Review - Royal Enfield Himalayan

The Royal Enfield Himalayan is a unique bike. Cheap, sturdy and basic make it almost the opposite of most adv bikes.
We rode it at the UK press intro and this is what we thought.

[@uralbob1]

As a 65 year old guy who started motorcycling in 1969 on a 12 hp Benelli Sprite, I have a slightly different take on the tepid power of the Himalayan. This bike will take you anywhere... believe me. I rode a Honda XR650 R to Chile and Argentina from the US. I commuted to work and traveled for years on a 250cc Spanish Ducati. I once rode it up I-75 for 860 miles with the throttle pinned to the stop. The valves floated at 7000 rpm at 70 mph , so on long downhills, it had an automatic rev limiter!. I got a speeding ticket for doing 72 mph on an MZ125 on a long downhill stretch in the Georgia mountains! My dirt bike was a 350cc Bultaco Alpina. It was a tractor! Horse Power is not the determining factor when you travel at home or in 3rd world countries. The Himalayan is the whole package. Don't discount it. You need nothing more than the Himalayan to be fully fulfilled as a motorcyclist. People joke about my MG Stelvio. A 105 hp bike that I've had up to 140 mph indicated.Tell the 600cc sport bike guys to take a hike! Most young motorcyclists will never understand. Have pity on them. Throw a bike between your legs and go!

[@landrover2537]

I'm with you on that Robert. I toured the USA on a Honda XL175 on knobbly tyres, 12,000 miles. I had one puncture, no breakdowns, fell over several times and lifted it easily and had an epic time.

[@PureM_]

Isn’t Ducati Italian

[@kasperkjrsgaard1447]

ThePrince Karma Not the Spanish made “Mototrans” Ducati’s

[@claudedsv4227]

I agree on everything. When I was 27 (now I am 57) I traveled on my cagiva 350 enduro I toured half of Europe

[@swamigaik]

You are totally a legend and I have after reading this comment have decided to buy this buy this bike by my salary! This will be my first bike that I bought! I totally understand this man I have used my fathers Yahama RX 135 and it takes me places I want a practical bike and not a race machine for circuit. Thank you Sir

[@johnjriggsarchery2457]

A friend of mine was a bull rider, but he was also a hunting guide in the mountains. He told me that even though more people preferred horses, he preferred mules in the high country on sketchy, rocky trails. Mules had their quirks but "they knew where their feet were."

[@sawmill123456]

J R's Place a horse will go wherever you point it a mule will say hell no you crazy fool!

[@velocettektt]

Always interesting reading a review of a bike that you have just gone out and bought. Excellent review and nothing I really disagree with. Why did I buy it? I am 72, ridden bikes all my life and wanted something easy but tough. Something I didn't have to be precious about, ride it in the winter, tour on it in a gentle sort of way. An everyday sort of bike. I have done the power thing and 25bhp is fine for the roads in East Sussex where I live. I try and avoid motorways anyway...hate them. He is right about the front brake. I guess it doesn't bug me so much because I am used to old Brit bikes with drum brakes but it should be better. I absolutely love the handling, I end up scratching like a kid! A female motorcycling friend in her 50s had a go on mine and immediately sold her Honda and went out and bought one. She is an experienced motorcyclist but a bit nervous and the Himalayan just gave her loads of confidence that she didn't feel on her other bike. One thing he didn't mention. The bike has a brilliant turning circle....like a Triumph Herald if anyone remembers them. So useful when manoeuvring or doing a U in a narrow road. Is it just an old man's or a nervous lady's bike? I don't think so, I think a lot of people will go for these as an everyday addition to a stable of other bikes. Then they will find it is the one they ride most.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Totally agree with this :)

[@actstuntcam]

Beaut comment. I think I'm getting one. Almost convinced :)

[@jorgegal76]

Thanks Geoffrey! I'm agree with you,

[@imwatchingyou6113]

Yes l am 62 and can relate to drum brakes and older bikes of the past l did wonder weather the reviewer had been spoilt by one or two finger brakes you see these days l am thankful for Geoffrey's comment l found very useful..

[@BrakeMagazine]

That's a great question. I do often find myself riding bikes with phenomenal brakes, that require very little input to stop bikes very quickly. From personal preference perspective I like brakes that inspire confidence. With the Himalayan I had on this test I stand by what I said. We've tested a few other bikes of this price range in recent years and the front brakes were, in my opinion, significantly better. The front brake didn't just require four fingers, it required and unreasonable amount of force. From an objective, journalistic standpoint, it's not good enough, it doesn't provide any confidence and that's something worth mentioning. For example, we're currently testing a 1989 R 100 GS with a 30 year old front brake and it's more confidence inspiring. For me it's a weak point that can and should be better.

