G'day Pete, Solid hit out on the Himalayan, first proper review I've seen where someone takes it onto the dirt and isn't afraid to give it a spanking. Definitely an all-rounder with a great price point for anyone looking to get into adventure riding. Cheers 🍻
G'Day Will, Mate you nailed it. "Definitely an all-rounder with a great price point for anyone looking to get into adventure riding". Thats exactly what it's all about. Thanks heaps Will, Glad you enjoed the vid. Regards FPPete.
@@leeinwis cause the englishmen or the americans r the only that use miles, inch, foot and other kinda rubbish. The whole World used metric exept a few countrys
Very thorough review Pete! Great seeing you put that Himalayan 450 through those areas. It's impressive! I reckon it's a winner from Royal Enfield. Essendon Motorcycle and Mowers are fantastic in letting you test ride this newbie to the market place. And the cost is a winner too. Well done Pete! 👏👏😁
You're so lucky. In the USA, I've never even seen a Royal Enfield on the street before. There are 200 different cruiser models to choose from, and 200 different dirt bikes, but it takes us forever to get bikes like the Transalp, Tuareg or Himilayan dual sport bikes. And it makes no sense, because in America, people need an ADV bike, they don't need a heavy wallowing cruiser.
When the R80 GS/PD came out, it was a revelation with 50 hp, 41 lb-ft, a shaft and a sturdy adventure setup that was obviously a wonderful way to make a motorcycle. Changed the world, etc. But it was criticized as outrageously heavy at 186 kg/410 lb for the off-road parts of the adventure. Still it just worked since it was a real tractor etc. I loved that bike. I like this RE 452 a lot too but it has to be admitted that no progress from 1980-1987 is a bit odd as the RE is up on weight a bit and significantly down on power from from the old BMW after ~40 years with a very very similar use logic/ aesthetic. I’m not knocking the RE, it seems to be great, it’s just odd that Darwin seems to have gotten stuck evolving this sort of functional style of bike. Anyway I plan to give RE 452 a try. Darwin gave up on me too!
Great comment, At least some manufactures are starting to produce smaller capacity Adventure Bikes, Which opens the door for many more species to explore new territory. May be Darwin has you evolving into a Himalayan and, well the rest is history. LOL. Kind regards FPPete.
The thing you are missing here is emission norms, the type of engine and the fact that himalayan is talking about full wet weight. The quality metal etc.
But…. BMW’s equivalent to that bike now, the R9T GS, is 2.5 times more expensive than the Himmi and weighs 223kg unladen. Start adding accessories which it needs, and it would be 3 times the price. Everyone has that “equivalent bike from the 70’s” which is lighter/higher powered, but no one makes them now for a reason: emissions/safety won’t let them. And no one would buy them.
@@luke1463 I of course must agree in some respects - about 6 years ago I ended a 40 year BMW Motorrad ownership sequence of many bikes. I am pretty much now done with them. They are over-wrought, not particularly reliable, and mostly overpriced, and BMW the company is not customer friendly which is super weird. But… ok, anyway, I am not talking about them as they are today, at all. I mean compare an R85 GS/PD functionally to something like a Himalayan and RE have captured a lot of the old function, done it at a price, etc. It really seems great. But the evolution part still looks sort of stuck. But I truly admire the idea the RE seems to be taking motorcycling back to people who actually like them with form, price points, and general build concepts. KTM 360 is pretty interesting in totally different terms as well. Indeed that may be the mutant in question. Not sure.
Instead of a Darwinian abandonment stream, I actually think RE approach the Himmy ( both this one and the 411) from the design brief of “make the most amount of bikes that stay tank side up for longest no matter who buys them or where they ride them”. From this perspective, “do you need more than 40hp?” Becomes very important, and ( even with Emission and Licensing laws included) my suspicion is that it’s a target of itself. Enough power to be managed intuitively in a robust frame, to take a bike anywhere tank side up, but not overwhelm it. I love those old classic bikes too ( and still own a C500) but I suspect the Himmy 450 will outperform the old GS because RE have spent a lot of time matching the engine to the frame to achieve a design function.
Great review, Pete. Actually, a real review, where you take the bike on some real tracks (Love that Lerderderg Area!!) So, good on you and good on Essendon Mowers and Motorcycles for letting you take it there!
Thanks Heaps mate, Yeah I can't thank Noel and the team at EMAM for giving me the opportunity to video Himalayan. Appreciate your Comment, and glad you enjoyed the review. Regards FPPete.
I sure had a great time on the Himalayan. It is great value, and should hold a good resale price as well. Test ride it if you can. And yes, Essendon Motorcycles are fantastic, super friendly, great dealership. Regards FPPete.
Thanks heaps, It is such a great bike, it gives you confidence to take it places that may be outside your comfort zone. Appreciate your comment, Regards FPPete.
