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2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan Review | First Ride

November 10, 2023 mcnews Leave a comment

You can drink a Tecate in Tecate, you can take a bath in Bath, and you can wear a fez in Fez. One of most intriguing eponymous pairings a moto-loving person can imagine is riding a Royal Enfield Himalayan in the Himalayas. The popular adventure bike has gotten a complete makeover for 2024. The question is: Can the new version bring the Himalayan into the technological present and still retain the character and charisma of the original?

Royal Enfield, the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production, launched the Himalayan in 2016, but we didn’t get our first ride on one until 2018.

Powered by an air-cooled 411cc Single, it has been a favorite of riders seeking a simple, versatile, and affordable motorcycle. Royal Enfield is a decidedly and intentionally retro manufacturer, so the company was meticulous, even plodding, in its development of an upgraded Himalayan. But the wait is over.

Royal Enfield Himalayan: What’s New

It is not hyperbole to say that everything about the 2024 Himalayan is new. Starting at the heart, the air-cooled 411cc Single has been replaced with a liquid-cooled 452cc Single with DOHC and 4 valves. The claimed 39.5 hp (up from a barely adequate 24) is reached at 8,000 rpm, and 29.5 lb-ft of torque (up from 24) arrives at 5,500 rpm. The new Himalayan’s entire power curve surpasses that of its predecessor, and the engine revs out farther.

The forward-canted cylinder is a visual and technological departure from the previous model’s vertical air-cooled powerplant. The engine is now a stressed member of the frame, and a new gearbox has six speeds instead of five and is part of the unit-construction, semi-dry sump engine case. Located under the fuel tank is a new airbox that provides a pleasing intake growl. Exhaust gasses run through an under-frame catalytic converter that also muffles sound, which allows for an attractively short silencer.

Suspension and braking changes are just as substantial as those to the engine. The previous conventional 41mm fork has been replaced with a Showa cartridge-type inverted fork with 43mm tubes, and the rear shock is now a linkage type with adjustable preload. Suspension travel is 7.9 inches front and rear, keeping front travel the same but bumping up from 7.1 inches of previous rear travel.

As before, the Himalayan rolls on spoked wheels with tube-type rims, 21-inch front (90/90-21) and 17-inch rear (140/80-17). Royal Enfield reps said certain up-spec models will be offered with tubeless spoked wheels, but details have not yet been finalized. There are still single disc brakes front and rear, but the 2-piston front caliper now squeezes a 320mm disc (up from 300) and the 1-piston rear caliper squeezes a 270mm disc (up from 240). ABS is standard and can be disabled at the rear wheel for off-road duty.

Front and center, the Himalayan has a new 4-inch TFT display that combines a multitude of innovative and modern features in a retro-style round gauge. It offers Bluetooth connectivity to a rider’s smartphone for music and navigation. The latter is powered by Google Maps and is the first of its kind for the display type and shape. On-the-fly toggling between screens is actuated by an easily accessible hand control. The Himalayan features LED lighting all around, and the tail lighting is innovatively integrated into both rear turnsignals. A USB-C port keeps a smartphone charged.

The overall aesthetic of the bike was crafted to retain core design elements of the original while projecting a more modern look. The midsection is narrower, and the bike has a lower center of gravity. There is an easily adjustable dual-height seat (32.5/33.3 inches; an optional low seat adjusts from 31.7 to 32.5 inches), and a beefier handlebar is adjustable fore and aft in two positions.

The new model’s wheelbase is just over 2 inches longer than the original at 59.5 inches, and ground clearance is right at 9 inches. The redesigned fuel tank holds 4.5 gallons (up from 4.0), and Royal Enfield claims a range of more than 280 miles, which translates to about 62 mpg. The Himalayan is available in five colors inspired by its namesake region: Hanle Black, Kamet White, Kaza Brown, Slate Poppy Blue, and Slate Himalayan Salt.

No adventure bike is complete without a few farkles, and the Himalayan accessory list includes handguards; a taller windscreen; touring mirrors; protectors for the engine, radiator, and headlight; aluminum panniers and top box; and a rally kit that includes a rally-style seat and tailsection and a higher aluminum exhaust can.

Royal Enfield Himalayan: Riding Impressions

Before I get into the nitty gritty, you must understand that riding in northern India is like a schizophrenic dance. When traffic is light and the tarmac is intact, it is a sweeping and graceful waltz. The ballroom is stunning in the shadows of the towering Himalayas. At other times, the dance is a frenetic mosh pit of activity with the soundtrack of blaring horns. Colorfully adorned and bedazzled commercial trucks use the tarmac dance floor in any lane they choose. Small-displacement motorcycles and scooters weave and maneuver, carrying passengers and payloads in clear excess of their design limits. Cows wander and sometimes sleep in the road as if they are fully aware of their spiritual significance in Indian culture. The “dance floor” is a constantly changing platform that varies from intact to fractured to nonexistent with no warning at all. This is exactly the dance for which the new Himalayan is designed.