[@Makermook]

I bought one today and rode home 2 hours in 4°C temps, grinning like a maniac the whole way. I have a 250cc dual sport and wanted something with just a bit more punch. I was totally taken aback by how easy this bike is to ride. The ergonomics are better than anything else I've ever ridden, and the handling is effortless. I do agree about the front brake: I'm using far more rear brake and engine braking than I'm accustomed to. Time will tell if it's a matter of the pads finding their grip. In any case, as I know that limitation, I can adjust my riding style.

[@amar8703]

With price tag of 4000 Eur it's best bike. Save 10000 Eur of 1200cc adventure tourer bike and instead go on world tour on RE Himalayan to. It's worth. Does this make sense ? Hit like.

[@alfnoakes392]

@excollier114 Itchy Boots has sold a lot of Himalayans : )

[@pennsyltuckyden9823]

I was waiting for someone to mention her. I find her incredibly brave. I don't think I would travel alone where she goes.

[@1pasupaty]

Yes im.buying one but dont have her courage no way

[@MagicRoosterBluesBand]

Question... why would you want a dual-sport to go faster than 70mph?? This bike is designed to travel anywhere in the world in almost all conditions possible, simple to work on, excellent gas mileage, excellent price. If you want a more powerful bike then get one, but good luck on the rough trails with it.

[@lumbini56]

Can't agree less Magic! Its a little go around the world bike after all. Here's this little girl from Poland "Noraly" She is actually doing it right now. Check her Vlog called "Itchy Boots" Probably the best ever long term review of the Himalayan!

[@johnybravo80]

@@lumbini56 Well... Unfortunately for us Poles Noraly is not from Poland, but from Holand. Great girl. Great journey she recorded with RE Himalayan. A sturdy, reliable work horse. As for the power I think you need no more from this kind of bike. The most important part is to have it running all the time in all conditions. If more HP would be dangerous for the engine in long term usage I would prefer to have slower, more reliable bike. Noraly has in her RE a second map for the engine that she can switch with a button, but she doesn't say how often does she use the "power mode" and how often does she use standard engine settings.

[@Gilespargiter]

@@johnybravo80 She has taken the "piggy back" ecu out. She found her drone interfered with it and was uneasy about its long term effect.

[@bigfish1676]

Because a dual sport will need to get you where you're planning to do dirt riding. This bike is woefully under powered and under braking power.

[@bigfish1676]

@@peterd3215 how did you get to 700cc? My Burgman 400 tops out at 100 and Vstrom 650 at 115, but more importantly, plenty of power at top. If this was a 500cc with decent top power and better quality control, it would be an ideal bike.

[@andrewfurniss8944]

I love this type of bike. I get the feeling the reviewer hasn’t done his time on old school singles. He’s been spoilt on modern sports bikes...

[@thomasjefferson1457]

Sounds like the perfect bike for what it was intended for.

[@jaspergrumfuttock]

Absolutely.

[@sscbkr48]

Sounds like something Thomas would say. 👍👍

[@alanteague2404]

Great review, but until you have owned one for a while and worked out all its capabilities I think this bike is truly value for money. I'm from Western Australia and have toured the south west and goldfields on and off road a number of times and never had an issue yet. As for highway speeds its not the quickest of bikes but when your touring who's in a hurry anyway. I found I could sit on 110- 115kph all day and when it come to passing semi-trailer trucks etc it had enough punch to do so. Off road it was a pleasure to handle, it was sure footed and when you did come to grieve and drop it there was never a struggle to pick it up unlike the dumb asses I've run into on there big 1200cc off road fully laden tourers .Why they're out there on the rain soaked trans-line of the Nullabor beggers belief. So in ending I would like to say the review was a good one, and for those out there contemplating buying one you won't be disappointed. They are an enjoyable and fun bike to ride for not much outlay. Cheers.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the positive feedback ASAP. You position is exactly what we tried to consider when reviewing the bike :)

[@mukr2914]

most importantly it can be repaired by any local shops aswell anywhere in the world since its very basic moto

[@whatsstefon]

Spot on

[@themightydash1714]

its clearly not intended for motorway use, You cant blame the bike because you used it wrong.