Mate thank you so much for this review! This is exactly what i was looking for. You earned my sub instantly mate. I am 100% getting this bike, i cant wait! And this is my favourite colour on the new ones as well. Anyway, just wanted to give you a massive thank you for this review man, seriously it was a massive struggle to find one that took it through the ringer haha like a gentleman! Cheers mate!
Awesome, thank you! What a great comment, Really appreciated and I'm so glad you enjoyed the Vid. Just keep an eye on the air filter, replace the stock air filter with a washable one. Other than that it's a ripper of a bike. If you can test ride the Himalayan, that will help you make the right decision for you. Thanks for the sub, Regards FPPete.
Best video on the net for this bike. Great, this is exactly what I wanted to see. So my question is..... as a former DR 650 owner that misses the DR but wants something a little easier to handle. Is this the bike? Would you take this over a DR?
Thanks for your comment and really glad you enjoyed the review. The Himalayan ticks most boxes. It is heavy, and the Paper Air filter is not ideal here Australia. I love my DR650, It is not perfect, but it suits my style of riding. So to answer your Question, I'm keeping my DR. If you can test ride the Himalayan it will surprise you how good it is, and it just may be the bike for you. Regards FPPete.
A good question, It is better than the DR in Suspension, Braking, EFI, Ride by wire, Phone connectivity, Fuel economy, but the bush pig is THE Bush Pig. I would say the Himalayan is more road bias than the DR. However if you want a new experience in small bore Adventure riding the Himalayan is a great choice.
My question is, if it’s a true adventure bike, how is it with running 50% gas to 50% something else with no real knowledge of the actual octane or age of the petro your getting out of the 1 gallon milk jug the fuel man is using (?) … 🤔🤔
@@FULLPELTAdventures I agree, but almost every country (in the back areas) starting in Mexico all the through South America has dodgy fuel stops. Just last summer, I spent a half a day taking my fuel system apart on the side of the road cleaning out said dodgy fuel. High strung (high compression) bikes have to have computers capable of adjusting for lower quality gas. There’s places here in the us where the best you can get is 85.5 …
You crack me up 😅 "$1700 excess, I don't want to explore that. Oh, look, a 4 wheel drive testing track. Let's have a look." You are the best 👍Excellent viewing 👌
This bike is very good all round we know it’s not a dirt bike but for the price and what it can do no other bike can beat it ,but there’s one thing that stops me buying one is the ride by wire ,I like going out far in the bush at times if the ride by wire packs up I’m stuffed if it was a cable I could fix it ,might have to stick to my DR for now till I find out more knowledge about ride by wire any body out there got the same thoughts about ride by wire
Thanks jimmy, Keep the mighty DR for sure. However I have not heard of any problems with the ride by wire, it is very reliable. The Himalayan is a well built rugged bike, I would be happy to ride it into remote area's. Test ride one if you can. Regards FPPete.
It a bloody good all round bike multi use and good value can’t think of a bike that comes close not to light solid in the wind on the open road ,I would expect some vibs being a single I could live with that ,really robust for Aust conditions ,jimmy WA
Hi Jimmy, You said it all. Vibrations were minimal, and it is a joy to ride. Air filter access is not ideal, but otherwise it's a great allrounder for sure. Regards FPPete.
Must have watched about 30 vids on the new Himmy, all "its not run in so I will be gentle" etc ... Ozzy gets on it and 'lets see how fast it will go" 🤣🤣 and then "lets see if it will go up here" ... brilliant, proper tempted for one, love XT660z's but too heavy, the 411s too wheezy and looks like its made from a parts bin ... looks that RE have hit the sweet spot with this
@@FULLPELTAdventures Hi, I took your advice as I was off work today and called a dealer in Stoke, they have a demo bike and let me take it out for an hour this afternoon. It was the black one, looked great with the gold wheels, first impression was that it appeared small to look at, but when sat on it then it was fine. I thought it felt pretty light, sounded nice and so off I went. The seating position was good, felt a little like I was perched on it but it was fine, bars felt wide enough. The gearbox was crisp ... but I stalled it twice at first from standstill, it felt it needed revving a little, not like the 411 which just feels like it would pull away with practically zero revs. Also ... it didn't seem to like pulling away in upper gears unless you dropped it down a gear ... I might be wrong but I don't think it will be as 'tractable' on UK boggy trails as the 411? but that maybe just me and its probably fine. The little screen does nothing ... I loved how it felt in the bends, very planted and flickable. So ... I think its going to be a hit ... not for me though ... I might get pelters but I think its a £1000 too expensive for a bike that I would not want to tour on and so be limited to just going off for days on trails and I am sure the riding to and from would be just fine, wouldn't want to do long distances or hours on it though. Also ... when you add crash protection, maybe pannier rails? a better screen then you are in the £6500+ area and I don't think its worth it personally ... the Voge 300 looks better value or .... yes ... the 411 and not be bothered about the extra 10 to 15 mph and save £2000.
