Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Desi Zabardast at ₹2.85 Lakh
Are you ready to conquer the mountains and cruise the highways with unmatched style and performance? The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is here to redefine your adventure riding experience.
This all-new avatar of the iconic Himalayan series brings a perfect blend of power, agility, and modern features that will make your heart race faster than the bike itself. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Himalayan 450 a game-changer in the adventure touring segment.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 lies a potent 452cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. This powerhouse churns out an impressive 40.02 PS of power at 8000 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm. Compared to its predecessor, the Himalayan 450 offers a significant boost in performance, with 15.4 bhp extra power and 8 Nm of additional torque.
The engine is mated to a smooth 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch, ensuring seamless gear shifts and reducing wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. This combination provides an exhilarating riding experience, whether you’re tackling city traffic or cruising on the highway.
One of the standout features of this new engine is its refinement. While some vibrations are present at higher RPMs, they’re not intrusive enough to dampen the overall riding experience. The Himalayan 450 can comfortably cruise at speeds between 80-100 km/h, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring.
Ride and Handling
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 shines when it comes to its riding dynamics. Despite its adventure-touring credentials, this bike handles surprisingly well both on and off the road. The well-balanced chassis and improved suspension setup contribute to its nimble nature.
Suspension duties are handled by Showa USD forks at the front and a linkage-type monoshock at the rear. This combination offers excellent stability and comfort, whether you’re navigating through city potholes or tackling off-road trails. With a ground clearance of 230mm, the Himalayan 450 can easily overcome most obstacles you’ll encounter on your adventures.
The bike’s relatively light kerb weight of 196kg (compared to its predecessor) enhances its maneuverability, making it easier to handle in tight spots. The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination provides stability at high speeds and confidence-inspiring handling around corners.
Design and Styling
The Himalayan 450 retains the rugged charm of its predecessor while incorporating modern design elements. The tall windscreen, beak-style front fender, and muscular fuel tank extensions give it a purposeful stance that screams adventure.
LED lighting all around not only adds to the bike’s modern appeal but also provides excellent visibility during night rides. The compact rear section with LED taillights completes the sporty look. Available in five striking colors – Kaza Brown, Hanle Black, Kamet White, Slate Poppy Blue, and Slate Himalayan Salt – the Himalayan 450 allows you to choose a style that matches your personality.
One of the standout design features is the adjustable seat height. With three settings available, riders can customize their riding position for optimal comfort and control. The standard seat height is 825mm, which can be adjusted to suit riders of different heights.
Features and Technology
Royal Enfield has equipped the Himalayan 450 with a host of modern features that enhance its appeal and functionality:
- TFT instrument cluster with Google Maps integration
- Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone pairing
- Ride-by-wire throttle for precise control
- Switchable ABS with three modes: Road, Rain, and Off-road
- USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
- Hazard lamp switch for emergency situations
The TFT display provides essential information at a glance, including speed, RPM, gear position, and fuel level. The integration of Google Maps is a game-changer for adventure riders, offering turn-by-turn navigation without the need for a separate device.
The three ABS modes add versatility to the Himalayan 450’s braking system. Road mode offers full ABS intervention, Rain mode provides earlier ABS activation for wet conditions, and Off-road mode disables ABS on the rear wheel for better control on loose surfaces.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 delivers a respectable fuel efficiency, with real-world figures ranging between 28-32 kmpl depending on riding conditions and style. With its 17-liter fuel tank, you can expect a range of approximately 476-544 km on a full tank.
This impressive range makes the Himalayan 450 an excellent choice for long-distance touring. You can cover significant distances between fuel stops, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey rather than constantly worrying about the next petrol pump.
Price and Competition
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is available in four variants, with prices ranging from ₹2.85 lakh to ₹2.98 lakh (ex-showroom). Here’s a breakdown of the variant-wise pricing:
| Variant | Ex-showroom Price |
|---|---|
| Base | ₹2,85,000 |
| Pass | ₹2,89,000 |
| Summit – Kamet White | ₹2,93,000 |
| Summit – Hanle Black | ₹2,98,000 |
In terms of competition, the Himalayan 450 goes up against the KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G 310 GS, and Yezdi Adventure. While each of these motorcycles has its own strengths, the Himalayan 450 stands out with its blend of performance, features, and competitive pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the top speed of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 can reach a top speed of approximately 135 km/h. However, it’s most comfortable cruising between 80-100 km/h, where the engine feels relaxed and vibrations are minimal.
Q2. How does the Himalayan 450 compare to its predecessor, the Himalayan 411?
The Himalayan 450 offers significant improvements over the 411 model. It features a more powerful and refined engine, better suspension, improved braking, and modern features like a TFT display and ride-by-wire throttle. The 450 is also lighter and more agile, making it easier to handle both on and off-road.
Q3. Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 suitable for long-distance touring?
Yes, the Himalayan 450 is well-suited for long-distance touring. Its comfortable riding position, good fuel efficiency, and smooth engine make it an excellent choice for extended rides. The large fuel tank and impressive range also ensure fewer stops during your journey.
Q4. What is the service interval for the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
Royal Enfield recommends servicing the Himalayan 450 every 5,000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping the bike in optimal condition and ensuring its longevity.
Q5. Does the Himalayan 450 have tubeless tires?
As of now, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 comes with tube-type tires. However, there are rumors that Royal Enfield might introduce tubeless spoke wheels in future updates, which would enhance the bike’s off-road capabilities and ease of maintenance.
Wrapping Up
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 marks a significant leap forward in the adventure touring segment. With its powerful engine, refined performance, and modern features, it offers a compelling package for riders seeking a versatile machine. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the world of touring, the Himalayan 450 promises an exhilarating and comfortable riding experience that’s hard to match at its price point.
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