[@whatsstefon]

Problem is, every other adventure bike has a huge engine and street tyres. It’s the SUV of our 2-wheeled world. The Himalayan has turned up with old school tech, affordable, making it accessible for nearly anyone to hop on and go adventuring to pretty much anywhere someone with a better salary would take their GS1xxx cc and likely a lot of places you wouldn’t take one. Have they proven reliable? Yes. Clearly. Folks have documented their journey across the US, across half the planet and across roads goats wouldn’t walk on. Yet it is still easily bashed by experts who think they need 100hp and all the bells and whistles, when all they need to do is hop on and disappear into the wilderness for a month. And you can pretty much do that on a Honda CT110 if you aren’t a keyboard expert.

[@RayThackeray]

The Himalayan can practically do 80mph, considering its price and multi-use capability I would definitely call that motorway capable unless you are one of those people who can't understand why people are always driving so close in front of you.

[@bkkaan52]

@@RayThackeray lol i liked for this part "unless you are one of those people who can't understand why people are always driving so close in front of you." :)

[@JamesSmith-jf6oy]

My opinions, owning and riding a Himalayan of my own, closely mirror those of natahnthepostman. Power to mass ratio of this machine is vastly better than the average automobile. Fuel consumption of 30 to 34 km per liter is superior as well.

[@jayakrishna8643]

Hi it during

[@USMCCGAGNG]

I have watched every other review of this bike and this is the best, most comprehensive review out there. Thank you. 🙏

[@1pasupaty]

Yup agreed.convincing

[@reeshabhjain]

Royal Enfield made this bike for people who always had a dream to travel to leh-ladakh in himalaya by bike this bike was never made to be fast

[@1pasupaty]

And.for european s to ignite their old passion for smooth riding

[@goldfever4570]

Guys this is the best KZbin review by a motorcycling magazine that I have seen. It seems honest and fair, is well shot (although I echo comments about cinebars) and actually tells me about what it's like to ride and isn't just a regurgitated spec sheet. Massive kudos and thanks! Looking forward to the next one. I ride a CB500X as my mid-engined, any-road capable workhorse and although it is competent it has turned out to be an absolute pig to work on, particularly the valves. I wonder what maintenance is like on an older-style bike with a simpler engine design.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks very much! The cinebars thing is a bit embarrassing but we're still learning and we'll get better :) Thabks for watching. The best person to ask is @natethepostman Nathan Millward. He's bought one and pretty active on Facebook too.

[@adityaprakashdevdogra8657]

yup agree. very good review among the best

[@norsefalconer]

This is the review I've been waiting for, not "bought" by the manufacturer and not overly negative. Fair and honest. Also, some feedback on presentation: the introduction of the top and bottom black bars is premature on occasion, cutting off the head of the presenter which is a little unnerving.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yeah, we messed up there sorry. 😅

[@CrystalliteKK]

Himalayan is a bike for anyone to go anywhere, and thats its beauty... Every bike has its own DNA, and I love it even though they say its low powered.. I feel adventure is not to reach a destination quickly, rather adventure is enjoying every moment with nature with each curve...

[@michaelhayward7572]

Great review. Call me old fashioned, but i thought the whole point of travelling was to "take in the views".... Its not the destination, its the journey.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yup, and sometimes it's nice for the journey to be fun.

[@vinaysindhe]

Himalayan owner from India here. Tats a good review and good cinematography.

[@vinaysindhe]

Wildlands 1 it's around 2 lacks Indian rupees for a new one. Used ones are available for around 1.6 lacks Indian rupees. You are always welcome. Ping me, hopefully v LL get to travel together :) ( 1 lacks = .1 million )

[@rajendertkr]

Wildlands 1 ohh you can take one on rental basis will not cost much just few hundreds dollars

[@jadevilla3653]

Wildlands 1, in India a new one is to be had for INR 2,10,00 (approx. GBP 2200 / USD 2900)

[@2ndcornets]

Brilliant book. Recommend.

[@rajeshleoz9518]

1 Million = 10 lakhs

[@nathanthepostman]

Great review Llel. As a buyer of one I'd echo your comments. I personally find the brakes acceptable, they just take a real good squeeze. Where I found the bike found the bike it's natural environment was on my recent land's end to John o groats run. Carried tonnes of gear, comfortable, handled well, 200 mile range, and if you needed a carnet to travel on it wouldn't break the bank. To me that makes it a good world travel bike. I politely disagree with the chap below about it being shit. I get good traction in dirt and tyre wear is acceptible. A set of mitas eo9s are half worn after 2500 miles of fully loaded miles. Which I think is about right. I did see some images of cracked swingarms in the early days but nothing since. Each to their own as always. Great content.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the love. We'll have to disagree about the brakes but otherwise that make perfect sense. I reckon it's be a nice travel bike and still heaps of fun too. It's far from the best bike we've ridden but it's definitely the most affordable. How is the reliability so far?