@@onenoodles Thanks so much for your comment. I'm a glad you went for a test ride. And now you can have your own opinion of the bike and whether or not it is right for you. Happy hunting for your next motorcycle. Kind Regards FPPete.
I’m tempted on this bike….but I might be better suited for a dual sport and take the hit on the road capability rather than on the dirt. And that’s no lightweight…but still-it sounds like a great bike.
It sure is a capable bike, I always try and test ride a bike first and think about what you will using it for, and if it ticks your boxes. The CFMoto 450 is worth a look, Honda CRF300, or Suzuki DRZ400. Good luck, Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures I understood somewhere that the mirrors were good and you wouldn't change them but you would add bark busters. So I figured it was some kind of mirrorprotection against branches that I had never seen or heard of. Thanks for getting back to me. I must have misunderstood. So you would add handprotection :-). kind regards Alain
Hi YOTT, the bike is very smooth. only the slightest vibration through the footpegs with the rubber inserts removed. Go get your new Himalayan, you will not be disappointed. Test ride one and see for your self. Regards FPPete.
Great review Pete , certainly a great bike!🎉, looking forward to hopefully get a test ride on one ! All the video reviews I've seen say it's a great bike . And only $9000!
The ship with them on must have docked in Melbourne first, still a couple of weeks until they get to this side of the ditch. Looks a good solid bike but I'd have concerns about resale values, it looks like there are lots of the 650's hanging around in the market.
We only have the Demo bike here in Melbourne at the moment. I think the 450 Himalayan will hold it's value well, as long as no major issues arise. It's a very good Adventure bike in my opinion. Regards FPPete.
Defnetly......Yes As an alternate go for an old DR 650 with low milage in mint condition. Important. The DR weights 30kg less than the Himi and got 10HP more.
When the million dollars lands in my account you will get the answer. LOL. Test Ride as many bikes as you can, it will save you a million dollars, and you will make the choice that's right for you. The Himalayan is a good all rounder, and a great bike to get into Adventure Riding.
But can you pick it up when you drop it ,no one demos this ,iv been riding a few years I always say if you can’t pick it up by yourself it’s not the bike for you ,help is not always around
Thanks for your comment. I suppose having the ability to pick your bike up is a personal thing. If you are solo riding, it sure is worth considering. Regards FPPete.
Hi steve, I may need to check that, however if it was my bike, I would defiantly change the oil every 5K or even less. But that's just me. Regards FPPete.
Check out "Abinav Bhatt" on RUclips. He is the one testing out Fuel booster and has already decated. channel is www.youtube.com/@abhinavbhatt Check out his older pre-embargo videos on Himalayan 450 for trail riding similar to this beauty.
I've been riding a Z900 2017 model for 6 years now and have been looking for something else. My son is 12 and has been on the back of it a few times and he loves it. Would this new RE Himalayan a good option to take 2 up in the gravel/light dirt roads for camping purposes?
Defiantly worth a look. Could be the perfect bike for what you need. The soon to be released Cf Moto 450 is another option. Check both bikes out, test ride if you can. It may take a few months for accessories such as pannier racks and bags to be available for both bikes. Regards FPPete.
Thx for the reply. The wife is not happy with me having a second bike, so I thought a cheap daily commuting/light adventure would be a compromise. Definitely down the road, I'd be looking for a better sport tourer to replace Z900 as I'm tired with my son on the back for more than 2 hrs. I love the virtually unlimited power of the Zed for daily use, but it's pretty uncomfortable for 2 up on long day rides.
Hi, in my opinion Vibrations were minimal, Certainly nothing to be concerned about. The foot pegs are rubber mounted. It is a comfortable bike to ride. Try and test ride one for yourself, this will help you decide if the bike is for you. thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
maybe an odd question, but what were your camera settings? I've seen some people have issues with the refresh rate of the bike's led screen and the frame rate of the camera causing flashing.
Hi ken, I use a Sony action camera on my helmet at 25fpm. Could be worth investigating the best frame rate for led screens. Thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
Thanks heaps Robbie, Yeah I was nervous at the start with the excess cloud hanging over me. A fun bike to ride. Glad you enjoyed the review. Hope your out catching fish. Regards FPPete.
Yeah can be frustrating with the accessories. The T700 was the same. Try and talk to Noel or Riley at Essendon Motorcycles they may be able to help you.
Off-road using only a front brake...not good mate. I barely use a front brake even on tarmac. But the review is good, I have a 350 Meteor and am thinking about a trade in and it all looks good. Being able to leave the clutch alone off road is a must, not possible on my Honda CRF250 which was a nightmare, with absolutely no grunt from the CBR engine, the wrong engine..
I don’t think you cant beat this bike for dirt roads for the prise ,if you do you have to dig deep in your pockets ,this is a well though out designed bike a lot of research and develoment and brains went in to this bike and it didn’t happen overnight they though of every thing ,old jimmy Aust
i think so, one of himalayan head said on interview, engine is designed for modifications like big bore kit and its frame is more than enough to take on it, he also said , himalayan is been testing from past 4 years.
