17K MILES. New Himalayan V Old Himalayan ? The West Kennet Long Barrow. Wiltshire Man

Is the new Royal Enfield Himalayan worth upgrading too? I share some of my thoughts.
Together with my friend Dickie, from KZbin channel "DickieMintCycles"
we explore some ancient landscape and explore the West Kennet Neolithic Long Barrow.
This impressive Neolithic long barrow (Tomb) dates from 3650BC and is one of the most impressive Long Barrows here in the UK.
Don't forget to check out Dickie's KZbin channel here:
/ @dickiemintcycles
Music used in this video was all from the KZbin audio library:
Desert Planet by Quincas Moreira
Snowy peaks pt1 by Chris Haugen

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Enjoyed seeing the local countryside through your lenses. Thumbs up.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Lonnie, I've had my Himalayan for 4 years now, I have come to understand the bike. I can service it myself at home in less than an hour. Thats a new Spark plug, air filter, oil filter and fresh oil and a valve check. A similar service on my other bike (Suzuki V Strom) is almost £600 (British pounds sterling)

[@TheSkskitey]

Thanks for the tour of the Long Barrow Sandy . INTCHY BOOTS has been given a new Himalayan to test and her latest trip is around India and she likes the new bike a lot :-)

[@campfire52]

A great motorcycle ride accompanied by a very well thought out description of your experience and opinion on the Himalayan, and then the bonus of a tour of The West Kennet Long Barrow. Thank you for adding such enjoyment to our Saturday Sandy. The history of the part of the world that you live in always astounds me. So many of the structures, monuments, trails, (and the information attached to them) are so readily available and accessible to the general public. It is so inspiring how both you and Dickie are not taking these historical offerings for granted, you obviously appreciate and respect them accordingly and take a great deal of pride in sharing them with others. Have fun out there my friend, see you on the next one.

[@WiltshireMan]

We are fortunate here in Wiltshire for the history that goes back into our ancient past Terry, but if only there were a few mountains too, then it surely would be Gods own county:)

[@albion2742]

Sandy, back in my early teenage riding days I couldn't afford fancy leather boots, we used the wellies with two pair of socks to keep the old plates of meat warm and dry.

[@zfunk123]

Thank you for another great video

[@williamjones6478]

It draws you in!!!!!!!!

[@JC-sl4hk]

Hi Sandy 👋🏻. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. Loved when you sent your drone up and gave us a panoramic view of the beautiful Wiltshire countryside. Seeing the aerial view of the Barrow and mounds gives us a better idea of just how big they are. Amazing. The amount of work that must have gone into moving the large stones …. obviously meant to remain standing forever by the builders. The threatening sky created the perfect lighting and mood for you to explore this ancient site. Great seeing Dickie again 👍👍👍. The pair of you will have to invest in higher cycling boots like Itchy Boots wears lol. Glad to hear that your ribs are healing nicely. Take care, stay safe, healthy and happy. Judy🇨🇦

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi judy, I think we were fortunate to get such moody sky's for our visit to the West Kennet long barrow. However we did pay for it in getting a good soaking. They certainly build these old places to stand the test of time

[@be_early2024]

Thanks for the adventure!

[@WiltshireMan]

Glad you enjoyed it:)

[@joeschenk8400]

The West Kennet Long Barrow is very impressive. I find these ancient sites fascinating. I will go to your friend's site forthwith!👍👍👍 Note that this is my second attempt to post a comment...YT deleted it???

[@WiltshireMan]

I don't know what goes on with KZbin sometimes. Quite a bit of history here in Wiltshire Joe

[@billcotton1551]

You got some awesome drone shots before the storm hit, Sandy!

[@WiltshireMan]

Drone got a good soaking too Bill

[@DanOpdal]

Thank you for sharing your adventure! Interesting video, Sandy. Cheers!

[@WiltshireMan]

My pleasure Dan:)

[@johnpawson7400]

A great day out with Dickie, very interesting content.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks John, it is always nice to get out on the Himalayan

[@iainbaker2742]

I'm liking the look of the triumph 400 scrambler, be interesting to see how they compare.....

[@Marbleheadjed]

So great sites . Nice video

[@RetroRatz]

A lovely video ❤ well done for wading through that water! I remember that day (that cloud) at work. It was a torrent in Swindon.

