Harley-Davidson X500: Ever dreamed of owning a Harley but felt intimidated by their size or price tag? The Harley-Davidson X500 might just be your ticket to joining the iconic American brand’s family. This LAMS-approved motorcycle combines Harley’s legendary status with approachable performance, making it an ideal entry point for riders looking to experience the thrill of owning a Harley without being overwhelmed. Let’s dive into what makes this bike special and why it might be the perfect choice for both novice and experienced riders alike.
Engine Performance and Riding Experience
The heart of the X500 is its impressive 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers a respectable 47.5 PS of power and 46 Nm of torque peaking at 6000 rpm. While purists might note it’s not the traditional V-twin Harley is known for, this parallel-twin configuration offers a smooth and enthusiastic ride that’s perfect for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike.
What’s particularly impressive about this engine is how it balances performance with accessibility. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it manageable for newer riders while still providing enough punch to keep experienced motorcyclists entertained. As one reviewer put it, “banging through the six-speed box to keep the X on the boil and delivering the juice is about as entertaining as it gets”.
The six-speed transmission shifts smoothly with a positive action, and finding neutral at traffic lights is a breeze. The clutch feels light and progressive, ideal for both beginner and experienced riders. This combination makes the X500 equally at home carving through city traffic or cruising on open highways.
Comfort and Ergonomics
One of the X500’s standout features is its comfort level – surprisingly good even on longer rides. The bike features an upright riding position with a relaxed reach to the high and wide handlebars. Your feet rest comfortably on mid-mounted footpegs, and there’s plenty of room to move around on the seat.
The seat height of 820mm strikes a good balance – not too intimidating for shorter riders while still comfortable for taller ones. Most riders will find it easy to plant both feet firmly on the ground, which is a confidence booster, especially for those new to motorcycling.
The riding position is more laid-back compared to its sportier X350 sibling, with your body positioned farther back on the bike and feet more forward. This relaxed ergonomic setup contributes significantly to the bike’s all-day rideability – a crucial factor for those planning longer journeys or daily commutes.
Handling and Suspension
Despite its 208kg wet weight, which might sound intimidating on paper, the X500 carries its mass remarkably well. The bike is beautifully balanced, making it surprisingly manageable even at lower speeds1. The wide handlebars provide excellent leverage for maneuvering through traffic, though they can occasionally hinder progress when lane splitting in heavy urban congestion.
The suspension setup is impressive for this price point. The X500 comes equipped with chunky 50mm USD front forks featuring preload and rebound damping adjustment. The rear monoshock includes an easily accessible remote preload adjuster and rebound adjustment. This level of adjustability is uncommon in this category and allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their weight and riding style.
The standard suspension settings handle a variety of road conditions well, with controlled fork dive during braking and good compliance over bumpy surfaces. The Maxxis tires provide reliable grip in both dry and wet conditions, inspiring confidence regardless of the weather.
Design and Build Quality
The X500 makes a statement with its muscular bodywork and commanding road presence. While it maintains a boxy silhouette, the bike exudes sophistication through chrome detailing and premium aesthetics. The front features sleek LED lighting, and the overall design strikes a balance between modern styling and classic Harley-Davidson elements.
The build quality feels solid, reflecting Harley’s understanding that reliability and construction are essential factors for attracting new customers to the brand. The X500 is positioned as a stepping stone to long-term Harley-Davidson ownership, and the company has ensured the bike meets the quality standards expected of the iconic American brand.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, parallel twin cylinder |
| Displacement | 500 cc |
| Max Power | 47.5 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 46 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Kerb Weight | 208 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 liters |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| Front Suspension | 50mm USD fork, adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, adjustable |
| Front Brake | Dual disc, 4-piston calipers |
| Mileage | 20.6 kmpl |
Braking and Safety
The braking system on the X500 is particularly impressive for its class. The front end features twin discs with radial-mounted four-piston calipers, while the rear uses a single-piston caliper gripping a 260mm disc6. This setup provides strong stopping power with excellent feel at the lever.