Ha Ha Ha. Yeah I was excited. That made me laugh Josh. I found the Himalayan suspension to be better than my DR650 with stock suspension. if the Himalayan was the same weight as the DR it would be a way better bike. If you have ridden the Himalayan or ever get a chance to ride one, I would love to hear your thoughts. All the best for the New Year, Kind regards FPPete.
Ha Ha, Yeah the Himalayan is not for everyone, However it does have it's place, It sure has a huge following, and Royal Enfield will sell a few I reckon. Regards FPPete.
G'day Pete, Solid hit out on the Himalayan, first proper review I've seen where someone takes it onto the dirt and isn't afraid to give it a spanking. Definitely an all-rounder with a great price point for anyone looking to get into adventure riding. Cheers 🍻
G'Day Will, Mate you nailed it. "Definitely an all-rounder with a great price point for anyone looking to get into adventure riding". Thats exactly what it's all about. Thanks heaps Will, Glad you enjoed the vid. Regards FPPete.
KAABEER. :-: ALMIGHTY.:- GOD :-.❤
You didn't shy away from taking the steep path and 145 kph speed test on a showroom motorcycle on gravel. Kudos.
90.09 mph
@@leeinwis Yes, we use metric in Canada too.
Thanks for your comment, glad you enjoyed the video, The more a I rode the Himalayan the more fun I was having.
@@gromit576 How aboot that !
@@leeinwis cause the englishmen or the americans r the only that use miles, inch, foot and other kinda rubbish. The whole World used metric exept a few countrys
Handled those tracks really well! What a great bike FPP!
Thanks Chief of Thieves, It sure is a cracking Bike. TFTC. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures I got scared !
Looks like a great alrounder bike Pete, I love you took it to Lerderderg. I ride there often. This bike can be ridden by anyone and will go anywhere.
Hi Bazz, Spot on mate, It sure will appeal to a lot of Adventure riders. Thanks for your comment mate, really appreciated. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures Better than a cb500x ?
@@leeinwis I have not had a ride on the CB500 so I can't help you. But I'm sure the Himalayan is far better bike off-road.
Very thorough review Pete! Great seeing you put that Himalayan 450 through those areas. It's impressive! I reckon it's a winner from Royal Enfield. Essendon Motorcycle and Mowers are fantastic in letting you test ride this newbie to the market place. And the cost is a winner too. Well done Pete! 👏👏😁
Thanks Heaps Bob, always appreciate your comments mate. And Yes EMAM are awesome, I can't thank them enough. Regards FPPete.
Hill climbs, mud, and top speed tests 👊 my kinda review good on ya Pete 🍻
Thanks heaps Josh, always appreciate your comments. Just watching you rip the mighty Black Betty T7 around the time trial on MVDBR. Regards FPPete.
Good on you that was a proper test.💪👍 They have just arrived at the dealers here in the uk.
Going to give one a go. Tubless is best I reckon.
Cheers.
Thanks heaps Phillip, glad you enjoyed the review. It is a great bike, and test riding it will sure help you with your decision. Regards FPPete.
You're so lucky. In the USA, I've never even seen a Royal Enfield on the street before. There are 200 different cruiser models to choose from, and 200 different dirt bikes, but it takes us forever to get bikes like the Transalp, Tuareg or Himilayan dual sport bikes. And it makes no sense, because in America, people need an ADV bike, they don't need a heavy wallowing cruiser.
Good video. Fantastic trail. Congrats on actually putting the bike through its paces. Waiting for CF Moto 450MT review on same trail.
Glad you enjoyed the Video, it sure is a fun bike to ride. I'm looking forward to the CF Moto 450. Hopefully I will get a test ride. Regards FPPete.
When the R80 GS/PD came out, it was a revelation with 50 hp, 41 lb-ft, a shaft and a sturdy adventure setup that was obviously a wonderful way to make a motorcycle. Changed the world, etc. But it was criticized as outrageously heavy at 186 kg/410 lb for the off-road parts of the adventure. Still it just worked since it was a real tractor etc. I loved that bike. I like this RE 452 a lot too but it has to be admitted that no progress from 1980-1987 is a bit odd as the RE is up on weight a bit and significantly down on power from from the old BMW after ~40 years with a very very similar use logic/ aesthetic. I’m not knocking the RE, it seems to be great, it’s just odd that Darwin seems to have gotten stuck evolving this sort of functional style of bike. Anyway I plan to give RE 452 a try. Darwin gave up on me too!
Great comment, At least some manufactures are starting to produce smaller capacity Adventure Bikes, Which opens the door for many more species to explore new territory. May be Darwin has you evolving into a Himalayan and, well the rest is history. LOL. Kind regards FPPete.
