To be honest, the previous Himalayan was something, but it really wasn’t good enough. It had heart, yeah, but it felt a bit underpowered on highways and rough around the edges. Enter the Himalayan 450 —Royal Enfield’s boldest move yet.
And it’s not just a tweak or a cosmetic upgrade. This thing’s been rebuilt from the ground up, like, properly. New engine, new frame, new everything… but still very much a Himalayan at heart.
So, what’s the fuss all about? Is it really worth the hype? Or is it just another shiny bike that looks the part but doesn’t walk the talk? Let’s break it down—no filters, just real talk.
That New Sherpa Engine – Finally, Some Real Oomph
If you’ve ever ridden the older Himalayan and felt like it struggled a bit at higher altitudes or when overtaking, you weren’t alone. Well, good news: Royal Enfield finally gave it the engine it deserved.
The all-new Sherpa 450 engine is a 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled power plant that delivers around 40 horses and 40Nm of torque. Yes, indeed, you have read the figures clearly. And you certainly know it. No matter if you are ascending to Khardung La or going downhill on a straight road the power output is extremely smooth and surprisingly quiet.
It’s not strong like the sport motorbike can be; however, it is enough for its intended use. This engine is perfectly suited to the real world of two-wheeled transport, those never-ending roads, the steep climbs, the muddy trails, and everything in between.
Suspension and Chassis – Built to Take a Beating
Here’s the thing: adventure bikes have to be tough. No compromises. And the Himalayan 450 feels tough. It’s built on a new twin-spar frame, and it’s paired with USD forks up front and a rear monoshock. Sounds technical, yeah—but what it means is that the ride quality? Solid. Stable. And super confidence-inspiring.
Hit a pothole? No big deal. Want to stand up on the pegs and hit a dirt trail? Go for it. The suspension eats rough terrain for breakfast. The ground clearance is ample, so you won’t be scraping anything unless you’re doing something crazy.
It’s honestly a bike that begs to be taken off the beaten path.
Finally… Tech That Isn’t Just For Show
Let’s face it, a lot of bikes throw in tech just to look modern. But the Himalayan 450? The stuff here actually matters. At the center, you’ve got this circular full-color TFT screen—and it’s not just pretty. It gives you turn-by-turn navigation, Bluetooth pairing, and different ride modes. Plus, the layout? Clean and intuitive. Using lots of menus to find something isn’t necessary.
Also worth shouting out: ride-by-wire throttle. You don’t notice it until you do, and then you’re like, “Oh, that’s smooth.” Throttle response is crisp, and the different riding modes (like Off-road mode with switchable ABS) come in really handy when you’re bouncing around off-road.
Looks That Match the Lifestyle
Let’s face it — appearance is of great importance. Royal Enfield has indeed achieved the impossible here. The design of the Himalayan 450 is the same, but the look evokes a slightly different human reaction in comparison to the old version. You have got that retro round LED headlamp, a tall windscreen, and a fat tank that shouts at the top of its voice “I’m ready to roam.”
Furthermore, the design is just perfect for that kind of bike. You can make any journey you like with this comfortable and spacious motorcycle. The seat is super-comfy, the handlebars are wide and cozy, and the riding triangle makes perfect sense. It doesn’t matter if you are sitting or standing, the bike is…just the right one for that purpose.
Plus, it still has that adventurous silhouette that turns heads at chai stops and fuel stations. It looks like it’s been places—even if it hasn’t. Yet.
Performance: Tarmac or Trail, It’s Got Your Back
You know those bikes that feel amazing in the showroom but awkward once you’re on the road? The Himalayan 450 isn’t one of those. On the highway, it cruises effortlessly. That engine doesn’t feel strained even at triple-digit speeds. It’s calm, composed, and planted.
Off-road? Oh man, it’s a blast. The spoke wheels, the dual-purpose tyres, the balance—it all comes together to give you this real sense of confidence. Whether it’s loose gravel, slush, or rocky climbs, the bike holds its own. You’re not fighting it; you’re flowing with it.
It’s not just built for adventures. It encourages them.
Who’s This Bike Actually For?
Honestly? Almost anyone with a bit of wanderlust.
You don’t need to be a hardcore off-roader to love the Himalayan 450. It’s beginner-friendly enough for newer riders but has enough grunt and gear to keep experienced ADV folks smiling. It’s perfect for weekend rides, Ladakh dreams, or even the 9-to-5 if you just want a tough, reliable bike that can occasionally say, “Screw it, let’s hit the hills.”
In short: if you want one bike to do it all, this might be it.
Pricing & Competition – Value Game, Strong
Now let’s talk money. Starting from a price of about ₹2.69 lakh (ex-showroom), the bike has rightly been said to be greater than its pricetag.
Now try comparing it to the KTM 390 Adventure or the BMW G 310 GS, and the meaning of my phrase will be more than clear to you. It offers similar capabilities—sometimes better—and feels more authentic. Less plastic, more soul.
And unlike a lot of adventure bikes that try too hard to be “techy” or “urban,” the Himalayan 450 stays true to its roots. It’s built for the actual road, not just city photo ops.
The Bottom Line: It’s Not Just a Bike, It’s a Vibe
Look, if you’ve made it this far, you already know: the Himalayan 450 isn’t just a motorcycle. It’s a statement. It’s for the folks who believe in chasing sunrises, skipping maps, and choosing detours over deadlines.
Royal Enfield hasn’t just upgraded the Himalayan. They’ve reimagined what a mid-weight adventure bike can be. It’s tougher, smarter, faster—and yeah, more fun.
So if you’ve been sitting on the fence, wondering whether the new Himalayan is worth it, here’s the answer: absolutely yes. But more importantly… take it for a spin and feel it for yourself. Because on this one? The road really doesn’t end here—it just gets more interesting.