Royal Enfield Himalayan. Photo: Anand AlantharaThe Enfield Cycle Company began its operations producing weapons and military equipment in the late 18th century and became famous across the world as the manufacturer of the Enfield rifle.
The British company is also responsible for the design and original production of the Royal Enfield Bullet, perhaps the most iconic bike ever to be sold in India.
Though the parent company was dissolved long back, Enfield of India continued producing the Bullet, and began branding its motorcycles 'Royal Enfield', which still evokes nostalgia among bike lovers even in Europe and America.
A whiff of nostalgia
In fact, it is the nostalgia associated with its old world charm that makes the Bullet one of the most sought-after bikes among motorcycle enthusiasts. The bike, which signalled its arrival with the deep thud-thud noise and the thumping effect way back in 1932, still sells like hotcakes flavoured with nostalgia. The Classic 350 and Bullet 500 models are one of the most popular cruisers in its segment not only in India, but also markets across the globe.
Royal Enfield Himalayan. Photo: Anand AlantharaLatest models
For those who are looking beyond the classic models, the company has introduced an array of variants of the original Bullet in recent times. Among them, the Café Racer was the first to hit the roads, followed by the all-new Himalayan motorcycle.
Adventure redefined
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is an adventure touring bike boasting of extreme off-road capabilities. Looks can be deceptive when it comes to Himalayan as it appears almost like a normal bike. The heightened fork and mudguard placed close to the tyre, however, give it a unique look.
Design and styling
The vehicle is based on an all-new platform, yet it manages to retain hints of its predecessors’ quintessential classic design. The bike has a sporty appeal, thanks to its round headlight with a chrome finish, transparent windshield, and the small fender. The bike comes with a relatively narrow 14L fuel tank. The wraparound pipes around the tank are equipped with bottle holders.
Smooth and comfort
Wide and raised handlebars makes it quite comfortable to ride. High quality plastic panels and switches stand out. The seating position is quite upright and welcoming. The bike has the provision to mount the panniers on either side as well.
Rear design
The rear is in fact the Himalayan’s best looking element. It features an LED tail lamp unit and a high mount fender. The rear sports a sturdy and macho look, thanks to the mono-shock rear suspension, upswept exhaust and the meaty tyre.
Wild power
The Himalayan derives its outrageous power from an all-new long-stroke 411cc engine. It offers a maximum power output of 24.5bhp at 6,500rpm, while producing a peak torque of 32Nm at 4,500rpm. It is mated to a five-speed transmission. Once you start riding, you will understand how different is the Himalayan from the other Enfield models.
Coming to handling, it offers the best riding experience both on and off road. The smoothness is palpable once the bike is in first gear and moving. On the flip side, the engine may emanate more heat while negotiating through congested city roads.
Royal Enfield Himalayan. Photo: Anand AlantharaOff-roading potential
The vehicle reveals its true character when it moves away from urban settings and hits off-road terrains. The long travel suspension set-up and the massive 220mm of ground clearance helps it navigate rugged terrains or thoroughfares riddled with bumps as well as water-logged potholes with great ease.
The Himalayan has disc brakes on both ends. It may get a facelift in the near future with additional features including ABS and slipper clutches. The bike comes with a price tag of Rs 1.62 lakh.
For test ride, contact Javeens Royal Enfield showroom on 9446397400.