[@WiltshireMan]

Both my last two visits to the Long barrow I had to wade through the river Kennet:)

[@tgalbraith2152]

Hi Sandy, fascinating and beautiful. The first drone segment was quite special. Agree almost totally on the RE, I have put 8k in 6 months on my Bullet, no square frame, but everything else applies. Plus the Bullet is a looker. The new 450 looks tempting too. :)

[@mischef18]

Great video bro so thanks for letting us tag along and hear your thoughts on ya motor bike. Safe travels. Ken.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Ken

[@jeetts59]

Absolutely fascinating. I’m very envious of the amount of history on your doorstep

[@CVO17-GSA23]

Another great video always pleasure seeing you guys together. This morning had Chai while watching your awesome vlog.

[@WiltshireMan]

Sounds like you have a good routine going on:)

[@johnhorner769]

I remember being thankful for a spare pair of Derri boots at the Dragon Rally. My Belstaffs did a fine job of keeping me dry but my leather boots failed miserably. Nice to see you and Dickie out together.

[@stevec-b6214]

can you still get derri boots? I used them a lot years ago, brilliant! dry and insulated as well.

[@paulrendell8797]

Honest review of the Himalayan, I love mine and will probably keep it until the wheels fall off. As for the West Kennet Long Barrow. Very interesting. I've visited various burial chambers in the British Isles, right to the north of Shetland.. My overall feeling is, our ancient ancestors went to great effort to build these places and obviously had a great attachment with the dead. These were sacred places to them. I know we want to know as much as we can about them and remains (bones) are usually taking away for testing. My feeling is though, since they went to great lengths to build places like this and probably went through great sacrifice to build them, shouldn't the bones be returned when all the testing has been done? Only seems right to me...

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes I can agree with your view on returning the bines to their final resting places. As for the Himalayan, at the moment I have no plans to sell it or upgrade. When I was younger I would probably have had two or three other bikes in the last four years. I seem to hand onto my bikes for longer nowadays

[@daveofarden]

hi Sandy, you tuber itchy boots is riding the pre production bike in the Himalayas, and the scenery is mind blowing

[@billcotton1551]

Sandy ,I've heard that RE might stop production on the 411 Himi when the 452 comes out. You might have a collector's item in "Chug"

[@jameslast3192]

I agree, I think people will hold onto them and if looked after will be sort after, certainly missed and admired. We’re all always saying we miss simpler times and things so I think the old girl will stand the test of time!

[@Andyb2379]

Very intrigued to hear Dickies experience at the barrow. These ancient sites definitely have a strange energy about them that is still unknown to science. Another enjoyable outing.

[@WiltshireMan]

Hopefully Dickie wil do a vlog on his experiences soon Andy

[@jayc1116]

Did herbal tobacco or even cider play a part in Dickies strange experiencies .... ..

[@ivangodley325]

Hi from Ireland.. I visited the Long Barrow on the same trip I stayed overnight in Avebury about sixteen years ago.. In fact I have a little rock of chalk that I brought home from that very field. Chalk doesn't occur naturally here so it was a novelty to me and worthy as a souvenir. By the way if you think the himalayan sounds rough you should hear my 20 year old BMW r1150gs, now that'll wake the dead!. Thanks for posting.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thats wonderful Ivan, glad you have a piece of Wiltshire chalk:)

[@davidsanderson1891]

Hi sandy nice video. Can't comment on bikes now I retired and don't ride .I just enjoy your content. Just gone over to dickie And back tracking his videos. Thank you sir. Old dave.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Dave, Dickie is a dyed in the wool bike rider:)

[@neilwilkinson5415]

Great film of the long barrow Sandy. I was there last weekend and fortunately the Kennet hadn’t burst it’s banks. It’s a very special place. I was also up on top of Windmill Hill and a great band of rain came in suddenly, followed by a full rainbow. Quite memorable.

[@WiltshireMan]

It's a very atmospheric landscape Neil

[@andrewpiercy3691]

Good honest review Sandy and lovely countryside to enjoy. I have an Africa Twin and a 2009 Bullet Battle Green. Very tempted by the new Himalayan. Particularly seeing it in action with Itchy Boots in Kashmir. Keep up the great content Sandy always a pleasure to view. Regards Andy

[@WiltshireMan]

I've been watching some oh IB too, the new bike looks very capable

[@andrewpiercy3691]

@@WiltshireMan Noraly is such a brave woman a real inspiration too us all.