[@nathanthepostman]

Yeah no worries so far at 4200 miles. I don't hear of any other big issues with other UK bikes either so far. One snapped throttle cable, a faulty rear brake reservoir and some dry head bearings are what I've heard on the forums to date. Always tricky one to measure the 'best' bike and that's probably a pointless exercise anyway. Obviously down on power, performance, dynamic thrills to the big bikes, but I'd argue for travelling it is 'better' in its own way' in being simpler, cheaper, still comfortable and capable even with the luggage on. As an overall travel package I personally don't think anyone's offering anything like it.

[@Cowley46]

Hi Nathan funny you mention head bearings as I've just replaced mine at 2500 miles but I reckon the early failure was probably down to my over enthusiastic power washing when trying to keep it clean through the back end of this winter. Having said that the grease on the old bearings was not plentiful. Excellent review Llel.

[@muugmuug4501]

@nathanthepostman: And SWM Superdual ? Isn't that a good alternative ? Not much more expensive, and top notch engine and brakes! A bit too beautifull perhaps :-)

[@sscbkr48]

@@Cowley46 are the bearings undergreased or poor quality? Is it better to be proactive and simply regrease them before you have issues.. and I'd agree, don't powerwash them!

[@davidwebster7179]

It's interesting to reflect on how times have changed, and expectations have evolved. Back in the 70s, a bike like this would have got a reasonably good review if the engine didn't break and nothing dropped off the bike. Expectations are so much higher now and that's a good thing! I love these bikes, I've heard it described as a 'mule' and I believe RE will do very well with this model.

[@AlexOnABoat]

Ok, now I'm almost tempted to buy one.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Thumbs up to "almost". they just missed the mark, for me. This might be a bike that after-market companies could make into a fine light ADV bike.

[@larryperez8116]

Me too although im a cruiser fanatic but this RE hamalayan has a classic bike features i think its perfect for all terrains bike and the price is much affordable it makes sense

[@sid0990]

What a lovely review!! I watch this whenever I want to see Himalayan working on and off the road. Rider's stance on the bike is just so good to look at.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks Siddartha

[@bsimpson639]

I’ve been following Nathan’s reports, and cheering for the Himmer (now in the 3rd gen?) to overcome its earlier problems. Fourteen years of riding have put me on four bikes: an R1100R that is a darling and will remain with me, a Versys 650, DR650, and XT225. Each is either overshooting or undershooting the sweet spot for me. I want comfort and ease on the highway, capability on unimproved roads, engine character and a pleasant exhaust note, and FI would be a real bonus after years of babying carbs in a cold climate (Ohio, USA). I’m also stuck with a 27” inseam. The Versys is proving too inconvenient to take on crappy roads due to height, the DR is great and versatile but proves expensive to upgrade for comfort, and the XT225 is simple and fun, but exhausting to ride over 55mph. My chief concern about the Himalayan has been reliability, but I hear much more positive from owners in the UK and Australia than I expected. I’m falling in love!

[@BrakeMagazine]

It seems the newest gen, then one that just got released in Europe has improved that. :)

[@fendermon]

@ B Simpson- Your story sounds a bit like mine. I have about the same inseam and have road a DR650 extensively in MI. I had to mod a pile of things to get mine up to snuff. I spent more time tuning the carb and intake than I care to admit...and the stock fork springs must have come out of a sofa. The DR makes a great commuter, but due to the piss poor drivers around Detroit I quit that. I love the DR offroad... except when I need to pick it up. I sat on the Himalayan over the weekend, and it felt fantastic. It was much lighter feeling due to the lower seat height. I could see myself connecting a few trails with that one, and the price was nice.

[@pujabelgian]

If I had to choose between the Himalayan and my tall handsome husband.. it would be a tough call. 😉 lolol That's how handsome and full of character the bike is!

[@BillyBigBalls770]

Brilliant review, I will be riding one for 2 weeks in the Himalayas, really looking forward to it.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Be aware that previous gen version had a lot of problems that have been solved with the current model. 😁

[@rupamdey6889]

Use the Bs4 model

[@banditoo7]

This video was the clencher for me to purchase the Himalayan exactly a year ago. A year on and I couldn't be happier with it.

[@BrakeMagazine]

How accurate was the review>?

