Hello friends, If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Harley but felt like the price tag was out of reach, there’s some exciting news coming your way. Harley-Davidson might just be about to rewrite its own rulebook with the all-new X500—a sleek, stylish, and surprisingly affordable motorcycle that’s already making waves overseas. And if rumors hold true, this midweight marvel could soon be roaring down American highways.
A Harley for the People
Launched globally in 2023 and already turning heads in markets like Australia and Japan, the Harley-Davidson X500 is set to become the brand’s most budget-friendly new offering. With an expected price range of $6,000 to $7,000 USD—based on its AUD 11,495 price tag in Australia—it dramatically undercuts competitors like the Honda Rebel 500 and Indian Scout Bobber Sixty. And that’s not just a win for your wallet, but also a bold move from Harley to reach a new generation of riders.
Designed in collaboration with China’s QJ Motor, the X500 is crafted for city streets, weekend cruises, and everything in between. While some Harley purists may raise an eyebrow at the Chinese manufacturing connection, there’s no denying that this bike delivers the brand’s iconic vibe at a fraction of the usual cost.
Style That Turns Heads, Performance That Delivers
One look at the X500, and it’s clear Harley hasn’t cut corners on design. The bike channels classic Harley-Davidson style with a modern twist—think round LED headlamp, a sculpted 13-liter teardrop fuel tank, and sporty 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in grippy Maxxis Supermaxx tires. Available in striking colors like Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, and Supersonic Silver, it has the kind of curb appeal that makes people stop and stare.
But the X500 isn’t just a pretty face. Underneath its retro skin lies a 500cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine pushing out 47 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 46 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Paired with a six-speed gearbox, the engine offers smooth, lively performance that’s equally at home weaving through traffic or cruising down open roads. Weighing in at 208 kg with an approachable seat height of 820 mm, it strikes a balance between stability and agility—ideal for both new riders and seasoned commuters.
Tech and Comfort Rolled Into One
The X500 doesn’t shy away from modern features. Its semi-digital instrument cluster gives you everything you need at a glance, including speed, RPMs, and trip info. Safety is also top-notch with dual-channel ABS, dual 320mm front disc brakes, and beefy 50mm upside-down forks that help absorb road bumps with ease. With mileage around 20.6 kmpl and a practical 260 km range, this bike is built for real-world riding—be it daily commutes or spontaneous weekend getaways.
Could This Be Harley’s Big Comeback?
What truly makes the X500 a game-changer is its price-to-performance ratio. For thousands less than Harley’s Nightster or competitors like the Rebel 500, it offers similar—or better—performance and street style. That Harley badge alone carries a certain legendary weight, and now it’s accessible to more riders than ever. Sure, the QJ Motor connection has stirred debate among brand loyalists, but for many, the trade-off is worth it for the savings and ride quality.
On social media, riders are already calling it a “budget beast” and “perfect first Harley.” And while its parallel-twin engine can’t quite replicate the classic American V-twin rumble, it more than makes up for it in efficiency, affordability, and agility.
When Will It Hit U.S. Roads?
Harley-Davidson hasn’t officially confirmed a U.S. release, but clues like a leaked 2024 owner’s manual and rising international interest suggest that an American debut could be just around the corner—possibly at EICMA or a major U.S. motorcycle show. If all goes well, we could see deliveries by late 2025.
Built in China to keep costs down, the X500 could also benefit from attractive financing options, especially for Harley-Davidson Riding Academy graduates. If it lands near the $6,000 mark, this bike could truly become the gateway to Harley’s world for thousands of new riders.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to ride a Harley without breaking the bank, keep your eyes on the X500. It might just be the motorcycle that changes everything.