[@welshrambler1893]

That was a very interesting and informative video Sandy, well done! Sorry you had to get wet feet and hope the drone wasn't damaged by the downpour. I'll have a look at Dickie's video because it's always interesting to see two perspectives of the same monument. Regards Keith

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Keith, drone is fine. Dickie will be posting a video on this at some point

[@jimrowland6089]

That looks like a nice place to spend a day Sandy. Weather permitting. I think hip waders for fishing might be on the supply list if it is wet outside. Is there any sun or moon alignments? Might be some intresting things happening there on December 21st.

[@WiltshireMan]

The barrow is aligned facing almost due East Jim so I think there maybe some sort of alignment going on. Not sure though. On the 21'st Dec I know a few folk of a certain belief will gather and bang drums :)

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Be interesting to hear your thoughts on the new Himalayan. What a cracking shot that was of the hill. The Lord lit that one up well for you 😁👍. Dickies ghostly encounter next for me now 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

The light was very dramatic Ken, I was lucky. I think this type of weather and the seasons are perhaps the most photogenic. I did try and press Dickie to say more about his experiences but he is saving it for a vlog on his channel:)

[@quwers]

Watched the sunset over the long barrow in the summer. Very nice and no puddles to wade through. 😊

[@mickstupp6300]

Haven't been there since a teenager. Good to see you can still get up close and personal. I've always said it ... Wilts is centre of the universe! 😉 The universe we can see and the universe we can't see. 😊

[@WiltshireMan]

Quite possibly Mick

[@jameslast3192]

Lovely video as always Sandy. I’ve been up ing and arring over the Himalayan for years now. If anything the refinement and looks of the new one makes me want the old one so may get one on a deal, my gut is that people will like the increased horsepower and gear for motorways but will miss the rudimentary/agricultural chuggyness of the old one. It will be my first bike so low HP is of little concern to me and it’s all B roads where I live with heaps of forestry tracks, so I may just bite the bullet,no pun intended, and jump for an old Himalayan otherwise I’ll be procrastinating for another three years!

[@WiltshireMan]

You can pickup a brand new Himalayan 410 for around £4k now. The motor is more chuggy, and almost unstallable at low power. Good for B roads and gentle green lanes and gravel tracks. Very easy and cheap to run and maintain. I'm keeping mine, now over 4 years old and approaching 18K miles

[@jonathanmellish4439]

I reckon the ethos behind the RE Himmy is just right. A simple cheap and easy to maintain means of transport that is tough is great as other bikes costs and complexities spiral and make home maintenance more troublesome. Personally i would look at the Scram.

[@WiltshireMan]

I think the old Himmy is still a fine bike and so easy to live with

[@djrichylaurence8991]

I like the simplicity of the 411. A decent exhaust and ecu remap does wonders. 😉

[@WiltshireMan]

I also like it's simplicity, it's a bit of a two wheeled land rover. My mate Dickie had a booster plug fitted to his and mine is basically stock apart from a lextek end can. We did a roll on acceleration test and there was exactly zero difference

[@stevec-b6214]

as the saying goes `if its not broke, don`t fix it`

[@stevec-b6214]

@@WiltshireMan how much does Dickie weigh 😉

[@victormonster4658]

The Kennet long barrow & similar thing’s always get me thinking who had a betting way of life. Great video again WM👍👌

[@WiltshireMan]

I'm sure in many ways things back then were better until you got toothache and had to go and see the dentist!

[@memybikeni9931]

Beautiful place, I visited about 5 years ago, did a video on my own channel, and someone had left lit T lights and roses scattered all through, amazing experience, and very eerie. It’s a shame it’s only partially excavated and very well eroded. Silbury hill also very nice place, shame you’re not allowed to climb it, but I understand it’s just because it’s been overly mined and is dangerous.