The thing you are missing here is emission norms, the type of engine and the fact that himalayan is talking about full wet weight. The quality metal etc.
But…. BMW’s equivalent to that bike now, the R9T GS, is 2.5 times more expensive than the Himmi and weighs 223kg unladen. Start adding accessories which it needs, and it would be 3 times the price. Everyone has that “equivalent bike from the 70’s” which is lighter/higher powered, but no one makes them now for a reason: emissions/safety won’t let them. And no one would buy them.
@@luke1463 I of course must agree in some respects - about 6 years ago I ended a 40 year BMW Motorrad ownership sequence of many bikes. I am pretty much now done with them. They are over-wrought, not particularly reliable, and mostly overpriced, and BMW the company is not customer friendly which is super weird. But… ok, anyway, I am not talking about them as they are today, at all. I mean compare an R85 GS/PD functionally to something like a Himalayan and RE have captured a lot of the old function, done it at a price, etc. It really seems great. But the evolution part still looks sort of stuck. But I truly admire the idea the RE seems to be taking motorcycling back to people who actually like them with form, price points, and general build concepts. KTM 360 is pretty interesting in totally different terms as well. Indeed that may be the mutant in question. Not sure.
Instead of a Darwinian abandonment stream, I actually think RE approach the Himmy ( both this one and the 411) from the design brief of “make the most amount of bikes that stay tank side up for longest no matter who buys them or where they ride them”. From this perspective, “do you need more than 40hp?” Becomes very important, and ( even with Emission and Licensing laws included) my suspicion is that it’s a target of itself. Enough power to be managed intuitively in a robust frame, to take a bike anywhere tank side up, but not overwhelm it.
I love those old classic bikes too ( and still own a C500) but I suspect the Himmy 450 will outperform the old GS because RE have spent a lot of time matching the engine to the frame to achieve a design function.
You actually pushed it. That's great, its where it shines.
Exactly right. When you gave it heaps it would rip into it's happy place. That 450 engine is a gem. Regards FPPete.
Great review, Pete. Actually, a real review, where you take the bike on some real tracks (Love that Lerderderg Area!!) So, good on you and good on Essendon Mowers and Motorcycles for letting you take it there!
Thanks Heaps mate, Yeah I can't thank Noel and the team at EMAM for giving me the opportunity to video Himalayan. Appreciate your Comment, and glad you enjoyed the review. Regards FPPete.
What a great Demo ride, cant see too many dealers allowing that. Good on Essendon motorcycles 👍 is this the replacement for my DR 🤔
I sure had a great time on the Himalayan. It is great value, and should hold a good resale price as well. Test ride it if you can. And yes, Essendon Motorcycles are fantastic, super friendly, great dealership. Regards FPPete.
one of the best reviews out there 👍🏽
Glad you enjoyed the review. Really appreciated. Thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
Finally a real review. Beats anything out there as far as reviews. Ballsy of you to take it in to the 4wd grounds 😂
Thanks heaps, It is such a great bike, it gives you confidence to take it places that may be outside your comfort zone. Appreciate your comment, Regards FPPete.
Test rode one yesterday. It's a very good machine.
9K good ?!
Motorcycling is fun, and this is a fun Bike to ride. Glad you liked it. Thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
I rode it two weeks ago here in the uk & i loved it too.great vid mate
It sure is a good bike, goes well , handles well. Thanks heaps for your comment, glad you enjoyed the video. Regards FPPete.
Simple..... Entertaining.... Good job 👌
Thanks a lot 😊 Glad you enjoyed the Vid, and really appreciate your Comment. Kind regards FPPete.
Mate thank you so much for this review! This is exactly what i was looking for. You earned my sub instantly mate. I am 100% getting this bike, i cant wait! And this is my favourite colour on the new ones as well. Anyway, just wanted to give you a massive thank you for this review man, seriously it was a massive struggle to find one that took it through the ringer haha like a gentleman! Cheers mate!
Awesome, thank you! What a great comment, Really appreciated and I'm so glad you enjoyed the Vid. Just keep an eye on the air filter, replace the stock air filter with a washable one. Other than that it's a ripper of a bike. If you can test ride the Himalayan, that will help you make the right decision for you. Thanks for the sub, Regards FPPete.
Do you know if Mark Victor is ok, have not seen any video lately
I will check on him, I hope he is O.k. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures he put video up today
Picking my Kaza up this week, so thought I would watch a few vids while waiting, thanks
Congrats on your new Himalayan 450. I hope it serves you well, and delivers plenty of Adventures. Regards FPPete.
You did well with this one Pete. Definitely put the bike through it's paces 🙂
Thanks heaps, glad you enjoyed the review. It sure is a fun bike. Regards FFPete.
great review to see what it can do on the dirt...I am just finalising a deal also in brown so hopefully too can enjoy bike ....
Thanks for your comment, glad you enjoyed the video. Congratulations on your new Himalayan 450. regards FPPete.
