looks like there putting in a 650 twin in the next model...thatll be enough power to haul 2 ppl and the panniers and not be too awful heavy but be able to safely do highway speeds with out shaking apart (i live in sw michigan so speed is needed to ride on the roads lol)
@@mikeschuring423 Very true, 75mph speed limit means people consistently doing 80-90. (Also from MI originally) But I don't think we're going to see the 650 in the Himalayan in it's current form due to stability. It'll need to be improved. Hopefully so! I'd be happy with a 500cc single in it. Still light... more capable. Just have to wait and see if the perpetuated rumors are true! 🙂 Thanks for watching and commenting Mike!
@@KARMAkazeMoto no prob..i ride a ducati 999s but looking at a dual sport..you seem to have a no BS view/opinion of it..and the bike does look good just needs a few tweaks
@@mikeschuring423 since you already have something for speed you'll be fine. One bike for thrills, another for casual riding and adventure... or maybe just to go grab groceries. 😉
🍿😀 Just be sure to make use of the top comment or description if you want to skip ahead. I tried my best to help people find what they're looking for. Take it easy Nate!
Hi still getting through your videos, 2am here in the UK, couldn't sleep. Thanks to you I am now dreaming of owning a Himalayan. Thanks for your review and links to other postings good guy👍😊
Waited long for this review... watched your entire journey from Seattle to Alaska on the Himalayan from the moment you bought it with your niece... Awesome trip and vlogs btw. Thank you
Thank you for this very complete and detailed video. Very good job. I just discovered it on RUclips, and coincidentally I'm going to get my Himalayan tomorrow afternoon ! I’m happy to see that i made the right choice , your comments confirm it. What extraordinary landscapes in your area, what a beautiful nature! Friendly greetings from south of France (thanks to Google translation :-(
That is fantastic, Eric! And thank you for watching and commenting. Are you planning to post video on RUclips? I'd be interested to hear you thoughts on the Himalayan after you get it. Feel free to share links to your videos on my channel in the comments. I don't mind. And consider updating me through Instagram if you care to do so: instagram.com/karmakazemoto/ Enjoy that machine and stay safe!
Regarding your comment in the "cons" section about the "owners manual pocket" under the seat. Its not for the owners manual, its an India specific thing. Its where they keep their owners documentation, like your registration and insurance documents in the USA. I keep a survival blanket in mine. I also run EBC pads in mine, way better than standard brake pads too.
I bought my Himalayan a month ago and am really enjoying it. Since, I watched your series and now want to go on a trip with her. Really enjoyed watching your WA-Alaska trip. Thanks
Good that you mentioned @itchyboots channel. Noralie already covered 30k km traveling all over Asia and Middle East...such a amazing channel edit: I thought she already covered 30K miles, its actually 22K now
I agree, she does such a great job. It's well worth a look and shattered quite a few misconceptions I had about the countries she travels through, regarding the terrain and the people.
Really enjoyed the video. I bought the Himalayan with panniers after I watched a few of your initial purchase and ride home videos. The bike reminds me of my younger (way younger) years when I was a boy riding through mountain logging roads and and loving every minute of it. Fifty years later, I’m back! I’ve had the GS Adventure bikes but at my age, this one is PERFECT!
Finally the review! Recently I went to manali(a town in Himalayan range) and spent 10 days there with rented himalayan(BS4 and BS3 both versions). I agree with you that no can understand a bike with just 15 min ride from the dealer. I fell in love with Himalayan in these 10 days. I also rode KTM,Dominar and RE Classic 500 but there was a huge difference between all these bikes. KTM and Dominar was low on torque and I had to shift to 1st gear every time I was on a steep turn or in lower speed due in light traffic. RE 500 was bit better in torque in lower RPMs but the sheer weight was not any help in challenging situations. KTM and Dominar were all wobbly whenever there was slush or a melting ice stream while I was riding alone but one the Himalayan with a pillion rider was just crushing with no worries. I was worried about the brakes at first but when I left the tarmac I realized why front brake is prograssive cuz RE people didn't want you to eat dirty with snappy brakes. I own a 1975 RE bullet 350 , inherited from my father so I was in search of something solid and rugged, that could take some beating specially off-road. Came back to my hometown and booked a Himalayan. Its just sheer fun.
This in itself is a very useful review! First-hand knowledge of handling and torque compared to the KTM, Dominar and another RE model? I hope other people stumble upon this comment. Thanks for sharing, and I too hope to ride in the Himalayas next year. Cheers!
Hoping to see a video about mountain trails. It will help lot of people to see the capabilities of this bike as a affordable dual-sport. Keep up the vlogging mate. All the best
Honest Review... Thank You!! From India.... Long time no see, good to see you back again. I'm also following Itchy Boots. I will check out the other channel you mention. I heard that Royal Enfield is working on Himalayan with little bit bigger engine like 650. Honestly if i have this bike, i would change mirror and buy after market mirror and change stock exhaust also, not that like them but to suit my own comfort zone that's all, in future i will buy this bike.. for now my budget is tight.
Thanks for the feedback! And yeah, good to be back. It's time to ride! I agree, swapping out the mirror and getting a lighter exhaust are both good ideas. Considering I coated my exhaust with ceramic, I'll stick with stock for a while. We'll see how I feel about it in a year or two. 😀
@@KARMAkazeMoto Your welcome!! 😁 Do as you please, its a good bike. 👍 Your place is so beautiful all around there is mountain and river and everywhere is greenary... i feel very relaxing by watching your videos as you take us(Viewers) through beautiful roads and mountains, rivers and animals.. Thank you for that also... Keep it up, you are doing great... 👍👍
That everRide ADV video is crazy. Those guys take that bike in super gnarly places. His "making off" is also nuts. How they were lost and having to purify water etc. RE was way better than the KLR overall.
Great video my dude, glad to see your back. I hope we see more! I cannot recommend Noraly enough guys, her videos are quite literally out of this world.
Thank you for a great series of videos on the Himalayan! I’m 65, in great shape and I want this bike as my first since riding a 1976 Honda 150 in grad school 40 years ago! Woohoo!
Just about I thought we were never ever going to see your video again..welcome back. Really miss your reaction..And Noraly that girl man she's is crazy travelling all alone to some of the isolated countries like Iran, Tajikistan
Thanks for hanging in there. Next winter I'll just have to travel to warm places and keep riding and posting. 🏍😎 Yeah, I love what she's doing! Exceptional way to spend your life!
Wow Youngster..the presentation was very natural flow..logical and frank. Much better than most others in the bike..thanks and may You do more and wishing you miles of happy safe riding...
Thank you so much Shere Grewal! I think videos should be done like writing, each paragraph leading into the next and the next for a better story. I guess that's why my videos are also a bit long. 🙂👍
Thanks for the update! Really enjoyed following your journey up to Alaska on your bike. Spent a year up where you live and loved the trip up there through the Alcan highway and loved living there in the Anchorage area! I'm seriously considering a Royal Enfield but not sure the Himalayan would be a good fit for me as a big guy (6'2, 260lbs). I'd like to at least try it for a test ride. Thanks again!
6'2" and 260lbs? You just described The Rock! 😃💪 Yeah, that might be pushing it. Perhaps if they come out with a 650 it will accommodate you ultimate warriors a bit better. Glad you had a chance to live up here a while. Anchorage can be spectacular if you get out and explore and keep busy. Plenty to see and do, and plenty of space to see it and do it. 👍
You can bet my interest in the 650 is peaked! 🙂 But to be honest, I think a 500 would be perfect for what this bike is. Extra power, while still keeping the cost and weight down. We'll just have to wait in suspense.
I reckon 410cc is just fine, you would perhaps lose what this machine is all about by fitting a bigger engine. The machine does everything it needs to....in an ever faster moving world I think we need to take time to "smell the roses" and enjoy what we are riding through. Just my opinion....my most fun bike have been the ones that couldn't go any faster than 120k/mh
@@nikduffield5457 I for one have found the Himalayan a nice change of pace from the Bandit 1200. Sometimes you just need to chill out. That said, heavier riders, or a heavy packing list, could benefit from a few extra ponies.
@@nikduffield5457 To be honest, after having watched more reviews, I would have to agree. I don't think RE could compete with the others at that size anyways. This bike fulfills what they set out to do and still interests me more than the others.
Thank you for all that hard work creating such a comprehensive review. I am waiting for my new 2020 Lake Blue Himalayan to arrive and filling the time watching reviews and reading lots of articles. This bike is incredible in that nearly all reviews are really positive. The review covers pretty much everything I could want to know about the Himalayan. You can tell lots of miles have been covered to get to to know the bike so well. One thing that never gets discussed so much is how good looking this bike is. I am a designer and the look is spot on. I reckon it is the Landrover Defender of motorbikes. I am going to be fortunate to get to ride m\y Himalayan through the incredible landscape of Tasmania in Australia. Looks a bit like Alaska actually, no moose though! Thank you for there hard work. I am no expert at making videos but they are a lot of work. Looking forward to the next posting.
I watched this shortly after you posted this. I then went out and bought an Africa Twin. Now my Africa Twin is up for sale and I bought a Himalayan. I should have listened to you in the first place.
Really? 😯 I'm really intrigued by this comment. If you have some time please let me know what you didn't like about the Africa twin and how the Himalayan has been an improvement. I mean, it's one thing for me to speculate about cost in size, and another thing all together for you to have actually had both motorcycles and made the change to what most anyone would consider was a downgrade to the Himalayan. I'm really interested to know a little more about your experience. By the way, I remember quite well our earlier conversations about the mountain goats and having flown my drone in the park. 😉
@@KARMAkazeMoto The Africa Twin is a brilliant motorcycle, but it’s too big for me. I’m 66 years old and 5’4”. I can handle it on pavement and basic gravel but I want to more serious adventures.
Okay, that makes perfect sense to me. Smaller, lighter bike = more confidence to take it into "the unknown." 🙂 I'm glad you finally ended up with something that will let you do more of what you want to do. Enjoy your summer!
Hello mate. Thanks for your review of the bike - I appreciate the time taken and your thoughts on it. I thought the audio was much better with your blue tooth comms set. I really enjoyed your road trip series from Seattle to your home state - Alaska is similar to Tasmania, Australia. Keep up the good work! Cheers Greg
Hey, thanks Greg! Much appreciated. Similar to Tasmania? I would have never thought that, but you have a little bit of everything there. Beautiful countryside! Cheers!
Might I suggest that for those scenes riding down the highways you inform us the speed your traveling. Gives we viewers an idea of how much wind noise we may experience as well as the engine noise. It’s just a nice reference that adds to our experience.
Hi from wet day in england ..it's not just the bike... it's you and you showing me your scenery where you live.. life style.. points of view.. etc utube is brilliant😊 for this...all the best from dave...
G,day, good to see you’re back! Great review, been watching Itchy Boots on her travels, she’s doing really well. Had the clutch issues of course but she had a spare clutch so no dramas with getting back on the road. Been to the dealer and checked out the ‘Sleet’ edition, loved the bike, very comfortable straight up. Even simpler here in Aus to work on as we get the carbureted version.
Thanks Peter! Yup, I'm a fan of carbs. Not doughnuts and pasta mind you... well, those too... but the fuel system. A lifetime of learning carburetors, problem diagnosis and tuning... and all for nothing. I finally start doing some real adventuring and my skills are useless on the fuel injection. Technology is making me obsolete! 😃
KARMAkaze Moto yep, the old Suzuki DR 650 is still the number one dual sport in sales yet again here in Aus and it’s still carbureted. I could have stripped the Amal carbs on my Norton blindfolded if I had to years ago, roadside fixable!
