Harley-Davidson X500 (2024+) Maintenance Schedule and Service Intervals
This is the maintenance schedule and associated service intervals for the Harley-Davidson X500. It’s the same as the schedule for all years of the X500 since its introduction, as the bike has consistently been based on the same 500cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine platform developed in partnership with Qianjiang (QJ Motor).
Here are all the motorcycles that share the same engine and major components:
- Harley-Davidson X500: standard/naked style roadster for global markets
- Benelli Leoncino 500: equivalent model in design and performance (not sold under the Harley name)
- Harley-Davidson X350: smaller displacement sibling based on the same chassis design and platform, with a 353cc twin engine
The X500 is powered by a 500cc DOHC eight-valve parallel twin engine making a claimed 47 hp at 8,500 rpm and 33.9 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. It has a six-speed transmission and chain final drive. Suspension consists of a 50 mm inverted front fork and a preload- and rebound-adjustable monoshock rear. ABS is standard.
It was first launched in China and is now sold in select markets including Australia, though it is not officially available in the US. Variants differ only in color and regional lighting/emissions equipment.
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Harley-Davidson X500 Service Intervals
The basic service interval for the Harley-Davidson X500 is roughly every 3,000-4,000 km or 2,000-2,500 mi. Valve clearance inspection is due every 15,000 miles / 25,000 km. This is a major service, as it requires removing the valve cover and rotating the crank to measure clearances on the eight-valve DOHC parallel twin. Engine layout is straightforward, and access to the spark plugs and oil filter is relatively open thanks to the trellis frame.
General Notes on Serviceability of the Harley-Davidson X500
- Valve clearance checks are due every 25,000 km, keeping ongoing service time and cost relatively low.
- Oil capacity is 3.0 L (with filter), and Harley recommends SYN-BLEND 15W50 engine oil for most riding conditions. Avoid mixing different brands or types of oil. Stick with Harley-Davidson-approved lubricants or diesel-rated oils (CH-4, CI-4, or CJ-4) if needed in a pinch.
- Chain maintenance should be performed every 1,000 km. Check tension, lubricate with appropriate chain lube, and adjust if needed. Neglecting this can lead to premature wear or drivetrain noise.
- Brake fluid is DOT 4 and should be flushed every two years or sooner if moisture content exceeds 3 percent. Pads and discs should be inspected regularly. Harley recommends checks at each 4,000 km interval.
- The radiator and cooling system are compact but efficient. Check coolant level regularly and replace coolant every 48,000 km. Use a high-quality pre-mixed coolant compatible with aluminum engine parts.
- After completing the final service interval, repeat the service schedule starting at the 8,000 km / 5,000 mi.
Harley-Davidson X500 2024 Maintenance Schedule Tables
This is the maintenance schedule for the Harley-Davidson X500. The information is taken from official owner’s manual on the Harley-Davidson service site (requires login) but reorganized here for clarity.
The schedule is divided into three main parts:
- Break-in service: Performed at 600 miles / 1,000 km at an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer.
- Regular checks maintenance: This includes tasks recommended every 3,000 – 4,000 km, such as light maintenance like cleaning, adjustments, and inspections.
- Periodic maintenance: This includes major items that occur less frequently, such as valve clearance inspection, spark plug replacement, and brake fluid replacement. These tasks often require more disassembly or specialized tools.
Break-in Service
The break-in service is usually carried out by the dealer under warranty. It should be completed at 600 miles / 1,000 km by an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer.
Notes:
- If riding in dusty conditions, the air filter service interval should be performed more frequently: the first service at 500 kilometers, followed by cleaning every 1,000 kilometers.
*Should be performed by an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer, unless you have the proper tools, service data and are mechanically qualified.