After a briefing on how to handle riding in the region, our test ride took us up into the mountains on a crisp late October morning. The Himalayan proved to be an easy bike to adjust to. The controls are user-friendly, the shifting is precise, and response from the new throttle-by-wire is smooth and controllable. Braking, while not exemplary, was predictable, and the ABS performed well. Predictability was particularly important as I negotiated the ever-changing conditions of the northern Indian roadways.

The work that Royal Enfield engineers put into the new model’s ergonomics is obvious. The seating position is natural and neutral with a comfortable reach to the bar, and there is ample leg room to the footpegs. What impressed me most about the new ergos is how comfortable the bike feels in a standing position. I’m 6-foot-3 with a 34-inch inseam, and some smaller bikes force me into a semi-crouch when standing. As the conditions constantly changed on our ride, it was easy to shift around on the bike and stand over its narrow midsection.

Climbing to more than 10,000 feet in elevation, it was crucial to keep the 40-hp Single in the appropriate gear. Exiting a corner in a rev range that was even slightly too low required quick downshifting to find acceleration. To that end, the new slip/assist clutch made gear changes nearly seamless. When in the right gear, the engine performed remarkably well. I wonder what kind of performance boost the engine would realize at sea level.

Gear Up

Helmet: Alpinestars Supertech M10 Flood
Jacket: Alpinestars Ardent 3-in-1
Gloves: Alpinestars Bogota Drystar XF
Pants: Rev’It!
Boots: Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar Boot

The Himalayan is a very competent bike on pavement. The chassis is notably stiff in its new configuration with the engine as a stressed member. Cornering on the serpentine sections of Himalayan tarmac proved to be stable and confidence inspiring. I repeatedly dragged the pegs and felt comfortable doing so. Wind protection from the small screen was adequate, keeping some of the blast off my torso. However, I would opt for the accessory tall windscreen for touring.

On our way into the mountains, I got intermittent hints about how the bike would handle off-road. There were many sections where the ravages of the Himalayan environment had washed away the pavement, leaving dusty and rocky stretches. I often encountered these sections at high speeds, and the bike handled the changes in footing admirably. In the villages, the bike’s predictability was crucial as I negotiated that aforementioned dance – braking, weaving, and accelerating through the traffic frenzy.

After several hours of riding into the mountains, we were given the opportunity to hit the dirt. The conditions offered up sandy and rocky sections as well as some heavily rutted inclines. The updated suspension, stout frame, and 21-inch front wheel negotiated these conditions well. The front suspension felt more sorted than the rear, but I bottomed out the rear shock only once. Cranking up the rear preload a bit would have helped. The off-road capability of the bike is enhanced by the overall light feel and relaxed ergos. It felt stable and planted in the dirt even on the road-biased tires.

Later in the day, I had the chance to ride some icy declines and limited water sections. Again, the Himalayan was up to the task. I felt fully in control of the bike on the slick sections, and switching off rear ABS negated any unsettling freewheeling sensation from the rear brake. All in all, the new Himalayan handled everything admirably. The bike was stable at speed on the tarmac, predictable in the dirt, and controllable on dodgy surfaces. What else can you ask of a lightweight ADV?

If adventure bikes are the Swiss Army knives of the motorcycling world, then the light, versatile Himalayan resides comfortably in that pocket. The new model is a marked upgrade from its already popular predecessor. This is not a bike intended to wow your riding buddies with power numbers or cutting-edge technology. Rather, it’s a reliable, comfortable, competent all-around motorcycle available at a reasonable price (U.S. pricing is not yet available, but it shouldn’t be drastically higher than the $5,449 base price of the 2023 model). If the Himalayan can handle the extremity of the conditions in the region after which it is named, it should continue to be a popular choice worldwide.

The answer to the question posed earlier is a resounding “yes” – the new Himalayan brings the model into the present and still emits its fair share of character and charisma.

Check out more new/updated bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan Specifications

Base Price: N/A
Website: RoyalEnfield.com
Warranty: 3 yrs., unltd. miles w/ roadside assistance
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled Single, DOHC w/ 4 valves
Displacement: 452cc
Bore x Stroke: 84 × 81.5mm
Horsepower: 39.5 @ 8,000 rpm (factory claim)
Torque: 29.5 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm (factory claim)
Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Wheelbase: 59.4 in.
Rake/Trail: 26.5 degrees/5.0 in.
Seat Height: 32.5/33.3 in.
Wet Weight: 432 lb (factory claim w/ 90% fuel)
Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gal.
Fuel Consumption: 62 mpg (estimate)
Range: 280+ miles (factory claim)

The post 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan Review | First Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Royal Enfield Scram 411 | First Ride Review

August 30, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Anytime you have a hit on your hands the way Royal Enfield does with its Himalayan adventure bike, you capitalize on it. A few modifications here, a tweak there, and voila, a new variation is born. Many times, however, as with blockbuster movies, sequels fail to capture the success of the original. With the Scram 411, has Royal Enfield produced the two-wheeled equivalent of a follow-up hit like The Empire Strikes Back or a forgettable flop like Ghostbusters II?

