Royal Enfield Himalayan. The Definitive Review. On & Off Road. Is it better than an ADV Motorbike?
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- Опубликовано: 29 авг 2024
- We review the 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc retro modern Motorbike to find out once and for all, what it is really like.
We ride this Dual-Sport motorcycle on the motorway, in town and city, country lanes, villages, and off-road in the amazing Welsh countryside, on some beautiful tracks, to really get to grips with this iconic bike and establish how good it is.
Is is powerful enough?
Is it good off road?
Is it good at 70mph on the motorway?
How are the suspension and brakes?
Is it good for taller riders? Is it good for shorter riders?
How about design, ergonomics and style?
Is it better than an adventure bike?
What does it sound like?
Power and Torque? Price? Value for money?
We look at everything that matters and give you our honest opinion.
If you're thinking of getting one of these bikes, then this video is a must.
We also cover some points that we raised in our first video of a couple of years ago and address some of the comments.
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Best review - made me buy one - was only 99 percent sure - a 2022 Himalayan.
Hope I can scrape together the $5k to buy one before the new 2023s all dry up. The 2024 model is ugly AF. Might as well go buy a Honda CB500X at that point. I've been looking for a small bike for city and trail riding.
Good to see this realistic review. I've had my Himalayan for 17 months now, and it's become my go to/do anything bike, having toured the north of Scotland, Northern Spain, and of course Wales. At no point have I regretted buying the bike. 😊
That’s great to hear 💯👍🏼
Happens often that when is cold it shut down when trying to start it?
You'll regret it brother due to its battrey life and self plus engine of automatically problem..
Really? I belong to a large group of Himalayan riders with high mileage, and no serious problems experienced. I speak as I find, and comment accordingly.
Ooh Martin - I am now beginning to be hooked on this fine fine PURE MOTORCYCLE model. Basic and pure motorcycledriving. A motor - One cylinder - Two wheels - Lights - Gasoline - AND SOUND - Greeat!! Chresten
I love the way Royal Enfield have thumbed their nose at short term trends of other motorcycle manufacturers. To stick your neck out and produce solid, basic and sensible motorcycles could have been a huge risk, but look what they are doing across the world.
Only problem I perceive is it is costing me a fortune because everytime they produce a new model I want it.With two already in the garage and a couple more burning a hole in my wallet I am starting to wish they produced a couple of duds.
Love your reviews, fun and informative.
Haha yes I get that. Stick around on Monday we’ve got the Continental GT review going on
I'm done. I have a Himmi and an Interceptor. That's it, there's no more room! Unless maybe I shuffle stuff around. 😉
Building a solid motorcycle is a huge risk?RE must not be into taking risks based on the way the whole front end tends to break off unexpectedly.
Great review, it’s a no nonsense machine that’s what we used to call ‘a handy bike’ before things got complicated!
Thanks buddy. Yes absolutely💯
That makes a lot of sense.
Bought one two days ago, really pleased. Handles great and is quicker than I expected. Traditional motorcycling oozing charm. Love it !
Excellent! Yes very good 👍🏼👍🏼
As an Harley Davidson Streetbob owner a bought the 2021 Himalayan last year. At first I change the seat for better comfort. Tomorrow I start for 2.000 km trip crossing Germany. I am very happy with this bike. Until now no problems!
Excellent 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
I just bought a 2022 RE Himalayan last week, got it 250 U.S. miles used, so a great deal. I love this thing! First, it helps me keep the miles off my 06 FLHRCI (HDRKC), because I ride 2 wheels daily, regardless of weather. Secondly, it’s just absolute fun! I live in the southern foothills of the Appalachian Mountains here in the U.S. and it handled slick red clay hills, boggy mud, game trails with absolute ease like a motored pack mule. I personally feel the only negative review that could be given on this bike is if the person expected this bike to be something it wasn’t designed to be.
I've had one for five weeks or so now and absolutely love it. If you're looking for road burning thrills then this isn't the bike for you. Your Land Rover Defender analogy is a great one. It's the biking equivalent of such and you're not the first person to point this out. It's a capable and utliaterian motorbike. You can load it up or pare it down and it's just as much fun to ride either way. The stalling from cold thing happened to me the first few times I rode it. After getting aquainted with it's characteristics my throttle hand just aquired the finesse and muscle memory not to open the throttle quite as quickly. I wasn't even aware I'd made the mental adjustment. The stalling is no longer a problem. A riding chum of mine slung his leg over the bike, started it and immediately stalled the engine off the throttle, then looked mystified. It's just a characteristic of the bike not a shortcoming. I'm sure if one were to make all the sensible mods, booster plug, air filter, iridium plug, etc all the slow running gripes would disappear completely. As a 2022 model, this bike is Euro 5 compliant. Sadly, it's now impossible or at least extremely difficult to fit a booster plug to this later model.
Thanks for your comments buddy ! Yes so many hoops to jump through these days. All I’ll conceived.
Just bought my second one, a 2022. My 2018 has traversed the intermountain West without issue, on and off road.
