Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp are reportedly exploring a broader collaboration that could see jointly developed entry-level motorcycles manufactured in India and sold in international markets. The move would build on the existing partnership between the two companies, which has already resulted in products such as the Harley-Davidson X440 and Hero Mavrick 440.
The companies are working on additional models aimed at strengthening their presence in the premium motorcycle segment. One of the upcoming products is expected to be the Harley-Davidson Sprint, which is likely to debut later this year. More motorcycles could follow as part of the partnership’s future product roadmap.
Harley-Davidson, responding to queries regarding the collaboration, said Hero MotoCorp remains an important strategic partner and reiterated its intention to expand access to the brand in key markets. However, the company did not disclose specific details about future products or export plans.
Hero MotoCorp CEO Harshavardhan Chitale recently confirmed that more Harley-Davidson-branded motorcycles are scheduled for launch during the current financial year. He added that while the current focus remains on product development, any decision to sell these motorcycles outside India would ultimately be taken by Harley-Davidson based on market suitability.
The development aligns with Harley-Davidson’s recently announced product-led growth strategy. The American motorcycle manufacturer has outlined plans to introduce around 20 new models and variants over the next three years, largely based on existing platforms, in an effort to attract new customers and improve sales performance.
Globally, Harley-Davidson has faced declining retail volumes over the past several years, prompting the company to focus on expanding its product portfolio and improving market reach. Leveraging India as a manufacturing and development hub through its partnership with Hero MotoCorp could support these objectives.
For Hero MotoCorp, the collaboration forms part of its broader premium motorcycle strategy. The company is investing in dedicated premium manufacturing operations at its Neemrana facility in Rajasthan and expanding its premium retail network across the country. Harley-Davidson products are expected to play a key role in strengthening Hero’s position in higher-capacity motorcycle segments.
Harley-Davidson exited manufacturing operations in India in 2020 and subsequently entered into a licensing and distribution agreement with Hero MotoCorp. The partnership covers sales, service, parts distribution and the joint development of motorcycles for the Indian market.
The Harley-Davidson X440 was the first motorcycle to emerge from this collaboration and has since been joined by the Hero Mavrick 440, which shares its platform and core mechanical components. Together, the two motorcycles have helped Hero establish a presence in the growing mid-capacity motorcycle segment, where it now competes with established players such as Royal Enfield and Bajaj Auto.
If export plans materialise, the partnership could mark the next phase of the Harley-Davidson-Hero MotoCorp alliance, positioning India as a key manufacturing base for select Harley-Davidson motorcycles aimed at both domestic and international markets.