[@edjd0]

Very good review, as all of your videos. I own a Himalayan and I agree with pretty much everything you said. Regarding who this bike is aimed for, I would add people who want to do some adv/touring and just don't have the budget for a larger, more powerful bike. If I had the budget I would have gone for a GS or Africa Twin. Finally, I live in Costa Rica where everything happens slower. Max speed on highways is 50-60 mph and people usually drive even slower. The Himalayan can handle our fastest (and horrible) roads fine. Slower speed also gives me a range of about 280 miles. Anyway, I have learned a lot with your videos so thanks a lot!

[@BrakeMagazine]

We totally agree with those points :)

[@matriximaster]

GW and Africa Twin just don't make sense for most people. Adv touring and large bikes just makes no sense. If you are able to travel over 65mph, you are not Adv. touring anyway.

[@edjd0]

greenguy4u More power isn't only used to go faster. Some times you need a bit more power if you are carrying lots of weight or if you're in a tricky situation off road. Other times a less powerful, smaller and lighter bike like the Himalayan is more agile. They all have pros and cons. Power = higher price tag, more weight, less mpg, more speed & torque and often more comfort (depending on the quality, brand, type of bike, etc). I personally like many many bikes

[@hairyneil]

Not only can I not afford a GS or Africa Twin, either of them would be way too big a jump from my 125. The Himalayan fills a gap in the market that the big boys just don't seem interested in. It's simple, reasonably tame, and if(when) you drop it you won't slip a disc putting it back on its feet. I look forward to treating myself to one one day.

[@edjd0]

hairyneil I'm loving the bike and hope you will be able to try it yourself. In the end, the best bike is the one you love.

[@ujzwalnewar7201]

Hello there I am Ujjwal pradhan from Sikkim a small Himalayan state in the North Easte India and I am a royal Enfield Himalayan rider since 2017 and have ridden about 17000 km on it in the Himalayan ranges across Nepal ,Bhutan and India and it is amazing bike it has taken me to breath taking places with a view and never let me down ,much love for the Royal Enfield Himalayan all around the world ❤️ #royalenfield #himalayan

[@HerrDeacon]

Now this is a review, very well done! Also, thought I'd mention it but for some reason this video never showed up in my feed, the only way I found out about it was via Instagram today. Doesn't show up on your channel video list either. Never mind, just noticed the video is 'Unlisted'.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Oh, thanks for the heads up. We're not sure what happened but it's love now. That explains why it's got so few views too 😂😂 Also, we appreciate the love. Thabks for watching!

[@imviiku]

4000 Euros do people expect a 1000cc Engine ? In That Price this is the Best Value for money automobile

[@tonycastrocoray971]

agree, although I drove it only once I liked it a lot, excellent for all types of terrain, I am close to 60, I felt very comfortable and safe, I hope to have one soon, thanks for the comment Geoffrey

[@thedougies8322]

Lel I just found your channel - I’m a new rider, only been a year but I got into riding bikes to specifically ride adv & get off the road..loving it. 2021 RE Himalayan is my first bike. Confidence inspiring for a new rider. Eventually I’ll want something with more power but suits me for now. Would be interested to see you review a current Himalayan to see if it’s improved at all since 2018. Cheers mate love your channel, love your work 👍🏻

[@urbanfireblade]

One of the best most well explained reviews on the Himalayan. And not biased either. Great job!

[@peterbye82]

I had trouble getting used to the front brake and took it back to the dealer . He said after a few hundred miles it would be better . He was right by the time I had 500 miles on the clock it was just fine .

[@bobburns5856]

Never ceases to amaze me...People want more power. But do not consider the rest of the package. Example...Imagine if this bike had 15 more horsepower (think Continental GT 535 cc engine in Himi). Then people would complain that the handling is terrible on dirt. Because the tires can’t hold traction. Then if they changed the tires to be more aggressive for dirt...it loses its road capability. Out goes the ADV bike capability. So...I can understand the lower engine tuning for more tractability. And the larger bore and stroke to help low end torque. And that is where it’s at for this type and size of motorcycle. More power isn’t always the right answer.

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

I found the front brake on mine has bedded in nicely, plenty of feel and it stops - very well indeed and with only 2 fingers 😀👍🏻

[@BrakeMagazine]

That couldn't be more different to the one I rode 😂

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

I think they’re all like that until they get a few miles on 👍🏻

[@djmumbhai1]

Had watched 💯's off KZbin videos and reviews. After all this i had purchased this BS4 bike StealthBlack. Now after a year am a satisfied ReH customer. This bike is for twisting and turnings roads, from Highways to country roads. This bike rules. A words of caution for hardcore off roading, that I never tried as myself being 5'7" and 95 kgs, and bike being 200 kgs( with accessories). You must be able to balance on rocky road and must be able to bear the weight of bike to lift the fallen. This is bike for rider who wants to ride on all sorts of terrains/roads.

