Himalayan is an Indian adventure touring motorcycle manufactured by Royal Enfield that debuted in February 2015 and went on sale in early 2016. The Himalayan was once India’s most powerful and only sub-600cc adventure bike with no competition. It was a popular motorcycle in the past, but times have changed, so Royal Enfield has had to improve it to retain its fans. BS6 Himalayan, which is Royal Enfield’s newest product, is exactly what people ask for. New features and updates are available for BS6 Himalayan. How does the Himalayan fair now? Discover more!
Pros – Switchable ABS, Ride Quality, Colour Options, Accessories, Comfortable And Reliable
Cons – Lacks Top-End Performance, Vibrations Near The Redline, Braking Feedback, Build Quality
Royal Enfield Himalayan Variants
The Himalayan is available in three variants each variant differs from the other in a few subtle aspects. The variants are:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Standard
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Dual Tone
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Pine Green and Granite Black
Royal Enfield Himalayan Design
It’s good news if you liked how adventure bikes look as the Himalayan boasts all the characteristics of a proper adventure. As the bike meets the BS6 standards, it has a catalytic converter on its exhaust pipe. The bulge is fine, but the finishing could have been better. The very first part of the exhaust is black, and from the converter to the end-can, it is copper-coloured, which would not be the kind of finish you would expect at this price. The raw design, the few panels, and the exposed parts of the frame do look pretty good.
In addition, the Himalayan logo appears on the panel under the rider’s seat. Lastly, the colour options have been changed. The Himalayan now comes in new colour options. However, there is an extra premium for these new colours. As far as looks are concerned, nothing has changed. It looks good and serves its purpose, but the absence of LED headlights, LED indicators, etc. is a disappointment.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Features
Almost all of the instrument cluster and switchgear is carried over from the previous model, but a few additions have been made. After listening to customer feedback, Royal Enfield has introduced a switchable ABS. in the form of a switch. While the button does not completely disable the ABS, it does disengage the rear ABS, allowing you to lock the rear as much as you want while still maintaining the front ABS’s safety bracket. Aside from that, the cluster is exactly the same. Apart from the standard bits, it is semi-digital and displays information such as fuel range, temperature, time, and gear. You can also use the digital compass in case you get lost and don’t have a map handy.
Royal Enfield has also added a hazard switch on the Himalayan. This feature is especially convenient for long-distance tours with low visibility. The switchgear quality is okay compared to Royal Enfield standards, but it could have been better as it feels a bit plasticky.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Engine Performance
The heart of any motorcycle is the engine. All the Royal Enfield Himalayan variants are equipped with the same 411cc, single-cylinder 4 strokes, 5-speed gearbox, oil-cooled, fuel-injected engine producing 24.3 BHP at 6500 RPM and 32 Nm of torque at 4000-4500 RPM. The engine feels a lot more refined now. This has helped Royal Enfield guide the Himalayan into the BS6 bracket with cleaner emissions, better fuel efficiency, and a cleaner-revving engine. The Himalayan lacks top-end punch and tends to vibrate moderately at higher RPMs.
What does the Himalayan have to offer that catches everyone’s eyes? On the highway and off-road conditions, this motorcycle is as practical as it gets, perfect seating position and superb ground clearance are its strengths. The mid-range of the Himalayan, paired with the slick-shifting gearbox and the light clutch leaves little to be desired in terms of performance. On the highway, it delivers sufficient performance. Because of fuel injection, the throttle response is also great, but it is still not very sharp. The redline stays the same at 7500 RPM. The top speed is recorded at 130 km/h which is competent.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Mileage (or Fuel Efficiency)
Through various updates and emission norms, the Royal Enfield Himalayan has maintained consistent fuel-efficiency figures over the years. Under economic riding conditions in the city, the BS6 offers 30-35 km/l. On the highway, one can expect close to 35-40 km/l, which contributes to the Royal Enfield Himalayan’s popularity in the Adventure tourer motorcycles segment. The 15-litre fuel tank is capable of offering a total riding range of up to 450-600 kms on one full tank of petrol.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Handling (or Dynamics)
The dynamics of the ride as well as the ergonomics are still pretty good. The bike’s cornering capabilities are slightly hampered by its high handlebars and weight. The BS6 variant also sees a 5 kg weight increase. Further, the panniers make life a little more difficult, but if we take them off, we will notice that there wasn’t much of a difference. The rider will still find it entertaining and not worn out by the motorcycle. The excellent off-road capabilities is what the Himalayan is known for.