**Perform maintenance more frequently in severe riding conditions (extreme temperatures, dusty environments, mountainous or rough roads, long storage conditions, short runs, heavy stop/go traffic or poor fuel quality).
| Break-in Service for Harley-Davidson X500 |
|---|
| *Inspect and service fuel pipe (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| *Clean fuel filter |
| *Inspect and service throttle control (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| **Clean air filter. |
| *Inspect and service spark plug (clean, adjust, or replace) |
| **Change oil |
| **Replace oil filter |
| *Clean oil strainer |
| *Inspect and service cooling system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| * **Inspect and service drive chain (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| **Inspect and service braking system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| * **Inspect DOT4 rear brake fluid moisture content |
| *Inspect and service clutch system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| Lubricate jiffy stand |
| * **Inspect and service fasteners as needed (retighten or replace according to torque specifications) |
| **Inspect and service wheels and rims (clean, balance, or replace) |
| * **Inspect and service steering components (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
Regular Maintenance Checks
Do the following checks for the Harley-Davidson X500 at the following intervals – roughly every 3,000 – 4,000 km:
- 2,485 mi / 4,000 km
- 4,350 mi / 7,000 km
- 6,215 mi / 10,000 km
- 8,700 mi / 14,000 km
- 10,560 mi / 17,000 km
Special Notes:
- Drive chain maintenance: Inspecting and servicing drive chain (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) should be done more frequently – every 1,000 km. Harley-Davidson recommends having this completed by an authorized dealer if you don’t have the proper tools or qualifications.
- Air filter service: If riding in dusty conditions, the air filter service interval should be performed more frequently: the first service at 500 km, followed by cleaning every 1,000 km.
- Brake fluid: Inspect brake fluid moisture level and service. Flush brake systems and replace DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid every two years or sooner if moisture content is 3 percent or greater.
*Should be performed by an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer, unless you have the proper tools, service data and are mechanically qualified.
**Perform maintenance more frequently in severe riding conditions (extreme temperatures, dusty environments, mountainous or rough roads, long storage conditions, short runs, heavy stop/go traffic or poor fuel quality).
| Regular Maintenance for Harley-Davidson X500 |
|---|
| *Inspect and service fuel pipe (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| *Clean fuel filter |
| *Inspect and service throttle control (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| **Clean air filter |
| *Clean oil strainer |
| *Inspect and service cooling system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| * **Inspect and service drive chain (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| **Inspect and service braking system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| * **Inspect DOT4 rear brake fluid moisture content |
| *Inspect and service clutch system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) |
| Lubricate jiffy stand |
| * **Inspect and service fasteners as needed (retighten or replace according to torque specifications) |
| **Inspect and service wheels and rims (clean, balance, or replace) |
Periodic Maintenance
The following tasks are required less frequently, at longer intervals. Refer to the maintenance schedule table below for the recommended intervals.
Notes:
- Brake fluid service: Inspect brake fluid moisture level and service. Flush brake systems and replace DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid every two years or sooner if moisture content is 3 percent or greater.
*Should be performed by an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer, unless you have the proper tools, service data and are mechanically qualified.
**Perform maintenance more frequently in severe riding conditions (extreme temperatures, dusty environments, mountainous or rough roads, long storage conditions, short runs, heavy stop/go traffic or poor fuel quality).
| km x 1000 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 14 | 17 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| mi x 1000 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 6 | 9 | 10 |
| *Inspect and service spark plug (clean, adjust, or replace) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| *Change spark plug | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Replace and inspect engine oil (check level and condition) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| **Change oil | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Inspect oil filter (check for debris or clogging) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| **Replace oil filter | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Inspect brake pad wear (replace if worn) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Inspect headlamp beam adjustment | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| * **Inspect jiffy stand (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| *Inspect suspension system (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| * **Inspect and service steering components (clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace) | ✓ | ||||
| *Valve clearance inspection should be performed at 25,000 km |
Tire sizes and pressures for the Harley-Davidson X500
The Harley-Davidson X500 runs a MAXXIS SUPERMAXX tire that’s made specifically for the X500.
| Wheel | Tire size | Tire pressures (cold) |
|---|---|---|
| Front | 120/70ZR17 | 32 psi / 220 kPa |
| Rear | 60ZR17 | 36 psi / 248 kPa |
About the Harley-Davidson X500
The Harley-Davidson X500 is not your average Harley. It skips the V-twin thunder and cruiser swagger in favor of something leaner, meaner, and much more at home in the city. Born from Harley-Davidson’s collaboration with Chinese manufacturer QJ Motor, the X500 is a small-displacement naked roadster that shares a lot with the Benelli Leoncino 500 but with a dose of Milwaukee styling layered on top.