[@easy8077]

I test drove this thing just last week and I loved the handling, felt like an unstopable bycicle... but sadly same for the breaks. And the middle stand is the first thing to scratch the ground when cornering to tight, you really have to go low for that to happen but I got kinda scared when it happend and I couldn't feel it beeing the footpeck, it can be solved two ways, by either removing it completely or elevating the shock a little. Otherwise it just felt right, it just works and actually looks quiet cool. And the mileage actually is huge! It has a 15 liter tank with 3 liters per 100 km thanks to beeing "underpowered"... making a range of 500 km ~ 300 miles per fill up. It's got such a huge range that I guess it's considerabile to reduce weight by never filling up completely :D

[@frankpinion4937]

Not a great review-I feel some of his comments are baseless given what the bike was designed to do. The brakes I find are ideal for what the bike was designed to do. It's not only designed to be ridden on road but off road also. The last thing you want are grabby brakes with a lot of power-otherwise the first bit of loose material you come to it will disappear from under you. I've found the brakes work fine when you need them to pull you up on road with obviously extra pressure. I have done a good deal of off road riding some of it quite rough in parts and i've had no issues with the suspension at all-it doesn't step but simply absorbs the bumps-holes-corrugations whatever you throw at it. You can't have soft suspension and have a reasonably low seat height. 830 mm seat height is manageable for most people who aren't tall but as soon as you make the suspension too soft it would bottom out with the more limited travel-you can't have it both ways. You can have a really high seat height and tons of travel. I think there is a very good balance with the suspension and handling based on the travel it has and it's intended dual purpose ability. He also complained of a lack of performance-ie: horsepower and torque. This is total rubbish. The whole idea of having a single cylinder is flexibility and light weight off road to handle difficult conditions you may encounter as weight is your enemy off road. You can't have high performance for motorway passing and have light weight and agility off road to tackle more challenging conditions than just gravel roads. If you want to go 70 mph cruising on the motorway what's the point in owning an off road bike that enables you to tackle those interesting trails. There are 77 hp twin cylinder and triple cylinder adventure bikes but honestly if you fell off crossing a river or fell off on a trail somewhere on your own chances are you won't be able to lift it up on your own. Now you have a real problem in the middle of nowhere and you can't lift your bike up. I bet right about now you wish you had a single cylinder with less weight and a bike where you can reach the ground in tricky conditions. How many Moto X bikes have 77 hp triple or twin cylinder engines-or trials or trail bikes-farm bikes? Answer because they would be to heavy and difficult to handle. It's climbed up everything I've thrown at it and I've being up and down some pretty steep hills and with the long stroke motor there is plenty of torque. It cruises comfortably on the open road between 80-110 kph. I usually sit at 90 kph now that it's run in which is about 55 mph and very close to the maximum speed limit. It returns 76.90 mpg fully loaded or 27.22 km per litre. Tell me any other adventure bike that would return those figures! 408 ks range out of the 15 litre tank which is plenty when you're out on the trail or riding between trails. Only issues I've had is with the compass needing to be re-calibrated and the ambient temperature gauge being in-accurate due to it's proximity to the engine. Otherwise it's one of the best handling bikes I've ever ridden on or off road and it's also very comfortable on a long trip. A superb all round motorcycle which inspires confidence.

[@ramingodellest]

frank pinion greetings, it seems that you know this machine very well, i appreciated what you've written about it, seems that you know what you are speaking of. I onestly fell in love with that bike, i'm still studying at university and i need a machine that is not expensive in maintaneance, robust, and reliable, i also have to use it to travel back home sometimes wich is 140km trip, do you think that this would be the right bike for me? Is it a relyable machine during the time? Thanks if you want to answer

[@frankpinion4937]

It is very comfortable on long journey's due to many things. It has a comfortable seat-great riding position in relation to the handle bars and the foot pegs. This is important on longer journeys. I have achieved in excess of 408 kilometres on a tank, so very economical. It is not a high speed bike but if you are happy cruising between 80-110 ks, I cruise at 80-90 ks then you will be ok. It does have very good suspension so like sitting in an armchair so it soaks up the bumps and corrugations very well with it's extra travel on the suspension over a road bike. There are some good pannier options (factory) if you want to go touring. It handles the best of any bike I have ridden and I've ridden bikes all my life from 15 and I'm now 58. It is a simple bike so servicing and maintainance are straight forward and cheap compared to most. Yes I've found the bike to be very reliable with no issues and I've taken it to some pretty out the way places with no cell phone coverage. I could safely say I could recommend the bike.