There is enough suspension travel and ground clearance on offer for decent off-roading too, as well as the suspension setup for rough Indian roads. Overall, the Royal Enfield Himalayan has become better than ever in the handling department.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Comfort (or Ergonomics)
With its perfectly balanced ergonomics and perfect adventure bike design, the Himalayan maintains a high level of performance. The seat is upright, and the footpegs are in the centre of the bike. This comes in handy when one needs to stand on the pegs while riding. Another benefit is the tank’s shape, which allows you to lock your knees while standing. The handlebars are tall and may be uncomfortable for short riders, but they feel good overall. However, if you enjoy cornering, the Himalayan may not be the bike for you. The 800 mm seat height is very accessible for both short and tall riders.
Wide and comfortable seats provide a good level of comfort for both the rider and passenger. However, as the cushion shrinks with time, the rider’s seat will become a little uncomfortable during long rides. If you are using the Touring Kit seat, this problem will be solved. There are no cosmetic changes to the bodywork, and the motorcycle is still good at touring as well as off-roading, including good comfort even when you bring along a pillion. While the mirrors are large and provide good visibility, they vibrate at times, making it difficult to see what’s behind them. Additionally, Royal Enfield has updated the side stand in the BS6 variant, which is now much more sturdy than before.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Safety (or Brakes)
Royal Enfield has improved the braking performance on the BS6 Himalayan considerably and the difference can be felt. However, they are still not as inspiring to trust and you will have to start braking a bit earlier. The increase in weight has also made braking a little less efficient. Overall, the Royal Enfield Himalayan has good braking performance, but additional weight can cause minor hindrances in the riding dynamics. If you want to slide off the road, the ABS switchable feature comes in handy.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Tyres
The Royal Enfield Himalayan gets a 90/90/21 front tyre and a 120/90/17 rear tyre. Which is the same for all the variants. The tyres are not tubeless ones. The tyres undoubtedly inspire more confidence and braking power.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Service
Royal Enfield is a well-established motorcycle brand that has stood the test of time and proved resilient in all its endeavours. They offer a wide range of authorized service centres and showrooms across the country where people can buy their motorcycles and get them promptly serviced, at an affordable cost. The average service interval for the Himalayan is anywhere between 5000 to 10000 km, this particular motorcycle should cost you somewhere between Rs. 800/- to Rs. 3000/- for its service.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Price
Following is the price of the Royal Enfield Himalayan (on-road, Mumbai) –
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Standard – Rs. 2,49,936/-
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Dual Tone – Rs. 2,54,175/-
- Royal Enfield Himalayan Pine Green and Granite Black – Rs. 2,58,413/-
Royal Enfield Himalayan Resale Value
Royal Enfield is a brand that promises motorcycles that are easy to maintain, robust, and have a good build quality. The Himalayan should have a moderately adequate resale value depending on the wear and tear, and overall maintenance.
