The freedom a bike can bring is incredible. That feeling you get when you glide down the road, wind in your hair, and escape into the grandeur of America’s natural landscapes is unforgettable—and it can’t be replicated any other way.
Royal Enfield and Harley-Davidson are two brands known for their motorcycles. They have each seen unimaginable success worldwide and right here in Cherry Hill, NJ; Wilmington, DE; and Philadelphia, PA.
But which brand has the better bikes—and maybe your next new motorcycle? Find out as our team at Quaker City Motor Sport compares the two brands and their latest offerings.
Learn more about how individual models compare when you follow the links on this page!
Royal Enfield vs Harley-Davidson: History
Harley-Davidson and Royal Enfield are storied brands—and, as it turns out, about the same age. While the former is American and the latter is Indian, they both got their start around the turn of the century—the 20th century, that is.
Harley-Davidson was founded in 1903 by William S. Harley and not one, not two, but three Davidson brothers: Walter, Arthur, and William. (It was Harley who had the idea for the motorcycle, and that’s why his named earned top billing!)
Royal Enfield was formed ten years earlier in 1893, under the name Enfield Manufacturing. Founded by Albert Eadie and Robert Walker Smith, it created its first motorcycle by fitting a Minerva engine on a regular old bicycle.
Both brands would go on to roaring success, supplying the Allies with motorcycles during the First and Second World Wars and becoming icons around the world.
Royal Enfield vs Harley-Davidson Bikes
But enough about history. What motorcycles will you find in these brands’ lineups today? Harley-Davidson and Royal Enfield offer diverse selections of bikes.
Royal Enfield currently has four model families for its motorcycles: Meteor, INT650, Continental GT, and Himalayan. Respectively, these models are a cruiser, a retro-style roadster, a café racer, and an adventure touring bike.
Harley-Davidson also features a vast lineup with the above types of motorbikes as well as many others. Popular model families include the:
- LiveWire (electric)
- Iron (street)
- Road Glide (touring)
- Pan America (adventure touring)
In recent years, Royal Enfield has moved ahead to sell more motorcycles globally than Harley-Davidson. The brand is betting its stylish, low-cost bikes have a broad appeal in markets traditionally dominated by the iconic American brand. Time will tell who comes out on top.
Learn more about Royal Enfield with our library of Royal Enfield Bike Reviews!
Is Royal Enfield better than Harley-Davidson?
This is one question we’ll let you answer yourself. Read our comparisons on this page and discover which is the best Royal Enfield or Harley-Davidson motorcycle for you. Feel free to browse our inventory online as well.
Here, you’ll find new and used Royal Enfield bikes as well as pre-owned Harley-Davidson bikes. On the streets of Philadelphia, PA; Wilmington, DE; and Cherry Hill, NJ, you have options.
Set up your test ride today at Quaker City Motor Sport. Spend some time on the road, and you’ll know whether it’s the bike you’ve been waiting for!