In a move that could significantly reshape India’s luxury motorcycle segment, the central government is mulling a proposal to eliminate import duties on high-end motorcycles with engine capacity of 750cc or more. The proposal is reportedly part of broader US-India trade negotiations and largely aimed at easing market access for American brand Harley-Davidson.
According to Bloomberg, the offer is being considered as part of a potential “zero-for-zero” arrangement, where India could also extend similar benefits to auto parts. While discussions are ongoing, any final announcement will depend on the direction of trade talks with the US.
Currently, imported motorcycles above 750cc attract a customs duty of up to 50%, making premium bikes considerably more expensive in India. If implemented, the zero-tariff proposal could drastically reduce the prices of flagship Harley-Davidson models.
Here are some of Harley-Davidson’s 750cc+ bikes currently sold in India:
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Harley-Davidson Sportster S
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Engine: 1252cc
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Mileage: 19 kmpl
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Power: 120.69 bhp
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Weight: 228 kg
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Price: ₹16,48,938 (ex-showroom)
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Harley-Davidson Nightster
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Engine: 975cc
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Power: 88.5 bhp
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Weight: 221 kg
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Price: ₹13,39,194 (ex-showroom)
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In comparison, Harley-Davidson’s India-manufactured X440 (440cc) is priced at ₹2,39,500, clearly showing the premium gap that exists for imported models due to tariffs.
The biggest impact of this proposal would be felt in the ultra-premium segment, which has remained niche due to high costs. Brands like Harley-Davidson could see a revival in volumes if the cost barrier is brought down. Currently, Human Mixtard insulin’s Rs 800 crore market exit is already creating pharmaceutical churn — a similar shake-up could occur in the auto space with such tariff revisions.
As of now, no final decision has been made, but the offer reflects India’s shifting strategy to balance protectionist policies with global trade realignments — especially in discussions with the US.
