Harley X440 vs Guerrilla 450
The retro-roadster segment in India has exploded with exciting options, and two standout contenders battling for supremacy are the Harley-Davidson X440 and the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450. The X440 represents American cruiser heritage made accessible, while the Guerrilla 450 brings Royal Enfield’s modern performance approach to the roadster category. Both motorcycles target riders seeking style, character, and everyday usability wrapped in distinctive retro aesthetics. This comprehensive 2025 comparison will help you choose your perfect retro companion.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Retro Roadster Segment
The ex-showroom price of Harley-Davidson X440 is ₹2,39,500 across variants ranging from ₹2.40 lakh to ₹2.80 lakh depending on trim level. The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has been launched in India priced considerably lower than the Harley-Davidson X440, making it competitive on value.
Out of 31 user reviews, X440 scores 4.7 whereas comparable bikes tally 4.4 out of 5 based on user reviews. According to our average user rating, Harley-Davidson X440 has a score of 4.8/5, showing exceptional owner satisfaction. These motorcycles compete in the hottest 400-500cc retro-styled roadster segment alongside the Triumph Speed 400 and Hero Mavrick 440.
Design Philosophy: American Heritage vs British Performance
Harley-Davidson X440 – Iconic Cruiser DNA
The Harley-Davidson X440 showcases classic American cruiser design with premium touches that immediately identify its heritage. From shiny metal body panels, to premium USD fork, and diamond cut alloys, and a much better looking fully digital instrument console – you name it, and you have it.
Harley Davidson X440 is available in 7 different colours providing extensive personalization options. The design includes iconic elements like the peanut-shaped fuel tank, teardrop styling cues, and attention to detail that reflects Harley’s 120+ years of motorcycle craftsmanship. I chose this bike because I always liked Harley but could not buy old ones. X440 was in my price. It looked cool and strong.
The overall aesthetic prioritizes timeless appeal with chrome accents, quality finishes, and the unmistakable Harley character scaled appropriately for the Indian market. The 18-inch front wheel adds to the classic cruiser proportions.
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 – Modern Roadster Edge
The new Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has the biggest engine displacement of all the four roadsters in this segment. The design language is contemporary roadster with muscular stance, sharp lines, and aggressive proportions. The styling emphasizes performance and versatility rather than pure cruiser heritage.
The Guerrilla boasts the four bikes’ widest tyres, which could make it more stable. The design successfully bridges Royal Enfield’s heritage with modern performance expectations, creating a distinctive identity separate from the Classic range. The overall appearance is youthful, dynamic, and purpose-built for spirited riding.
Engine Performance: Torque vs Power
Harley-Davidson X440 Character Engine
The power and torque of X440 stand at 27.37 PS and 38 Nm respectively. The Hero-developed 440cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled mill produces 27 bhp and 38 Nm in the X440. The engine character is torque-heavy by design, making it ideal for relaxed cruising and city riding.
The engine delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, providing effortless acceleration from traffic lights and confident overtaking ability. The power delivery is smooth, predictable, and accessible – characteristics that make the X440 suitable for riders of all experience levels. Engine gives good power according to satisfied owners.
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Superior Output
However, its power output is almost at par with that of the Speed 400, making the Guerrilla considerably more powerful than the X440. The 450cc engine in the Guerrilla produces significantly more horsepower than the 440cc mill, providing stronger performance across the rev range.
The Guerrilla’s engine is designed for performance with emphasis on higher rev capability and stronger top-end power. This makes it more suitable for highway riding, spirited backroad carving, and riders seeking engaging performance. The power advantage translates to quicker acceleration and higher top speed capability.
Weight and Handling Dynamics
Harley-Davidson X440 weighs 190.5 kg while the Hero Mavrick 440 on the same platform is heavier at 191 kg. The X440’s weight distribution favors stability and planted feel during cruising. The 18-inch front wheel provides better stability on highways and absorbs road imperfections more effectively.
The Hero Mavrick 440 is the lightest roadster in the group at 191kg, while the Guerrilla’s weight falls in the middle range. The Guerrilla 450 has the longest wheelbase of the four bikes, that paired with the wider wheels should make it feel more stable on the straight roads.
The handling characteristics differ significantly – the X440 prioritizes comfortable, relaxed riding with easy maneuverability at low speeds. The Guerrilla emphasizes sharper handling and more engaging dynamics for spirited riding.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
The Hero Mavrick 440 Mileage is around 32 kmpl, while the Harley Davidson X440 Mileage is around 35 kmpl. Harley-Davidson X440 has a claimed mileage of 35kmpl, the X440 should offer the most range among competitors. With the biggest fuel tanks in the lot and 35 kmpl claimed mileage, the X440 provides excellent touring range.
While Hero hasn’t specified the claimed mileage of comparable bikes, they should be similar or close to that of the X440. The Guerrilla’s fuel efficiency figures haven’t been extensively reported but are expected to be competitive given Royal Enfield’s focus on real-world usability.
Suspension and Ride Quality
The Speed 400 and the X440 have inverted forks, which give these two roadsters a more premium appeal. The X440 features 43mm USD forks providing excellent damping and premium feel. The twin-shock rear suspension with preload adjustability ensures comfortable ride quality over varied road conditions.