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes the barrow can be a little eerie when your on your own and you don't have good lighting. I often wonder what the ancestors used to think, like Dickie says, he thinks these places were used as a type of church, for paying respects and for celebration

[@martystacey4429]

Loved that vid Sandy😎👌A great couple of subjects and fine photography! I'd be keen to hear of Dickies opinion on your new bike dilemma (And his spooky experiences) I'll keep an eye out on his channel as i've recently become a subscriber😉

[@WiltshireMan]

Cheers Marty, Dickie is a great guy. The new Himalayan ticks a lot of boxes, as a younger person I would have jumped ship very quickly but these days I'm not too bothered. I still love my old bike, I like how easily serviceable it is, it's cheap to run and parts are easily obtainable. It also has a steel liner which can be rebored. The new Himalayan has special coatings on the bore and piston, and it will be more expensive to service. Yes it has 50% more power than the OLD Himalayan, but if I want more power then I have my Vstrom which has 150% more power than the NEW Himalayan:)

[@BeercanBushcraft]

Lovely video mate 👍 Obviously you need a #Hymalayan44k Giveaway 😂 😂 😂 I'm in 👍 All the best to you and yours -doffed my hat as I passed this morning ❤️🎩❤️

[@thebeatentrack156]

Great video, so glad I found your channel 😊

[@TheRamblingsofBry]

4 years?!?!?! Where does time go... You have had some really good times thanks to that bike, especially off road and on slower trips etc. Boots off and carry them over next time!!!! I love the long barrow, a very magical place. I have visited so many times over the years, and always feel something very strong each time, an amazing place indeed. You wished for a big cloud haha, hope the drone is ok? Is it the same one that went swimming in the pond?

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Bry, not the same drone, they could not repair the submarine drone, it was too far gone. This is a brand new one and it cost me a lot of money. Fortunately it was unharmed by the rain storm thankfully:)

[@bolleolympus]

5:15 The same noice on my SR 400👍👍👌👌😊😊❤❤

[@ianhoyle8459]

I enjoyed your video, and I feel quite similar about certain aspects of bike design as you appear to. However I prefer the look of an air cooled motor and I’m sure the frame design on your trusted steed is fit for purpose, as even the most reputable and notorious globe trotting machines have failed structurally through duress in some or many ways. Despite your concerns I imagine you return very good MPG and I absolutely love the Where Eagles Dare Junkers Tri-motor paint scheme. Broad Sword to Danny Boy, come in Broad Sword?!! Best wishes Ian

[@WiltshireMan]

Ian, I think the frame on my bike will be just fine, The ones that have failed have been hard ridden across the Himalaya's, but in the same breath I think the addition of the "Gussets" to strengthen the frame was a work around (aka bodge). The air cooled motor has some advantages, it has a steel liner and can be rebored, it is also so much easier to work on for the home mechanic

[@robedmunds7163]

40hp and tubless tyres is hard to resist. But then so is a discounted mk1. View it as a Land Rover and it is fine.

[@WiltshireMan]

There's also the serviceability and ease of maintenance to consider. The old bike is easy to live with

[@terrygreen9107]

Enjoyed the video love the ancient sites we have here, as for the Himayalan look at itchy boots she is riding the new model in India. Cheers Sandy 👍🏍

[@trig6712]

Amazing thank you Both

[@chrissteer9215]

Very nice to hear your comments on the Himalayan i really enjoy my Himalayan it’s one i bought on the back of Chug videos and never looked back and just so much to ride on any were ie camping or touring , my little GS gets left behind in the garage to much. Nice video Sandy.

[@WiltshireMan]

I find the same thing Chris.Mostly the bigger Suzuki stays in the stable and Chug comes out:) It's also cheaper to run

[@mcstuiain9511]

Fascinating...reminds me of Newgrange in Ireland

[@overkillnick1003]

Enjoyed the video…….I reckon the seed is planted in your mind for a new Himmy.

[@WiltshireMan]

It's upto me whether I water it or not :)

[@trevorloveridge4387]

Hi Sandy great an honest review of your Himalayan I think it’s a great little bike, I’ve been watching Itchy Boots she has been trialing the new Himalayan around India an so far she is really impressed with it, I think I will be taking one out for a ride when they get here.

[@WiltshireMan]

I'll certainly be test riding one when the opportunity presents

[@jondv5278]

Chug 2.0, son of Chug, coming to Wiltshire Man's garage sometime early next year then? 😁

[@WiltshireMan]

We shall see. Currently I am enjoying the two bikes I have, they are chalk and cheese

[@SteveSeadog]

Great video, Sandy, with some really atmospheric shots of Silbury Hill, which, according to Google, is the tallest prehistoric man-made hill in Europe. I can fully understand your thoughts on the Himalayan and, if I was a betting man, I'd wager that you'll have a new bike within a few months.

