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Harley-Davidson debuts the X 350 in partnership with QJ Motor in China

It’s the smallest Harley yet, and the first to be produced in partnership with Chinese manufacturer QJ Motor.

EJ Punsalang EJ Punsalang on Mar 14, 2023
Harley-Davidson debuts the X 350 in partnership with QJ Motor in China

After much speculation and discussion about the Chinese-produced Harley-Davidson roadsters, the X 350 and X 500, the company has officially revealed the 2023 X 350 in China, confirming that it is a significant milestone for Harley-Davidson. The X 350 is the company's first motorcycle in the modern era under 500cc and the first bike crafted by QJ Motor, their Chinese partner.

Introducing the X 350, Harley-Davidson's newest roadster developed in partnership with Chinese motorcycle giant QJ Motor. The bike features a blend of modern and classic elements, including all-LED lighting and alloy wheels that lend it a contemporary look, while its round instrument console, mirrors, and headlight shape give it a retro flair. The bike's aerodynamic and robust radiator shrouds, as well as its flat-track-inspired tail section, exude a unique charm. In an unusual departure from Harley's traditional cruisers, the X 350 has no chrome, further contributing to its unconventional and unexpectedly sporty appeal.

Harley-Davidson X 350
Harley-Davidson X 350

Compared to typical Harley motorcycles, the X 350 offers a unique riding experience. It cannot be classified as a cruiser due to its mid-controls, low handlebar, and tall 32-inch seat height, which place the rider in a neutral position rather than the traditional laid-back, foot-forward posture. Additionally, the X 350 features a basic digital-analog instrument cluster, indicating that the bike was designed with a budget in mind.

The X 350 is equipped with a 353cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that has been borrowed from QJ Motor's previous models. This engine generates 36 horsepower and 22.8 pound-feet of torque, which is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox with a chain drive, marking a departure from Harley's usual belt-driven systems. The bike has a 13.5-liter fuel tank, which is expected to provide sufficient range between fill-ups.

As of now, the X 350 is only available in China and is priced at around P264,000, which is relatively high compared to the Royal Enfield Hunter 350. If the X 350 makes its way to the Philippine market, it will likely be compared to the Hunter. On the other hand, the X 500, which is expected to be modeled after the Benelli Leoncino, may be a more suitable choice for beginner riders looking for a big bike. However, we will have to wait for Harley-Davidson to reveal more details about the X 500. 

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