Excellent 💯
I bought a 2022 Himalayan in January and reached the 300-mile mark at the end of March. And with it the first service that I'll do myself in the next day or so. Your review matches my own experience and expectations regarding the motorcycle. I got it for the exact reason you suggested - a capable, utility motorcycle ideal for wandering and looking around whether on the rural backroads of central Pennsylvania or the dirt and gravel forest roads in the mountains.
I've posted a few videos of those rides and I have to say I have not failed to come home smiling. Our closest dealer is 2.5 hours away so I'll do all the routine service myself even though I swore off such mechanical antics when I bought my BMW K75 a few years ago. In the US you can do your own service and still protect the warranty. I just would rather not but oh well.
You did a great job on the review!
At least REs are really easy to work on. You can do a valve clearance adjustment at a truck stop with like 3 tools.
@@derp195 I've got the tools, the necessary experience, and a comfortable place to work. All that's missing is the desire to do it. I think I wore out my interest in working on machines way back when I was a kid skidding under old, rusty cars on a creeper with dirt constantly getting in my eyes...
That’s great to hear 💯 I’ve heard it is a doddle 👍🏼
@@ScooterintheSticks Agreed. Don't get me wrong, I don't really have the time or desire to do it myself either. But after the only dealer in my area quoted me a ridiculous price for a service, then quoted me a different price once they had my bike, a willingness to do my own work has been reignited by furious spite.
@@derp195 yes, I forgot about the price. It did seem a bit high for an oil change, valve check, and general inspection. Just shy of $400. But for me the bigger issue was the distance and need to borrow or rent a trailer and vehicle to haul the bike.
So it just makes sense to do this simple stuff myself. It did give me an excuse to buy a nice Motion Pro tappet feeler gauge and adjustment tool!
Onward!
Absolutely one of the best reviews of the Himalayan ever. So well done. thank you. 👏😃👍
Thanks very much 👍🏼👌🏼
Well done review!!! My wife and I both have a 2019 Himalayan. They are indeed fantastic bikes. I appreciate the fact that you revisited these bikes, they deserved a good, hard look at. Any honest reviewer would most likely come to your same conclusion. Thank you!! I enjoy your videos. I’m from the States and enjoy listening to your “accent” 😂😂
Thanks very much! That’s great! 👍🏼👍🏼
This is my next bike. I own a wonderful Triumph Speedmaster, but for the Philippines - with crappy roads that often turn into off road dirt, and top speeds of 60km/h (stray dogs, lousy riders, no rules) my bike is way too fast, big, and heavy. This bike will be perfect for either the mountains, rough terrain and beaches. Thanks for such a great review, as always!
I met a bloke with one of these outside the Las Ventas bullring yesterday afternoon and we compared notes on the Classic 350. He's had his for four years and likes it so much that he has no interest in selling it. He's in the market for a new bike, but will hang on to his Enfield because it's so bloody capable. Every summer he goes on holiday on it, green laning through Spain. I must say, it's got me wondering. I guess I will have to test ride one. But three motorbikes would be a ticket to a divorce, so I'll have to think carefully...
PS, your shots of the British countryside have got me all nostalgic!
That’s great!
Thanks very much 👍🏼👍🏼
Nice Review, i got one my self, did a trip from denmark to northcape last summer (6000km) , and i am going on a trip to south africa on it late summer this year, i just love the bike,. its like a mule , it just chups along and i have a smile on my face all the time .. its easy maintenace you can pack it , ride it , and have fun .. no riding modes no nonesense , its cheap ( Well in denmark we do pay alot for all motorcycle due to the tax) And the stalling issue goes away when you adjust the valve after the first 500km
Thanks very much. Excellent. Thanks for the info. Shame on governments charging tax for motorcycles considering their comparative environmental advantages
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Well here in DK they tend to tax 180% of Cars and motorcycels, But our sallery are high so in the end its probebly the same
SOLD! Hands down best review I’ve watched on the Himalayan.
Awesome; thanks bud
The only RUclipsr who pronounced it correctly "He-maa-la-yun"
Thinking about this as a first bike in late May, I appreciate the review and information. Going to go look at a couple this weekend.
Great! Good luck with that 👍🏼
I would also add that a friend of mine has a Himalayan and has put thousands and thousands of miles on it while on missions trips overseas and here in the states. No major issues but he is consistent with doing routine maintenance.
That was the most logical and sensible presentation of this bike. Makes me realize this bike is probably perfect for Ecuador where roads are tight and speed limits slow. I hate the idea of having to pack tire irons, tubes, and trail jack and deal with the pain of breaking down tires and installing new tubes. It would be heaven if I could go tubeless. Also, I love the fact that this bike is rugged and simple. One cam, two values (easy to adjust), no plastic, and virtually no technology.