You are THE FIRST PERSON to mention the boot stomp! Way to go! I was really having fun working that in. And get this, it even scared me! I had forgotten it and was reviewing the video before posting. It made me flinch! 😆
Great series, beautiful scenes , wild life and video making . Really enjoyed all the videos along with my 13 years old son. Appreciated. Himalayan bike is really really worth the money and more. Looking forward to your future adventures. All the best. 👍
@Karmakaze moto you made us love Himalayan, your ride from Seattle to Alaska, beautiful Alaska and thanks buddy I have loved your abovesaid journey videos at the fullest. Earlier was bit nervous for this big video. But was sure this video will be best of all.....I didn't refer index, cause as the video started liked every bit of it....""You Know"" 😁. Nice review covering all sides. Have fun enjoy your rides on your home turf. And please do not forget to share. Thanks from India.
Forgot giving audio feedback. Was listening to your review on my car audio system via blue tooth. Initially it was difficult to listen as the engine roar was at it's peak. Thus I adjusted equalizer to low bass n treble n high mid....thus your voice was clear. Rest everything was audible.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Your ride has made me crave for coming to Alaska n having such a beautiful ride. Though will need to learn some basic safety rules. Cause here in India it's crowded n not possible to halt at all junctions and proceed. Basically you will be shocked n amazed n stunned to ride in Metros n countryside. Every country has it's pros n cons. But would love to be at a place with such a beautiful backyard as you had said in this video. As always you inspire more for such rides. I do follow Noraly@ itchy boots, all had seen some videos of Dominique earlier along with other riders reviewing Versys, BMW 310 gs alongside Himalayan....with amazing Himalayan results. Also have seen some videos from wootopia from Australia. Thanks for your priceless sharing of REH experience. Thanks Again.
Another brilliant video from KARMAkaze , keep up the great work you do, im getting my Himalayan this Saturday 1st of June 2019, hopefully i will shoot some video and post it, Paul in Belfast Northern Ireland.
Did you really watch the whole thing, Man? Wow! Please tell me you saw the extremely funny part. I think a lot of people will skip over it, which is understandable.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Yes for sure...after all, your talking about some thing I love!! And I'm waiting till I reach at least 10,000km on mine to give a proper review. Living in a small island country covering 10,000 will take some time lol! its funny how the moose just walked by... And I didn't even know that there was a compartment under the seat!
Hey Sergio, good to see you! Speaking of the Interceptor, I tried to do that while visiting Michigan, but they had not arrived yet. I'll have to make a trip down to Seattle again in the near future. I think it would be worth it for my channel.
Really appreciate you taking the time to make a comprehensive review of the himalayan. Ive had mine for a month now and have been very impressed with it. You get a lot of bang for buck! Regarding your mic, i thought the quality was very good. Thanks again. 👍
Bring it on up to Alaska! 😁 And hey, thanks for the mic feedback. So far the consensus is the voice sounds pretty good and one person thought the engine noise could be better. That's a 2nd mic actually. Anyway, much appreciated!
@@KARMAkazeMoto would love to bring it up to Alaska, the scenery you show on your vids is amazing, perhaps one day. I live in Scotland so the next trip for the himalayan is the northwest 500, taking in the highlands. Reg your mic, didnt pick up on the engine noise, the main thing is your voice was very clear. Ive subscribed and look forward to some more bike content. Keep up the great work and ride safe, watch out for the moose! 😀👍
Great to see you back...i enjoyed the last adventure video series which i have gone through many times and hopefully will keep on seeing...it was really worth watching...Thanks for the effort you put in every videos ....i am planning to buy a himalayan in few months too,,,From Kerala,
I was just browsing RUclips for RE Himalayan videos but instead I got immersed into your beautiful journey. Watched all 6 parts in one sitting. Just finished watching this review and you got me really sold into getting the Himalayan. Although I’m curious about the 650 version release next year but I’m sure it will be the same price point or more as the INT and 650 GT. But I think the single cylinder engine will be more than enough for my purposes. Plus IMO, because of its limitations it definitely has soul and character. Thanks for putting out great content, your videos are ones to take to the heart. Keep us entertained. Cheers.
I happened to watch one of your Video and ended up watching almost all the videos. truly authentic simple. I am going to start my journey soon. I am still watching your videos, lovely content. Lot of love n stay safe.
First of all, really practical, insightful, mature and thorough review. I see the dedication and passion for the value you are getting. I love that you arent just blinded and driven by desire to acquire bigger and better looking things(Honda Africa Twin in your case). Secondly, I see how genuine you are. Also I observed you know quite a bit about automobiles, detonation and knocking to Fuel pump and the likes. As an indian I am proud an Indian product is doing good. But also...I feel the connect and brotherhood. I feel that at the end of the day we all are the same. Hope you have a good experience.
I totally agree with you, the vast majority of reviewers at test riding for an hour or so and have this thing for comparing it to bikes outside it’s class which is stupid. Your review is be far the best as is the Itchy Boots one, the other guy you mentioned Everide owns a KLR650, the Himalayan he tested was a friend’s bike
That was a great review mate, thoroughly enjoyed that and watched every second. Very interesting to hear your take on the pros and cons especially since I’ve watched most of the other reviews you mentioned, everide being one of them when they were out in the desert. I was keen to hear your thoughts and compare them to my experiences riding the KLR, which I must do a 6 month review, sadly no longer in production. The KLR can be a heavy lumbering beast off road but It manages and I find it pretty nimble on road, as demonstrated on some of my commute videos. I do like the look of the RE and when the 650 comes out I’ll be giving it some serious eyeballing. Great review Justin and I gotta say your backyard is glorious, absolutely stunning mate. Shame I’m not still living in Canada otherwise I’d scoot on up and ride with you. Looking forward to more videos. ATVB2U. Jason.
Thanks Jason! And thanks for checking it out at all. My focus was on mostly the highway riding, so speaking of lumbering uphill, I'll have to do a specific video for off-road riding. I only did a bit of gravel road in my Seattle to Alaska videos. This summer I'll put the Himalayan to a better test on trails. You know, not a single person has mentioned the boot. Please tell me you caught that part. I was cracking myself up working on that part. 😁 As for the potential of a 650, if RE is paying attention to how many people are mentioning it, they'd know it would be a hit. Fingers crossed! 🤞 For sure I'd link up for some rides. I should start looking at an Australia visit... maybe then. Would be for quite some time though. Cheers!
@@KARMAkazeMoto ah, the boot. The cavernous space for the user manual? No sympathy there I'm afraid. The KLR doesn't even get one, though it does have a small compartment with a tool kit 😁👊 . Looking forward to your off-road videos mate 👍I have family still in Canada (my daughter is Canadian also) so I imagine I'll be over there in the not too distant future hopefully 👍ATB Jason.
@@KARMAkazeMoto oh, that boot! Lol. Now that's the difference between our two common languages haha. Yeah, I remember thinking where the heck did that come from haha and then the video title screen shot now made sense. At first I couldn't quite figure out why there was a boot in that shot and what it's significance was to a moose.
You are never a true Royal Enfield Rider till you learn to forget to turn off turn signal.... Enjoyed your vlog and review. Thanks for the good presentation and wonderful scenery.
Thanks for sharing a very balanced Himalayan review. this is a very enjoyable scenery and landscape video, audio is clear and easy to understand. Why all of the road work, the roads you are riding on look great.Hhowever you were riding way faster than I would through the construction zones. A number of other reviews that I have watched have mentioned problems with corrosion and rust as well as water getting into the instrument cluster - maybe you got lucky. Is it possible that a shift lever from another Royal Enfield (or different manufacturer) would eliminate the clearance issue you mentioned - they might not be adjustable but you could swap them out depending on your ride. Finally, the lack of dealers for the bike might be an issue is one is not mechanically inclined.
I think a lot of the road work is due to earthquake damage last winter. I kept the bike in the garage all winter, so rust hasn't been an issue yet. I've been in some heavy rain and didn't get water in the instruments. As for the shifter, other RE bikes also have a shorter shifter. There is a selection of aftermarket adjustable shifters online. Just a matter of finding the right one with the correct mounting inside diameter, etc. I'll be forced to do that if I want to make use of my protective boots. Otherwise it is not necessary to change anything.
Audio is great by the way. Love that your voice is so clear and the engine sounds noticeable without being intrusive. Nice backyard and, you know, the Monty Python boot.
This is like if I would be riding the 7 lakes route on my Himalayan. I have done it a few times now (live in San Martín de los Andes). It turns like a maxitrail and it goes as fast as law and my courage permits. Absolutely great bike
Fantastic series of 6 road videos and this review. You have certainly sold me on the Himalayan and like someone mentioned below, I don't think the 650 version when it comes in the next year is going to be for me. It will be a couple thousand more and if I'm adventure touring with it, I'm not sold on needing the extra horsepower and weight. You have pointed out all the advantages of the 411cc model and I'm sold! Thanks for your professional and amazing videos! I look forward to what you do with it this year.
I've been riding 1 up with the wife on the rear of my bike and having a great time with it. She is a rider also and thus knows how to lean with me and the bike barely can tell that she's there. The only negative I've had with it is stopping. The soft long front fork suspension can squat quite a bit with the two person load. If you use too much front brake when stopping, it will compress and bounce you some. It still corners great and she (5' 4" and 140#) states that the leg position is pretty good for her for up to the 20 mile runs we've done so far. I tried riding her with and without the panniers and it's only slightly harder for her to get onto the pegs with them on. I appreciate the review and for the record, my mirror doesn't do that at all and it doesn't move from wind or even being bumped. I have been considering a slightly differently shaped mirror than the round, but it hasn't been an issue per say.
Oh, hey Scott! Good to hear about your success with a passenger. I can absolutely see how the front fork would dive like that with an added person. Not surprised at all. Good to know. As for my mirror, someone has told me that I can tighten some screws underneath and it will stiffen up. I had assumed those were merely for construction, not tightening. If it works, that's one less thing on an already short list of negatives! 😃
@Mark Everson I might be wrong but I think the Himalayan has a fresh factory for it's construction. I think you'll find it has far better build quality than the older Bullets. Just something to bear in mind when choosing between them.
@Mark Everson, I like old bikes too. But if I were going to choose one or the other, I think I'd opt for the bike that can provide more opportunities with greater comfort. That's just me. My opinion doesn't really matter for you. I just really like how much functionality you get out of the Himalayan. Good luck to you!
@Mark Everson, I hope some other people chime in on options with similar capability. You might want to consider a Kawasaki KLR 650 or a Suzuki DR650 or the Honda XR650. These bikes coast more than the Himalayan, but they are built to go both on and off road. The Suzuki and the Honda have a bit of an off road bias. If you're planning to do a lot of highway, you might want to stay focused on the KLR or Himalayan. Nice thing about bikes like the KLR or DR is that there are a ton of used ones available. I don't have experience riding all these bikes, especially newer ones. I'm just trying to provide other options that are in the ballpark, similar to the Himalayan in capability, size and cost. Hope that helps.
Man I love your videos. Always waiting for the next one. Great quality and editing. Have 4 motorcycles now and hope to add an ADV in the future. Probably won't be this one, but it does look like a good bike. Love the lightweight and middleweight bikes. They are a blast to ride. Not many really lightweight ADV bikes out there. Would like to see how it compares to the Kawasaki Versys X300. Once again waiting on your next video.