Both the brake and clutch levers are span-adjustable, allowing riders to customize the control positioning to their hand size. The ABS system is well-calibrated, intervening only when necessary and providing an additional safety net without being intrusive.
In terms of safety features, the X500 comes equipped with ABS as standard, though it doesn’t offer the more advanced riding aids found on higher-end motorcycles. This simplicity might actually be preferable for newer riders who are still developing their skills without the complexity of multiple riding modes and traction control systems.
Technology and Features
The X500 offers a semi-digital instrument console featuring a digital speedometer, trip meter, odometer, fuel level indicator, and gear position indicator. The display provides all the essential information without overwhelming the rider with unnecessary data.
The lighting system is fully LED, providing excellent visibility both day and night. Other notable features include:
- Adjustable suspension for personalized setup
- Span-adjustable levers for comfort
- Wide handlebars for improved control
- Comfortable seating position for long rides
While the X500 doesn’t boast the advanced technology packages of premium motorcycles, it offers all the essential features riders need without unnecessary complications. This approach aligns perfectly with its positioning as an accessible entry point to the Harley-Davidson brand.
Value Proposition and Competition
With an estimated price of around ₹6 lakh in India (approximately $7,100), the X500 positions itself as a premium offering in the middleweight segment. While this places it above competitors like the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650, the Harley-Davidson badge carries significant brand value that many riders are willing to pay for.
The X500 competes with bikes like the Kawasaki Vulcan S, Benelli Leoncino 500, and Royal Enfield’s 650cc offerings. Each has its strengths, but the X500’s unique selling proposition is clear – it offers entry into the prestigious Harley-Davidson family at a relatively accessible price point.
For many riders, the opportunity to own a Harley-Davidson represents more than just purchasing a motorcycle; it’s joining a community and lifestyle with deep historical roots. The X500 makes this dream attainable for a broader audience.
Conclusion
The Harley-Davidson X500 successfully bridges the gap between the brand’s premium image and accessibility for newer or budget-conscious riders. With its balanced performance, comfortable ergonomics, quality construction, and thoughtful features, it delivers an authentic Harley experience in a more manageable package.
Whether you’re a novice rider looking to start your motorcycling journey with an iconic brand or an experienced enthusiast seeking a practical daily rider with the Harley badge, the X500 offers a compelling proposition. It may not be the traditional Harley V-twin experience, but it provides a genuine gateway into the brand’s world that many riders will appreciate. As one reviewer aptly put it, this bike is “the real deal and is an absolute blast to rip on with the chops to also do the daily grind while you learn your craft”1.
FAQs About the Harley-Davidson X500
1. Is the Harley-Davidson X500 suitable for beginner riders?
Yes, the X500 is LAMS-approved and designed with newer riders in mind. Its predictable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and well-balanced chassis make it accessible, though new riders should still respect its 208kg weight and 47.5 PS power output.
2. How does the X500’s parallel-twin engine compare to traditional Harley V-twins?
While it doesn’t deliver the iconic V-twin rumble, the X500’s parallel-twin offers smoother operation, especially at lower revs. It provides good torque throughout the rev range but can get buzzy at higher RPMs. It’s designed to be more accessible while still delivering an engaging riding experience.
3. What maintenance considerations should X500 owners keep in mind?
As a liquid-cooled engine, the X500 requires coolant checks and changes in addition to standard motorcycle maintenance. The 3.2-liter engine oil capacity should be monitored regularly, and the chain drive needs routine adjustment and lubrication unlike belt-driven Harleys.
4. How does the X500 handle highway cruising?
The X500 is comfortable at highway speeds above 100km/h and has enough power in reserve for overtaking. The upright riding position and well-designed seat make longer journeys comfortable, though some riders might want to consider a windscreen for extended highway use.
5. What customization options are available for the X500?
While Harley-Davidson hasn’t released an extensive accessories catalog specifically for the X500 yet, the bike’s popularity will likely lead to both official and aftermarket customization options. Many riders recommend performance-oriented tires as a first upgrade to enhance the bike’s handling capabilities.