Waiting for my red rock Himalayan to arrive... when i first time saw it, It was love at first sight, so after 30 years i am going to ride again :)
Excellent! 💯👍🏼
What I like about all RE bikes is- keep the good things & remove the complications. All RE bikes are easy to repair and at least in India, OEM parts for RE are available everywhere and without pinching a hole in your pocket. My RE Classic 350 has done 55,000 kms and I the only thing I needed to change was oil, brake shoes, clutch/brake cable, batteries, tires and self-start bearing (and an indicator, but that was my fault)
Yes there’s a lot to be said about that 👍🏼👍🏼
Great review. So true, horses for courses. You want to ride motorways, buy a sport bike or cruiser. This bike says “the road less ravelled”. I’m waiting for delivery of a Scram 411, (Australia, bloody delays, must be floating it across the Indian Ocean in a dinghy). Days of bouncing off trees at a squillian miles an hour on bikes with no brakes, only a motor frame n wheels, are over. Time to be a tourist.
Thanks very much. The world seems to be grinding to a halt and prices are accelerating! Great choice 👍🏼
I really like the styling of the Himalayan. It seems like a great bike. I’m only 5’6” so, like a midget at a urinal, I’d probably be on my tip-toes. But that’s no different than most other bikes for me. Thanks for the video.
Yes me too.
Haha I have the opposite problem 👍🏼👍🏼
Great review.
Just did an offroad rider course here in Australia on a Yamaha XT 250. A fellow rider was on a Himalayan and it did EVERYTHING.
Was so planted and stable. Looked the business and was just capable.
I'm seriously considering getting one as a second bike for commuting and longer trips.
A super positive review of a good bike and I really like the way you do that, too many out there like to moan and whinge about every this and that which is unhelpful in my book, thank goodness you lads are not like that, many thanks
Thanks very much! We appreciate that 👍🏼👍🏼
Superb bike, went in to buy an Interceptor and came out with this and I've never regretted it! Had so much fun on it so far, very stable bike on and off road! I replaced the air filter with a K&N and changed the battery to a Lithium Ion that skims a whopping 2KG off the overall weight, doesn't go any faster but sounds nicer and seems to have a bit more low end pull. Well done RE!!
Couldn't agree more!
Just picked up one of these for my wife yesterday, she loves it! The stalling when cold; there's a "choke" on the left hand grip. The manual says you can use this for a minute when it's cold. I've never seen this on a fuel injected bike but hey, it's a $5k bike and great for beginners and experienced riders! I am really impressed with how this little gem thumps through the woods, and I've been riding for over 35 years. Had a blast riding it home from the dealer and hit a few gravel roads on the way with great fun and ease. Great job RE!
Awesome! 💯👍🏼
That’s on the older model. I don’t think the latest one has it.
Good review of a very good machine. I’ve got the previous version which I bought in 1999. I’m short 5,7” with 29 inside leg and it’s ball of feet rather than tip-toes. I found the screen to be noisy and buffety so I took it off. It’s an enjoyable bike, plenty of character, comfortable for long rides, and well worth the money. I prefer it over my MT07 to be honest, which I didn’t expect.
Thanks very much.
OK that’s great! 👍🏼
Low speed idle and stalling can be easily fixed by fitting a booster plug, easy to fit plug in and problem solved. I fitted one shortly after purchase and have done 8K without one stall. Also I fitted a DNA filter and removed the snorkel which makes the engine breath a bit better.
Both items from Hitchcocks and can be fitted in under an hour, transforms the bike.
Nice reviews and videos.
I like your reviews, You say the good the bad and the ugly. When you said this bike is like a mountain goat, that described this bike perfectly.
Thanks very much 👍🏼👍🏼
Good common sense realistic review .
I recently tried all the Royal Enfields on a day out in North Devon and I can definitely see a Himalayan and/or a 350 classic in my biking future . Loved them
Thanks very much.
Yes they make excellent bikes! We love North Devon 💯
I heard a rumor awhile back,that they might put the interceptor 650 engine in it.I’m anxious to give one a test ride. As always, thank you for your outstanding presentations.👌
That would be amazing!
Thank you kindly 👍🏼👍🏼
I would 100% buy one if so
Another gem from Royal Enfield. That lady youtuber you spoke of gave her Himalayan an absolute hammering and i was pleasantly surprised how well it stood up to it. Like you, i like the "old school" look of this bike and find the modern adventure bikes quite hideous. Of coarse you know that may be because this is what bikes looked like when we were young. A lot of young riders i've met quite like the look of the modern adventure bikes and think bikes like the Himalayan look out dated. Each to his own i guess.👍👍
Yes good points. I can’t see any of these plastic clad bikes being classics in years to come 👍🏼👍🏼
Had mine for nearly 3 years now. Been to France and Spain ( on back roads ) Last year. Going through Croatia and down to Albania on it in July. You've got it right, they are a very good 'back road' bike. Plus Fire roads, and things like that. I'm not really very good in the mud ( need more practice ) I put TKC80s on mine, and it loves them ( they look good too ). Mine's a Euro 4 model and it does cut out a bit when cold, so I normally start it up and leave it running while I gear up, and then it's fine. Takes a couple of minutes.
I have been riding mine for almost 5 years now.. its a great bike.. thanx for awesome review
Excellent. Thanks buddy 👍🏼
That stalling issue goes away with some miles on it, mine has done over 2k now and doesn't stall as soon as you twist the throttle. My partners bike at only 500 miles still does it. Maybe a trait of lean burn euro 5 engines. I totally agree with your review, It's been my daily commute for 7 months now in all weathers. For the money you can't beat it.