Oh wow, such a great catch! I'll see if I can add it to the video as a little popup. Thanks! That would make sense considering you can see some black under it.
The recording was good. Liked hearing the engine as you talked. The review was straightforward. You didn't mention the exhaust discoloration right after you got it. Not a deal breaker but definitely a cost cutting measure. I wonder if they addressed it? Anyway, looks like a good bike at a good price.. Thanks for the review....
Good to hear. Depending on style of headphones or device the engine sound is bit louder or quiet, so hopefully everyone else feels the same way. That's a totally separate recording. I put a little mic on my backpack connected to my old cell phone with a recording app. 🙂 I forgot to talk about exhaust AND my #1 favorite thing about the Himalayan, which is the ability to ditch the highway and confidently tackle off-road terrain at any moment. Love the freedom!
I've watched these for past few years, and I've been waiting for factory and aftermarket performance parts. Tec has a cam that gives you 20% power , perfect bike for the money, hands down period.... Great video
Your trip from Seattle to Alaska on the Himalayan plus your more recent videos have certainly peaked my interest in this motorcycle. Watched many of Nloraly's videos as well. I will attempt to demo ride the bike at a 'local' dealer this summer. I live in southern BC.
Wow, I love your enthousiasm on this little "Big" bike. I'm interested in this bike more and more. I watched your whole journey from when you picked it up at the dealer and brought it to your home in Alaska. What a stunning beautiful journey in such a beautiful part of the world . Great edited . I also follow Itchy Boots, se also brings her findings with her special enthousiasm to us. Thank you for letting us be part of that. I'm loooking forward to new content so we can enjoy the beatiful area you live in.. Keep up this great work.
Thanks for the kind words Leon. I'm glad you like what we're doing (both Noraly and I), and I do have more Alaska scenery coming up . First I need to post my battery replacement. It is uploading as I type and will be shared sometime early tomorrow... depending on where you live. Thanks again, and all the best to you! 🙂
I love the idea of the Himalayan. I just feel I am too tall, and long legged for the bike. I am waiting to see if the Himalayan 650 will accommodate taller riders. Nice review.
A good detailed and honest review of the himalayan, sound quality, I could understand all that was said, never going to be perfect against the wind and bike noise. Enjoyed and looking forward to your next video, stunning scenery by the way.
Thanks for the review. I very much enjoyed the series up the coast. Like others who are following you (and Noraly, amongst others), I'm considering the Himalayan quite seriously, although I may have to wait and see if the supposed forthcoming 650 version may be a better choice. If they stray from the current layout, I'd opt for the single version. We'll see, I suppose. Have you considered fitting the ECU that Noraly found success with, but Nathan was quite displeased with? I'd be curious to hear your impressions. Again, thanks so much for the videos - they really are a joy to watch.
You're quite welcome. Yeah, that 650 is going to be a hot item.... if it's real. Right now I'm not quite sure if it's some sort of unicorn fueled by a bunch of "heard it though the grapevine" rumors, or if a 650 Himalayan is truly in the works. I sort of hope so. I could see passing the 411 to my wife and picking up a 650. 👍
Himalayan 650 is just a rumour in Indian biking community, which is fueled by RE's CEO Mr. Sidharth Lal's comment on upgrading Himalayan in coming years. As I road interceptor and Himalayan both, there is huge difference between the two. Engine and the chassis is going to be the problem. They have to redesign a enforced frame to house that parallel twin engine which is going to increase the significant amount of weight cuz engine itself is beefy. Being an dual sport the 2nd exhaust is going to be a huge problem if you consider mounting panniers and saddling on the bike. Weight of the bike is a the biggest factor specially when people are buying it as an easy and less complex machine. Hope they will come up with some solution for the bike.
@@technicalsda3621 sort of what I suspected. Regarding the engine, I don't think the current twin 650 will ever make it into a Himalayan. I'd expect another, large capacity single cylinder. Not unlike the KLR650.
@@technicalsda3621 Judging by the interest and early reviews of the Yamaha Tenere 700, a mid-size twin adventure bike is where the demand is hottest. If Royal Enfiled could use the 650cc engine and a Harris-designed frame to produce a budget Tenere 700, they'd crush the market.
Thanks for posting this. I grew up in northern Ontario, but have spent the past 15 years living internationally. So the wide open places and scraggly trees make me homesick. Also, because I subscribed to you, YT recommended itchyboots, and I am addicted to following her RTW. Anyway, keep it up.
Northern Ontario? I know Algonquin Provincial Park like the back of my hand. In my earlier videos, when I'm sleeping on the ground... Algonquin is where I started that practice. Many fond memories. 😊 I need to figure out the best approach to do a joint, Itchy Boots/KarmaKaze trip in Alaska. According to her AK is on the itinerary. We'll see! Thanks Andrew!
Thanks Justin. The review was "interesting" in so many ways, glad you added in about your vertical status. I wonder how the Himalayan would fit someone in the 6'2" and 200 pound size? Maybe the over 6 feet tall people need the risers? I also notice Noraly replaced her windscreen with a 60mm taller after-market version to stop the wind turbulence/buffeting effect, also seen other Himalayan riders with extensions fitted to top of screen, so wonder if you have the same problem? The recording voice while riding is really quite good, nearly no wind noise and voice clarity is good. Finally really enjoyed sharing the ride home with you, the perspective and engine sound was as good as the scenery.
Hi Bud, welcome back. Good video . Sound wasn't ideal to be honest , as I am sure you realise. The wee bike sounded weird. Looking forward to more road trip videos. Ride safe, Alaska rocks.😎
Hey Jon! Well, I think I'll play around with my external/exhaust recording a bit. That is all from a small mic attached to my backpack, then fed into a spare phone. I use an app called HiRecorder to get a good MP3. However, there's still a bit too much wind and road noise to contend with, especially at higher speeds. I can't say it sounds much better or worse than other vlogs, but I'm not concerned about other vlogs. I want my stuff to be as good as I'm capable of doing with what I have. Time for that Bandit walk-around hey? Would like to have made a couple improvements, but I think I'll just have to go for it as is. Won't be long.
@@KARMAkazeMoto. Wind noise is the bane of the Moto vlogger . You are a tech savvy guy with awesome editing skills . I bet you get it sorted. I just started vlogging a few weeks ago. Don't know if you watched those couple of videos, but I am using a fairly standard GoPro set up with a furry wind muffler. It's not too bad for wind noise, it's certainly not intrusive. The Bandit sounded pretty good as well , also not intrusive. My GPZ has a fairly quiet pipe and you can't really here it at anything over 20mph. Probably be the same for your RE. A separate audio file for just the exhaust note sounds interesting. How tricky is it to blend the exhaust file with the talking file in post? I would appreciate your feedback on my audio quality if you have time. Thanks.
I just went over to your channel and commented and subscribed. About the 2nd mic, it is pretty easy. The trick is the make sure the mic isn't getting any wind noise. The setup I'm using and testing is: 1. A small lavaliere mic clipped to the center, lower, back of my backpack. There doesn't seem to be wind there, but not a vacuum either because clearly I get sound. 2. That mic is plugged into my spare phone in the backpack. 3. That phone is running HiRecorder app, which records a better quality MP3 file, for long periods of time, and it seems to auto adjust the recording level. You might want to try others. 4. Once you have your camera recording, and the rear mic recording, just clap your hands or tap something loud so that it is both recorded on the camera (video and audio) and on the rear mic. 5. Later when you are editing, put your video on one layer and that rear mic audio on another layer. Assuming you are using software that shows you the audio levels, you'll see the spikes where you clapped or tapped. All you have to do is slide and/or clip the rear mic audio to line the spikes up with your video. 6. Carry on with editing. Of course, if you clip out any sections of your video you'll have to clip out the exact section of that rear mic audio so that everything stays in sync. I'm not going to act like this isn't adding additional hassle to the process, but it's pretty easy. Especially after you do it a time or two. What I might try to get a better recording of the exhaust not is simply a better mic back there. I might also try having a mic attached to the bike instead of my pack. I don't like having to mess with taking the pack on and off, pulling the phone out to start recording, etc. Would be better to just have the mic and my spare phone on the bike, like under the seat or something, as long as the sound was good.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Wow Justin , Can't thank you enough for your detailed reply and sub.👍😁. Amazingly , being an old technophobe, I do understand what you're saying. And look forward to hearing your next audio. I am a novice editor with medieval hardware and basic software ( windows movie maker ) . There isn't many options for audio . Saving up to upgrade pc etc . I will get there eventually. What plan to try is to mount the camera on the bike in different places and run a wire up my sleeve at connect it to my helmet mic. The idea is to keep the same sound source while shooting creative camera angles. Ride safe Bud. Talk later. 👊
I use to really like movie maker. So simple and quick! That's one of the reason I use Cyberlink Powerdirector now. It's core setup is like movie Maker, but on steroids. And I think you'll find that the varying camera angles will improve your videos 100%. I'd like to do more of that as well. You know, it would be cool to wire up a mic harness, sort of a permanent wire setup so that when you put the camera in a place, there's a mic cable end right there. I would think some splicing/soldering would do the trick nicely. Just a thought.
I've been intrigued by this bike for a while and your video series only added fuel to the fire. To me, it seems like India's KLR650. I have always liked big, lumpy single cylinders. The retro styling is a plus in my mind. I've yet to see one of these in person, but I get the impression it would feel small for me since I am a bit over 6'1". I test rode a RE Bullet 500 and it felt like a 7/8 scale bike to me. Same for the Yamaha SR400 I owned for a few months. I was very tempted recently when one of these popped up on craigslist with just 16 miles and some very nice extras. Instead, I went with a Honda XR650L. This and the other videos were thoroughly entertaining and informative. Channels like yours are amazing mediums that deepen the two-wheeled community. Thumbs up!
At your height I think you're at that mid-point where comfort is very much dependent on the individual. I've heard from guys in your range that say the Himalayan is fine, so it's worth a test ride. Seams like your knees would be so much more bent than mine. Might need more breaks to stretch. Thanks for the kind words Aaron!
Thanks for your travels from Seattle, Canada through to Alaska. Absolutely amazing places to see and share. You have proven to the world what a capable, reliable adventure bike the Himalayn is. I've never liked bigger adventure bikes on the weight and size fully loaded up. The Himalayn can load up just as much and happily sit there at 75 no problem. More than quick enough on gravel roads should you need to. Great camera work with good informative information on your bike and the areas you pass through. You should set up a bike hire, touring company to explore your magical place 😉. Happy riding Justin from the UK. Well done.
I watched all your videos and enjoyed your journey. The Himalayan is popular, very popular, so it must have a lot going for it. Your summary was honest and comprehensive and I hope Royal Enfield listen to what you had to say, along with others, as there are very similar pros and cons stated, and act upon solving those little gripes that improve the quality and remove the doubts. With those niggles ironed out, they would sell shed loads more. I do intend to test ride, along with an Interceptor 650, but am looking at the Himalayan because I live in Cumbria (the Lake District), England, and feel that it would be suitable for the roads and terrain here, which are twisty, undulating and narrow. I expect you have heard of Hitchcocks, a parts company in England for all things Royal Enfield and I listed quite a few upgrades they offer and it totalled £1000, so the bike is easily upgraded and customised to a degree. I think you have done wonders for the brand and bike and RE should give you a bike for free in thanks. You have also opened our eyes to the wonders of Canada and Alaska from a bikers perspective and I'm sure many will be encouraged to visit if they can afford to. Cheers.
