, and relaxed rider triangle make India’s Royal Enfield Meteor 350 a true cruiser bike. It has a scooped seat, a broad fuel tank, forward-set footpegs, a round headlight, and a handlebar that is tilted in the direction of the rider. All things considered, the Meteor 350 is a pleasant and comfortable ride.
The Harley-Davidson X440, meanwhile, has the appearance of a power cruiser. Although not nearly as long as the Meteor 350, it does have a rather long front end. The X440’s dominant riding position makes you feel a little caged up when you sit “on” it. Compared to the Meteor, it has sharper bodywork and a rounded LED headlight. But in person, both bikes appear handsome and substantial.
Price
There are four different Royal Enfield Meteor 350 models: Fireball, Stellar, Aurora, and Supernova. The starting price of the Fireball variant is Rs 2,33,897 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The cost of the mid-spec Stellar model, ex-showroom in Delhi, is Rs 2,44,788.
The top-spec versions are the Aurora and Supernova. The ex-showroom price of the Aurora variant is Rs 2,49,145 in Delhi. The Supernova variant, however, costs Rs 2,60,034 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The Harley Davidson X440 is priced at Rs 2,81,072, Rs 3,03,093, and Rs 3,25,114 (all prices ex-showroom) for its three different variants: “Denim,” “Vivid,” and “S.”