[@WiltshireMan]

The new Himalayan is a well thought out bike Steve, but the economist in me say's the longer I keep the old bike the more value for money I have had from it:)

[@simonwiltshire]

Those sort of rides out are perfect for the himmy, for long rides like motorways realy you need a bigger bike and i don't think the new 450 himmy is going to be a do it all bike, your probably better off keeping the bikes you've got, with the two bikes that you have you can do it all. Great video as always sandy thankyou.

[@WiltshireMan]

I think your probably right Simon

[@colinmcnally5931]

Great Video

[@nealeburgess6756]

You worried about the mechanical noise from Chug. I have heard some very noisy new expensive Ducatis that rattle like a bag of nails when ticking over.

[@davebarney3369]

My motorbike never saw the wet! It’s lovely around Avebury. We used to go out to the Red Lion on our bikes. Now I take the car there and carry on to Cherhill. There’s a nice cafe called the Dandy Highwayman. Have you been? Lovely cakes 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

Never been to the Dandy highwayman, sounds like it's worth a visit

[@bobspence714]

Hello Sandy,, Thank you, for your postings, very much enjoy them. The Himmi is a great motorcycle . However, here in the States traffic continues to travel at faster and faster speeds making it difficult for the Enfield to keep pace. It is a great bike for slower roads and double/single track... That said, my compromise is a stock , used Suzuki DR650. Fitted it with some accessories of my choosing. Its doing a pretty good job for me currently. Basic and simple. Might keep the Himmi, ?.. not sure...

[@WiltshireMan]

Over here in the Good ol UK Bob the roads are becoming more congested and they are bringing in slower speed limits. The one big positive about the Himmi is ease of maintenance, it's a bike I feel I know well now but it does have it's flaws and power output is one of them

[@marcuskiritsis2076]

I’m reckoning on an upgrade coming. You have bonded with chug but……….is it better ??? Now that’s a question. Hope the feet were dry and warm when you got home sandy cup of tea will help as well. 👍♥️😊

[@WiltshireMan]

My feet stayed wet Marcus. I like the new Himalayan with it's Sherpa Engine, but I think age comes with wisdom so I'll probably wait another year or two and see how the new model fairs before I decide. The big positive with Chug is that I know how to maintain and fix it. It is a simple bike

[@williamjones6478]

I have been to Avebury two or three times I know what’s there but why do I want to go back there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@WiltshireMan]

Probably because something in you is in tune with the place and it's meaning

[@robtherover]

I remember when you first got Chug. It's been a good workhorse on many adventures.

[@WiltshireMan]

Chugs been a good tool Rob:)

[@oscartravis5740]

New 450 looks the part, just think a 650 v-twin would've given the bike everything it needs to compete on all fronts. Thanks so much for the tour of West Kennet as it's been on my list to see for years, and that you got wet feet and a drenching to bring back the footage, it deserves a single malt at the very least 😄

[@WiltshireMan]

I wouldn't say No to a single malt:) V twins have a wonderful character, but they are heavy

[@stevec-b6214]

i think you will find the suzuki vstrom is not the competition you want to be up against!, that bike is legendary

[@angelanicholls9647]

Great Video Sandy, I remember my first bike, which was a Yamaha Bop 🏍 😂😂😂😂 Loved it, and it never let me down.❤❤❤ The countryside was spectacular 👌 What was your occupation?

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Angela, My last job was a part time care assistant/driver for an autistic young man and farm worker of a small farm (100 acres) where I worked with a herd of 60 Angus cows and one bull. The job entailed all aspects of animal husbandry and also farm machinery maintenance, fence repairs, strimming weeds etc etc. The farm also had a special needs unit for Autistic young people. Unfortunately the young man I worked with ended up in full time residential care and as a result the farm could only offer me part time work, so I then decided to make one of my hobbies (Knife making) into a livelihood and haven't looked back since. But it has been a hard road to travel at times:)

[@foxglove8836]

very nice 🙂 take care.

[@NooBiker]

Having taken my Himalayan (named Waynetta) green laning recently and also published a vlog with my thoughts on the new model... Our thoughts on the new Himalayan 450 are very much aligned. I think a lot will come down to what price they charge for it and how it feels on a test ride. How will it carry its weight? Low down like the current one or will it be top heavy? A very special place, thanks for showing us. A shame your feet got damp.

