Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp are set to take their partnership beyond India, with reports suggesting the companies are exploring the joint development and production of entry-level performance motorcycles and cruisers for global markets. The move marks the next phase of a collaboration that has already produced the Harley-Davidson X440 and Hero Mavrick 440.
According to reports, the expanded alliance will focus on building smaller-displacement Harley-Davidson motorcycles in India that can be sold not only domestically but also across emerging and international markets. India is expected to serve as the manufacturing hub, leveraging Hero MotoCorp’s production capabilities and supply chain expertise.
The partnership comes as Harley-Davidson looks to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional heavyweight motorcycle lineup. The American motorcycle maker has outlined a product-led growth strategy that includes launching around 20 new models and variants over the next three years, with a stronger focus on attracting younger and first-time premium motorcycle buyers.
Industry sources indicate that one of the upcoming products could be the Harley-Davidson Sprint, expected to arrive later this year, with additional motorcycles likely to follow. Some of these models could also become the first Hero-built Harley-Davidson motorcycles to be exported from India to global markets.
Harley-Davidson described Hero MotoCorp as an important strategic partner and reiterated its commitment to working together to expand access to the Harley-Davidson brand in key markets. Hero MotoCorp CEO Harshavardhan Chitale has also confirmed that additional Harley-Davidson-branded launches are planned during the current financial year, although specific details remain under wraps.
The development further strengthens Hero MotoCorp’s premium motorcycle ambitions. The company has been investing in its premium portfolio, expanding its exclusive retail network and positioning its Neemrana facility in Rajasthan as a key manufacturing base for higher-capacity motorcycles. Premium products, including the Harley-Davidson X440, have contributed to growth in Hero’s premium segment, with the Harley portfolio recording strong dispatch growth in FY26.
For Harley-Davidson, the partnership offers a cost-effective way to enter fast-growing premium motorcycle segments globally. The company exited manufacturing operations in India in 2020 before signing a licensing and distribution agreement with Hero MotoCorp. Since then, the alliance has helped Harley-Davidson establish a stronger foothold in India’s mid-capacity motorcycle market through products tailored for local consumers.
