Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Initial impressions of a Hunter 350 owner

It’s notably larger than its predecessor, and even seems a tad bigger than the 390adv

BHPian kaushalswarup recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

As someone whoโ€™s passionate about motorcycles, having previously ridden the Himalayan BS4 and currently enjoying the Hunter 350, I recently had the pleasure of test-riding the new Himalayan. This experience was particularly intriguing as I’m contemplating an upgrade, with the 390adv being a key consideration.

Initial Impressions and Comparisons:
The new Himalayan makes a striking first impression. It’s notably larger than its predecessor, and even seems a tad bigger than the 390adv, thanks to its imposing 21โ€ front wheel. The increased bulk is noticeable, and it takes a bit of getting used to.

Rider Comfort and Ergonomics:
At 173cm, I found the ergonomics to be quite accommodating. The seating is comfortable, though a more contoured front would have been ideal. The handlebars and console are well-placed, ensuring a pleasant and unobstructed riding experience.

Engine and Performance:
The Sherpa 450 engine is a compact powerhouse. Its linear power delivery starts picking up noticeably around 2.5-3k rpm. The performance is smooth and predictable, a characteristic vital for both city commutes and long rides.

Handling and Control:
Handling is an area where the new Himalayan truly shines. The suspension efficiently absorbs bumps, promising a smooth ride. The balance between comfort and sporty handling needs to be seen through further test rides.

Vibrations:
One aspect that stood out was the vibration in the handlebars, tank, and pegs. While this is somewhat expected from a single-cylinder engine, its impact on long rides remains to be seen.

A Concerning Observation:
A slight delay in throttle response was noticeable during the ride. From the time I twisted the throttle, to the time the bike responded, there was a noticeable lag. This lag, though minor, could be a point of concern, especially for riders who value immediate feedback from their machine.

Final Thoughts:
In summary, the new Himalayan represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor. It promises to be a reliable companion for long highway tours and is well-equipped to handle rough terrains and trails. However, its suitability for aggressive off-roading and high-speed highway riding would require further test rides.

I wanted to know if others have experienced the throttle issue I mentioned.

Itโ€™s great that RE has the bike ready for test rides soon after the release!

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

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