[@WiltshireMan]

I will have to check out your vlog on Waynetta :)

[@volt8684]

Regarding the box section the swing arm looked like the stuff I built my carport of only twice as thin.

[@WiltshireMan]

Hahaa, well I have no concerns over the swing arm as that apparently doesn't seem to fail as often as the T stem, but I also believe the T stems are only failing on heavily abused bikes and unlikely to happen to me riding on roads and gentle trails. It is however a concern though

[@danielmcneil3004]

Fascinating video,Sandy. I wasn’t familiar with Kennet Long Barrow although I have heard about Silbury Hill. So many ancient and historic places to visit in UK. Regarding the new Himalayan, it sound like it will be a much improved model in some respects but as you said, if you’ve had mostly trouble free service from your original version, is it really worth the investment? Thanks for sharing your visit to Kennet. Cheers and ride safe. Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Dan, There's not much reason to move up to the new bike really, I might get a more refined ride and a few MPH on the cruising speed but for that it will cost a few thousand pounds of hard earned money. Is it really worth it? I doubt it! Never say Never though:)

[@daz.r1994]

Looks Amazing Sandy. What about doing a over night camp in the Neolithic long barrow. As it look a mint place.

[@WiltshireMan]

I did that once Daz with someone called Daz:)

[@daz.r1994]

@@WiltshireMan That's mint Sandy. No one would know you was their with that stone in front of the door. You could cook your food outside. What a lovely place.

[@petemorris8984]

Hi Sandy, ever thought of getting a Honda cb500x? Lighter, good mpg, twice the power, loads of accessories, reliable and longer service schedule. Not much more expensive brand new.

[@WiltshireMan]

No, I'll stick with the old bike for now. I also have a Vstrom 1050 if I need more speed

[@wartington1]

Any chance of a vlog from your motor bike on the magic roundabout. Would make interesting viewing.

[@WiltshireMan]

My friend Dickie has already done that

[@wartington1]

@@WiltshireMan it wasn't mentioned in dickies flog.

[@wartington1]

Should be vlog

[@barryconway]

Yet again the Neolithic peoples have built one of their ‘special places’ right by a main road. a bugger getting over the road to Silbury Hill and back. Good job we’ve got smarter, eh? (j/k). Looking forward to that new Himmy hitting our shores, but I rather fear that it’s not going to be quite the “bargain” that the current one is. We’ll see. You’ll get a road test, hopefully, from your local dealer. Surprised to see Lord Dickie in this - saw his video yesterday, and didn’t catch a hint that you were with him!

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes Barry, I don't know why the Neoliths keep building next to busy roads. Dickie has yet to edit his video about the Long Barrow

[@nigeltomes3964]

Im thinking about getting an Himalayan, think I would call it Gurkha.

[@zedcharlie]

Did.nt think I d be interested in new one but I am. Will have to fit 6ft4 me

[@DesmondsDonders]

Try Itchy Boots, Noralee has a pre production New Himalayan in her last few videos in India. LOL I think you have a history of wet approaches to the Long Barrow.

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes Dave, the last two visits have resulted in wet feet. I watch Noraly's KZbin. The new bike is interesting.I would like to know more about the Sherpa enngine fitted to that bike. How serviceable is it, what is the expected life span. I know they are using special coatings on the piston and bore. I think there is no steel liner so a rebore is not possible. It could well be a throwaway engine?? Good old Chug however is easily maintained and you can get all the parts. A new piston and barrel costs £200

[@sarkybugger5009]

I'll give you fifty quid for it, Sandy. 😁 Nice drone footage. All the best.

[@WiltshireMan]

Hahaa, well that may be all they will be worth in the future!

[@petercostello3196]

Great video love the music at the end who Plays it please.

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Peter you'll find all the info on the music in the description box. It is all free music that anyone can download and use from the KZbin audio library

[@jbradshaw4236]

I reckon your regret selling it... That bikes like an old pal now ... ... Great video Sandy!

[@WiltshireMan]

I think so John. The longer I keep Chug the more value I have got from my initial investment

[@TurboTimsWorld]

Wading in the water like a pair of Moonrakers....and Sandy I will let you explain that in another video as you will know what I mean,,, Great Video guys!