Yes I’m sure you’re right. Easily fixed. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
A bit late to this party, but I recently bought myself a 2021 Himalayan Euro5. I paid 3600€ for it (about £3130) with just 5800 kms on the clock. One of my very first bikes at the beginning of the 1980s was a Honda CB250RS and this bike so reminds of of that, a single pot plodder good for everything, with the Himalayan excelling in a whole bunch of things. I've changed the tyres up to Continental TKC80s so they've got a bit more bite on the rough stuff, stuck on a screen extender and a few more bolt-on goodies, but even without any mods, out of the box this bike is an absolute beauty . I am absolutely sold on it. I actually bought it as a stop-gap to keep me busy before the new 452 becomes available next spring, but right ow this is all I want or need. I might stick on one of them Tec performance cams and a DNA air filter, just to up the ante a little bit but really, even bog standard, this bike is ready for most trails and tracks in my Pyrenees. I'm chuffed to bits with her and I've got a big old grin all over me face every time I go out on her. Perfecto, if you ask me!
I'd be grateful if you could do a comparison, back to back, 411 versus 452 when you get hold of one. That would be really interesting even though the 452 is a totally new bike from the ground up and all it shares with the 411 is the name. But even so, it'd be a really interesting comparison if you ask me. Which you ain't ;)
Couldn't agree more. Best two-wheel jeep out there for the money. Very underrated and way more capable than the detractors claim. Coming up on 3K miles on my '21 model and couldn't be happier with my choice.
Since owning mine I’ve barely touched my other bikes. It’s such a versatile Swiss Army knife of a bike. I’ve done 600km days on mine, as well as locals runs to the shops, to work, out into the scrub, river crossings, dirt tracks, and so on. It’s done everything I need it to do. The lack of tech and no modern garbage is appealing to me. Simple to fix and work on. I do my own work, so the bike with the least amount of electronics is always a wise choice.
Yes absolutely 💯
@@MrDarcy-OlMan thank you. Keep up the amazing channel. I just noticed in “unsubscribed”. I’ve noticed YT do this to a few larger abs popular channels I follow. Sheesh!
Anyhow… I’d love to have you two on as guests in the show one day soon. As a fan of your channel I’d love to have my listeners learn about you.
@@whatsstefon thanks buddy 🙏
Excellent review of a brilliant bike. I probably would have bought one but my nearest 3 dealers are all 250 miles away. RE should allow local independent bike shops to carry out warranty work in areas such as mine. RE have come on leaps and bounds since I bought my Bullet 500 in '93; long may they continue to do so.
Thanks very much.
OK yes good point 👍🏼👍🏼
There is something ruggedly agricultural about this bike's appearance which appeals. Attractive dash cluster. Sounds good from the cockpit. Given I did four long hauls on an XT500 in the '80s, why not on this?
Excellent review.
Yes true. I love the old XT500’s 👍🏼👍🏼
Right? A dash cluster with analog gauges ❤
Another great review. My trouble is that I always want whichever bike I just saw a good review of.
Having had mid- and full-size ADV bikes and smaller dual sport bikes, this one is just the right mix of ADV and DS for me for light exploring. I’m fortunate to have bikes for high-speed roads, and for urban transportation, so this one is mostly just for lower-speed, rural paved and hard dirt/gravel back roads. I find the price fair and commensurate with the range of use the bike provides for me. Thanks for the video and for what I think is a fair and objective perspective on this enjoyably elemental, flexible, and good-looking machine. Mine stalls as you described. Once warm, it runs fine.
That’s great. Yes good points. Thanks buddy 👍🏼
Absolutely spot on, one of th3 better more informed reviews of my bike….good work Sir 🙏👏🏴😎
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
We all know the bike is cool the question is how reliable and trustworthy is it?? I see videos on starting issues and build quality. The big question is how is Royal Enfield address those issues. Big fan of your reviews
USA
I don't know how many reviews I've seen of this bike, but I just keep watching them. Have to say I really enjoyed this one and you really did a thorough job of it! Always nice to get the perspective of a taller rider as well! I also second your opinion on the look of modern bikes. That plastic beak everyone goes for is just awful.
I have a brand new Himalayan waiting for me at the dealership but I'm waiting for a weather window to drive it home. Norway has had a really cold april so crossing the mountains haven't been an option yet...
Thanks very much. I’m glad you agree.
Good luck with the weather! 👍🏼👍🏼
I bought a Himalayan last year as a daily ride. Must admit I was not that impressed with it for the first couple of thousand miles. But with the passing of time I think it's a great bike. I'm a rural worker so most of my miles are on bumpy back roads where this bike excels. Its handling is brilliant , the 24hp is not going to get you into trouble on wet muddy lanes. I've fitted 2 teeth less on rear sprocket which drops to revs by 500rpm at 60. It will do 90+mpg wether you take it easy or thrash it. One downside is the rear rack is to weak mine has cracked twice , the capacity is 2.3kg which is probably the weight of the top box empty. I've welded some gussets in which seem to work. Would I buy another... no not enough room in the garage since I bought a 650 continental as a weekend toy 😎
Ok good points. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Fantastic second bikes I think. The royal Enfield range is superb. I think this bike is great if you have a main bike for your choice of activity but it’s not an off-roader. Then when you feel like greenlaning etc you can just pull this out. I bet it’s very nice to light tour with. Cracking review as always.
