There’s a good expression I often use. “Those who know history are doomed to repeat it by those who do not”. The infamous Buell Blast 500 from 2000 to 2009 was the laughing stock of motorcycles. With just 34hp and weighting 375lbs, it seemingly couldn’t get out of it’s own shadow. Now Harley-Davidson‘s introduces it first 2027 motorcycle model, with just 27hp weight 412lb arrives; the 2027 Harley-Davidson Sprint 440. You did catch that right? It’s worse in both than the “B-last” ever was. Heavier by 37lbs and gets 7hp less. If you didn’t do a faceplant just now, then I can’t help you.
The good news is it has “a final assembly at the Harley-Davidson Vehicle Operations in York, Pennsylvania”. Hmmm, maybe that’s corporate speak for “it’s not really built in the USA” then? Maybe the actual good news is it isn’t available in the USA…yet. But you can buy it for $9000 in Canada and 4,995 GBP in England and Europe if you really, really, really wanted one. But I’d caution you against rushing out without seeing what the competition has on offer for their 400-500cc bikes for $9,000. Not long ago, the 2022 Sportster Iron 883 was $12,499 Canadian ($10,749 USD), yes, $3500 more but a buyer got a whole lot more bike for that cash. (I thought it was always a dumb idea to discontinue the affordable 883/1200 Sportster series myself).
So where does that leave the 2027 Harley-Davidson Sprint 440? And it is true the Buell Blast 2.0 is Back for 2027? Well, time will tell on that front honestly, but it’s not looking like a good start if history is a guide and if you are old enough to remember the Buell Blast 500, then you’ll be doomed to repeat the experience with all us older riders.
Ok, ok, but there must be a reason H-D released the Harley-Davidson Sprint 440 right? I’ll let H-D tell you that:
The new Harley-Davidson Sprint™ 440 motorcycle is an invitation to experience the freedom and fun of motorcycling – to make every ride a JOYRIDE. The lightweight Harley-Davidson Sprint 440 model combines a narrow profile and low seat height, a spirited single-cylinder engine and modern rider technology that makes every ride more accessible and every mile more fun.
But I’m suspecting, with Indian Motorcycle being sold off to a venture capital company, Honda not releasing any more cruisers, Yamaha not releasing anymore, Kawasaki’s has a few older models kicking around and Suzuki has been quiet if the 2027 Boulevard’s are returning, the cruiser market, which appeals to ever growing older riders, might have hit a speed bump. Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle really only make cruisers… see where this is going? I like cruisers too and would miss that style of motorcycle. They need something to add to their lines and I doubt it will be eBikes and Livewires after that crash and 3rd degree burn experience.
But even if it’s for fun, check out the new 2027 Harley-Davidson Sprint 440 here at Total Motorcycle and all our 2027 Motorcycle Reviews, it’s not a bad looking motorcycle really and does come in some nice cool colors.
Keep it light, keep it fun. Originally introduced in 1961, the Sprint™ welcomed a new generation of riders to Harley-Davidson. 65 years later, the all-new 2027 Harley-Davidson® Sprint™ 440 is here, with classic cruiser styling, easy handling, rider-focused technology, and fuel-efficient, torque-rich, single-cylinder power that maximizes enjoyment and excitement. Built for anything and fun for everyone, the Sprint™ 440 makes every ride more accessible and every mile more exciting.
Michael Le Pard (“Mr. Totalmotorcycle”) is the Founder of Total Motorcycle, the world’s largest motorcycle information site, trusted by over 430 million riders since 1999. With over 34 years of experience in motorcycles, gear and rider culture, he has built a global community dedicated to empowering and inspiring motorcyclists.
Total Motorcycle remains his passion project. Combining expert research, hands‑on knowledge and a commitment to helping riders make informed decisions about bikes, gear and safety worldwide.
