In the world of adventure biking, Royal Enfield has earned a special place, primarily due to its Himalayan series. Enthusiasts around the globe have eagerly awaited the arrival of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, and the wait has been rewarded with a semi-official showcase in a video posted by YouTube sensation “Itchy Boots.”
Who is Itchy Boots?
Itchy Boots, whose real name is Noraly, hails from the Netherlands and is renowned for embarking on long-distance motorcycle journeys across the world. She left her profession as a geologist to explore the world on two wheels and has been living life on the road ever since.
In her latest YouTube video, Noraly showcases her adventurous journey from Leh Ladakh to Khardungla Pass in India, a path trekked by many adventurers seeking thrilling challenges and picturesque landscapes. What sets this particular video apart is that she was invited by Royal Enfield to test the first production model of the highly anticipated Himalayan 450.
Here’s the Himalayan 450:
While Noraly respects the pre-release confidentiality regarding power figures, the video provides a wealth of insights into this exciting new motorcycle. Several key changes and improvements have caught the attention of keen observers.
Notable observations about Himalayan 450 from the video:
- The Himalayan 450 appears slightly larger than its predecessor, the Himalayan 411, suggesting an enhanced overall presence and ride experience.
- One of the most striking changes is the new console, similar to the Tripper navigation system seen in the Meteor 350 and other Royal Enfield bikes, but notably improved. The screen is larger and features Google Maps, allowing riders to cast their phone screen onto the display through the Royal Enfield app, offering a full-fledged GPS navigation experience. The console also displays speed and features a small tachometer encircling the circular screen.
- The bike exhibits significantly more power, with Itchy Boots suggesting it might even possess twice the power of the Himalayan 411, marking a substantial improvement in performance.
- The suspension is reported to be slightly stiffer than the Himalayan 411, offering more confidence-inspiring handling, an aspect appreciated by the experienced rider.
- The bike’s exhaust note is noted as thumpier, adding to its overall appeal.
- A notable addition to the Himalayan 450 is the presence of spoked tubeless tires, combining the classic look of spoked wheels with the practicality of tubeless tires, a significant advantage for adventure riding.
What to expect from Himalayan 450?
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected to feature a 451.65cc liquid-cooled engine delivering a commendable 40 horsepower, nearly on par with the KTM 390 Adventure. It’s projected to produce approximately 40-45Nm of torque, aimed at enhancing its performance capabilities.
Although it’s considered relatively heavy for an adventure bike, with a total weight of around 394kg, it is essential to note that the new Himalayan 450 will maintain excellent stability at high speeds, thanks to its extended wheelbase of 1510mm. This long wheelbase distinguishes it from its competitors and promises stable highway performance. For comparison, the KTM 390 Adventure has a shorter wheelbase of 1430mm.
However, it’s important to remember that the Himalayan’s strength lies in its versatility on rough terrains and the inclusion of a 21-inch front wheel, a 19-inch rear wheel, and purposeful suspension and riding stance.
Expected Specifications of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450:
- Engine: 451.65cc liquid-cooled
- Power Output: 40 horsepower (hp)
- Torque: Estimated to be around 40-45Nm
- Total Weight: Approximately 394kg
- Load Capacity: About 180kg
- Running Weight: Estimated at around 210kg
- Wheelbase: 1510mm
- Wheel Configuration: 21-inch front wheel, 19-inch rear wheel
Also read: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs Triumph Scrambler 400X
As the Himalayan 450 continues to generate excitement among adventure motorcycling enthusiasts, it remains a remarkable development in the world of two-wheeled exploration. The video by Itchy Boots has provided a glimpse of what’s to come, and with the bike’s expected specifications and enhancements, Royal Enfield is poised to further solidify its place in the adventure biking segment. The Himalayan 450, bridging classic design with modern features and enhanced power, is all set to be a game-changer in the realm of adventure motorcycles.
