Royal Enfield’s Himalayan has always occupied a unique space in the motorcycling world: simple, robust, and designed for real-world riding rather than headline horsepower. With the arrival of the Himalayan 450, Royal Enfield has taken that philosophy forward, refining the original concept without losing what made it so appealing.
The Himalayan 450 replaces the much-loved Himalayan 411, a bike that earned a reputation as a dependable, no-nonsense all-rounder. While expectations were high, the 450 delivers meaningful improvements without abandoning the model’s off-road-friendly roots.
Engine and performance
At the heart of the Himalayan 450 is Royal Enfield’s new 452cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, their first to use the modern ‘Sherpa’ platform. Output rises to around 40bhp at 8,000rpm, with 40Nm of torque at 5,500rpm, giving the bike a noticeable step up in performance over the outgoing 411.
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Despite the increase in power, the engine retains a relaxed, usable character. Peak performance is not the focus; instead, the Himalayan 450 delivers strong mid-range pull, making overtakes easy and reducing the need for constant gear changes. At around 5,000rpm in fourth or fifth gear, the bike feels particularly responsive for its size and intended role.
The six-speed gearbox, paired with a slipper clutch, is smooth and precise. First gear is intentionally short to aid slow-speed control off-road, while higher gears allow comfortable cruising when required.
Chassis, suspension and brakes
The Himalayan 450 uses a steel frame with the engine acting as a stressed member, contributing to improved rigidity and stability. Suspension consists of 43mm Showa inverted front forks and a Showa rear monoshock with preload adjustment. While not fully adjustable, the setup is well judged for mixed use, coping comfortably with poor road surfaces, potholes and light off-road work.
Braking is handled by ByBre components, with a 320mm front disc and dual-piston caliper, and a 270mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. The rear brake is particularly effective and should be used with care due to its strong response.
Handling and ergonomics
On the road, the Himalayan 450 feels stable and confidence-inspiring. It is easy to manage in traffic, handles country lanes with ease, and is capable of motorway use when needed. Compared with the 411, it overtakes more decisively and feels less strained at higher speeds.
Seat height and riding position suit a wide range of riders. Although taller riders may find it easy to put a foot down, shorter riders may prefer the optional touring seat setup, which is slightly softer and more accommodating. The bike’s balance and centre of gravity make it easy to manoeuvre at low speeds despite its adventure-style proportions.
Technology and equipment
Unlike the outgoing 411, the Himalayan 450 features a fully digital TFT dashboard. While not “classic” in appearance, it is clear, well laid out and easy to read. Features include:
- Google Maps navigation via Royal Enfield’s app
- Gear position indicator
- Trip meters and fuel range
- Adjustable display themes
The system is intuitive and avoids unnecessary clutter, striking a balance between modern functionality and simplicity.
Build quality and practicality
Fit and finish are impressive, with tidy welding, high-quality paintwork and properly lacquered decals. The 17-litre fuel tank provides a useful range, with a low fuel warning at around three litres remaining, equating to roughly 80 miles of reserve riding.
Tubeless tyres are available as an option with the camo-white colour scheme for around £300 extra, adding convenience for touring riders.
Accessories are now far more widely available than when the original Himalayan launched, including panniers, top boxes, engine bars, sump guards and touring screens.
Verdict
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 proves that development does not have to mean abandoning simplicity. It is more powerful, more refined and better equipped than the 411, yet it retains the approachable, versatile nature that made the original such a success.
For riders seeking a practical, affordable adventure bike that works in traffic, on country roads and beyond the tarmac, the Himalayan 450 represents excellent value — and a reminder that bigger isn’t always better.
Original article appeared in Real Classic Magazine, Words and photos by John Walton. To subscribe, click here
