Having recently released the X350, it was only a matter of time before we saw the emergence of the X500 that was hinted at in multiple paper filings.
As of today, that X500 is officially out and about, showing off a primed set of power specs for Chinese markets… and a decidedly nice neo-retro aesthetic to accompany the trifecta of livery schemes in Dazzling Black, Vibrant Orange, and Bright Silver.
Per our previous coverage of this beastie, the X500 claims the same liquid-cooled heart as that of the Benelli Leoncino 500, a parallel twin sporting 47 pretty ponies kicking out 34lb-ft of torque at 6,000rpm.
All of the above channels through a six-speed gearbox to make a very nice 48.45 miles per gallon, if the reports are correct.
The power specs are accompanied by a rather sparse componentry package, with LED brights at the front/rear, ABS, and what Punya Sharma from Top Speed calls an analog instrument cluster with “a puny digital inset.”
… Not that bigger is better, but you’d think the collaborative efforts would zoom in on the electronics, given the lean of today’s moto markets.
Moving on.
The X500 also has a trellis frame, which rolls out on 17-inch alloy wheels featuring adjustable upside-down forks (and monoshock). Brakes come via dual front calipers and a single rear piece.
All told, the bike purportedly has a 153mm ground clearance, which translates to an 820mm seat height – oh, and it’s coming to eat its contenders, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Honda CL500, for dinner.
We’re still not sure if this bike will make it to dinner, but the jury will remain out until we see this thing in person.
What do you think of the all-new Harley X Qj X500?