Affordability is the key for success in the Indian market, whether you are selling a motorcycle or a mobile phone. Some manufacturers seem to have understood this mantra and are working on bringing cheaper products which will appeal to a larger audience. Harley-Davidson has been rumoured to be developing a bike specifically for India, which will employ a lower displacement engine and will be manufactured completely in the country, thereby being priced very aggressively.
Although there are no official confirmations regarding the development of this Indian specific motorcycle but American company has been bettering big on the Indian market, investing heavily in assembly operations. With the world moving towards lower capacity offerings, there is little doubt that Harley-Davidson will not follow this downsizing trend. A couple of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were spotted in the NCR area recently, sporting test plates. The bikes are undoubtedly Harley-Davidsons.
The styling and parts on these test mules easily give away their identity. However there is no information on what engine will power this low capacity Harley bike. It is likely to be a 500cc, V-twin engine producing around 40 BHP of power and 45 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The price of this upcoming motorcycle is expected to be around Rs. 3 lakhs, with a launch taking place at the 2014 Auto Expo. Harley-Davidson can export this half-litre machine to other emerging markets to boost sales.
Source – Team-BHP