Royal Enfield Himalayan Colours
- Granite Black
- Rock Red
- Lake Blue
- Gravel Grey
- Pine Green
- Mirage Silver
Royal Enfield Himalayan Specs
- Engine: 411cc, Single-Cylinder, Oil-Cooled, 2-Valves, SOHC
- Power: 24.3 BHP at 6500 RPM
- Torque: 32 Nm at 4000 – 4500 RPM
- Transmission: 5 Speed Constant Mesh
- 0-100 km/hr: 13 Seconds
- Top Speed: 130 km/hr
- Fuel Consumption: 30 km/l
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Frame: Half-duplex split cradle frame
- Suspension: Telescopic Forks (Front), Monoshock (Rear)
- Suspension Travel: 200 mm (Front), 180 mm (Rear)
- Tyres: 90/90/21 (Front), 120/90/17 (Rear)
- Brakes: 300 mm Disc (Front), 240 mm Disc (Rear)
Royal Enfield Himalayan Dimensions
- Length x Width x Height: 2190 mm x 840 mm x 1360 mm
- Wheelbase: 1465 mm
- Ground Clearance: 220 mm
- Seat Height: 800 mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15-litres
- Kerb Weight: 199 kgs
Royal Enfield Himalayan Rating
We give the Royal Enfield Himalayan a rating of 4/5.
Royal Enfield Himalayan vs Hero XPulse 200
Hero XPulse 200 is one of the main players in the segment and is certainly the one to beat. LED lighting is included on the XPulse 200, as well as a digital instrument cluster, but the ABS functions are not switchable. The XPulse also lacks dual-channel ABS. A taller handlebar is featured on both the Royal Enfield Himalayan and Hero XPulse 200. If someone wants to get into proper off-roading (including thrashing and crashes), the Hero XPulse 200 could be the better bet as it is the easiest to maintain and repair. Even if you opt for the rally kit, you’ll still be able to save enough funds to go on a road trip.
Royal Enfield Himalayan vs BMW G 310 GS
The BMW G 310 GS BS6 has undergone some key updates and a huge price cut. The GS looks pretty impressive too as it gets full-LED lighting, more colour options, and golden front forks. The GS also has a sharp stout upfront accompanied by sharp fairings on both sides and the luggage carrier enhances the character as well.
BMW G 310 GS is more expensive than Royal Enfield Himalayan by Rs. 92,000/-. While the Himalayan is practical and purposeful, the GS is elegant and premium. The Royal Enfield feels rugged, while the BMW offers a bit of both by giving the best of both worlds. Despite its mild off-road capabilities, it is a great motorcycle on the road.
Royal Enfield Himalayan vs KTM 390 Adventure
The KTM 390 Adventure feels more punchy than the Himalayan since it has a more linear power delivery. Additionally, the 390 Adventure gets a 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quick-shifter and a slipper clutch as standard, while the Himalayan is limited to a 5-speed transmission. A new rider would be better served by the Himalayan since the power delivery is friendlier and the range, as well as the fuel efficiency, is much greater than that of the 390 Adventure.
The difference in prices is about Rs. 1.3 lakhs, which is a significant amount. For that amount, you get a bike with more power, better features, better safety, better looks, and better equipment. The Himalayan is a great bike with some flaws but overall considered to be one of the best touring / enduro motorcycles available. In comparison, the 390 Adventure is an excellent pick for experienced riders and if budget is not a concern. It makes a very strong case if you intend to get into off-roading on a budget and prefer not to focus on technology or numbers.
Final Verdict
The fact that Royal Enfield has been able to maintain performance figures throughout the BS6 time frame is quite impressive. Despite its flaws, it’s still far from perfect. It feels a little cheaply made at times and the quality isn’t the best. It is also encouraging to see the BS6 changes such as the improved refinement, switchable ABS, and hazard switch which show that the manufacturer is listening to the public. Our gauge still indicates that the Himalayan represents good value despite an increase in the price of around Rs. 8000/-. Under Rs. 2.6 lakhs, the Himalayan is the best adventure bike to buy. Owners of the previous generation Himalayan shouldn’t look for an upgrade just yet.
We hope this article has been helpful to you in addressing all your queries regarding the Royal Enfield Himalayan and aiding you in making your big purchase. Thank you for reading and ride safely.