The new scrambler-style Scram 411 and the Himalayan share the same frame and air-cooled 411cc Single with SOHC and two valves. The 4-gallon fuel tank is also the same, but the Himalayan’s two-piece seat has been swapped for one of a singular design. More importantly, the 21-inch front wheel of the Himalayan was replaced with a more street friendly 19-incher on the Scram.

The instrument cluster was also downsized, with the Himalayan’s digital compass and tachometer being omitted on the Scram, while the speedo was replaced with a different version that includes a clock, dual tripmeters, an odometer, and a gear-position indicator. Our test bikes were outfitted with Royal Enfield’s Tripper navigation unit, but according to company reps, supply-chain issues have prevented the Tripper from being offered as standard equipment. Instead, it will be an accessory available sometime in the future.

Gone as well are the Himalayan’s windscreen and front rack, forcing Enfield designers to clean up the bike’s exposed cockpit, which they did by way of a cast metal headlight nacelle. Affixed to the mounting points on the frame where the front rack was previously attached is a pair of “urban badge plates.” Kudos to Enfield for taking the time to cover an ugly mounting stalk that another OEM may have left exposed and then incorporating that element into the bike’s graphics.

The Scram 411 is available in seven different graphics packages, all starting at $5,099.

GEAR UP
Helmet: Scorpion EXO-GT930 Transformer Modulus
Jacket: Scorpion Vortex Air Mesh
Gloves: Scorpion Vortex Air
Pants: Klim
Boots: Sidi

Our route through the dairy lands of Wisconsin presented enough greenery and full lakes to make a California resident like me loathe returning to our brown, drought-stricken state. What it didn’t provide was a roadway tight enough to push the Scram to its limits in a series of peg-grinding, left-to-right transitions. But in the Badger State’s plentiful sweepers, gently rounded corners, and straightaways, the Scram exhibited all the confidence a bike of its caliber should.

The semi-knobby tires do a fine job generating good grip and control in on- or off-road conditions while looking the part of a scrambler. The handlebars are just the right width to provide the rider with comfortable control. But the reach to the levers was at the limit of my comfort level, and while you can fiddle with the clutch cable to bring the clutch lever closer to the bar, the brake lever would require replacement with something more ergonomic.

The few short gravel roads we traveled were also navigated with nonchalance except for the non-switchable rear ABS, which the Himalayan has but the Scram does not. Standing on the balls of my feet, I felt the same pressure from the side covers pushing my calves outward as I experienced with the Himalayan. Moving my feet forward until the heel of my boot caught the footpeg helped relieve the pressure, but I’d rather my feet be better positioned.

Over the course of 400 miles, I found the seating position of the Scram to be surprisingly agreeable for a small-displacement motorcycle. The reach to the handlebar felt natural, and the seat provided a good combination of comfort and support. The seat-to-footpeg ratio was spacious enough to keep my knees from aching at the end of two full days of riding.

At 7.5 inches, the Scram’s nonadjustable fork has 0.4 inch less travel than the Himalayan. Whether it’s the reduced travel or different damping, the Scram responded more harshly to rough pavement than its stablemate. The preload-adjustable rear shock, on the other hand, was less affected by irregularities.

The Scram 411 variant of the Himalayan is an obvious direction in which to expand Royal Enfield’s model lineup. However, whereas the Himalayan succeeds well in its intended off-road environment, the Scram struggles to shine as brightly on pavement. In the dirt, the 411cc Single’s claimed 24.3 hp is enough for a novice or experienced motorcyclist to have fun, but on the road there’s barely enough forward thrust to keep a 5-foot-11, 187-lb rider like me moving at freeway speeds. At full tuck on a flat road, I got to 75 mph molasses-quick, but even at 65 mph there’s hardly any passing power in reserve.

On the other hand, the counterbalanced Single produces hardly any vibration. Regardless of engine rpm, the air-cooled engine remained eerily smooth. The 5-speed transmission was uncooperative at times, exhibiting occasional notchiness when downshifting multiple gears, but the clutch pull is light.

The Scram’s brakes are adequate but uninspiring. On the Himalayan, the single-disc brakes front and rear sufficiently slow the motorcycle in the dirt. On the street, however, effort is required to extract full power from the front 300mm disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper and the rear 240mm disc with a single-piston caliper.

Has Royal Enfield got a sophomore hit on its hands? Accepted on its own terms – clean retro styling, a modestly powered little-engine-that-could Single, a solidly built price-point chassis, and an entry-level price – the answer is a qualified yes. Part of the deal is a low-tech motorcycle that’s heavy for its displacement class (432 lb with its 4-gallon tank full), which will be appealing, irrelevant, or unappealing depending on your point of view.

In the small-displacement scrambler segment, there aren’t many options available, but the Scram 411 isn’t the only game in town. For an extra $300, there’s the more modern, more powerful, and lighter Husqvarna Svartpilen 401. Different strokes for different folks.

