New Royal Enfield Himalayan Review: In Pictures

The all-new Royal Enfield Himalayan promises more than all-round versatility and could easily be one of the best adventure bikes to be introduced in recent times.

By Preetam Bora

3 mins read

Published on November 14, 2023

Highlights

New RE Himalayan is an impressive ADV
Improved performance, better features and capability
New liquid-cooled engine, better suspension, better dynamics

The new Royal Enfield Himalayan has lofty ambitions not just to improve upon the legacy of the original RE Himalayan, but also to make a solid statement in the global ADV market. We spent two days with the new Himalayan riding it in the mountains to get a sense of what it offers. Is it a whole lot better than its predecessor or is it just a mildly improved version of the first-generation Himalayan? After riding it for over 400 km spread over two days, the new Himalayan has made a strong first impression. If Royal Enfield manages to maintain consistency in quality and reliability, the new Himalayan 450 could be all the adventure bike you would ever need.

Also Read: New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Review - The Perfect ADV?

Engine & Performance

Royal Enfield aptly chose the name Sherpa for its new 452 cc engine. The Sherpa, indigenous people of the Himalayas, are known for their resilience and strength, and the new engine is a quantum leap in technology and performance over the previous LS 410 engine.

Royal Enfield Sherpa 450 Engine Specifications:

Type	Liquid-Cooled, Single-Cylinder, 4-Valve, DOHC
Displacement	452 cc
Bore x Stroke	84 mm x 81.5 mm
Compression Ratio	11.5:1
Maximum Power	39.5 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Peak Torque	40 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
Idle Rpm	1,300 rpm
Maximum Engine Speed	8,750 rpm
Starting System	Electric Start
Lubrication	Semi-Dry Sump
Gearbox	6-Speed
Clutch	Wet, Multi-Plate, Slip & Assist
Engine Oil Grade	10W40 API SN, JASO MA2, SEMI SYNTHETIC
Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection, 42 mm Throttle Body, Ride-By-Wire System

Watch the video review of the new Royal Enfield Himalayan:

Also Read: Top 5 Features Of Royal Enfield Sherpa 450 Engine Explained

Dynamics & Handling

The new Royal Enfield Himalayan has superb on-road agility and road manners. Despite its big 21-inch front wheel and tall-ish stance, the new Himalayan's handling is pretty impressive, demonstrating a level of agility and stability that is worth talking about.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Chassis & Suspension Specs:

Frame	Steel, Twin Spar Tubular Frame
Front Suspension	43 mm Showa SFF USD
Front Wheel Travel	200 mm
Rear Suspension	Linkage-Type Monoshock
Rear Wheel Travel	200 mm
Front Wheel	21-inch wire spoke
Rear Wheel	17-inch wire spoke
Front Tyre Size	90/90-21
Rear Tyre Size	140/80-17
Seat Height (Standard)	825-845 mm (Adjustable)

Off-Road Performance

The new RE Himalayan demonstrates surprising poise and sure-footedness when the road surface deteriorates. The chassis, suspension, and balance of the bike makes it an intuitive off-road companion that improves rider confidence.

Design & Proportions

The new Himalayan strikes an attractive pose in its natural habitat. The overall design and proportions of the bike make it look better in the flesh and any picture or video does justice to it. There's more ground clearance, and the bike has a longer wheelbase than before, but it retains that familiar Himalayan design language, although it looks sleeker, muscular and more sculpted than its predecessor.

Features

All-new TFT Tripper dash features smartphone connectivity with Google Maps integration. Also offered is ride-by-wire throttle with two ride modes - Performance and Eco, as well as switchable ABS.

Value & Pricing

Prices for the new Himalayan will be announced on November 24, 2023. In our estimates, an ex-showroom price of between Rs. 2.70 - 2.80 lakh should still make it a superb value for money adventure bike which has a lot going for it.

Verdict

With more performance, new tech and features, and superb on-road and off-road dynamics, the new Himalayan has it all to make it a game changer, not just in its price bracket but in the adventure bike category. Our first ride impressions are extremely positive, and we can't wait to spend more time with it, in everyday conditions and to cover some highway miles to see what it offers as a versatile adventure bike. Expectations are still very high, and it could be the near-perfect adventure bike!