The Guerrilla and the Mavrick have a conventional fork, but the Guerrilla 450 has a longer front wheel travel of the two. The longer suspension travel on the Guerrilla provides better bump absorption and more confidence over broken roads. All roadsters have preload adjustability on the rear suspension.
Ride quality differs between these motorcycles – the X440 offers a plush, comfortable ride suitable for long-distance touring and two-up riding. Riding is smooth and happy. I go to office and also on small trips. The seat is nice according to owners.
Features and Technology Battle
Harley-Davidson X440 Premium Tech
The X440 features a fully digital TFT instrument console that’s visually appealing and easy to read. Both offer Bluetooth connectivity, including call alerts and navigation available in top-end variants. The X440 and Mavrick have turn-by-turn navigation making them practical for exploring new routes.
All the bikes in this comparison have LED lighting all around. The X440 includes keyless ignition on higher variants, adding convenience for daily use. The overall feature package prioritizes essential connectivity and rider information without overwhelming complexity.
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Feature Leader
The new Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is the most feature-rich bike in this comparison. Its mid-top variant features a 5-inch round TFT display along with smartphone connectivity, call and music control and integrated Google Maps. The Guerrilla 450 has two riding modes: Power & Eco, allowing riders to optimize performance or efficiency.
The comprehensive feature list positions the Guerrilla as the technology leader in this segment, appealing to riders who prioritize modern connectivity and convenience features.
Braking Performance
Comparing the braking setup, the X440 and the Mavrick have a 320mm front disc, which is bigger than the other two competitors. The larger front disc provides stronger braking power and better modulation. The Guerrilla has the biggest rear disc at 270mm among competitors. All the bikes here have dual-channel ABS ensuring safe braking in all conditions.
Dimensions and Practicality
All the bikes have 17-inch wheels, except the X440, which has an 18-inch front wheel contributing to its cruiser character and highway stability. The Guerrilla 450 has the longest wheelbase of the four bikes providing straight-line stability. It also has the lowest seat height which should make it more accessible for shorter riders.
The X440 and competitors have the biggest fuel tanks of the lot, providing excellent touring range. The substantial fuel capacity combined with excellent fuel efficiency makes the X440 particularly suitable for long-distance riding.
Which Retro Roadster Should You Choose?
Choose Harley-Davidson X440 If
You want authentic American cruiser heritage and character. The iconic Harley-Davidson brand appeals to your identity. Superior fuel efficiency of 35 kmpl matters for touring. Premium USD forks and quality finishes justify higher cost. The 18-inch front wheel and classic proportions appeal. Comfortable, relaxed riding position suits your style. Strong low-end torque for city riding is priority. Turn-by-turn navigation adds convenience. You appreciate the peanut tank and timeless design. The 7 color options provide personalization. Exceptional user rating of 4.7-4.8/5 provides confidence. You want a bike for daily rides and weekend fun trips. The distinctive exhaust note adds character.
Choose Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 If
You prioritize maximum power and performance. The larger 450cc engine provides stronger acceleration. Most feature-rich package with 5-inch TFT display appeals. Integrated Google Maps and smartphone connectivity matter. Two riding modes (Power & Eco) add versatility. Lower price point provides better value. Longest wheelbase ensures highway stability. Lowest seat height suits shorter riders. Widest tyres provide maximum grip and stability. You want modern roadster styling over classic cruiser. The Royal Enfield brand heritage resonates. Better real-world performance for spirited riding. Longer front suspension travel handles rough roads better.
The Final Verdict
Both the Harley-Davidson X440 and Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 represent compelling options in the retro-roadster segment, though they cater to distinctly different rider personalities and priorities.
The Harley-Davidson X440 delivers authentic American cruiser character with premium finishes, exceptional fuel efficiency, comfortable ergonomics, and the iconic Harley heritage. The exceptional user ratings of 4.7-4.8/5 demonstrate high owner satisfaction. It’s perfect for riders seeking relaxed, comfortable transportation with distinctive style and the pride of Harley-Davidson ownership. The bike does not get hot. It moves well in traffic too. My legs does not hurt according to satisfied owners.
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 provides superior performance with its larger engine, most comprehensive feature package, and modern roadster dynamics. The lower pricing makes it excellent value, while the technology leadership appeals to connectivity-focused riders. It’s ideal for riders prioritizing performance, features, and engaging riding dynamics over pure heritage appeal.
As per the users experiences these bikes excel in different areas. If authentic cruiser character, superior fuel efficiency, premium finishes, and Harley heritage matter most, choose the X440. If maximum performance, comprehensive features, and better value are priorities, select the Guerrilla 450.
Visit dealerships, test ride both motorcycles extensively, and honestly assess your riding style and priorities. The X440 is for those who ride with their heart, appreciating heritage and character. The Guerrilla 450 is for riders who prioritize performance and features. Either choice provides exceptional quality and capabilities in India’s exciting retro-roadster segment. Both represent the evolution of accessible premium motorcycling in India.