[@ramingodellest]

Thank you sir for your super exaustive answer, i think i'm gonna go and check it soon live, gorgeus looking tough i really like the retro style of the bike, thank you again ride safe

[@lipsee100]

Hello Mr Pinion,, I,m an owner,,and I dislike the front suspension..I would rather have more feel (softer) but I do like the seat height.. So perhaps I ll just have to suckup to it and keep the bike as it is.. I bought to do abit of greenlaning and abit of road riding...Off road I love the bike,,, the exhaust note is just right, nothing leary about it ,it does not seem to scare anything(even ramblers) Apart from my dislike of the front suspension,there,s nothing I really dislike..(compass is abit naff)... regards

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I think this was one of the more honest reviews. It is the goal of a reviewer to REVIEW the product. Not to tow a company's line or cater to people that have bought the product already. On those thoughts, is this a budget bike? Yes. So we can expect some negatives? I would think so. To have a weak front brake and a sluggish engine in this day, its really a big oversight. Stopping is just as important as going on any vehicle but especially a motorcycle that utilizes the gyroscopic effect in order to steer properly. The gear selector configuration that he mentioned, I haven't seen mentioned anywhere else, and He showed it well in the video. lastly, the presenter talked about the positives of the motorcycle, of which he had many. You might not agree with his thoughts but he presented it well, ergo, a great video. New subscriber here, job well done.

[@johna6968]

Always enjoy your excellent reviews and particularly the use of the word "dire".. Now thats honesty on another level

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for watching! We're stoked you enjoyed it.

[@leslieaustin151]

Thanks for this review. On the strength of it I have sub’ed. I’d have gone for a Himalayan if I’d had the money, and this review confirms it as a good choice in my case. Had to go cheap Chinese instead, and my 125cc is just too small. Oh well, it’ll have to do for now. Look forward to more from you in future. Les

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the positive words. They are hugely appreciated.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I have hundreds of miles of 'B' roads, gravel roads, farm roads, etc. and this bike really shines in those scenarios. The front brake does require some effort, but it is there when you provide that effort. It is a true back to basics, easy to live with, easy to maintain motorcycle. I have no intentions of going on the freeway on this bike. I have other tools in the shed for that. Slow down, enjoy the view, stop and talk to the locals. That is what this bike is about. It is a bike you bond with instead of just use. I have 500 miles on mine in the 12 days I have owned it. My only complaint is the seat slopes forward a little and I will solve that with a new foam and cover to flatten it out some. If you want bells and whistles. power assist brakes. Looking good in your aerostitch at the starbucks, this motorcycle is probably not for you. :)

[@BrakeMagazine]

Great comment, however no-one looks good in Aerostitch 😂😂

[@adityaprakashdevdogra8657]

Excellent. First really informed & well articulated review on the bike. Enjoyed it. Thanks! Even the comments the review has invited are interesting & useful! I am a 57 yrs old Indian living in Delhi & Goa. The traffic is crazy & the highways way slower & dangerous. But the Himalayas are here too ;-). I ride a 2018 GSA Rallye R1200 & in about two weeks time the Himalayan BS4 Sleet should be in my garage. Just booked it today. I had gone over to the Enfield dealer in Naraina Delhi to test ride the recently launched 650 Twin Interceptor & the GT. They are amazingly good bikes & not just for the price. And so I ended up booking the GT. Paid the advance. Anyway to cut a long story short; the next day, seeing the Himalayan test bike standing there on a lark I decide to take it for a spin. And the unthinkable happens. The GT 650 gets cancelled & Himalayan gets booked! Yes these are two different bikes & I ride a far more powerful & advanced bike, the GSA. But the Himalayan is very special. Apart from the fact that this bike hits the sweet spot s'where; also interesting is the ownership experience I can imagine & looking forward to. In India maintaining it, spare parts, roadside repairs & general DIY are in another comfortable league with this bike. With the BMW I cant help feeling having been had every time it goes for a service. Leaving that aside its a bike I can see myself using for a variety of stuff like taking my date out for dinner, runabout picking up groceries, puttering around on some back road, cruising on a highway maybe & most importantly off-road practice. Cheers. Oh yes. Has anyone done a tubeless adaptation/conversion on the Himalayan? Thanks

[@ricksadler797]

Thank you. All I want is a truck bick to throw on back of my truck to have a little mobility during extended layover periods. Sounds like a good candidate for this application

[@jazztryppyn8445]

10 of us rode these around Leh for 6 days last week. 3 days comprised of quite gruelling terrain at heights from 13k upwards. Apart from a sputtering engine due to a fouled spark plug (easily rectified), no problems.

