ADVENTURE bikes are often over-priced and over-complicated.
But this new entry to the market looks set to shake up that stereotype.
Royal Enfield’s Himalayan has finally made its UK debut, and we couldn’t be more excited. Costing from just £4,199, it’s an affordable entry into overland adventure – and a pretty stylish one at that.
With Royal Enfield’s signature 411cc single-cylinder air-cooled unit under the tank, the Himalayan is a capable, mid-powered tourer. It makes 24.5bhp, at 25.8lb-ft at 4,500 rpm – more than enough for adventures on and off the road.
With a 15-litre fuel tank providing a range of roughly 280 miles, dual sport tyres and luggage mounting points for hard panniers, soft luggage and jerry cans, the Himalayan has everything required for an adventure, plus more.
A seat height of 800mm, and a carefully engineered rider triangle to suit both sitting and standing on the pegs combine to promise a comfortable, engaging ride – even over long distances.
One of my favourite things about the Himalayan is its understated and classic yet rugged design, with just two colour options of snow and granite – i.e. white and black. However, I wish the UK was getting the Sleet special edition that Royal Enfield has just launched in India.
The bike’s uncluttered styling is echoed on the dash, with a simple instrument displaying speed, direction, temperature, travel time, service intervals and multiple trip distances.