Thank you Pete bende bu motosiklet ten alacağım sipariş verdim Mayıs ayı sonunda Türkiye de olacak motoruma kavuşacağım 😂
Wow Fantastic to hear from a viewer in Turkey. Enjoy your new Adventure Bike, your going to have a lot of fun. What color did you order?
@@FULLPELTAdventures çok teşekkür ederim sizin kullandiginiz renk bence üzerinde oynamaya daha açık
After test riding i can say suspension is my favorite part of this bike
Yeah the suspension is perfect for the bike for sure. Thanks for your comment, and I hope you enjoyed your test ride. Regards FPPete.
Best video on the net for this bike. Great, this is exactly what I wanted to see. So my question is..... as a former DR 650 owner that misses the DR but wants something a little easier to handle. Is this the bike? Would you take this over a DR?
Thanks for your comment and really glad you enjoyed the review. The Himalayan ticks most boxes. It is heavy, and the Paper Air filter is not ideal here Australia. I love my DR650, It is not perfect, but it suits my style of riding. So to answer your Question, I'm keeping my DR. If you can test ride the Himalayan it will surprise you how good it is, and it just may be the bike for you. Regards FPPete.
So mate would you swap the DR?
Thanks for the review 👍🏼
A good question, It is better than the DR in Suspension, Braking, EFI, Ride by wire, Phone connectivity, Fuel economy, but the bush pig is THE Bush Pig. I would say the Himalayan is more road bias than the DR. However if you want a new experience in small bore Adventure riding the Himalayan is a great choice.
My question is, if it’s a true adventure bike, how is it with running 50% gas to 50% something else with no real knowledge of the actual octane or age of the petro your getting out of the 1 gallon milk jug the fuel man is using (?) … 🤔🤔
@@timlubbers2884 Hi tim, I would think putting dodgy fuel in any modern bike would be a concern. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures I agree, but almost every country (in the back areas) starting in Mexico all the through South America has dodgy fuel stops. Just last summer, I spent a half a day taking my fuel system apart on the side of the road cleaning out said dodgy fuel.
High strung (high compression) bikes have to have computers capable of adjusting for lower quality gas. There’s places here in the us where the best you can get is 85.5 …
Wow, thanks for that, great info. Regards FPPete.
You crack me up 😅 "$1700 excess, I don't want to explore that. Oh, look, a 4 wheel drive testing track. Let's have a look."
You are the best 👍Excellent viewing 👌
Thanks heaps for your comment, Yeah I was having too much fun to worry about the insurance. Regards FPPete.
I here the grunt it’s got when you open it up sounds good mate jimmy WA
Yeah, it is a good bike. Designed as a Dual Sport it ticks most boxes. Regards FPPete.
Hi awesome review.. where is that dirt road in melbourne??
Thanks heaps, glad you enjoyed the vid. I was in the Lerderderg State Forest for the test ride. Regards FPPete.
Great vid. What's it like at highway speeds ... like 100kph for an hour ? Too vibrate-ey ?
Hi Marty, Jack the owner said it's a very smooth engine no vibes, it's a 270 deg twin cylinder. 100kph is no vibes. Regards FPPete.
This bike is very good all round we know it’s not a dirt bike but for the price and what it can do no other bike can beat it ,but there’s one thing that stops me buying one is the ride by wire ,I like going out far in the bush at times if the ride by wire packs up I’m stuffed if it was a cable I could fix it ,might have to stick to my DR for now till I find out more knowledge about ride by wire any body out there got the same thoughts about ride by wire
Thanks jimmy, Keep the mighty DR for sure. However I have not heard of any problems with the ride by wire, it is very reliable. The Himalayan is a well built rugged bike, I would be happy to ride it into remote area's. Test ride one if you can. Regards FPPete.
Great review no stone unturned!
Hi mcq, really appreciate your comment. Regards FPPete.
It a bloody good all round bike multi use and good value can’t think of a bike that comes close not to light solid in the wind on the open road ,I would expect some vibs being a single I could live with that ,really robust for Aust conditions ,jimmy WA
Hi Jimmy, You said it all. Vibrations were minimal, and it is a joy to ride. Air filter access is not ideal, but otherwise it's a great allrounder for sure. Regards FPPete.
