GIIAS 2016: Royal Enfield Himalayan – first look at Enfield’s new dual-purpose with new L410 engine

2016 GIIAS Royal Enfield Himalayan -28

With Indonesia’s motorcycle market the size that it is, it comes as no surprise that many motorcycle manufacturers release new models there first, and there are models specific to that market. In the case of the 2016 Royal Enfield Himalayan, we were not at all surprised to be roaming the display stands to find the new dual-purpose from the India brand tucked away around a corner.

As the first of Enfield’s new models to carry the newly-designed L410 411 cc overhead cam, air/oil cooled single-cylinder engine, the Himalayan represents a departure from the firm’s Bullet, which has remained largely unchanged in design since 1949.

The thumper engine is claimed to produce 24.5 hp at 6,500 rpm and torque is rated at 32 Nm at 4,500 rpm with power going through a five-speed gearbox. Not overwhelming numbers, to be sure, but perhaps adequate for general-purpose riding and touring.

2016 GIIAS Royal Enfield Himalayan -5

Design for the Himalayan follows standard dual-purpose design philosophy, a tall stance, riding on a 21-inch wheel in front and 17-incher in the rear – with both wheels spoked. Seat height is at an even 800 mm, allowing most riders to get a leg-over and both feet on the ground. Wet weight is claimed to be 183 kg, and looking at the physical size of the 2016 Himalayan, we believe it.

Nothing shocking about the suspension, with 41 mm diameter forks – covered with rubber gaiters – up front giving 200 mm of travel, and the rear absorber a single shock unit that allows for 180 mm of suspension travel. There was nothing to indicate that the front forks were adjustable, while we couldn’t get under the cover for the rear to see if the rear shock was adjustable for pre-load.

A guard for the front of the bike comes standard, as does a multi-hole mounting bracket for the rear pannier frame. The frame is a simple pressed-steel affair, welded together. This should make for easy repairs in the event of a crash.

The rear light unit is LED, while the front makes do with traditional halogen lighting. Instruments are traditional analogue gauges, with odometer readings using small LCD displays.

We were unable to obtain pricing for the 2016 Royal Enfield Himalayan and were informed by Royal Enfield staff the Himalayan will likely only be released next year in Indonesia.

What do you think? A baby dual-purpose suitable for general running-around and light (slow) touring? Leave a comment with your thoughts and opinions below.

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Mohan K Ramanujam

Coming with diverse and extensive experience in heavy engineering, Mohan enjoys making anything with wheels go fast, especially motorcycles. His weapon of choice is the Desmoquattro engine, and he has a penchant for anything with a dash of Italian design. Strangely enough, he insists he's a slow rider.

 

Comments

  • Jonn Dol on Aug 15, 2016 at 3:16 pm

    Certainly an interesting & excellent bike for travelling through winding country roads, forest , mountains or even fruit orchards.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Ootai on Aug 15, 2016 at 9:55 pm

    Royal enfield made in India. Benelli made in China. Ducati & bmw assembled in Siam. Nolstagic brand from low cost producing countries. After 6 months of usage, the user starts to ask whether he is getting the real deal with the machine.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
  • donno on Aug 15, 2016 at 10:28 pm

    Hmm 183kg and only 24hp? You would be better off touring with a lightweight kapchai rather than that. Or really need to go on dirt roads? A kawasaki klx150 would be a good bet

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 2
  • Waiting a year to release outside India is probably the best thing?
    They have not got off to a good start India; every bike has been called back for a ‘proactive service update’ (A recall to anyone else) The brand seems to be suffering from ongoing poor PR

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
 

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