This is a really great comment, thank you so much. Yes, I think you'd find the Himalayan to be a very practical and useful bike in your area. Of course there are others as well so it boils down to cost, aesthetics, etc. I have heard of Hitchcock's and looked over some of their product offerings. I'm not in the market to be doing any major upgrades at the moment, just bought a house and buried in renovations, but I'm keeping them in mind for the future. Cheers and thanks again! 🙂
Nice Video! I followed you on your Videos from Seattle to Alaska and I enjoyed them very much! Your new Sena System ist pretty good, your voice is loud and clear. And I think it is easy to handle. I also follow Noraly on her Trip, haven't missed a Video and she is really a brave girl. Thank you for this long Video, I learned a lot about the Himalayan, and I would like to have one, but for the moment three bikes are enough! Greetings from Austria to Alaska!!! Looking forward to your next Video!👍
@@KARMAkazeMoto Oh sorry. It's not a secret!😉 The one on my picture ist a Honda Monkey. The Grom has the same engine, but looks more modern. I also have Yamaha Majesty 400 and a Honda CBF 600 S . And I have not enough space in my garage for a further Bike.😟 And you have the Himalayan, a Bandit and further bikes?
@@markobrien5293 ha, thanks for playing along! The CB is sort of like the Bandit. Really good, all-around, purposeful street bikes. Hard to beat. I bet it's a blast. There are three other bikes in the garage. I customized a '96 Suzuki GN125 for my wife as a learner bike. She's outgrown it, but having been customized, to include her tattoo worked into the paint, it's hard to part with. And the 2 others are in pieces mostly. A '74 CB360 cafe racer project. Going to do it as simple as possible. Nothing fancy, just get 'er back on the road with a little pep. And a '70 Suzuki TC90. Interesting little trail bike. All in parts waiting for the frame to be painted, cylinder bored, and then I can start thinking about putting it back together and IF I'll do any customizing. Not quite sure.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Wow, you have a lot of projects to work on. I saw your Video with your '97 Bandit and it reminds me of my "Tank" or "Iron Pig"; the '91 GSX 1100G! I sold her last Year. I had her for 12 Years, but with 280 kg, she was much to heavy. I liked the Kardan, but with my short legs, I crashed down once a Year. I didn't got much Money for her, but I needed the space for the other Bikes. I like the Honda CB's of the '70 very much! For me they are the most fantastic Bikes of Design and Technic! I never heard about the Suzuki TC 90, but much Bikes where build for the American Market and not available in Europe.😞 I wish you a lot of fun with your Projects and maybe you make a Video of them?!👍
You're right, the Bandit is quite similar to that GSX1100G. And I agree, those 70's CBs are great. I had a 750 briefly. Fixd the starter and sold it. Wish I still had it. As for my projects I'm definitely going to make an attempt to focus on those during the Winter. That way I can have some things to Focus on for videos when I can't be out riding. My wife likes to claim the garage in winter, but I'll manage.
This looks like the perfect bike for someone who doesn’t have a lot of riding experience and is shorter. All of the information youv’e shared is valuable. Audio sounds good!
Thanks for this review. Well done! It convinced me that this bike is for me. It is a beautiful country you live in.Lucky you ;-) You asked for feedback on the sound (voice): very clear and audible. Keep on the good work!!
Sir, its been a long wait after your last adventure...I just used to see the same repeatedly...anyway it's worth waiting for videos in your channel...thank you
Great detailed review. Thank you. I am still very tempted by the Himalayan, but have not yet taken the plunge. Some other bikes are tempting me as well. And way to go giving a shout-out to Noraly. I watch all of her new videos... she is amazing. You might also check out Adrian Eades channel on the Himalayan. He's got some great maintenance videos.
A terrific tire that I use on my BMW 1150 Adventure, KLR 650, and XR650r is the Continental Twinduro TKC 80. I'll bet the Himilayan would match up beautifully with these tires.
I think you're onto something with the TKC 80. I was looking at the very similar Shinko 804/805, which has good reviews, but they don't have the exact size I need unless I go 10mm wider in the rear, which is fine. But the TKC 80 has exact sizes. I'll look into it more. Thanks Robert!
FYI... Itchy boots has a seat cover and that is what is worn not the actual seat itself. She said the seat was to soft for her so she used the cover. Great review/video... Thx.
I wish I had seen that particular episode when she got the seat cover. Quite a mistake. Thanks for the info! And good to know it is not the seat wearing out. Thanks for the info and the compliment. 👍
KARMAkaze Moto I to am looking in to the 2019 REH.... though it might be powerless but looks like it gets along just fine. Looks perfect for my needs here in the Sacramento area of CA. Subscribed and Thx...
@@rhugh02 Thanks! And hey, I wouldn't go as far as to say powerless. For instance, yesterday I was climbing a hill behind a car, sort steep, only doing 45 or 50, and I was able to stay in 5th gear. Didn't even have to downshift. I was sort of surprised. It'll totally get you around, can accelerate quicker than cars, is light to handle, and you can ditch the hardball anytime you spot a dirt road or trail. Just simple fun. Oh, and a couple days ago I did a 201-mile trip, mostly 65mph, and got 65+ miles per gallon. That's the most accurate fuel economy test I've done to date.
Most definitely you are right, and we need to carry paperwork too, but it is more common for compartments like that to contain the actual owners manual... at least on every bike I've owned or worked on. Not a big deal I guess. Thanks!
@@KARMAkazeMoto Royal Enfield has the owners manual available as a PDF on their website . Better to have it on your phone IMO, can be read easily at night as well. Hope this helps. Its on this page www.royalenfield.com/in/en/support/owners-manual/
Congratulations!I have beber seen such a great motorcicle reve! I'm considering buing an Himalayan, AMD you gave so many details , thank you, Enjoy tour bike,, you hace got a new suscriptor.
Wow, thank you so much Carlos! If you get a Himalayan, be sure to come back and let me know how it goes. All the best to you from Alaska! Ride safe! 😃🤝
Hi from Australia. Your rear vision mirrors have adjustable tension on the ball pivot. Have a close look up from underneath. You can tighten the screws. Problem solved......
» Clickable Index «
▌ Intro - 0:00
• Many thanks to all - 1:50
• Elevated perspective - 2:58
• Other reviews to consider (see links below) - 5:02
▌ On-bike Comments
• Compass - 8:33
• Highway handling & stability - 9:55
• Vibration - 13:02
• Slow riding and torque - 18:13
• Quick shifting - 19:50
▌ Pros & Cons, an Off-bike Discussion
• Cons first - 23:05
• What the hell just happened? ☺ - 32:11
• Pros - 33:36
• Visited by a Moose - 39:09
▌ Heading Home
• Let's ride! - 50:09
• Final Comments, thanks, and future content - 57:31
» CONSIDER THESE OTHER REVIEWS «
▌ Noraly: Itchy Boots
▐ ruclips.net/video/BsdKwqc1040/видео.html
▌ Dominique: GS Vintage
▐ ruclips.net/video/W6n0Gq8juzo/видео.html
▌ Nathon: Nathan the Postman
▐ ruclips.net/video/_IweVeztRFo/видео.html
▐ ruclips.net/video/B8WAvQGZWPw/видео.html
▐ ruclips.net/video/2ovHFprXckU/видео.html
▌ eveRide ADV
▐ ruclips.net/video/NQwA5t8cnkE/видео.html
» KarmaKaze Moto on the Web «
• Website: karmakazemoto.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/karmakazemoto/
• Facebook: facebook.com/karmakazemoto/
looks like there putting in a 650 twin in the next model...thatll be enough power to haul 2 ppl and the panniers and not be too awful heavy but be able to safely do highway speeds with out shaking apart (i live in sw michigan so speed is needed to ride on the roads lol)
@@mikeschuring423 Very true, 75mph speed limit means people consistently doing 80-90. (Also from MI originally) But I don't think we're going to see the 650 in the Himalayan in it's current form due to stability. It'll need to be improved. Hopefully so! I'd be happy with a 500cc single in it. Still light... more capable. Just have to wait and see if the perpetuated rumors are true! 🙂 Thanks for watching and commenting Mike!
@@KARMAkazeMoto no prob..i ride a ducati 999s but looking at a dual sport..you seem to have a no BS view/opinion of it..and the bike does look good just needs a few tweaks
@@mikeschuring423 since you already have something for speed you'll be fine. One bike for thrills, another for casual riding and adventure... or maybe just to go grab groceries. 😉
@@KARMAkazeMoto ..lol..i have a icon take bag and do get groceries with that from time to time...i can fit a gal of milk bread and cereal in it
Holy smokes! An hour... Looks like I'll have to watch later tonight with a bowl of popcorn 😁
🍿😀 Just be sure to make use of the top comment or description if you want to skip ahead.
I tried my best to help people find what they're looking for. Take it easy Nate!
Hi still getting through your videos, 2am here in the UK, couldn't sleep. Thanks to you I am now dreaming of owning a Himalayan. Thanks for your review and links to other postings good guy👍😊
Commenting before I watched the video. Good to see you back!
Nice job, #1!🤝
And thanks, let the summer fun begin!
Waited long for this review... watched your entire journey from Seattle to Alaska on the Himalayan from the moment you bought it with your niece... Awesome trip and vlogs btw. Thank you
Thanks Sushant! Summer is here finally, so there should be more stunning scenery and wildlife on the way. I can't wait!
Thank you for this very complete and detailed video. Very good job. I just discovered it on RUclips, and coincidentally I'm going to get my Himalayan tomorrow afternoon ! I’m happy to see that i made the right choice , your comments confirm it.
What extraordinary landscapes in your area, what a beautiful nature!
Friendly greetings from south of France (thanks to Google translation :-(
That is fantastic, Eric! And thank you for watching and commenting. Are you planning to post video on RUclips? I'd be interested to hear you thoughts on the Himalayan after you get it. Feel free to share links to your videos on my channel in the comments. I don't mind. And consider updating me through Instagram if you care to do so: instagram.com/karmakazemoto/
Enjoy that machine and stay safe!
Regarding your comment in the "cons" section about the "owners manual pocket" under the seat. Its not for the owners manual, its an India specific thing. Its where they keep their owners documentation, like your registration and insurance documents in the USA. I keep a survival blanket in mine.
I also run EBC pads in mine, way better than standard brake pads too.
Nice to have you back.keep the views a coming.
Summer time!!!
Finally.
I bought my Himalayan a month ago and am really enjoying it. Since, I watched your series and now want to go on a trip with her. Really enjoyed watching your WA-Alaska trip. Thanks
Good that you mentioned @itchyboots channel. Noralie already covered 30k km traveling all over Asia and Middle East...such a amazing channel
edit: I thought she already covered 30K miles, its actually 22K now
I agree, she does such a great job. It's well worth a look and shattered quite a few misconceptions I had about the countries she travels through, regarding the terrain and the people.
In a short time it has become one my favorite channels.
On her latest video (28th May)she takes it for its 20,000 km service at 22,000 km. Looks like the only thing worn is the front of the seat.
@@colins6638 12K ish miles is quite a bit in a year.
Really enjoyed the video. I bought the Himalayan with panniers after I watched a few of your initial purchase and ride home videos. The bike reminds me of my younger (way younger) years when I was a boy riding through mountain logging roads and and loving every minute of it.
Fifty years later, I’m back!
I’ve had the GS Adventure bikes but at my age, this one is PERFECT!