Must have watched about 30 vids on the new Himmy, all "its not run in so I will be gentle" etc ... Ozzy gets on it and 'lets see how fast it will go" 🤣🤣 and then "lets see if it will go up here" ... brilliant, proper tempted for one, love XT660z's but too heavy, the 411s too wheezy and looks like its made from a parts bin ... looks that RE have hit the sweet spot with this
Thank you for your comment, and I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Test ride the bike if you can. The XT660 is a good bike. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures Hi, I took your advice as I was off work today and called a dealer in Stoke, they have a demo bike and let me take it out for an hour this afternoon. It was the black one, looked great with the gold wheels, first impression was that it appeared small to look at, but when sat on it then it was fine. I thought it felt pretty light, sounded nice and so off I went. The seating position was good, felt a little like I was perched on it but it was fine, bars felt wide enough. The gearbox was crisp ... but I stalled it twice at first from standstill, it felt it needed revving a little, not like the 411 which just feels like it would pull away with practically zero revs. Also ... it didn't seem to like pulling away in upper gears unless you dropped it down a gear ... I might be wrong but I don't think it will be as 'tractable' on UK boggy trails as the 411? but that maybe just me and its probably fine. The little screen does nothing ... I loved how it felt in the bends, very planted and flickable. So ... I think its going to be a hit ... not for me though ... I might get pelters but I think its a £1000 too expensive for a bike that I would not want to tour on and so be limited to just going off for days on trails and I am sure the riding to and from would be just fine, wouldn't want to do long distances or hours on it though. Also ... when you add crash protection, maybe pannier rails? a better screen then you are in the £6500+ area and I don't think its worth it personally ... the Voge 300 looks better value or .... yes ... the 411 and not be bothered about the extra 10 to 15 mph and save £2000.
@@onenoodles Thanks so much for your comment. I'm a glad you went for a test ride. And now you can have your own opinion of the bike and whether or not it is right for you. Happy hunting for your next motorcycle. Kind Regards FPPete.
I’m tempted on this bike….but I might be better suited for a dual sport and take the hit on the road capability rather than on the dirt. And that’s no lightweight…but still-it sounds like a great bike.
It sure is a capable bike, I always try and test ride a bike first and think about what you will using it for, and if it ticks your boxes. The CFMoto 450 is worth a look, Honda CRF300, or Suzuki DRZ400. Good luck, Regards FPPete.
Hi, what are "bark busters" on the mirrors?
Kind regards
Alain
Not sure what you mean, Bark busters are top quality hand guards. Regards FPPete.
@@FULLPELTAdventures I understood somewhere that the mirrors were good and you wouldn't change them but you would add bark busters. So I figured it was some kind of mirrorprotection against branches that I had never seen or heard of.
Thanks for getting back to me. I must have misunderstood. So you would add handprotection :-).
kind regards
Alain
I wish they had made a 650cc version of this sherpa engine for the Himalayan and scram.
Yeah a 650 would be nice. I'm sure they are exploring that option. Regards FPPete.
Hey mate....i am planning to buy this bike.... But I heard this is having so much vibrations.... what is ur take on it
Hi YOTT, the bike is very smooth. only the slightest vibration through the footpegs with the rubber inserts removed. Go get your new Himalayan, you will not be disappointed. Test ride one and see for your self. Regards FPPete.
Esa velocidad fue salvaje en tierra fuera del asfalto 😯😯😯
Thank you, It sure is a fun bike to ride. Regards FPPete.
Great review Pete , certainly a great bike!🎉, looking forward to hopefully get a test ride on one ! All the video reviews I've seen say it's a great bike . And only $9000!
only
Yes it's a great price for sure.
Thanks Peter, Glad you enjoyed the video, and jump on one for a test ride, it's a fun bike to ride. Regards FPPete.
The ship with them on must have docked in Melbourne first, still a couple of weeks until they get to this side of the ditch. Looks a good solid bike but I'd have concerns about resale values, it looks like there are lots of the 650's hanging around in the market.
We only have the Demo bike here in Melbourne at the moment. I think the 450 Himalayan will hold it's value well, as long as no major issues arise. It's a very good Adventure bike in my opinion. Regards FPPete.
So a million dollar Question from my side
Should i go for this bike ?😊
Defnetly......Yes
As an alternate go for an old DR 650 with low milage in mint condition.
Important. The DR weights 30kg less than the Himi and got 10HP more.
When the million dollars lands in my account you will get the answer. LOL. Test Ride as many bikes as you can, it will save you a million dollars, and you will make the choice that's right for you. The Himalayan is a good all rounder, and a great bike to get into Adventure Riding.
But can you pick it up when you drop it ,no one demos this ,iv been riding a few years I always say if you can’t pick it up by yourself it’s not the bike for you ,help is not always around
Thanks for your comment. I suppose having the ability to pick your bike up is a personal thing. If you are solo riding, it sure is worth considering. Regards FPPete.
Is the service interval still 10000 km here in Australia, I have seen some articles saying it has been decreased?
Hi steve, I may need to check that, however if it was my bike, I would defiantly change the oil every 5K or even less. But that's just me. Regards FPPete.
Rumours they had to restrict the international version a bit more, will be interesting to see how it goes with a fuel booster and decat
Check out "Abinav Bhatt" on RUclips. He is the one testing out Fuel booster and has already decated.
channel is www.youtube.com/@abhinavbhatt
Check out his older pre-embargo videos on Himalayan 450 for trail riding similar to this beauty.
The bike is pretty darn good stock, so any improvements will be fantastic. Regards FPPete.