Yes agreed. Thanks very much 👍🏼👍🏼
Basicaly Noraly, should be the ambassador of Royal Enfield. so many people including me, got an interest in the Himalayan because of her. and of course i love mine!
Even though she ditched it for a Honda 🤔
she didn't ditch it. Basanti (her first) was banned from the Netherlands, because she bought it from India, and it didn't apply the EU standards, and the Dhanno, the Himalayan she bought from the Netherlands, got stuck in Peru during covid, and when she managed to ship it back to her country after 8 months, for some reason it was shipped damaged beyond any repair. of course now she has a honda because she needed something lighter than the himalayan.
@@stephanos2758 i dont blame anyone for ditching any motorcycle for a honda 200 250 or 300L
these machines have nearly 30cm legs front and back, honda is THE BIGGEST motorcycle manufactuter in the world with over 16million 2 wheelers sold per year, meaning you ll find a mechanic and parts anywhere on the planet and while these crf's are not the most comfortable, they go anywhere, including indoor staircases. For round the world travel, the 200-300L takes the sole winner spot for lightweight motorcycles. Nobody can match Honda's global network or sales. not even close.
Very comprehensive review, I truly enjoyed and agreed all the way, this motorcycle has a lot to offer an for a very good price. A beginner can grow with it, expanding and probing all possible roads and trails, without expensive damage and scary power kicks. And if you drop it in some far away rocky trail, no need to call the army with a tank tow just to lift it up, or the bank to get a repair loan.
Thanks buddy. Good points 👍🏼👍🏼
Every time I take one out for a ride today, I go “ Damn this is all I need” .. The moment it came out in 2014 here in India, we all hated it ! The electronics and the welding weren’t up to the mark. But today, that isn’t the scenario. After decades of riding Enfield’s, the Himalayan seems like a delight .. Can’t wait for the 450 next year but that’s gonna rev, this chugs like the old ones and that’s the beauty of riding these Enfield’s..
Absolutely.
Yes really I prefer an engine that chugs along. A revvy one won’t be so nice off road
I have owed my 2021 HIMALAYAN for a year now. Everything you said is spot on. And I enjoy my bike for the very same reasons! Perfect for exploring the Pennsylvania mountains in the Good Ol' U.S.A.!
Excellent! 💯👍🏼
How is it at highway speeds (55-60mph+)going up hill?
I've seen this bike reviewed by people who've never ridden one. They ride GS1250 and look at this bike and say they it's weak and sluggish. I really like this review because you've actually experienced it.
I've ridden this motorcycle and I really like riding this bike. It's very mechanical, which I love because you don't need a NASA certified electrical engineer to download riding modes and upload them via USB. It's a very comfortable riding position and like you said it just goes.
Thanks buddy, yes you’re right 👍🏼👍🏼
I bought one of those So far I'm happy with it Mine is a 2021 It's due for its 1st servicing
I have a Himalayan, and I had the same issue with big mid calf boots. When I'm doing road only riding, I actually wear short race boots just above ankle protection, and it made a huge difference. Personally, great unbiased video and review.. I wouldn't change mine for anything. Cheers
I'm considering one of these as a commuter. It's exactly what I need to get to work. Economical, comfortable, reliable, simple and cheap. The BMW G310 GS is the other one I'm considering but I think the simplicity of the Enfield might be a winner.
Yes they’re great 💯
Have a Himalayan since April this year, have five other Japanese bikes. Seem to ride the Himalayan the most. From UK, rode last month 700 miles through France, highly impressed with the bike, buy one, you wouldn't regret it.
The Enfield definitely wins on cool factor, but the BMW will probably win performance and reliability: )
I just bought the RE Meteor 350cc based on your review and reply to my comment. Think I will deffinetly consider the Himelayan for my next bike !
I reckon you and I must be eggs from the same clutch Ol' man. I concur with just about everything you said. 100% on the Adventure bike thing. Hideously ugly and sold with "dualsport" capability. Well maybe, if you're an advanced off road rider and can easily lift 500+lbs, just don't let it fall on top of you! After years of sports bike riding I now get way more enjoyment from back roads and green laning. Fast A roads used to be fun but now, with over crowding, bad driving and speed traps etc, many old favourite routes are a PITA. On paper, the Himalayan and indeed the other bikes in the RE range are pretty unremarkable so spec junkies may be disappointed but riding, "feel" and usability are where it's at and they deliver that with incredible value for money.👍
Thanks Phil. Glad you agree. I’m not going mad lol 👍🏼
I'm a TOTAL novice when it comes to motorcycles but I've been looking into purchasing one sometime next year. I stumbled across this bike in several articles because I was looking for something without a TON of speed, easy to control/maneuver, but isn't afraid to get a little dirty because I plan on doing a lot of county/back roads whenever I (hopefully) begin travel between cities/states in the US.