2023 Royal Enfield Scram 411 Specs

Base Price: $5,099
Website: RoyalEnfield.com
Warranty: 3 yrs., unltd. miles w/ roadside assistance
Engine Type: Air-cooled Single, SOHC w/ 2 valves
Displacement: 411cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 86.0mm
Horsepower: 24.3 @ 6,500 rpm (factory claim)
Torque: 23.6 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm (factory claim)
Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Wheelbase: 57.3 in.
Rake/Trail: NA
Seat Height: 31.3 in.
Wet Weight: 432 lb
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gals.

The post 2023 Royal Enfield Scram 411 | First Ride Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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Royal Enfield Himalayans Reach the South Pole

December 22, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

Royal Enfield, the world’s oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production since 1901, has tested the endurance of man and machine time and again. Recently, it made history once again by successfully completing the 90° South expedition, the quest to see Royal Enfield Himalayans reach the South Pole. This extraordinary endeavor is a tribute to the brand’s 120-year commitment to pure motorcycling, and to the courage and resilience of countless riders and explorers who have made history on two wheels.

On December 16, 2021, two riders – Santhosh Vijay Kumar and Dean Coxson – reached the geographic South Pole in 15 days, making the ambitious attempt a reality.

The team arrived at Novo in Antarctica from Cape Town, South Africa, for four days of acclimatization, loading of supplies, and checking equipment and the motorcycles. From Novo, the team covered an overland distance of 1,988 miles over the next nine days, braving extreme weather conditions with temperatures between -22° to -13°F and wind speed of 37 mph, towards Ross Ice Shelf.

The Ross Ice Shelf was the designated start point for the riders, however, an unexpected blizzard forced the team to alter their course. Instead of starting the ride from 86 degrees South, the team started the 250-mile ride from 87 degrees South. Despite a few initial roadblocks and a slight detour, the expedition team completed the quest by reaching the South Pole on December 16, 2021.

For this expedition, two Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycles were modified in-house, with functional upgrades to be able to navigate snow and ice, and function under extreme conditions in Antarctica. The motorcycles were ridden on a compacted snow track from the Ross Ice Shelf to the South Pole, to reduce motorcycle drag and limit emissions to an absolute minimum.

Royal Enfield is consciously ensuring no footprint is left behind by the expedition team except wheel tracks that will be quickly lost to snow drift. In line with our #LeaveEveryPlaceBetter initiative, the team is ensuring all waste including human waste is brought back for appropriate disposal.

The team is currently heading towards the western part of Antarctica, Union Glacier, from where they will fly out to Punta Arenas, Chile.

For more information about the expedition, visit Royal Enfield 90° South – Quest For The Pole.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan | First Ride Review

November 10, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan review — During its first few years, the Himalayan developed a loyal following as a lightweight, accessible, affordable, and dependable adventure bike. Updates for 2022 make it even more appealing. (Photos by Jen Mueke)

Updating a popular and successful motorcycle model can be tricky for any brand’s design team. Mess with the components that enthusiasts consider off-limits, and the update takes a step backwards in the bike’s evolution, not to mention the risk of losing customers.

Royal Enfield confronted that fork in the road when it set out to improve its Himalayan, a lightweight adventure-tourer launched in 2018. With an MSRP of just $4,499, the Himalayan, with its spunky 411cc air-cooled Single, offered what few other ADV bikes could – an affordable price tag.

Adding to the Himalayan’s appeal was modest weight (439 pounds with its 4-gallon gas tank full), a low seat height (31.5 inches), and simplicity – anyone with basic mechanical skills could service it in their own garage or out in the field. Its curb appeal was unique, too, with a quasi-military-spec-meets-retro sensibility.

Read our Royal Enfield Himalayan vs BMW G 310 GS vs Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Comparison Review

The combined package added up to respectable global sales over the past few years. Linked by an enthusiastic following on social media, owners worldwide began sharing information about their Himalayan experiences, including road and trail tales, with many describing what they had learned about their Himalayan’s mechanical nuances and strong points. Soon enough the Himalayan Owners Group, connecting enthusiasts from all points via social media, gained prominence on Facebook.

The folks at Royal Enfield paid attention. They added ABS in 2019. For 2022, updates include some modest functional/ergonomic changes and the addition of the company’s exclusive Tripper Navigation system, which debuted earlier this year on the Meteor 350. Designed for the Google Maps platform, it’s a simple, intuitive turn-by-turn navigation pod mounted on the instrument cluster that pairs with a smartphone via the Royal Enfield app.

Royal Enfield hosted a press event for the new Himalayan in Temecula, a hot, dry area in Southern California known for its wineries. The surrounding countryside is laced with fine two-lane backroads and inviting two-track dirt byways – perfect conditions for a light adventure bike.

Besides the nav system, what else is new? The Himalayan’s saddle, still at 31.5 inches high, gets upgraded foam padding and a new suede-like cover that minimizes slip between the seat’s surface and the rider’s pants. Its small windscreen is slightly taller and wider to block more air. The front racks that double as crash guards for the gas tank and mounting points for auxiliary jerrycans were shortened 3.5 inches and reconfigured to offer more leg room for taller riders. The tail carrier rack gains an additional plate to accept heavier loads, and it’s slightly shorter to fit more flush with the seat’s tail section and make it easier for the rider to swing a leg over the motorcycle.