I've been riding a Z900 2017 model for 6 years now and have been looking for something else. My son is 12 and has been on the back of it a few times and he loves it. Would this new RE Himalayan a good option to take 2 up in the gravel/light dirt roads for camping purposes?
Defiantly worth a look. Could be the perfect bike for what you need. The soon to be released Cf Moto 450 is another option. Check both bikes out, test ride if you can. It may take a few months for accessories such as pannier racks and bags to be available for both bikes. Regards FPPete.
Thx for the reply. The wife is not happy with me having a second bike, so I thought a cheap daily commuting/light adventure would be a compromise. Definitely down the road, I'd be looking for a better sport tourer to replace Z900 as I'm tired with my son on the back for more than 2 hrs. I love the virtually unlimited power of the Zed for daily use, but it's pretty uncomfortable for 2 up on long day rides.
Some reviews comment that this bike vibrates a lot at 100 and over, like at touring speeds on the open road. Did that happen to you on this test?
Hi, in my opinion Vibrations were minimal, Certainly nothing to be concerned about. The foot pegs are rubber mounted. It is a comfortable bike to ride. Try and test ride one for yourself, this will help you decide if the bike is for you. thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
maybe an odd question, but what were your camera settings? I've seen some people have issues with the refresh rate of the bike's led screen and the frame rate of the camera causing flashing.
Hi ken, I use a Sony action camera on my helmet at 25fpm. Could be worth investigating the best frame rate for led screens. Thanks for your comment. Regards FPPete.
What is bore and stroke
Hi Paul Bore & stroke 84 mm x 81.5 mm, 40 HP, Regards FPPete.
You lived up to your name. What was that track you took called?
Thanks Craig. The track on google maps says W No5 track, it comes off Bluegum track.
Excellent review. Very well done. $1700 excess on a $9k bike. WOW
Thanks heaps Robbie, Yeah I was nervous at the start with the excess cloud hanging over me. A fun bike to ride. Glad you enjoyed the review. Hope your out catching fish. Regards FPPete.
When can you get all these accessories? I have been asking team Moto for three months for accessories price list and still nobody can tell me squat
Yeah can be frustrating with the accessories. The T700 was the same. Try and talk to Noel or Riley at Essendon Motorcycles they may be able to help you.
Off-road using only a front brake...not good mate. I barely use a front brake even on tarmac. But the review is good, I have a 350 Meteor and am thinking about a trade in and it all looks good. Being able to leave the clutch alone off road is a must, not possible on my Honda CRF250 which was a nightmare, with absolutely no grunt from the CBR engine, the wrong engine..
Hi Allan, thanks for your comment. Go test ride the Himalayan if you can. You will know if it's the bike for you. Regards FPPete.
Doing 145 on that dirt patch!?
The Himalayan was rock solid at 145. It will sit it on 110kph all day.
Does anyone have any idea when this bike will be available in NA?
During the fall season
your off roads are our daily commute road.
Well you need the Himalayan for sure. LOL. Regards FPPete.
I don’t think you cant beat this bike for dirt roads for the prise ,if you do you have to dig deep in your pockets ,this is a well though out designed bike a lot of research and develoment and brains went in to this bike and it didn’t happen overnight they though of every thing ,old jimmy Aust
Thanks Jimmy, It's a great all-rounder. I was very impressed in how it performed on and off road. That 450 engine is sweet. Regards FPPete.
Some reviewers mentioned by installing decat and aftermarket exhaust you can increase 5-8 HP is it true???
🤞
i think so, one of himalayan head said on interview, engine is designed for modifications like big bore kit and its frame is more than enough to take on it, he also said , himalayan is been testing from past 4 years.
If it is. I m gonna buy it. Waiting for smart people to do it right. 😂
Yeah there is talk of mods to get the power up, So it will be interesting what becomes available. Regards FPPete.
Nice
Thanks, It sure is a fun bike. Thanks for your comment, Regards FPPete.
"Handles better than my DR650". Woa. Woa woa woa woa. Calm down.
Ha Ha Ha. Yeah I was excited. That made me laugh Josh. I found the Himalayan suspension to be better than my DR650 with stock suspension. if the Himalayan was the same weight as the DR it would be a way better bike. If you have ridden the Himalayan or ever get a chance to ride one, I would love to hear your thoughts. All the best for the New Year, Kind regards FPPete.
@FULLPELTAdventures hoping to get a test ride this spring. Funny how it's hard to beat the dr still after all of these years.
@@joshdoddadbod Fantastic. Hope you enjoy the Himalayan Test Ride. Your Spot on about the Mighty DR650, I absolutely love mine.
Sold I want none 👍
Ha Ha, Yeah the Himalayan is not for everyone, However it does have it's place, It sure has a huge following, and Royal Enfield will sell a few I reckon. Regards FPPete.
I didn't see even one Pelt 🤷🏽♂.
Ha Ha.