This review has completely sold me on this bike, the details you provided aligned succinctly with what I've been looking for. Thanks a bunch!
Thanks buddy. Excellent 👌🏼👍🏼
First video I’ve seen from you. Great review and extremely informative. Well spoken and actually way too professional for RUclips to be honest. May be buying this bike as a winter rider. Subscribed
Thanks buddy, great to have you on board 👍🏼
Again Oi Man!! Wonderful review. Renting this bike this weekend from Leh, India to all the Himalayan roads covering 1K miles. 9 days.
Thanks buddy. Excellent 👌🏼
How was it?
What makes me want the Himalayan over other REs is not just offroad. I don't go off-road but that may be because I don't have a bike capable of it (but I would like to try). What makes me want this one is the superior instrumentation. I think this is the only one that shows you absolutely everything (perhaps too much even like a compass really?)
I've got a euro 5 model.mine use to stall a lot even after first start up.changed out the relays with Hitchcock ones .different bike now .so much better .best £16 mod I done for bike
Excellent! Thanks bud 👍🏼
Sir, I've owned Yamaha's T7, Honda's CRF300L and Suzuki's Dr400 all of which have killer seats. In so far as being highly uncomfortable, all the Royal Enfields I've laid my old eye's on look and feel very comfortable but I assume that's only for a period of time ?
I'm not into trail bike riding except I do enjoy the odd fire trail as I live in Australia a country made of tracks, I'm attracted to simple machines, reliability and most of all handling.
I've owned more bikes than the majority of people, I love riding, but as motorcycles become more like computers, I find my love wanning. That was till I discovered your family channel, now as a pilgrim on Royal Enfields my appreciation for the brand grows, thankyou again. Dave
At 68 I have not had a motorcycle for almost 50 years. Now I am signup for a BRC for refresher and put a down payment on one. My last motorcycle was a Honda 350 street bike. Maybe brush guards on the handle bars.
Excellent 👌🏼👍🏼👍🏼
I love mine! Great bike for what it is. People who bash it often don't really understand it. It's a shame but I don't let that bother me too much. Cheers! 🍻
Excellent! Yes that’s the way 💯
My DRZ400E is an erratic cold starter too.
I did have a Tiger 800 XCx which fits your description a tall top heavy over powered bike (with all the bells and whistles) , clad with brittle plastics. I recall wondering if I had made a mistake on the 300 km trip home from the dealers, but I grew to feel more confident in its abilities. I put 40,000km on the bike in five years. Living with the Tiger it became evident that it was a road bike that handled rough dirt roads quite well. It did have some design short comings, such as the air filter access was not great, the steering head bearings were balls not roller bearings and the positioning of vital electronic components where they got muddy and wet ( corrosion issues). I was not comfortable riding it in steep rocky terrain, despite my dirt bike back ground. Even though I never dropped the bike at speed, the plastics replacements were expensive. No doubt dropping the Himalayan on its side a few times would be a lot cheaper to repair.
I think this bike is creating its own niche in that it is not a " ADV" bike, nor is it a Dual Sport ( trail bike like the DRZ400. The extra weight carried low would give it more on road stability in the wind ( unlike my DRZ), yet the low seat height and 20-30 kg less than the mid- sized ADV would allow more difficult to be tackled with a bit of confidence at moderate speeds.
closest i've seen to a diesel motorcycle. i love it
I have one built in Argentina. Excellent maxi-trail for the money. As a point of interest, a new Himalayan here goes for about 6'000usd. A new Kawasaki KLR650 is 18'000! No wonder Himas are getting traction here in the developing world!
Wow, I thought we got ripped of here in Australia!
@@jasonrichardwatts You have no idea.
You can go right now to Mercado Libre ( a local equivalent to e-bay)
Versys650? That's 23'500 usd cash
Vstrom650? 24'000
KTM 390ADV? 14'000.
Africa Twin? No stock, used ones go for 30k
Cb500x? No stock, theorically 17k
T7? In your wildest dreams.
Tuareg660? A handful entered the country, disappeared immediately, if i remember right the asking price vas 29k.
Really if you want to go on and off road you have the:
Himalayan ( hoping it won't disappear one frightful day),
Honda XR250 (5'300usd roughly, rear drum brake, carburated, NO abs)
Yamaha XTZ250 ( 7'000usd, front and rear disk, fuel injection, front abs).
Ok-ish options for touring are two Chinese made bikes. The Benelli TRk502 (12k, about) and the CFmoto RZ650 (11k, about).
Good luck with finding something in the occasional, endless tidal waves of china-made, importer named bikes.
Sorry for the rant. I just read read an american complain that the T7 now is 10'500 and not 10'000. I needed to vent.
Venting is good, hope you're feeling better for it!
I hired one in Nepal. It was wonderful.
Just the perfect utility fun bike.
Well I’ve never heard anybody pronounce Himalayan like this guy. I suppose there always has to be one and this guy is it!
