Royal Enfield Himalayan

Just over a year after it was launched on the Indian domestic market, Royal Enfield are releasing the Himalayan internationally.

The Himalayan is the Chennai-based manufacturer's first all-new motorcycle for quite some time, and is a departure from the bikes that have made up their range for decades. As its name suggests, this is a purpose-built trails bike, a totally new market segment for Royal Enfield, who are better known for manufacturing characterful retro-styled motorcycles. The Harris-designed frame houses a brand-new Euro-4 compliant 410cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine with a claimed 24.5 BHP @ 6,500 rpm, and has ditched the company's habitual twinshock rear suspension in favour of a more contemporary monoshock layout. Front suspension is entrusted to 41mm RWU forks that embrace a 21-inch spoked front wheel (the rear wheel, also spoked, is a 17" item). The bike has disc brakes all round: a 300mm single disc/two-piston floating calliper at the front and a 240mm/single-piston floating calliper astern. As per Euro-4 specs, the brakes are equipped with ABS.

Although the Himalayan is an ADV bike, as they say in the US, Royal Enfield's design team chose to step away from the ubiquitous GS-alike look involving a front beak and aggressive lines. Instead, the bike tips a nod to the company's classic DNA, with a high-level front mudguard, a single round headlight and a 15 litre petrol tank whose shape is a bit Bonneville-esque. Meanwhile, the 800mm seat height makes it accessible to most riders. The tank is surrounded by crash bars that double up as anchor points for small soft luggage units or jerrycans, while there's a decently-sized rear parcel rack; the bike's accessory catalogue includes a side pannier rack and various types of side panniers. Hopefully they will also think of offering some kind of protection for the side-mounted oil cooler. An interesting touch on the bike is the electronic compass included on the dashboard.

The Himalayan, which will be available in two colours, Snow and Granite, will reach dealers towards mid-June.

Visit the Royal Enfield website here