Time to mount up for a test ride. With my 30-inch inseam, I have no problem clearing my right leg over the reconfigured rear carrier rack, and I can get both feet flat on the ground. Thumbing the starter button brings the long-stroke Single (78 x 86mm bore/stroke) to life. It plays a tune at idle reminiscent of those big British thumper engines that populated the motorcycle landscape back in the ’50s and ’60s. A stylish upswept muffler keeps the Himalayan’s exhaust tone 21st-century friendly, yet still allows the cadence of the thumper to be enjoyed.

Find 1st gear and accelerate away smoothly. The upshift to 2nd could use some refinement, but shifting into higher gears feels trouble-free. The fuel-injected Single answers the call for more speed. Cruising along in top gear, the tachometer registers a mellow 4,000-4,500 rpm with the speedometer around 60-65 mph. Claimed output is modest: 24.3 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 23.6 lb-ft of torque at the crank. Top speed is around 75 mph, and it doesn’t get there quickly.

On the road, there’s a gentle but welcome rush of air on my shoulders, arms, and helmet. The revised windscreen keeps enough wind off my torso to allow for a relaxed posture in the sculpted saddle. After about an hour or so the low saddle begins to feel a little confining, and the small cockpit puts an acute bend in my knees. The new seat cover minimizes slip, but it also makes it harder to adjust one’s seating position. No problem, just stand up on the pegs for a quick stretch, which is good practice for the upcoming dirt tracks.

As we leave the pavement, our ride leader signals for us to stop so he can demonstrate the switchable ABS procedure. With the ignition turned off, we’re instructed to press the tiny button directly below the dash-mounted ABS light. It requires a hard push and a slow five-second count to initiate deactivation. Done correctly, the ABS light blinks, signaling that you now have complete control of the rear brake (ABS remains on at the front wheel). Rear-wheel ABS activates anytime the key is switched off.

Time to hit the trail, where the real fun begins. The bike’s low center of gravity, coupled with responsive steering and the deep-tread Pirelli MT60 tires, makes the bike feel responsive to natural terrain. The 21-inch front wheel rolls over obstacles with ease; it’s paired with a 17-inch rear, and the spoked rims require tubes. I skirt around rain gullies, power through stretches of deep sand, and maneuver over unfriendly rocks and ruts in the trail, thanks in part to 8.6 inches of ground clearance.

Braking power is modest, with a 2-piston front caliper squeezing a 300mm disc and a 1-piston rear caliper biting a 240mm disc. Suspension action is adequate. The fork offers no adjustability, the rear shock is adjustable for preload, and travel is 7.9 inches in front and 7.1 inches out back. The Himalayan feels rock solid, but also very much built to a price.

After long and delightful stretches of wandering over hill and dale, we resume our ride on pavement and try out the Tripper nav system. As I did to reset the ABS, I turn off the bike’s ignition. Having downloaded the app to my smartphone, I follow the prompts to switch on the turn-by-turn navigation pod that pairs the smartphone via the app. The small screen on the right side of the Himalayan’s sparse instrument cluster reveals road and turn directions as I continue the ride. It’s a handy feature on a bike that encourages exploration.

Royal Enfield has introduced several unique, attractively priced models over the past few years. Following the Himalayan’s debut in 2018, it rolled out a handsome pair of British-style Twins – the Continental GT café racer and INT 650 standard – in 2019, and then the Meteor 350 cruiser in 2021. Now and in the years ahead, we’ll see them evolve. The updates to the Himalayan have been incremental, but they make the small yet capable adventure-tourer even more practical. The price has increased along the way – MSRP is now $5,299 – but it remains a solid value and an appealing choice for a wide range of riders.

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan Specs

Base Price: $5,299
Website: royalenfield.com
Engine Type: Air-cooled Single, SOHC w/ 2 valves
Displacement: 411cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 86.0mm
Horsepower: 24.3 hp @ 6,500 rpm (claimed, at the crank)
Torque: 23.6 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm (claimed, at the crank)
Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Wheelbase: 58.0 in.
Rake/Trail: 26.5 degrees/4.3 in.
Seat Height: 31.5 in.
Wet Weight: 439 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gals.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan | First Look Review

October 27, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

Royal Enfield made a big splash in 2018 when it launched the Himalayan, a lightweight adventure bike powered by an air-cooled 411cc Single. Built to withstand the rigors of mountains such as those after which it was named, the Himalayan was simple, durable, and affordable, with a base price of just $4,499.

Adding to the Himalayan’s appeal was a curb weight of 421 pounds and a seat height of 31.5 inches.

The Himalayan was updated in 2019 with standard ABS, which nudged the price up to $4,749 – still a fraction of the cost of most other dual-sport/adventure motorcycles.

