Hero MotoCorp has capitalised on Harley Davidson's exit from the Indian market. The brand will handle Harley-Davidson bike sales and service across the country as per their agreement. Hero is also in charge of the network expansion of Harley-Davidson dealerships.
The Hero-Harley collaboration also includes the development of entirely new motorcycles. Hero MotoCorp's CFO has now confirmed the first of these new products. Hero-Harley will also target the premium segment besides the mass-market products. In collaboration with Harley, an entirely new platform is also being developed.
Hero-Harley 350cc motorcycle is currently in the final stages of development. The new product must be excellent, as it has been nearly impossible to dent the popularity of Royal Enfield motorcycles. The Harley nameplate may be helpful, but it is too early to make predictions.
At the moment, few details about the bike are available. It will have a retro profile and Harley-signature Davidson's design aesthetics. The new bike will be sold through the Harley dealer network to avoid being labelled as a cheap rip-off of a Harley.
Royal Enfield maintains its market share of more than 80%. OEMs such as Triumph and Bajaj are expected to launch products in the 350cc segment in the future.
Hero is expanding its portfolio besides the new 350cc bike. The Xpulse 400 and Xtreme 400S are among the most anticipated. These motorcycles were seen testing on the road earlier this year. These new bikes could be powered by a 421cc engine with a max power output of around 40 bhp.
The faired version will target rivals like BMW G310RR and TVS Apache RR310. The ADV will lock horns with BMW G310GS, KTM 390 Adventure, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and Yezdi Adventure.