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Tim, I have heard the story about the Moons reflection in a pond, can't remember exactly how it goes but raking the moon doesn't lead to wealth:)

[@neanderthaloutdoors9202]

It's built in India who have lower tolerances in their build, it's not perfect but then what is, people look for faults and therefore will not be happy with what they have, it's a good bike Sandy, stop looking for negatives mate 👍🏻 Royal Enfield are also bringing out the new Hiker 6.5, better for long distance motorway riding but similar in looks and style as the 411/450.

[@ziggarillo]

I think you might mean "higher" tolerances. In any case that's just not true

[@WiltshireMan]

I think I know what Paul means, the tolerances are a bit wider on these air cooled singles to allow for expansion/ contraction etc especially when running in hot countries like India, that what someone told me. @@ziggarillo

[@ziggarillo]

@WiltshireMan Perhaps, but that would be design specific, rather than as a consequence of being "built in India". I'm old enough to remember the same thing said about Japan.

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes I'd agree with that statement. In recent years the build quality has been improving, but then it had to!@@ziggarillo

[@peter236uk1]

Love my Himalayan yep its not perfect but as you say Sandy its pretty does what is says on the tin. The price is great or was when I got mine and the for me the roads down here in Cornwall are pretty terrible and you cant do much more than 60 on any of them except perhaps the A30. If was living someone doing alot of motorway or duel carriageways then perhaps not the right bike for that type of riding.

[@WiltshireMan]

I agree Peter, the new Himalayan does sound and look nice but it's not going to be so easy and cheap to service. Also it uses a special coating on the bore, probably applied straight to the aluminium so reboring the barrel isn't going to be possible. I would like to know more about expected engine longevity and serviceability first. I think in all probability I shall keep my old bike, if I want more power I'll just ride the Vstrom:)

[@Nobby77]

Always fancied a Himalayan. But would never use it off road

[@WiltshireMan]

It's a good enough bike for what it is Nobby.It would certainly carry you around the UK no problem

[@Nobby77]

@@WiltshireMan yeah but can you lift it over a fence, my next choice I can pmsl

[@anfieldroadlayoutintheloft5204]

ood vid out on yourt travels thanks lee

[@trucker9462]

Trade it in along with your v-strom and buy a new himmy. Your only then having to insure/maintain one bike which helps on the wallet.

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes it would help the wallet but I might then get bored riding the same bike all the time and go and buy another second bike which won't help the wallet:)

[@MauriceTarantulas]

Am quite happy with my current Himmy. From what have seen of the new one am on the fence. Design and not a huge upgrade in tank size being my sticking points. P.s As passed my test in May the Himmy is a brill first bike and am looking forward to fiddling with Cams etc..plus have been camping already. So far on motorways have been clipping along at 70ish no probs...

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Maurice, The Cam only really delivers extra power at the top end from what I have heard and thats not the way to ride these bikes. Mine is stock. If I want more power then I ride my Suzukin V strom 1000 with 105bhp. But, the Suzuki mostly stays in the garage and the Himi comes out. Thats saying something:) It's just a nice easy bike

[@MauriceTarantulas]

@@WiltshireMan Yeah am only considering the CAM after a few years! P.s Yeah do want a second bike. Those V Stroms are nice but I'd prefer a retro/cruiser. Motto Guzzis look lovely.

[@EnglishVeteran]

Hope you made it back ok 😊

[@WiltshireMan]

Got a bit wet on the way home

[@stevec-b6214]

I am keeping mine, just about to fit the TEC camshaft, not expensive and easy to fit. I think its natural to lust after a different bike, but I am going to resist, spend money saved on touring more often & further afield. I am sick of seeing the old pic of the broken frame, that is history, the bike has proven itself on many many overland trips, end of!!

[@WiltshireMan]

I will probably keep mine too. The chassis did fail on some bikes due to T stem weld failing. The T stem has been strengthened which was a "work around". I still think tubular frame would be stronger ..... You are very wise to save your money and spend it on trips and adventures. The bike is unlikely to let you down

[@stevec-b6214]

@@WiltshireMan I have read SO many reports on this, going way back, (ADV rider has MANY posts). I would love to know where you got your information from, because it seems to me nobody has the definitive undisputed facts on how many is `some` fails, and why, how it was resolved etc etc. I believe it has been resolved, thats why I went ahead and bought one, and that is why it winds me up when that picture turns up and all the `experts` chime in again.