Read our Royal Enfield Himalayan vs BMW G 310 GS vs Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Comparison Review

For 2022, Royal Enfield has further upgraded the Himalayan with the company’s exclusive Tripper Navigation system, which debuted on the Meteor 350. Designed with the Google Maps platform, it’s a simple, intuitive turn-by-turn navigation pod mounted on the instrument cluster that pairs with a smartphone via the Royal Enfield App.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan receives several ergonomic upgrades, focused on increasing comfort and capability. Revised seat cushioning allows riders to enjoy extended saddle time while a new windscreen keeps more wind off the rider. The new slimmer and ergonomically adjusted front rack offers a more spacious cockpit with minimal interference in the leg area.

The rear carrier is also revised, now with an additional plate to ensure secure fastening and placement of luggage. Additionally, the rear carrier is now reduced in height, making it easier for riders to swing a leg over the motorcycle.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan will be available in new Granite Black, Mirage Silver, and Pine Green. Returning colorways include Rock Red, Lake Blue, and Gravel Grey. Bikes will be in dealerships as November 2021, and MSRP is $5,299.

To find a Royal Enfield dealer near you, visit royalenfield.com.

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan Specs

Base Price: $5,299
Website: royalenfield.com
Engine Type: Air-cooled, SOHC Single, 2 valves
Displacement: 411cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0mm x 86.0mm
Horsepower: 24.3 hp @ 6,500 rpm (claimed, at the crank)
Torque: 23.6 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm (claimed, at the crank)
Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Wheelbase: 58.0 in.
Ground Clearance: 8.6 in.
Rake/Trail: 26.5 degrees/4.3 in.
Seat Height: 31.5 in.
Wet Weight: 439 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gals.

The post 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

News

Royal Enfield taking Himalayans to the South Pole

October 18, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

Royal Enfield 90° South Expedition

Commemorating 120 years of building the motorcycling culture, Royal Enfield will mark 2021 with an ambitious expedition on the Royal Enfield Himalayan, to attempt to reach the geographic South Pole, from the Ross Ice Shelf via the Leverett Glacier.

Two specially prepared Royal Enfield Himalayans will make the trek to the South Pole

Siddhartha Lal – Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd

“120 years is a long legacy for the brand, and we are very happy to have made it count. Over these years, we have created and nurtured a thriving culture of riding and exploration around the world. This pursuit of exploration has been a quintessential part of our DNA, and 90° South is another chapter in our series of extraordinary, epic motorcycling rides. In the past, rides like Himalayan Odyssey have paved the way for motorcycling adventure in the Himalayas and an epic expedition like this to the South Pole will further inspire people to become adventurers again. A test of endurance and perseverance for man and machine, this expedition is the first of its kind attempt to traverse the 770km long route to the South Pole on a motorcycle.”

The bikes have already been tested in Iceland

An ode to all Enfielders who’ve dared to explore beyond the ordinary, 90° South will be an ambitious attempt to go where no motorcycle has gone before. To begin from Cape Town, South Africa, on 26 November 2021, the expedition will see two Royal Enfield riders – Santhosh Vijay Kumar (Lead – Rides & Community, Royal Enfield) and Dean Coxson (Senior Engineer- Product Development, Royal Enfield) attempting to reach the geographic South Pole, from the Ross Ice Shelf, via the Leverett Glacier, to the Amundsen-Scott Pole station.

The Amundsen-Scott Pole station is the goal

To be conducted in close partnership with Arctic Trucks, 90° South will be attempted on two, purpose-built Royal Enfield Himalayans. Arctic Trucks, a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, are renowned for their deep expertise in the field and have covered over 350,000 kms on the Antarctic Plateau. They have supported and serviced several scientific expeditions and activities, as well as commercial and NGO expeditions in the past.

Arctic Trucks will be providing support to the 90° South expedition

Launched in 2016, the Royal Enfield Himalayan is a simple, capable, go-anywhere motorcycle. Inspired from the experience of decades of riding in the Himalayas, and traversing thousands of kilometers of challenging terrain, the Royal Enfield Himalayan was built to be a versatile motorcycle that is capable on the road, as well as off the beaten track.

The Himalayans are kitted out specifically for the snow, including special tyres

For this expedition, two Himalayans have been modified in-house, with functional upgrades to be able to navigate snow and ice to function under extreme conditions in Antarctica. The Himalayan was tested for this arduous and treacherous journey at the Langjokull glacier in Iceland, with an intention to mirror the conditions in Antarctica. Phase 1 of testing was held in September 2020 while phase 2 of testing concluded in July 2021

An alternator upgrade to run heated gear and shorter gearing are among the changes

Minimal changes have been made to the motorcycle to make it ready for the terrain and weather conditions in Antarctica. For greater torque at the rear wheel, the main drive sprocket has been changed from a 15-teeth, to a 13-teeth unit. There is a tubeless wheel set-up with studded tyres that allows the tyres to run at very low pressures, and to increase floatation on soft snow, while also providing adequate traction on hard ice. The team has introduced a stronger alternator using rare earth magnets, so as to enable the motorcycle to produce more current and enable the team to run heated gear off the battery.

The two Royal Enfield riders are in for a challenge!

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Honda CB200X Revealed to Indian Moto Community

August 19, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

NX200 Who?