Actually there’s over a billion that pronounce it this way.
That’s how they pronounce it in India
🤷🏼♂️
Good review. I have owned mine since 2019 and now ridden over 30,000 miles n it n all road conditions on and off roads and in my opinion a very accurate summation of the bikes pros and cons. I also agree that the bike is not ideal for motorway use but I have done it and although it can do it the bike is at the upper limit of its performance and therefore long motorway journeys are not that enjoyable.
Thanks very much 👍🏼👍🏼
Absolutely agree with everything you said about the bike and at 5'8 there's not much I'd change. I would put an Akrapovic exhaust can on it one of their aluminium top boxes which I find indispensable on a bike- stowing a helmet, disc lock, waterproof pants, puncture kit. Excellent, very versatile bike - don't know I'd give up my modified CB500F for one. Local Enfield dealer has them for almost $8K Australian. If I lived on a farm or out in the country I'd certainly have one.
Yes good points there bro 👍🏼👍🏼
I've ridden one, it's great. Good and fair review. Mirrors... Yes... Lot's of after market mirrors though, ADV mirrors are great for this.
Awesome. OK that’s good to know 💯
@@MrDarcy-OlMan actually apparently they're called "double takes", ATV is just short for adventure and what they call one of them, one of the models that is. Anyway, I've used them and they're really good. Love to see you guys get a hold of an old Honda CB
I bought 2020 euro 4 himalayan. I ride it to work and have done all winter. The battery is bad and let's you down so make sure to keep on charge. But yes brilliant bike .
Excellent! OK good to know. I always keep a battery tender connected to my personal bike 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan also corrosion I clean with wd40 and spray ac50 over the chrome parts around the engine and suspension that get the salt of the roads. There are threaded opening on engine I assume for aftermarket parts like engine bars etc. They need spraying to. I am considering a hugger guard for the rear wheel and a front extension to the front wheel mudguard. Saw that tip on a RUclips channel.
I love big singles.
For a bike that was built
To cross the Himalayans.
Its madness to bitch about its motorway performance.
As I've read & seen in other tests.
And not having yamazakisuzonda
On the tank
But a name from good old blighty is a bonus.
But the main thing is
£4699.
P/S Looks good with the panniers.
Please say imperial again.
Great vid Bro.
This is definitely NOT a BIG single!
@@keinname629
Nobody likes a smart arse
Kein.......
It is a great looking bike, it really is. Charming bike.
Yes indeed 👍🏼
I agree with you. That's why I bought a royal Enfield interceptor mk2
Excellent 👍🏼👍🏼
I'm in the market for my very first bike and the Hima was at the top of my list till I saw the Scram 411, now I'm split. Think I'll wait till it gets here to the states and see how folks feel about it. Then I'll make a decision. Great review sir👍
OK great. Hopefully we’ll get one to review soon 👍🏼
That bike really suits you!
Thank you 👍🏼👍🏼
Great review, got the bike spot on. Had one 18 months now done lands end to John OGrotes twice all back roads stuff a real adventure bike. Start it and just leave it to tick over for a couple of minutes to let it warm up. One thing not mentioned was ease of home maintaining….super easy for even the most basic of home mechanics, 85mpg makes it a cheap bike to own as well. Now off to investigate your holiday let !
Thanks buddy! Awesome. Yes agreed 👍🏼👍🏼
Just got one agree with everything you say great all rounder. Initially the simplicity of the bike drew me to it, other bikes looked like I would need a masters degree in engineering before I dare go anywhere near it. This I felt capable of looking after myself! And as you say, compare the price with anything else, and , well frankly you are getting ripped of big time. If you just want to get out there and enjoy the country side, and don’t want to pay an arm and two legs, then this has to be the machine!
You mentioned picking bikes up, well that’s my only niggle, not a big guy like you and first time it went down, was a bit red faced by the time I got it up again!
Any chance you could show us in one of your videos, how to correctly right a bike, without either getting a hernia or wrecking your
back? P.S. love your channel, no nonsense honest info, thanks!
The bike, the scenery, the review. All very entertaining and a real pleasure.
Royal Enfield has really hit a home run with this fantastic bike. I agree with you about that stupid "beak" and it would come off the second I got it home.
About off road motorcycling, you know you can take any bike off road.I took a Road King "off road" once. The problem was it took three of us to get it back on the road ! 😄
Mom was an artist that started me early. You have an outstanding eye, my friend. I watch all types of videos, and plenty. I can`t think of a better one ;- )
Thanks very much 👍🏼
Indeed! I've watched it countless times...
You said ‘buy one’ so I’ve just bought a 4 year old Himmie for £2.5k off gumtree - it is fantastic
Funny, same with me in Germany :) I got interested in them 3 years ago through itchy boots, this year I was thinking how long will I wait, wasnt really sure, and listening to this review I went out and bought it.
@@tarot-karma-online it’s not the fastest or the most refined and a bit slow on the highway, but great fun and unsurpassed value for money. Also as much fun as Lego when it comes to screwing bits into it!
