As the festive season unfolds and Christmas approaches, there’s a special gift waiting for adventure enthusiasts under the tree – the all-new Himalayan 450. This Christmas, I embarked on a thrilling journey astride this beast of a bike, ready to conquer trails and experience the joy of riding in a winter wonderland. After all, I must ensure the bike performs well before renting it out to you!
Checking out the Himalayan 450
The anticipation builds as I walk into the Royal Enfield dealership to see the Himalayan 450, marvelling at its robust design and powerful presence. The bike is a true adventurer’s dream, with its sturdy frame, multi-purpose tires, and a promise of uncompromised performance. As I swing a leg over the saddle, I can already feel the excitement building for the Christmas ride ahead. For those who love specs, this bike’s engine generates 40.02 BHP @ 8000 rpm, which is twice as much as the Himalayan 411. Torque figures are 40 Nm @ 5500 RPM. This means the bike will be faster, pull better, and feel like a “big bike” in the hills. The bike also has bigger disc brakes in the front and rear and dual-channel ABS. Kerb weight is 196 Kg, lower than the outgoing model by 3kg.
The addition of these features means that the Himalayan 450 is
- Peppier—thanks to 40BHP on tap
- Torquier—Better pulling power and offroading capability
- Lighter—Helping you feel those numbers better
- Safer—thanks to larger disc brakes and dual-channel ABS
- Comfier—due to the adjustable seat height and world-class SHOWA suspension
Additionally, the bike gets a host of ride modes to help you choose the settings you need and turn-by-turn navigation powered by the Royal Enfield app.
Riding to the Himalayas for Christmas
With the engine roaring to life, I set out to explore the trails in the hills nearby. The crisp winter air fills my lungs as I navigate our wintery paradise, the bike’s handling instilling confidence with every twist and turn. The Himalayan 450 effortlessly tackles any challenging terrain, its sure-footedness ensuring a smooth and controlled ride on any terrain.
The bike’s 450cc engine is a perfect balance of strength and agility, effortlessly responding to my commands. Each twist of the throttle is met with a surge of power, propelling me forward with a sense of exhilaration that only a proper adventure bike can deliver—something that I sorely missed with the first-generation Himalayan 411. The bike accelerates from 0-100 without complaints, and overtaking any four-wheeler is a breeze. If you push it, the bike can reach scary speeds (read 130+) in a few seconds with no signs of engine strain or vibrations. This is a significant improvement over the Himalayan 411, especially due to the new engine and the addition of a 6th gear.
Embracing the Winter Chill
As I ride deeper into the heart of the winter wonderland, the chill in the air becomes more pronounced. The bike’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable riding posture, allowing me to focus on the joy of the journey rather than the discomfort of the cold. One of the joys of riding the Himalayan 450 during the winter season is the opportunity to discover hidden gems tucked away in the hills. From quaint villages adorned with twinkling lights to half-frozen lakes reflecting the beauty of the surrounding mountains, every turn reveals a new winter wonder. The bike’s versatility shines as I weave through narrow paths and open fields.
A Christmas Feast in the Wilderness
No Christmas adventure is complete without a feast to warm the soul. I found a cozy spot in the wilderness, where I sat down for lunch, accompanied by the breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks. The Himalayan 450, now parked beside me, serves as a reliable companion, its presence adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.
Navigating Challenges with Ease
As the day progresses, I encounter various challenges, from slippery slopes to unexpected obstacles. The Himalayan 450, however, proves to be a reliable partner, effortlessly navigating through challenges with its advanced SHOWA suspension and responsive handling. The adventure becomes a testament to the bike’s off-road capabilities, showcasing its prowess in conquering diverse terrains.
Sunset Serenity
As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow over the snow-covered landscape, I find a vantage point to witness the sunset. The Himalayan 450 stands as a silhouette against the mesmerizing hues of the evening sky. The experience is a serene reminder of the beauty that unfolds when nature and machine come together in harmony.
Riding the new Himalayan 450 for Christmas has been a truly magical experience. From conquering snowy trails to discovering hidden gems and navigating challenges easily, the bike has proven to be the ultimate companion for winter adventures. As I park the Himalayan 450, I reflect on the day’s journey with a sense of gratitude and contentment, knowing that this Christmas will be remembered as the day I embraced the thrill of winter riding on a machine built for adventure.
Wait, There’s More to Come
If you thought this ride was my final review of the Himalayan 450, wait until you know what the coming year has in store for Make My Ride and the bike. Until then, team Make My Ride wishes you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!