Finally the review! Recently I went to manali(a town in Himalayan range) and spent 10 days there with rented himalayan(BS4 and BS3 both versions). I agree with you that no can understand a bike with just 15 min ride from the dealer. I fell in love with Himalayan in these 10 days. I also rode KTM,Dominar and RE Classic 500 but there was a huge difference between all these bikes. KTM and Dominar was low on torque and I had to shift to 1st gear every time I was on a steep turn or in lower speed due in light traffic. RE 500 was bit better in torque in lower RPMs but the sheer weight was not any help in challenging situations. KTM and Dominar were all wobbly whenever there was slush or a melting ice stream while I was riding alone but one the Himalayan with a pillion rider was just crushing with no worries. I was worried about the brakes at first but when I left the tarmac I realized why front brake is prograssive cuz RE people didn't want you to eat dirty with snappy brakes. I own a 1975 RE bullet 350 , inherited from my father so I was in search of something solid and rugged, that could take some beating specially off-road. Came back to my hometown and booked a Himalayan. Its just sheer fun.
This in itself is a very useful review! First-hand knowledge of handling and torque compared to the KTM, Dominar and another RE model? I hope other people stumble upon this comment.
Thanks for sharing, and I too hope to ride in the Himalayas next year. Cheers!
@@KARMAkazeMoto thx mate!
We share information only for our fellow riders. Hope our information help them decide the joy they are expecting.
Hoping to see a video about mountain trails. It will help lot of people to see the capabilities of this bike as a affordable dual-sport. Keep up the vlogging mate. All the best
@@technicalsda3621 long gravel highways and trails are coming soon. 👍
You just have earned yourself a subscriber. 😎
Honest Review... Thank You!! From India.... Long time no see, good to see you back again. I'm also following Itchy Boots. I will check out the other channel you mention. I heard that Royal Enfield is working on Himalayan with little bit bigger engine like 650. Honestly if i have this bike, i would change mirror and buy after market mirror and change stock exhaust also, not that like them but to suit my own comfort zone that's all, in future i will buy this bike.. for now my budget is tight.
Thanks for the feedback! And yeah, good to be back. It's time to ride!
I agree, swapping out the mirror and getting a lighter exhaust are both good ideas. Considering I coated my exhaust with ceramic, I'll stick with stock for a while. We'll see how I feel about it in a year or two. 😀
@@KARMAkazeMoto Your welcome!! 😁 Do as you please, its a good bike. 👍 Your place is so beautiful all around there is mountain and river and everywhere is greenary... i feel very relaxing by watching your videos as you take us(Viewers) through beautiful roads and mountains, rivers and animals.. Thank you for that also... Keep it up, you are doing great... 👍👍
That everRide ADV video is crazy. Those guys take that bike in super gnarly places. His "making off" is also nuts. How they were lost and having to purify water etc. RE was way better than the KLR overall.
Whoa! I didn't see that one. I'll check it out!
@@KARMAkazeMoto I think is called what not to do
@@BMRTV ah, that'll help. Thanks.
Great video my dude, glad to see your back. I hope we see more!
I cannot recommend Noraly enough guys, her videos are quite literally out of this world.
Thanks Dennis! Plenty more on the way, at least for the next few months before winter strikes again.
Thank you for a great series of videos on the Himalayan! I’m 65, in great shape and I want this bike as my first since riding a 1976 Honda 150 in grad school 40 years ago! Woohoo!
Just about I thought we were never ever going to see your video again..welcome back. Really miss your reaction..And Noraly that girl man she's is crazy travelling all alone to some of the isolated countries like Iran, Tajikistan
Thanks for hanging in there. Next winter I'll just have to travel to warm places and keep riding and posting. 🏍😎
Yeah, I love what she's doing! Exceptional way to spend your life!
Thank you for the pros and cons of the review. Regarding to your voice and audio its clear. I love the sound of Himalayan.
Watched every episode of Seattle to Alaska . Loved it 👍
So glad to hear it! I think you'll like some rides I have in store. Going to be a busy summer.
@@KARMAkazeMoto waiting 🍿
Wow
Youngster..the presentation was very natural flow..logical and frank.
Much better than most others in the bike..thanks and may You do more and wishing you miles of happy safe riding...
Thank you so much Shere Grewal! I think videos should be done like writing, each paragraph leading into the next and the next for a better story. I guess that's why my videos are also a bit long. 🙂👍
Thanks for the update! Really enjoyed following your journey up to Alaska on your bike. Spent a year up where you live and loved the trip up there through the Alcan highway and loved living there in the Anchorage area! I'm seriously considering a Royal Enfield but not sure the Himalayan would be a good fit for me as a big guy (6'2, 260lbs). I'd like to at least try it for a test ride. Thanks again!
6'2" and 260lbs? You just described The Rock! 😃💪
Yeah, that might be pushing it. Perhaps if they come out with a 650 it will accommodate you ultimate warriors a bit better.
Glad you had a chance to live up here a while. Anchorage can be spectacular if you get out and explore and keep busy. Plenty to see and do, and plenty of space to see it and do it. 👍
The more I watch these reviews of the Himalayan, the more I want one :) It'll be interesting if the rumored 650 cc ever happens.
You can bet my interest in the 650 is peaked! 🙂 But to be honest, I think a 500 would be perfect for what this bike is. Extra power, while still keeping the cost and weight down. We'll just have to wait in suspense.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Agreed. A 500 would tick all the boxes.
I reckon 410cc is just fine, you would perhaps lose what this machine is all about by fitting a bigger engine. The machine does everything it needs to....in an ever faster moving world I think we need to take time to "smell the roses" and enjoy what we are riding through.
Just my opinion....my most fun bike have been the ones that couldn't go any faster than 120k/mh
@@nikduffield5457 I for one have found the Himalayan a nice change of pace from the Bandit 1200. Sometimes you just need to chill out. That said, heavier riders, or a heavy packing list, could benefit from a few extra ponies.
@@nikduffield5457 To be honest, after having watched more reviews, I would have to agree. I don't think RE could compete with the others at that size anyways. This bike fulfills what they set out to do and still interests me more than the others.
Good to see you back after a few months !
Awesome and comprehensive review of what sounds like a great bike, in some beautiful locations. Another top notch video my friend!
Great visuals and you are really authentic.
Thank you Kasim!
Thank you for all that hard work creating such a comprehensive review. I am waiting for my new 2020 Lake Blue Himalayan to arrive and filling the time watching reviews and reading lots of articles. This bike is incredible in that nearly all reviews are really positive.
The review covers pretty much everything I could want to know about the Himalayan. You can tell lots of miles have been covered to get to to know the bike so well.
One thing that never gets discussed so much is how good looking this bike is. I am a designer and the look is spot on. I reckon it is the Landrover Defender of motorbikes.
I am going to be fortunate to get to ride m\y Himalayan through the incredible landscape of Tasmania in Australia. Looks a bit like Alaska actually, no moose though!
Thank you for there hard work. I am no expert at making videos but they are a lot of work.
Looking forward to the next posting.
If you want good info, reviews, tests and trip videos follow the Itchy Boots channel. She's traveling the world on her Himalayan.
I watched this shortly after you posted this. I then went out and bought an Africa Twin. Now my Africa Twin is up for sale and I bought a Himalayan. I should have listened to you in the first place.
Really? 😯 I'm really intrigued by this comment. If you have some time please let me know what you didn't like about the Africa twin and how the Himalayan has been an improvement. I mean, it's one thing for me to speculate about cost in size, and another thing all together for you to have actually had both motorcycles and made the change to what most anyone would consider was a downgrade to the Himalayan. I'm really interested to know a little more about your experience.
By the way, I remember quite well our earlier conversations about the mountain goats and having flown my drone in the park. 😉
@@KARMAkazeMoto The Africa Twin is a brilliant motorcycle, but it’s too big for me. I’m 66 years old and 5’4”. I can handle it on pavement and basic gravel but I want to more serious adventures.
Okay, that makes perfect sense to me.
Smaller, lighter bike = more confidence to take it into "the unknown." 🙂
I'm glad you finally ended up with something that will let you do more of what you want to do. Enjoy your summer!
@@KARMAkazeMoto You too. I hope to be exploring the Canadian Arctic and Alaska next summer. Maybe I’ll see you on the road.
Yeah, that would be very cool. Check in with me and see where I'm at around that time.
Hello mate. Thanks for your review of the bike - I appreciate the time taken and your thoughts on it. I thought the audio was much better with your blue tooth comms set. I really enjoyed your road trip series from Seattle to your home state - Alaska is similar to Tasmania, Australia. Keep up the good work! Cheers Greg
Hey, thanks Greg! Much appreciated. Similar to Tasmania? I would have never thought that, but you have a little bit of everything there. Beautiful countryside! Cheers!
Might I suggest that for those scenes riding down the highways you inform us the speed your traveling. Gives we viewers an idea of how much wind noise we may experience as well as the engine noise. It’s just a nice reference that adds to our experience.
Hi from wet day in england ..it's not just the bike... it's you and you showing me your scenery where you live.. life style.. points of view.. etc utube is brilliant😊 for this...all the best from dave...
Thanks so much! I'll keep it up. Cheers! 😁
G,day, good to see you’re back! Great review, been watching Itchy Boots on her travels, she’s doing really well. Had the clutch issues of course but she had a spare clutch so no dramas with getting back on the road. Been to the dealer and checked out the ‘Sleet’ edition, loved the bike, very comfortable straight up.
Even simpler here in Aus to work on as we get the carbureted version.
Yeah she was going through clutch cables because she fitted risers and didn't allow enough slack. Most bikes are fine until people mess.
Thanks Peter! Yup, I'm a fan of carbs. Not doughnuts and pasta mind you... well, those too... but the fuel system. A lifetime of learning carburetors, problem diagnosis and tuning... and all for nothing. I finally start doing some real adventuring and my skills are useless on the fuel injection. Technology is making me obsolete! 😃
@Ste Boardman, was that the issue? Oh wow, that could have been avoided easily.
KARMAkaze Moto yep, the old Suzuki DR 650 is still the number one dual sport in sales yet again here in Aus and it’s still carbureted.
I could have stripped the Amal carbs on my Norton blindfolded if I had to years ago, roadside fixable!
Nothing beats roadside fixable when you're relying on your own wits in the middle of nowhere, alone.
Your boot stomp made me jump!!
Welcome back - I really enjoy your work.
You are THE FIRST PERSON to mention the boot stomp! Way to go!
I was really having fun working that in. And get this, it even scared me! I had forgotten it and was reviewing the video before posting. It made me flinch! 😆
A very honest and comprehensive video based on real world experience. An enjoyable viewing which was well worth the wait. Well done and welcome back.
Great series, beautiful scenes , wild life and video making . Really enjoyed all the videos along with my 13 years old son. Appreciated. Himalayan bike is really really worth the money and more. Looking forward to your future adventures. All the best. 👍
It was great watching the video. Felt it was genuinely insightful from a guy who did 2000 miles on his first ride to give a review... Job well done 👍👌
Thanks Pankaj!
The most elaborated and detailed review of any bike I've come across. As always, you've done a great job making this video and its content. Thanks.
I appreciate that, Rajen, thank you.
@Karmakaze moto you made us love Himalayan, your ride from Seattle to Alaska, beautiful Alaska and thanks buddy I have loved your abovesaid journey videos at the fullest.
Earlier was bit nervous for this big video. But was sure this video will be best of all.....I didn't refer index, cause as the video started liked every bit of it....""You Know"" 😁.
Nice review covering all sides.
Have fun enjoy your rides on your home turf. And please do not forget to share.
