The All-Terrain Adventure: Royal Enfield Himalayan in the Himalayas

A Purpose-Built Bike for Off-Road Exploration

Royal Enfield spent five years developing the Himalayan dual-sport motorcycle to be capable of handling rugged terrain. With input from endurance racer C.S. Santosh, the Himalayan was designed to feel natural both on and off-road. Powered by a 411cc single-cylinder engine producing 24.5bhp and 32Nm of torque, the Himalayan has the power needed for dual-sport adventures.

Testing the Legendary Suspension

The Himalayan features Kayaba suspension components including a 21-inch front wheel and rear monoshock designed to absorb rocks and potholes. One owner tested the suspension limits by taking the Himalayan from Pune to Leh in the Indian Himalayas, traversing over 5000km that included rough backroads. He was impressed with how nimble the 182kg bike felt and its ability to handle the rocky surfaces.

A Smooth and Efficient Engine for Long-Distance Riding

Excellent Fuel Economy for Adventure Travel

Unlike older Royal Enfield engines, the Himalayan’s LS411 motor runs smoothly with minimal vibrations. Several first owners reported fuel economy between 35-40km/liter, allowing for long touring ranges. One rider clocked over 5000km from Pune to Leh and back, enjoying the stable yet responsive character of the engine for varied riding conditions.

Reliable Power for the Mountains

While some felt the 24.5bhp power output could be higher, most agree it is suitable for its intended dual-sport use. The broad torque band from 4000-4500rpm gives enough low-end grunt needed for climbing. One owner enjoyed testing the limits of traction on dirt roads and found the power adequate yet controllable.

Legendary Tires Made for Off-Road Exploration

Puncture-Proof Performance Over Rough Terrain

Equipped with Ceat dual-purpose tires, the Himalayan inspires confidence on varied surfaces. One long-distance rider spent weeks traversing the Himalayas and encountered zero punctures, a testament to the tires’ durability. Others found the tires provided an optimal grip balance on both wet and dry conditions, front and rear.

Tire Technology for the Demands of Adventure

While tubed tires are more maintenance-prone, the Ceat offering on the Himalayan stood up to rugged use. One owner racked up 19,000km without a single punctureflat, enjoying maximal traction. The 21-inch front combined with dual-sport tires offers exceptional handling capabilities on any surface.

Sturdy Chassis and Suspension for Mountain Exploration

Responsive Agility Over Rough Trails

The Himalayan’s double cradle frame delivers nimble yet stable handling. Despite its 182kg weight, reviews agree the ergonomics instill high confidence on tricky terrain. One off-roader appreciated its athleticism in the mountains, from technical rocks to flowing dirt paths.

Toughened to Withstand Demanding Journeys

Unfortunately one owner encountered a vehicle collision while parked, severely damaging the front forks. While no bike is faultless, the heavy-duty construction is generally praised for enduring tough conditions. Most agree basic off-road crashes or impacts would be absorbed without serious issues surfacing.

A Trusty Travel Partner Through India’s Epic Landscapes

The Himalayan proves a very capable dual-sport machine for devouring big miles across varied landscapes. One owner covered over 5000km to Ladakh and back without any mechanical faults, enjoying the reliable engine and enhanced suspension. Whether cruising highways or exploring backcountry trails, the Himalayan inspires bold adventures into India’s spectacular natural settings.

A Future-Proof Platform for Dual-Sport Enthusiasts

Manufactured in India, the Himalayan brings admirable capabilities within reach for price-sensitive dual-sport fans. While minor production defects emerged, Royal Enfield’s responsive service helped address niggling issues. Despite its humble beginnings, the Himalayan platform shows promise to develop into an even stronger long-distance tourer and technical off-roader in the years ahead. With no direct competitors in its class currently, the Himalayan stands out as the perfect gateway to dual-sport motorcycling.