[@ashleybaker2221]

Can you take a Himalaya 450 for a test drive and do a review as you’re gonna be honest

[@WiltshireMan]

Hopefully at some point I will test ride one

[@michaelcase8574]

You are talking yourself into a new bike, my friend. LOL

[@WiltshireMan]

Talked myself into many new bikes over the last 4 years and always managed to talk myself out. When I was younger I would have probably sold the Himalayan by now. With age comes a sort of wisdom

[@iangriffiths9930]

The old Himmy was ok ish on slow roads or for anyone not in a rush to get anywhere but off road here in wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 it was pretty poor, too heavy to too underpowered, the new one looks better with more ground clearance more power but unfortunately it’s still too heavy for me especially for a 450! The service interval is a little better but valve check every 10000kms are a bit of a let down!

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes they are a bit on the heavy side I would say. Valve checks are frequent but don't seem to move much. I can do them on my Himalayan in very little time, it's a straight forward bike to work on

[@volt8684]

And off road with a radiator…….

[@iangriffiths9930]

Sure 🤷‍♂️

[@kepa504]

klr 650 been around for over 30 years with a radiator , my vstrom has one as well@@volt8684

[@stevetaylor8698]

Pity we still can't get Derri boots. You wouldn't have wet feet.

[@bobi2582]

I went there several years ago and lost a nice pair of sunglasses but on the upside, I found a Rolex watch! Kicker was that it turned out to be a fake!

[@WiltshireMan]

Hahaa, loads of fake rolex watches out there

[@mikehurley5052]

If you went for the new one would you sell the Vstrom? 40 hp would take you everywhere.

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes it would Mike, but I like having two bikes to ride:)

[@mikehurley5052]

@@WiltshireMan Only 2??? hahaha

[@maskedavenger2578]

Optimum touring speeds are only about 50 mph any way ,if you don’t want to miss anything . Who the hell wants to ride a motorcycle down soul destroying boring motorways . The new Himalayan might have more horse power & ccs , but they aren’t everything ,& it may not have the character or cult status of the existing Himmys . If I was looking to buy a Himalayan ,I would get a bargain one now while they are on offer , & wait until the new Himalayan has proved itself ,over a few years first . 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

Thats a common sense reply, yes I agree on all points, but unfortunately I do occasionally have to use the faster roads

[@borderlands6606]

I avoid dual carriageways and motorways on the bike, and 350cc is plenty for backroads. There are many superior motorcycles objectively speaking, subjectively however, the little Enfield does everything I ask of it and more.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thats my findings too, 95% of the time my RE is just fine

[@deanie557]

Sell both bikes & get 1 good bike that does everything, a bit like the bike Ewan Mcgregor used to go around the World on. 😊

[@WiltshireMan]

Nah. I had one of those GS1150's once about 20 years ago. Very heavy.

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

Ride by wire and rider modes are no upgrade.

[@davidmatthews3093]

No motorcycle is enjoyable on dual carriages and motorways. Keep them in their proper environment. If the bike you ride isn’t powerful enough you’ve bought the wrong bike, that’s a fault that lies with you not with the bike.

[@ziggarillo]

I loved the European motorways on my GL1500.

[@WiltshireMan]

I enjoy riding my Vstrom1000 on Motorways too :)@@ziggarillo

[@volt8684]

My v strom 650 will cruise at 90🤷🏻‍♂️. I don’t but it can quite easily. Rather than top speed I like it’s effortless torque 6 th gear 30-120 mph not a twitch on the fuelling. Wished it sounded like an RE

[@maskedavenger2578]

I don’t see the point in touring at motorway speeds on motorways , unless you don’t want to see anything & brag you visited several countries in 2 days . What would be the point ?

[@wartington1]

Hi sandy. I have googled the magic roundabout but would love to see it through a riders eyes. Any chance of a vlog from one of your motor bikes. I think a bycicle would be too dangerous. Just a thought and keep up the great videos.

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Wow! I can't believe you've had the Himalayan 4 yrs now! I remember when you first got it! and it seems to me like you are just geting some good use out of it with some similarity of good use!. But we all have different ideas or values worth and necessity. great shots of the long Barrow and its history. Thanks for sharing. and still waiting to CUDTL OM! de Ellis WA1RKS

[@WiltshireMan]

Time does fly by fast Ellis, Yes 4 years now, I'll probably keep it going forward but the new model does look very inviting.Maybe wait and see how it looks in another 12 months