Great review. I understand there's some controversy with India and Russia but that's no knock on you, you're a bike reviewer and you review bikes - politics can and should be left out of a review. That consideration can be left to the purchaser, who can get that information from dedicated political channels. While I definitely don't support Russia I'm glad you kept your impartiality as a reviewer, don't let the other comments get you down!
I love how it's such a basic bike and doesn't mess about with fancy rider aids. But it seems like there's a lot of custom modding that needs done before it's truly a great adventure bike
It’s great. I guess so 👍🏼👍🏼
Another great real world review, after watching this I went out and bought one!
Excellent 👍🏼👍🏼
I love the RE range, & this model was on my radar. Knowing a couple of mates here in Australia who’d bought this, their only criticism was being underpowered for long distant touring all geared up. One sold his & bought a Yamaha Tenere & loves it! It’s a pity RE didn’t follow through when they were indicating the 650cc engine was on the cards for the Himalayan! Now that would be the bike I’d go for. 👍🏼 Good review again my man. Your UK weather no doubt is improving so I’m expecting you’ll give your R18 a lot more attention!😎🤤
Yes fingers crossed on the 650. Yes definitely got to get on the R 18 more!
Sold mine a couple of Hondas ago, you’ve just reminded me what a good liveable with bike it is , hop on to shops or explore
Yes indeed 👍🏼👍🏼
Very thoughtful genuine review of how they are to ride 😁
I have had my bought new 2021 Himalayan for 10 months now and just love the chilled out riding, brilliant bike to own if you are in no rush to get anywhere and just want to enjoy the ride ☺
I couldn't ever part with it, it's got 2500mls on it now would have been more if not for Covid restrictions.
I have ridden it to work through winter salted roads, washed it once a week and no rust anywhere so the quality is there 👍
but be aware that the first service includes labour and will cost you £143..I am going to do all my own servicing, valve clearance etc and i have never done valve clearance in my life but very simple to do 😁
Thanks buddy. Good points 👍🏼👍🏼
i worded that servicing part wrong, i paid for the first service, so i know it was £143 but am going to do my own services from now on 😀
Just had first service done last week on my 22 Interceptor and that was £168..my wife paid £79 for the first service on her 2021 Suzuki SV650 🤣
OK no problem. Got you 👍🏼👍🏼
Another great review, and I have to agree, Royal Enfield are making some great, back to basics bikes at the moment. I've also watched Noraly rack up many miles on a Himalayan, and it seems very capable. I also loved your review of the Classic 350, which is another I'd happily own.
Thanks very much! Yes indeed 👍🏼👍🏼
Had mine for a couple of years now, great bike for the back roads and green laning
Oh yes Royal Enfield do make some great bikes I don't have on but I hope to rectify that in the next year and that would be a fantastic place to stay guys I will check it out . : )
Indeed! Thanks 👍🏼👍🏼
I've had the identical bike since last September. Have just added a pyramid plastics front mudguard flap and rear shock protector, to stop crud getting into the mechanicals. Shares the odd stall from cold. Absolutely love it 😁
Awesome! 💯👍🏼
Hi, supered review and we'll said on the modern plastic bikes. I have a himalayan a fantastic bike I know far more back roads now then i ever did most enjoyable. For anyone wishing to buy one instal a booster plug from hitchcocks and that stops the stalling .
Thanks very much.
Good to know about the booster plug👍🏼
Great review well explained agree with everything you said 👌🏻
I too own Himalayan , 14th April it will complete 1year
Thanks very much. Awesome!!
I have a 2020 model Hima and yes it was an absolute prick of a thing when new regarding stalling.
I have 12.000 kilometres on the dial now, starts hot or cold and settles into a steady idle.
These motors from new are tight as, more K’s on dial makes them a lot better.
OK that’s good to know 👍🏼👍🏼
The Himi is a fun bike. I love it. It's the first non-Harley I've bought in almost ten years. It goes everywhere. You mentioned that the tires weren't optimal for rain and mud, but this baby has gotten me through some of the thickest, gooiest, yuckiest Louisiana muck you ever saw. Yeah, not the best in the rain, but fine. Yes, it's very comfortable and confidence-inspiring. I gave this to my wife and she did fine with it, but she likes her trike better so we're giving it to our son because ...
I bought a KTM 390 Adventure after this and oops ... I like ... no, I don't like the KTM better, it just doesn't have the slight speed limitation that the Himi does and it's even lighter and I find myself picking the KTM over the Himi almost every day. Highway riding is necessary for me to get to the ookey stuff and the KTM will do 90 plus in slightly more comfort. Unfortunately, when I get there, I want the Himi back. Life's a b*tch, huh? But the KTM is good enough and I'll say again LIGHTER.
I can't remember if you've tested the 390. I know the Ol' Man doesn't like all the modern pointy things on it and the electro-snazzy stuff that make pretty blinky lights on the clock, but gawd, it's a nice bike too.
It was a hard choice which bike to give to my son, but I know he will enjoy the heck out of the Himi.
Thanks again,
S
Really interesting bro. I totally get what you’re saying.
Lucky son 👍🏼👍🏼