At the heart of the X500 is a liquid-cooled 500cc parallel twin with DOHC and four valves per cylinder. It puts out 47 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 33.9 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. That’s enough grunt to give it real presence in traffic and enough revs to keep things interesting when the road opens up. The power delivery is smooth and easy to manage, making it a friendly option for new riders or commuters, but it doesn’t feel dull once you’re out of the city limits.
It’s built around a steel trellis frame with a wide 50 mm inverted front fork that’s adjustable for rebound, and a monoshock out back with adjustable rebound and preload. The suspension is fairly firm but not punishing, tuned more for control than cush. The seat height is a tall-ish 820 mm, but the narrow waist makes it accessible for most riders. Ergonomics are upright and neutral thanks to mid-mount foot controls and a wide handlebar, so you can do short trips, daily commutes, or backroad blasts without needing a chiropractor afterward.
Brakes are no-nonsense, with twin four-piston calipers on 320 mm discs up front and a single-piston unit at the rear, all backed up by ABS. The X500 rolls on 17-inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with Maxxis Supermaxx ST rubber, a solid sport-touring tire choice that holds up well unless you’re pushing hard on a track.
It tips the scales at 208 kg wet, with a claimed 48.5 mpg and a 3.4-gallon tank. That’s enough range for a week of commuting without thinking too hard about fuel stops. The round LCD dash is simple but functional, and lighting is full LED, front to back.
Compared to its smaller sibling, the X350, the X500 is the grown-up choice. The X350 uses a 353cc twin with less power and lower spec suspension and brakes. It’s aimed more at learners and riding schools, while the X500 steps things up with more capable componentry and power for real-world versatility.
| Feature | Harley-Davidson X350 | Harley-Davidson X500 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 353cc liquid-cooled parallel twin | 500cc liquid-cooled parallel twin |
| Power | 36 hp @ 9500 rpm | 47 hp @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 31 Nm @ 7000 rpm | 46 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Weight (wet) | 195 kg | 208 kg |
| Seat Height | 777 mm | 820 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.5 L | 13.1 L |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm USD fork, rebound adjustable | 50 mm USD fork, rebound adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | Preload and rebound adjustable shock | Same |
| Front Brake | Twin 4-piston calipers | Same |
| Rear Brake | 1-piston floating caliper | Same |
| Fuel Economy (claimed) | 4.95 L/100 km | 4.85 L/100 km |
| Riding Ergonomics | More compact and upright | Slightly more stretched and taller |
| Best For | Urban commuting, learners, city agility | All-round riding, higher-speed touring |
Maintenance is fairly straightforward. Oil changes come every 3,000 – 4,000 km, with drive chain checks and adjustments every 1,000 km. Valve clearance checks aren’t due until 25,000 km, and coolant is replaced every 48,000 km. There’s no fancy electronics to fuss over, and most regular servicing can be done with basic tools and a bit of know-how.
The X500 might wear the Harley badge, but it’s aimed squarely at a different kind of rider. It’s for people who want that stripped-back, naked bike experience without going all in on displacement or dollars. It’s easy to ride, easy to live with, and just enough fun to keep you from outgrowing it too fast.
References — Screenshots from the Harley-Davidson X500 Owner’s Manual
The above maintenance schedule came from the manual for the Harley-Davidson X500.
Below you can see screenshots from the manual for the 2024 model year. The schedule is the same as for other models years.
You can download manuals and other info from Harley-Davidson directly here (login required).
