The mid-size cruiser segment in India is heating up as two major global motorcycle brands prepare to go head-to-head — Kawasaki with its Eliminator 400 and Harley-Davidson with the X500. Priced under ₹5 lakh, these two cruisers are poised to redefine the segment, long dominated by Royal Enfield and a handful of Japanese models. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these bikes stack up and what they bring to the Indian motorcycling scene.
Kawasaki Eliminator 400 vs Harley-Davidson X500: Engine & Performance
The Kawasaki Eliminator 400 packs a 399cc parallel-twin engine derived from the acclaimed Ninja 400. It churns out around 47 hp and 37 Nm of torque, offering a high-revving, refined performance ideal for spirited city rides and weekend highway cruising. Its 6-speed gearbox, paired with a slipper clutch, adds to the rider-friendly nature.
In contrast, the Harley-Davidson X500 features a 500cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor co-developed with China’s QJMotor. It delivers a similar 47.5 hp but significantly more torque at 46 Nm. This setup supports relaxed, torque-heavy cruising — a signature Harley trait.
| Feature | Kawasaki Eliminator 400 | Harley-Davidson X500 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 399cc parallel-twin | 500cc liquid-cooled twin |
| Power | ~47 hp | ~47.5 hp |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 46 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slipper clutch | 6-speed |
| Riding Style | Sporty cruiser | Classic cruiser |
Design Philosophy and Styling
Kawasaki leans toward a modern aesthetic. The Eliminator 400 boasts a minimalist look with sharp lines, a stretched-out wheelbase, and low seat height. It’s clearly built for a younger audience — approachable, sleek, and ready for customization.
Harley-Davidson sticks to its roots. The X500 revives the styling language of the now-discontinued Street 500, complete with a round headlamp, chunky tank, and relaxed ergonomics. It’s built to appeal to traditional cruiser lovers looking for an authentic Harley vibe in a mid-size package.
Ride & Handling
Both motorcycles feature telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear, offering a balanced ride on typical Indian roads. However, Kawasaki is expected to have a weight advantage, which could make the Eliminator 400 more agile and easier to manage in city traffic.
The X500, being slightly heavier, offers a more planted feel — ideal for long-distance highway rides where stability matters more than flickability.
Features and Equipment
While neither bike overloads on tech, both offer essential modern touches:
- Dual-channel ABS
- LED lighting
- Digital instrument cluster
- Slipper clutch (Eliminator only)
These features ensure a balance between modern functionality and affordability, keeping the focus on the riding experience.
Pricing and Market Position
The Harley-Davidson X500 is expected to retail around ₹4.70 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. Meanwhile, the Kawasaki Eliminator 400 could launch at approximately ₹4.50 lakh, giving it a slight edge in pricing.
Both sit just under the ₹5 lakh mark — a price point that is increasingly appealing to Indian enthusiasts looking for an upgrade from entry-level bikes without stretching into big-bike territory.
Why This Rivalry Matters
This face-off is more than a comparison of specs. It’s a clash of ideologies. Kawasaki brings its sportbike expertise into the cruiser space, offering a machine that’s agile, responsive, and youthful. Harley-Davidson, on the other hand, delivers a cruiser with heritage appeal, comfort, and timeless design.
Their competition promises to shake up the segment, offering real alternatives to Royal Enfield’s dominance and injecting fresh excitement into the Indian mid-size cruiser market.
As both brands fight for the attention of young professionals and first-time premium bike buyers, expect this rivalry to reshape the sub-₹5 lakh motorcycle landscape.
FAQs
Which bike is more powerful: Eliminator 400 or X500?
Both offer similar horsepower (~47 hp), but the Harley X500 delivers more torque (46 Nm vs. 37 Nm).
Is the Eliminator 400 launching in India soon?
While not officially confirmed, Kawasaki is expected to launch the Eliminator 400 in India in the near future.
Which bike is better for city riding?
The Eliminator 400, with its lighter build and nimble handling, is likely more city-friendly.
Do both bikes offer dual-channel ABS?
Yes, both come with dual-channel ABS as standard.
Which one is more affordable?
The Eliminator 400 is expected to be slightly cheaper at around ₹4.50 lakh (ex-showroom), compared to the X500’s estimated ₹4.70 lakh.