Thanks from India.
Forgot giving audio feedback. Was listening to your review on my car audio system via blue tooth. Initially it was difficult to listen as the engine roar was at it's peak. Thus I adjusted equalizer to low bass n treble n high mid....thus your voice was clear. Rest everything was audible.
This is a fantastic comment! Thanks Darshan! I'll be sure to share more rides and adventures in Alaska. 👍
@@KARMAkazeMoto Your ride has made me crave for coming to Alaska n having such a beautiful ride. Though will need to learn some basic safety rules. Cause here in India it's crowded n not possible to halt at all junctions and proceed. Basically you will be shocked n amazed n stunned to ride in Metros n countryside. Every country has it's pros n cons. But would love to be at a place with such a beautiful backyard as you had said in this video. As always you inspire more for such rides.
I do follow Noraly@ itchy boots, all had seen some videos of Dominique earlier along with other riders reviewing Versys, BMW 310 gs alongside Himalayan....with amazing Himalayan results.
Also have seen some videos from wootopia from Australia.
Thanks for your priceless sharing of REH experience.
Thanks Again.
@@djmumbhai1 I'll check out that Wootopia. And I think you'll find the northern, remote, riding in the US, Alaska or Canada is a breeze.
@@KARMAkazeMoto ruclips.net/user/w00topia
Another brilliant video from KARMAkaze , keep up the great work you do, im getting my Himalayan this Saturday 1st of June 2019, hopefully i will shoot some video and post it, Paul in Belfast Northern Ireland.
Feel free to share a link to your video in a comment here or on of my upcoming videos. I don't mind. I hope your Himalayan brings you tons of joy!
It’s awesome to see your back! Really interesting movlog... looking forward for more!!! Didn’t even feel that a hour went by...
Did you really watch the whole thing, Man? Wow! Please tell me you saw the extremely funny part. I think a lot of people will skip over it, which is understandable.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Yes for sure...after all, your talking about some thing I love!! And I'm waiting till I reach at least 10,000km on mine to give a proper review. Living in a small island country covering 10,000 will take some time lol! its funny how the moose just walked by... And I didn't even know that there was a compartment under the seat!
@@LoneRiderTravelDiaries 😁
Happy to introduce you to that compartment! My pleasure.
I am anxiously awaiting your review. Make it unique!
Very happy to see your videos again. I'm waiting for your review about the new RE Interceptor 650 :) Greetings from Colombia!
Hey Sergio, good to see you!
Speaking of the Interceptor, I tried to do that while visiting Michigan, but they had not arrived yet. I'll have to make a trip down to Seattle again in the near future. I think it would be worth it for my channel.
Really appreciate you taking the time to make a comprehensive review of the himalayan. Ive had mine for a month now and have been very impressed with it. You get a lot of bang for buck! Regarding your mic, i thought the quality was very good. Thanks again. 👍
Bring it on up to Alaska! 😁
And hey, thanks for the mic feedback. So far the consensus is the voice sounds pretty good and one person thought the engine noise could be better. That's a 2nd mic actually. Anyway, much appreciated!
@@KARMAkazeMoto would love to bring it up to Alaska, the scenery you show on your vids is amazing, perhaps one day. I live in Scotland so the next trip for the himalayan is the northwest 500, taking in the highlands. Reg your mic, didnt pick up on the engine noise, the main thing is your voice was very clear. Ive subscribed and look forward to some more bike content. Keep up the great work and ride safe, watch out for the moose! 😀👍
@@mrlume9475 will do! Enjoy the Northwest 500.
@@KARMAkazeMoto thanks, will do, all the best. Rgds Scott👍
Another motovlogging master class. Informative and entertaining. Thank you.
Pleasure's all mine. Thanks Wolds Rider!
Great to see you back...i enjoyed the last adventure video series which i have gone through many times and hopefully will keep on seeing...it was really worth watching...Thanks for the effort you put in every videos ....i am planning to buy a himalayan in few months too,,,From Kerala,
That's great! I hope you get to do a lot of exploring with it. Much of Kerala is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for watching and commenting. 🙏🙂
@@KARMAkazeMoto Yes ...If you are planning to visit Kerala...pls inform ...would like to join the ride ...Thanks and Ride safe...
@@ridersdiary1997 you can bet I'll post updates on riding plans long before I get to India. Do mention it again. 👍
@@KARMAkazeMoto Ok done .....Welcome...
Awesome review. I am considering RE Himalayan. My current bike is KTM Duke. Thanks.
Hope you didn't get the Himalayan, most unreliable bike for long tours.
I was just browsing RUclips for RE Himalayan videos but instead I got immersed into your beautiful journey. Watched all 6 parts in one sitting. Just finished watching this review and you got me really sold into getting the Himalayan. Although I’m curious about the 650 version release next year but I’m sure it will be the same price point or more as the INT and 650 GT. But I think the single cylinder engine will be more than enough for my purposes. Plus IMO, because of its limitations it definitely has soul and character. Thanks for putting out great content, your videos are ones to take to the heart. Keep us entertained. Cheers.
That was a heck of a comment. 👍🙂 And all 6 in one sitting? Awesome! I better get busy on the next trip! 😀
I happened to watch one of your Video and ended up watching almost all the videos. truly authentic simple. I am going to start my journey soon. I am still watching your videos, lovely content. Lot of love n stay safe.
First of all, really practical, insightful, mature and thorough review. I see the dedication and passion for the value you are getting. I love that you arent just blinded and driven by desire to acquire bigger and better looking things(Honda Africa Twin in your case). Secondly, I see how genuine you are. Also I observed you know quite a bit about automobiles, detonation and knocking to Fuel pump and the likes.
As an indian I am proud an Indian product is doing good. But also...I feel the connect and brotherhood. I feel that at the end of the day we all are the same. Hope you have a good experience.
Enjoyed the review. The Himalayan is definitely fits what I am looking for. A lighter bike, yet one that is fun to ride.
That about sums it up. 🙂
I totally agree with you, the vast majority of reviewers at test riding for an hour or so and have this thing for comparing it to bikes outside it’s class which is stupid. Your review is be far the best as is the Itchy Boots one, the other guy you mentioned Everide owns a KLR650, the Himalayan he tested was a friend’s bike
Been waiting for this! Thank you!!
That was a great review mate, thoroughly enjoyed that and watched every second. Very interesting to hear your take on the pros and cons especially since I’ve watched most of the other reviews you mentioned, everide being one of them when they were out in the desert. I was keen to hear your thoughts and compare them to my experiences riding the KLR, which I must do a 6 month review, sadly no longer in production. The KLR can be a heavy lumbering beast off road but It manages and I find it pretty nimble on road, as demonstrated on some of my commute videos. I do like the look of the RE and when the 650 comes out I’ll be giving it some serious eyeballing. Great review Justin and I gotta say your backyard is glorious, absolutely stunning mate. Shame I’m not still living in Canada otherwise I’d scoot on up and ride with you. Looking forward to more videos. ATVB2U. Jason.
Yeah, the 650 will be hard to resist if it's as good as this.
Thanks Jason! And thanks for checking it out at all. My focus was on mostly the highway riding, so speaking of lumbering uphill, I'll have to do a specific video for off-road riding. I only did a bit of gravel road in my Seattle to Alaska videos. This summer I'll put the Himalayan to a better test on trails.
You know, not a single person has mentioned the boot. Please tell me you caught that part. I was cracking myself up working on that part. 😁
As for the potential of a 650, if RE is paying attention to how many people are mentioning it, they'd know it would be a hit. Fingers crossed! 🤞
For sure I'd link up for some rides. I should start looking at an Australia visit... maybe then. Would be for quite some time though.
Cheers!
@@KARMAkazeMoto ah, the boot. The cavernous space for the user manual? No sympathy there I'm afraid. The KLR doesn't even get one, though it does have a small compartment with a tool kit 😁👊 . Looking forward to your off-road videos mate 👍I have family still in Canada (my daughter is Canadian also) so I imagine I'll be over there in the not too distant future hopefully 👍ATB Jason.
@@BikerBytes 🤨
32:11 ...wait for it...
As for a Canada trip, keep me posted. 👍
@@KARMAkazeMoto oh, that boot! Lol. Now that's the difference between our two common languages haha. Yeah, I remember thinking where the heck did that come from haha and then the video title screen shot now made sense. At first I couldn't quite figure out why there was a boot in that shot and what it's significance was to a moose.
I was wondering when we were going to see more videos... Glad you’re back on & looking forward to more content. Hi from the UK 👋🏻
I'll take advantage of our short summer to get some interesting stuff out. 😉👍
You are never a true Royal Enfield Rider till you learn to forget to turn off turn signal....
Enjoyed your vlog and review. Thanks for the good presentation and wonderful scenery.
Great to see ya at home, watched when you first picked up your bike.
Great memories for You and cool for me to see every where youve been
Welcome back mate :) Great bike and beautiful scenery :)
Just subscribed to you, Mr Wolf! And thanks! 😀
@@KARMAkazeMoto Thank you so much :) Greetings from Portugal to Alaska :)
I live in the England and I’m so jealous of that Alaskan scenery true wilderness
And I loved English country side
I drove London to Edinburgh in July 2018
Indian here
Thanks for sharing a very balanced Himalayan review. this is a very enjoyable scenery and landscape video, audio is clear and easy to understand. Why all of the road work, the roads you are riding on look great.Hhowever you were riding way faster than I would through the construction zones. A number of other reviews that I have watched have mentioned problems with corrosion and rust as well as water getting into the instrument cluster - maybe you got lucky. Is it possible that a shift lever from another Royal Enfield (or different manufacturer) would eliminate the clearance issue you mentioned - they might not be adjustable but you could swap them out depending on your ride. Finally, the lack of dealers for the bike might be an issue is one is not mechanically inclined.
I think a lot of the road work is due to earthquake damage last winter.
I kept the bike in the garage all winter, so rust hasn't been an issue yet. I've been in some heavy rain and didn't get water in the instruments. As for the shifter, other RE bikes also have a shorter shifter. There is a selection of aftermarket adjustable shifters online. Just a matter of finding the right one with the correct mounting inside diameter, etc. I'll be forced to do that if I want to make use of my protective boots. Otherwise it is not necessary to change anything.
Audio is great by the way. Love that your voice is so clear and the engine sounds noticeable without being intrusive. Nice backyard and, you know, the Monty Python boot.
Best review! I have the Bullet. Love it and been around France, Holland and Germany on it totally reliable, Himalayan next bike!
Thanks for the feedback John! You must have had some Incredible views during all your riding! One of these days I hope to ride in that area as well.
This is like if I would be riding the 7 lakes route on my Himalayan. I have done it a few times now (live in San Martín de los Andes). It turns like a maxitrail and it goes as fast as law and my courage permits. Absolutely great bike
Fantastic series of 6 road videos and this review. You have certainly sold me on the Himalayan and like someone mentioned below, I don't think the 650 version when it comes in the next year is going to be for me. It will be a couple thousand more and if I'm adventure touring with it, I'm not sold on needing the extra horsepower and weight. You have pointed out all the advantages of the 411cc model and I'm sold! Thanks for your professional and amazing videos! I look forward to what you do with it this year.