The Honda CB200X has just been released to the Indian masses – and the soft ADV tourer succeeded in pranking us all with the name choice.

A few days ago, Honda filed a patent for a bike labeled the ‘NX200’.

Rumors started to circulate with the assumption that Honda was about to release a new motorbike, called the NX200.

Now, with the Honda CB200X officially out and ready to rumble, we see that the other guesses as to power, price, and placement in the Honda lineup were at least a tad more accurate.

According to FinancialExpress, the CB200X will be competing against the likes of the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the Hero XPulse 200.

Like the BMW G 310 GS and the KTM 250 Adventure, the CB200X will also have alloy wheels – the ‘soft adventure tourer’ title clearly delineating why the wheels wouldn’t need to be spoked.

And honestly, with the single-cylinder engine (the same from the Hornet 2.0) putting out 17 hp at 8,500 rpm and 16 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, we’re looking at an entry-level adventure touring placement that nestles itself nicely between Honda’s 100cc and 200cc segments with a 184cc heart that promises to beat steady.

A side view of the all-new 2021 Honda CB200X (previously thought the NX200) released to India this morning — 2021 Honda CB200X

A further look at the specs sheet, and it’s obvious Honda tricked the CB200x with all the comfort needed for a soft adventure touring bike.

a side view of the custom custom Yamaha Ténéré 700, created by Deus Italia

The CB200X includes a split seat, as well as split grab rails, an engine cowl for protection on the road, a tinted visor, dual-purpose tread patterned tyres, upside-down forks at the front, full LED lighting with 5 levels of adjustability, knuckle guards with integrated turn indicators, and petal disc brakes with a single-channel ABS.

Colors include Pearl Nightstar Black, Matte Selene Silver Metallic, and Sports Red.

Interested in having this beauty for yourself? A heads up from Honda – the bike will be sold through the regular RedWing outlets – not be retailed through the company’s BigWing premium dealerships.

Here’s the spec breakdown:

810 mm seat height
147 kg in weight
167 mm of ground clearance
12 L tank
184.4cc, single-cylinder engine
17 hp @ 8,500 rpm
16 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Single-channel ABS
5-speed gearbox
110/70-17 inch front tyre
140/70-17 inch rear tyre
276mm front disc
220mm rear disc
USD front forks
3 color options: Pearl Nightstar Black, Matte Selene Silver Metallic, and Sports Red
Knuckle guard with embedded indicators

From Left to Right: M Kito, Director, A Ogata, MD, President and CEO, YS Guleria, Director, HMSI with CB200X

Our hats off to Honda for the release of a solid entry-level soft adventure touring bike.

Looking forward to seeing what the Japanese manufacturer has next in store for India’s moto community – maybe we’re still going to get that NX200 and Honda will fill in the spot for the dearly missed CBR150R…you never know!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Around The World On A Secondhand Himalayan

June 4, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

In the summer of 2019, a young man named Jack Groves began his moto journey around the world – and it took a little longer than 80 days.

Disillusioned with the dream of a 9 to 5 job, Groves got his hands on a secondhand Royal Enfield Himalayan to defy all odds and travel the 35,000 miles around the orb we call home.

His route took him across Europe, through the Balkan Peninsula, and past Turkey, Asia, China, Southeast Asia, and Australia before flying to South America in January 2021.

The trip was no walk in the park. It required Groves to get used to riding in isolation, taking every precaution possible with the oncoming coronavirus as his travels took him through the Eastern Hemisphere.

The virus caught up with Groves in Cusco, South America, putting his travels to rest for a hefty 255 days. In a report from Dure Magazine, Jack recalls the incident.

“I contracted COVID-19 in early April which, at 3,400 meters (11154.86 ft) altitude, was pretty punchy – spent a month exploring the remote jungle of Manu National Park and the high sierra of the Asungate Massif, and the rest of my time was split between Cusco City and the nearby Sacred Valley of the Incas.”

Now, having returned this past Thursday to his home in Hertfordshire, Jack is officially the youngest motorist to circumnavigate the world – and as much as the memories will always live with him, even Groves will admit he is glad to be back.

“When you do spend this much time away, you start to start to really appreciate the small things in life, so you really start to appreciate the relationships in the family. Those are the one constants in life, so yeah – just spending time with them and not moving.”

Upon asking what his motivation was, Jack recalls how a good friend passed away before Christmas of 2018 – galvanizing him into action with the knowledge that there is no time better than the present.

a full view of a new motorcycle with ties to both QJ Motors and Benelli

Groves leaves us with a few words of wisdom, saying, “I’ll wrap this up with a few quotes that inspired me to get after my goals. Maybe they will work for you too”.

’20 years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore, dream, discover.’ – Mark Twain

‘Life is measured in achievement, not in years alone.’ – Bruce McLaren.

‘No one gets out alive. Act accordingly.’ – Unknown.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

More Aussie built Royal Enfield Customs

May 24, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

Smoked Garage Royal Enfield Off/Grid Kits

Smoked Garage have developed Off/Grid kits for the Royal Enfield Himalayan and Interceptor INT 650, inspired by getting out and exploring after a year of lock downs and staring into computer screens. These kits are designed to offer easy modification for those after a custom look.