Thanks Ron, glad you liked my series. More coming soon! 👍
I've been riding 1 up with the wife on the rear of my bike and having a great time with it. She is a rider also and thus knows how to lean with me and the bike barely can tell that she's there. The only negative I've had with it is stopping. The soft long front fork suspension can squat quite a bit with the two person load. If you use too much front brake when stopping, it will compress and bounce you some. It still corners great and she (5' 4" and 140#) states that the leg position is pretty good for her for up to the 20 mile runs we've done so far. I tried riding her with and without the panniers and it's only slightly harder for her to get onto the pegs with them on. I appreciate the review and for the record, my mirror doesn't do that at all and it doesn't move from wind or even being bumped. I have been considering a slightly differently shaped mirror than the round, but it hasn't been an issue per say.
Oh, hey Scott! Good to hear about your success with a passenger. I can absolutely see how the front fork would dive like that with an added person. Not surprised at all. Good to know. As for my mirror, someone has told me that I can tighten some screws underneath and it will stiffen up. I had assumed those were merely for construction, not tightening. If it works, that's one less thing on an already short list of negatives! 😃
@Mark Everson I might be wrong but I think the Himalayan has a fresh factory for it's construction. I think you'll find it has far better build quality than the older Bullets. Just something to bear in mind when choosing between them.
@Mark Everson, I like old bikes too. But if I were going to choose one or the other, I think I'd opt for the bike that can provide more opportunities with greater comfort. That's just me. My opinion doesn't really matter for you. I just really like how much functionality you get out of the Himalayan. Good luck to you!
@Mark Everson, I hope some other people chime in on options with similar capability. You might want to consider a Kawasaki KLR 650 or a Suzuki DR650 or the Honda XR650. These bikes coast more than the Himalayan, but they are built to go both on and off road. The Suzuki and the Honda have a bit of an off road bias. If you're planning to do a lot of highway, you might want to stay focused on the KLR or Himalayan. Nice thing about bikes like the KLR or DR is that there are a ton of used ones available. I don't have experience riding all these bikes, especially newer ones. I'm just trying to provide other options that are in the ballpark, similar to the Himalayan in capability, size and cost. Hope that helps.
My pleasure!
Enjoyed your videos, the scenery and your review. Cheers from Australia
Thanks Peter! All the best from Alaska!
Man I love your videos. Always waiting for the next one. Great quality and editing. Have 4 motorcycles now and hope to add an ADV in the future. Probably won't be this one, but it does look like a good bike. Love the lightweight and middleweight bikes. They are a blast to ride. Not many really lightweight ADV bikes out there. Would like to see how it compares to the Kawasaki Versys X300. Once again waiting on your next video.
Thanks Craig! Well then, guess I better get busy exploring more of Alaska! 🏍
What are the 4 motorcycles?
@@KARMAkazeMoto 03 Honda Goldwing, 17 Yamaha FZ-07, 18 Harley Heritage 114, and a 19 Kawasaki KLX 250.
43:10 Noraly (of Itchy Boots) has fitted a seat cover to her machine and that is what is showing the wear.
Oh wow, such a great catch! I'll see if I can add it to the video as a little popup. Thanks! That would make sense considering you can see some black under it.
Added a little note at 43:15 that also links to her. Thanks! 👍
I don't think it shows up on mobile though. Only desktop.
so you're back. Good review, nice scenery
Thanks for the quality content. Really appreciate the effort.
The recording was good.
Liked hearing the engine as you talked. The review was straightforward. You didn't mention the exhaust discoloration right after you got it. Not a deal breaker but definitely a cost cutting measure. I wonder if they addressed it? Anyway, looks like a good bike at a good price.. Thanks for the review....
Good to hear. Depending on style of headphones or device the engine sound is bit louder or quiet, so hopefully everyone else feels the same way. That's a totally separate recording. I put a little mic on my backpack connected to my old cell phone with a recording app. 🙂
I forgot to talk about exhaust AND my #1 favorite thing about the Himalayan, which is the ability to ditch the highway and confidently tackle off-road terrain at any moment. Love the freedom!
@@KARMAkazeMoto Enjoy!
I've watched these for past few years, and I've been waiting for factory and aftermarket performance parts. Tec has a cam that gives you 20% power , perfect bike for the money, hands down period.... Great video
Your trip from Seattle to Alaska on the Himalayan plus your more recent videos have certainly peaked my interest in this motorcycle. Watched many of Nloraly's videos as well. I will attempt to demo ride the bike at a 'local' dealer this summer. I live in southern BC.
Glad you found the videos useful. Summer is here! What are you waiting for? 😃 Cheers!
Wow, I love your enthousiasm on this little "Big" bike. I'm interested in this bike more and more. I watched your whole journey from when you picked it up at the dealer and brought it to your home in Alaska. What a stunning beautiful journey in such a beautiful part of the world . Great edited . I also follow Itchy Boots, se also brings her findings with her special enthousiasm to us. Thank you for letting us be part of that. I'm loooking forward to new content so we can enjoy the beatiful area you live in.. Keep up this great work.
Thanks for the kind words Leon. I'm glad you like what we're doing (both Noraly and I), and I do have more Alaska scenery coming up . First I need to post my battery replacement. It is uploading as I type and will be shared sometime early tomorrow... depending on where you live.
Thanks again, and all the best to you! 🙂
@@KARMAkazeMoto Looking forward to it, I'm from the Netherlands (Holland)
Pleasure meeting one of Noraly's neighbors. 🙂🍻
Found ur channel today...... Binge watched every episodes! 😅😁
Oh wow! That is awesome! Now get out and go for a ride. 😀
I love the idea of the Himalayan. I just feel I am too tall, and long legged for the bike. I am waiting to see if the Himalayan 650 will accommodate taller riders. Nice review.
I'll meet you half way and hope the 650 is either adjustable or has different seat options. 🙂 Perfect for both of us! 👍
Best Himalayan review, thank you for the video!
A good detailed and honest review of the himalayan, sound quality, I could understand all that was said, never going to be perfect against the wind and bike noise. Enjoyed and looking forward to your next video, stunning scenery by the way.
Thanks so much for the feedback Tony! Much appreciated!
Thanks for the review. I very much enjoyed the series up the coast. Like others who are following you (and Noraly, amongst others), I'm considering the Himalayan quite seriously, although I may have to wait and see if the supposed forthcoming 650 version may be a better choice. If they stray from the current layout, I'd opt for the single version. We'll see, I suppose.
Have you considered fitting the ECU that Noraly found success with, but Nathan was quite displeased with? I'd be curious to hear your impressions.
Again, thanks so much for the videos - they really are a joy to watch.
You're quite welcome. Yeah, that 650 is going to be a hot item.... if it's real. Right now I'm not quite sure if it's some sort of unicorn fueled by a bunch of "heard it though the grapevine" rumors, or if a 650 Himalayan is truly in the works. I sort of hope so. I could see passing the 411 to my wife and picking up a 650. 👍
Himalayan 650 is just a rumour in Indian biking community, which is fueled by RE's CEO Mr. Sidharth Lal's comment on upgrading Himalayan in coming years. As I road interceptor and Himalayan both, there is huge difference between the two. Engine and the chassis is going to be the problem. They have to redesign a enforced frame to house that parallel twin engine which is going to increase the significant amount of weight cuz engine itself is beefy. Being an dual sport the 2nd exhaust is going to be a huge problem if you consider mounting panniers and saddling on the bike. Weight of the bike is a the biggest factor specially when people are buying it as an easy and less complex machine. Hope they will come up with some solution for the bike.
@@technicalsda3621 sort of what I suspected. Regarding the engine, I don't think the current twin 650 will ever make it into a Himalayan. I'd expect another, large capacity single cylinder. Not unlike the KLR650.
@Chris Piatt, I just realized you asked about the power module. It's sitting in my office right now waiting to be installed. 🤟😉
@@technicalsda3621 Judging by the interest and early reviews of the Yamaha Tenere 700, a mid-size twin adventure bike is where the demand is hottest.
If Royal Enfiled could use the 650cc engine and a Harris-designed frame to produce a budget Tenere 700, they'd crush the market.
Thanks for posting this. I grew up in northern Ontario, but have spent the past 15 years living internationally. So the wide open places and scraggly trees make me homesick. Also, because I subscribed to you, YT recommended itchyboots, and I am addicted to following her RTW. Anyway, keep it up.
Northern Ontario? I know Algonquin Provincial Park like the back of my hand. In my earlier videos, when I'm sleeping on the ground... Algonquin is where I started that practice. Many fond memories. 😊
I need to figure out the best approach to do a joint, Itchy Boots/KarmaKaze trip in Alaska. According to her AK is on the itinerary. We'll see!
Thanks Andrew!
Karma and IB in AK... that would be epic!
😁🍻
i like the deep grumbling sound Noraly's "Basanti" does. She changed the muffler for that
I do too, but after my ceramic coating on the stock exhaust, I think I'll stick with it for a while.
@@KARMAkazeMoto :-)
Am I the only one who jumped when that Monty Python boot came down?
Thanks Justin. The review was "interesting" in so many ways, glad you added in about your vertical status. I wonder how the Himalayan would fit someone in the 6'2" and 200 pound size? Maybe the over 6 feet tall people need the risers? I also notice Noraly replaced her windscreen with a 60mm taller after-market version to stop the wind turbulence/buffeting effect, also seen other Himalayan riders with extensions fitted to top of screen, so wonder if you have the same problem? The recording voice while riding is really quite good, nearly no wind noise and voice clarity is good. Finally really enjoyed sharing the ride home with you, the perspective and engine sound was as good as the scenery.
Followed your trip from Seattle and back home - some of the best I´ve seen. Really looking forward to some more vids from you and awesome Alaska.👍🎅🏍
You got it, Turd! 😀👍
And thanks for the kind words.
Hi Bud, welcome back. Good video . Sound wasn't ideal to be honest , as I am sure you realise. The wee bike sounded weird. Looking forward to more road trip videos. Ride safe, Alaska rocks.😎
Hey Jon! Well, I think I'll play around with my external/exhaust recording a bit. That is all from a small mic attached to my backpack, then fed into a spare phone. I use an app called HiRecorder to get a good MP3. However, there's still a bit too much wind and road noise to contend with, especially at higher speeds. I can't say it sounds much better or worse than other vlogs, but I'm not concerned about other vlogs. I want my stuff to be as good as I'm capable of doing with what I have.
Time for that Bandit walk-around hey? Would like to have made a couple improvements, but I think I'll just have to go for it as is. Won't be long.
@@KARMAkazeMoto. Wind noise is the bane of the Moto vlogger . You are a tech savvy guy with awesome editing skills . I bet you get it sorted. I just started vlogging a few weeks ago. Don't know if you watched those couple of videos, but I am using a fairly standard GoPro set up with a furry wind muffler. It's not too bad for wind noise, it's certainly not intrusive. The Bandit sounded pretty good as well , also not intrusive. My GPZ has a fairly quiet pipe and you can't really here it at anything over 20mph. Probably be the same for your RE. A separate audio file for just the exhaust note sounds interesting. How tricky is it to blend the exhaust file with the talking file in post? I would appreciate your feedback on my audio quality if you have time. Thanks.
I just went over to your channel and commented and subscribed. About the 2nd mic, it is pretty easy. The trick is the make sure the mic isn't getting any wind noise. The setup I'm using and testing is:
1. A small lavaliere mic clipped to the center, lower, back of my backpack. There doesn't seem to be wind there, but not a vacuum either because clearly I get sound.
2. That mic is plugged into my spare phone in the backpack.
3. That phone is running HiRecorder app, which records a better quality MP3 file, for long periods of time, and it seems to auto adjust the recording level. You might want to try others.
4. Once you have your camera recording, and the rear mic recording, just clap your hands or tap something loud so that it is both recorded on the camera (video and audio) and on the rear mic.
5. Later when you are editing, put your video on one layer and that rear mic audio on another layer. Assuming you are using software that shows you the audio levels, you'll see the spikes where you clapped or tapped. All you have to do is slide and/or clip the rear mic audio to line the spikes up with your video.
6. Carry on with editing. Of course, if you clip out any sections of your video you'll have to clip out the exact section of that rear mic audio so that everything stays in sync.
I'm not going to act like this isn't adding additional hassle to the process, but it's pretty easy. Especially after you do it a time or two.
What I might try to get a better recording of the exhaust not is simply a better mic back there. I might also try having a mic attached to the bike instead of my pack. I don't like having to mess with taking the pack on and off, pulling the phone out to start recording, etc. Would be better to just have the mic and my spare phone on the bike, like under the seat or something, as long as the sound was good.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Wow Justin , Can't thank you enough for your detailed reply and sub.👍😁. Amazingly , being an old technophobe, I do understand what you're saying. And look forward to hearing your next audio. I am a novice editor with medieval hardware and basic software ( windows movie maker ) . There isn't many options for audio . Saving up to upgrade pc etc . I will get there eventually. What plan to try is to mount the camera on the bike in different places and run a wire up my sleeve at connect it to my helmet mic. The idea is to keep the same sound source while shooting creative camera angles. Ride safe Bud. Talk later. 👊
I use to really like movie maker. So simple and quick! That's one of the reason I use Cyberlink Powerdirector now. It's core setup is like movie Maker, but on steroids.
And I think you'll find that the varying camera angles will improve your videos 100%. I'd like to do more of that as well.
You know, it would be cool to wire up a mic harness, sort of a permanent wire setup so that when you put the camera in a place, there's a mic cable end right there. I would think some splicing/soldering would do the trick nicely. Just a thought.
I've been intrigued by this bike for a while and your video series only added fuel to the fire. To me, it seems like India's KLR650. I have always liked big, lumpy single cylinders. The retro styling is a plus in my mind.
I've yet to see one of these in person, but I get the impression it would feel small for me since I am a bit over 6'1". I test rode a RE Bullet 500 and it felt like a 7/8 scale bike to me. Same for the Yamaha SR400 I owned for a few months.
I was very tempted recently when one of these popped up on craigslist with just 16 miles and some very nice extras. Instead, I went with a Honda XR650L.
This and the other videos were thoroughly entertaining and informative. Channels like yours are amazing mediums that deepen the two-wheeled community. Thumbs up!
The bike reminds me of the old Honda XLs from the late 80s.
At your height I think you're at that mid-point where comfort is very much dependent on the individual. I've heard from guys in your range that say the Himalayan is fine, so it's worth a test ride. Seams like your knees would be so much more bent than mine. Might need more breaks to stretch.
Thanks for the kind words Aaron!
Thanks for your travels from Seattle, Canada through to Alaska. Absolutely amazing places to see and share.
You have proven to the world what a capable, reliable adventure bike the Himalayn is. I've never liked bigger adventure bikes on the weight and size fully loaded up. The Himalayn can load up just as much and happily sit there at 75 no problem. More than quick enough on gravel roads should you need to. Great camera work with good informative information on your bike and the areas you pass through.
You should set up a bike hire, touring company to explore your magical place 😉.
Happy riding Justin from the UK. Well done.
I watched all your videos and enjoyed your journey. The Himalayan is popular, very popular, so it must have a lot going for it. Your summary was honest and comprehensive and I hope Royal Enfield listen to what you had to say, along with others, as there are very similar pros and cons stated, and act upon solving those little gripes that improve the quality and remove the doubts. With those niggles ironed out, they would sell shed loads more. I do intend to test ride, along with an Interceptor 650, but am looking at the Himalayan because I live in Cumbria (the Lake District), England, and feel that it would be suitable for the roads and terrain here, which are twisty, undulating and narrow. I expect you have heard of Hitchcocks, a parts company in England for all things Royal Enfield and I listed quite a few upgrades they offer and it totalled £1000, so the bike is easily upgraded and customised to a degree. I think you have done wonders for the brand and bike and RE should give you a bike for free in thanks. You have also opened our eyes to the wonders of Canada and Alaska from a bikers perspective and I'm sure many will be encouraged to visit if they can afford to. Cheers.
This is a really great comment, thank you so much. Yes, I think you'd find the Himalayan to be a very practical and useful bike in your area. Of course there are others as well so it boils down to cost, aesthetics, etc. I have heard of Hitchcock's and looked over some of their product offerings. I'm not in the market to be doing any major upgrades at the moment, just bought a house and buried in renovations, but I'm keeping them in mind for the future.
Cheers and thanks again! 🙂
Nice Video! I followed you on your Videos from Seattle to Alaska and I enjoyed them very much! Your new Sena System ist pretty good, your voice is loud and clear. And I think it is easy to handle. I also follow Noraly on her Trip, haven't missed a Video and she is really a brave girl. Thank you for this long Video, I learned a lot about the Himalayan, and I would like to have one, but for the moment three bikes are enough! Greetings from Austria to Alaska!!! Looking forward to your next Video!👍
Come on now, you can't say 3 bikes is enough and leaving me hanging. What are they, Man! Looks like one of them is a Grom, yes? And the others?
@@KARMAkazeMoto Oh sorry. It's not a secret!😉 The one on my picture ist a Honda Monkey. The Grom has the same engine, but looks more modern. I also have Yamaha Majesty 400 and a Honda CBF 600 S . And I have not enough space in my garage for a further Bike.😟 And you have the Himalayan, a Bandit and further bikes?
@@markobrien5293 ha, thanks for playing along! The CB is sort of like the Bandit. Really good, all-around, purposeful street bikes. Hard to beat. I bet it's a blast. There are three other bikes in the garage. I customized a '96 Suzuki GN125 for my wife as a learner bike. She's outgrown it, but having been customized, to include her tattoo worked into the paint, it's hard to part with. And the 2 others are in pieces mostly. A '74 CB360 cafe racer project. Going to do it as simple as possible. Nothing fancy, just get 'er back on the road with a little pep. And a '70 Suzuki TC90. Interesting little trail bike. All in parts waiting for the frame to be painted, cylinder bored, and then I can start thinking about putting it back together and IF I'll do any customizing. Not quite sure.
@@KARMAkazeMoto Wow, you have a lot of projects to work on. I saw your Video with your '97 Bandit and it reminds me of my "Tank" or "Iron Pig"; the '91 GSX 1100G! I sold her last Year. I had her for 12 Years, but with 280 kg, she was much to heavy. I liked the Kardan, but with my short legs, I crashed down once a Year. I didn't got much Money for her, but I needed the space for the other Bikes. I like the Honda CB's of the '70 very much! For me they are the most fantastic Bikes of Design and Technic! I never heard about the Suzuki TC 90, but much Bikes where build for the American Market and not available in Europe.😞 I wish you a lot of fun with your Projects and maybe you make a Video of them?!👍
You're right, the Bandit is quite similar to that GSX1100G. And I agree, those 70's CBs are great. I had a 750 briefly. Fixd the starter and sold it. Wish I still had it.
As for my projects I'm definitely going to make an attempt to focus on those during the Winter. That way I can have some things to Focus on for videos when I can't be out riding. My wife likes to claim the garage in winter, but I'll manage.
This looks like the perfect bike for someone who doesn’t have a lot of riding experience and is shorter. All of the information youv’e shared is valuable. Audio sounds good!
Thanks for this review. Well done! It convinced me that this bike is for me. It is a beautiful country you live in.Lucky you ;-)
You asked for feedback on the sound (voice): very clear and audible.
Keep on the good work!!
Thanks for the feedback. I'm so glad this was useful to you. Enjoy your new bike when it arrives! Make the most of it!
Cheers from Alaska! 🌞
Sir, its been a long wait after your last adventure...I just used to see the same repeatedly...anyway it's worth waiting for videos in your channel...thank you
And thank you! Much appreciated feedback. Now that we have warmer weather I'll get busy with some new trips. 👍🙂
@@KARMAkazeMoto will wait for your new series...pls take care and ride safe
Great detailed review. Thank you. I am still very tempted by the Himalayan, but have not yet taken the plunge. Some other bikes are tempting me as well. And way to go giving a shout-out to Noraly. I watch all of her new videos... she is amazing. You might also check out Adrian Eades channel on the Himalayan. He's got some great maintenance videos.
Thanks Mike! I just recently saw some Adrian stuff. The community is growing fast!
What are the other bikes you have your eye on?
A video after a long time... Please be active on Instagram... Love your content and videos.... Love from India
Will do!
Thanks James. 🙂
A terrific tire that I use on my BMW 1150 Adventure, KLR 650, and XR650r is the Continental Twinduro TKC 80. I'll bet the Himilayan would match up beautifully with these tires.
I think you're onto something with the TKC 80. I was looking at the very similar Shinko 804/805, which has good reviews, but they don't have the exact size I need unless I go 10mm wider in the rear, which is fine. But the TKC 80 has exact sizes. I'll look into it more. Thanks Robert!
With the pros or cons I missed the mileage also considering the kit for more power you installed last time. Very good useful review.
I still need to do a good mileage run/test, especially after not doing a proper break-in.
I'll get it done. Thanks!
FYI... Itchy boots has a seat cover and that is what is worn not the actual seat itself. She said the seat was to soft for her so she used the cover. Great review/video... Thx.
I wish I had seen that particular episode when she got the seat cover. Quite a mistake. Thanks for the info! And good to know it is not the seat wearing out. Thanks for the info and the compliment. 👍
KARMAkaze Moto I to am looking in to the 2019 REH.... though it might be powerless but looks like it gets along just fine. Looks perfect for my needs here in the Sacramento area of CA. Subscribed and Thx...
@@rhugh02 Thanks! And hey, I wouldn't go as far as to say powerless. For instance, yesterday I was climbing a hill behind a car, sort steep, only doing 45 or 50, and I was able to stay in 5th gear. Didn't even have to downshift. I was sort of surprised. It'll totally get you around, can accelerate quicker than cars, is light to handle, and you can ditch the hardball anytime you spot a dirt road or trail. Just simple fun. Oh, and a couple days ago I did a 201-mile trip, mostly 65mph, and got 65+ miles per gallon. That's the most accurate fuel economy test I've done to date.
Great review, thank you
I think the storage box is meant for insurance and road tax paperwork because in India we need to carry the paperwork at all times
Most definitely you are right, and we need to carry paperwork too, but it is more common for compartments like that to contain the actual owners manual... at least on every bike I've owned or worked on. Not a big deal I guess. Thanks!
@@KARMAkazeMoto Royal Enfield has the owners manual available as a PDF on their website . Better to have it on your phone IMO, can be read easily at night as well. Hope this helps. Its on this page www.royalenfield.com/in/en/support/owners-manual/
Good to see you back and the Himalayan in Alaska !
Congratulations!I have beber seen such a great motorcicle reve! I'm considering buing an Himalayan, AMD you gave so many details , thank you, Enjoy tour bike,, you hace got a new suscriptor.
Wow, thank you so much Carlos! If you get a Himalayan, be sure to come back and let me know how it goes. All the best to you from Alaska! Ride safe! 😃🤝
Sure I will. Sorry, my tablet keeps changing the letters of my write .
👍
Fantastic review .
Hi from Australia. Your rear vision mirrors have adjustable tension on the ball pivot. Have a close look up from underneath. You can tighten the screws. Problem solved......