SG 21 OGHL – Royal Enfield Himalayan

The Himalayan and the SG 21 OGHL aims to amplify the agility and capability of this motorcycle. As such SG have created a slender profile while shedding some weight, which further adds to the bike’s adventurous nature.

Smoked Garage’s SG 21 OGHL Custom Himalayan

The SG 21 OGHL Himalayan features a handlebar mounted headlight cluster, as well as a custom full exhaust system to maximise power. Personalised key and badging with a limited edition serial number add to the unique factor, alongside a split seat and integrated luggage rack.

Knobby tyres promise additional off-road grip, with the overall package painted in a dual tone matte and gloss paint finish. The result is a particularly rugged and stripped back Himalayan.

SG 21 OGIC – Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

The Off/Grid edition built on Royal Enfield’s Interceptor 650 model is designed to combine a pure riding experience with Smoked Garage’s creative vision, with the SG 21 OGIC offering a scrambler themed take on the 650 twin-cylinder Interceptor.

SG describe the 21 OGIC is an iron-clad tank amongst scramblers, equipped with a range of custom enhancements and built to take on almost anything that you can throw at it.

Smoked Garage’s SG 21 OGIC Custom Interceptor 650

Those features include high mounted mudguards for greater clearance, as well as a single sided full exhaust system to boost performance. Like the Himalayan, the Interceptor custom also receives a custom key and limited edition serial number, knobby tyres and unique paint scheme.

The Interceptor retains a lot of the original models looks, but the exhaust system and tasteful mods ensure a tougher overall look, backed by the new tyres and dark themed duco.

Mark ‘FKN’ Hawwa Continental GT 650 Cafe Racer

Royal Enfield also partnered with Mark Hawwa – the founder of Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride for a bolt-on custom build. The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 was treated with some of the best modifiers in Australia to produce a cafe racer look but with a bit more pep to boot. The custom build has been developed with no cutting or welding.

It has been modified with an all-new stainless steel system, enhanced engine power with improved handling and suspension. The seat unit with integrated tail light has been designed for the Royal Enfield and comes with various choices of upholstery colour and stitching.

Autologue Design also sent over a set of their side covers and that unmistakable front fairing, a Reck 2.0, that helps to give the bike its unique appearance.

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

Himalayan Explorer Kit now just $990 with pre-orders

May 18, 2021 mcnews Leave a comment

Luggage kit valued at $1500 only $990 for a limited time…

Alongside a trio of Royal Enfield Himalayans tackling the 2021 Open Roads Rally, Royal Enfield ANZ have also announced the Explorer Kit being available for a special price of $990 RRP with any Himalayan pre-order.

That’s $1500 in luggage and engine protectors for just $990, including all the necessary mounting hardware to connect the 26L hard cases. The cases come standard with lockable lids and are available in black or silver, with 18 mm mild steel mounting racks.

Grab the Explorer Kit with a Royal Enfield Himalayan at the special price of just $990

The engine protection is a set of 25 mm mild steel tube bars, designed to offer high levels of protection with minimal impact on the look of the bike.

The promotion ends June 20, 2021, or while stocks last and does not include fitment. The offer for $990 is only valid with the purchase of a new Royal Enfield Himalayan at the time of purchase.

2021 Open Roads Rally

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Royal Enfield Australia & NZ sponsored this year’s Open Roads Rally, held out of Coonawarra Farm Resort in Gippsland, Victoria. The Royal Enfield ANZ team entering three standard Himalayans. Navigating the off-road tracks, climbing mountains and fording rivers. They battled the elements and had everything thrown at them over the weekend, but the versatile Himalayans handled everything with ease.

Check out the above vid to see some of the actions and get a look into the 2021 Open Roads Rally with Royal Enfield’s adventure machine – the Himalayan.

The Himalayan is a LAMS legal machine available for just $7,690 Ride-Away with a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, providing an exception value machine for adventure riding.

Powered by an air-cooled four-stroke 411 cc single producing 24.5 hp and 32 Nm of torque, a five-speed gearbox, EFI, electric start and easy-going nature make the Himalayan a great machine for exploring.

The seat height is an inviting 800 mm, with a 191 kg kerb weight, ABS is standard fitment and switchable, with a 15 L fuel capacity and disc brakes front and rear. Wheels are a 21 inch front and 17 inch rear, with generous 200 mm front travel and 180 mm rear.

For more information check out the Royal Enfield website (link).

Source: MCNews.com.au

MotorCycle News

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Here’s the spec breakdown:

Around The World On A Secondhand Himalayan

More Aussie built Royal Enfield Customs

Smoked Garage Royal Enfield Off/Grid Kits

SG 21 OGHL – Royal Enfield Himalayan

SG 21 OGIC – Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

Mark ‘FKN’ Hawwa Continental GT 650 Cafe Racer

Himalayan Explorer Kit now just $990 with pre-orders

Luggage kit valued at $1500 only $990 for a limited time…

2021 Open Roads Rally

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