[@tommaples9174]

I have a 2018 Himalayan. I have done some hi speed desert riding Nevada. I felt the brakes are very good. I am planning on installing a big bore cylinder kit and a bit of gear changing for some hi speed cruising 😉

[@Bung1963]

Fitting ebc brake pads to mine made a big difference. Now seems fine.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

Good-looking bike in an agricultural kind of way. But I'd prefer to go long-distance on a Honda CB500X, and I wouldn't really want to do it on that. Excellent review.

[@andya857]

60 mph is just fine for me , drop a tooth on your front sprocket, bit smoother, , great review Cheers from Canada..Great bike.it feels real... also, up grade to ASK front pads, much better feel and a but still limiting, and a Red Rooster Pipe ...Thanks...

[@nimrod6603]

We make video’s all the time..they’re awsome....😂 It’s what I was thinking while watching this. The music, the footage, the presenting and little things like the shot going cinematic for the riding shots... Wow! Awsome indeed. 😉👍🏻

[@genius-no5sl]

This bike sounds like a lot of fun .

[@CH-bq1lm]

Thanky you for the great review. I like the way you weigh the argueements and explain the purpose behind it. I am looking for a modern offroad/travel bike to do the TET. I think I will have to test ride the Himalayan.

[@joannestaton7283]

Chris Henning ii

[@actstuntcam]

Another typically excellent review from Brake Magazine.

[@jonnysl6560]

This Bike has Conquered the World Sales and Rides ,,,,,,

[@constantin1959]

Thanks for this very thorough review !

[@oreilly1237878]

Quite simply their is nothing else in the price range that comes near.It is the best adventure bike by far for the money and actually is very very reliable as proven beyond any shadow of a doubt by the now famous charming Norali,known as itchy boots on you tube and her magnificent long distance rides over some very difficult dirt tracks ect.of numerous countries round the world.

[@rogerunderhill4267]

Right. Honest balanced and detailed review. Respect, kudos, liked and subscribed. Thx guys.

[@donsoley746]

Best review yet for this bike.

[@danielravenstar4442]

Yes, it was made for an area of the Himalayan mountains where you may not be able to go 40 m p h , as a top speed. And gas is a long way off some where.....else,,,, excellent fuel economy at lower rpms... It just happens to fit some world wide riders...

[@SuperSnallygaster]

Solid review man, really feel like I learned something about the bike.

[@SCORPASRULE]

Another brilliant review Llew, keep up wiv da awesomeness .

[@AbdulAllahAbuDaoud]

I liked the exhaust note in this review. It sounds more like a purr than the thump you usually get from a single cylinder, including the other Enfield singles. You really only made one off the cuff comment in the beginning about the “smoothness”. Vibration should always be discussed at length on any single cylinder motorcycle review.

[@biswa885]

It's a great review indeed. Well composed and very well delivered. I just want to know was this an ABS version? If so, how did the ABS performed in the off-road compared to the on-road? As many other reviewers have mentioned earlier that as this bike has been designed to serve a purpose that is nothing but the off-roading, the front brake is a little bit progressive while the rear brake is kind of spot on. And after the introduction of the ABS it didn't changed its performance that much. What's your take on this? Also if the ABS is non switchable what can we do to have a better control on off-road condition?

[@yakoutesmat3064]

Brilliant and comprehensive review, thank you

[@btd7613]

Im waiting for himalayan 650😍😍

[@GG-ub4ej]

Just started looking into this bike and feel extremely stupid asking this. But is that in the works and I just haven't found that yet or a dream?

[@parthasur6018]

Should be available early 2021.

[@GG-ub4ej]

@@parthasur6018 😱 Now I am going to have to trade in my INT 650... I didn't think it was coming. Thank you for the update.

[@benb2058]

100% honest that's what we like .Great review now if I could just find the review for the 19'triumph Tiger 800xca....

[@Mark-uo1oo]

Great video man, one of the best Royal Enfield reviews I've see. Question... Where were you filming, in the North by any chance?

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the positive feedback! This was all filmed in Wales near our office 😁

[@Mark-uo1oo]

@@BrakeMagazine No worries, and thanks a lot... I must get over there at some point. Keep up with the great videos!

[@moulin680]

Great review, as always!!! Keep up the excellent work!!!

[@philipdevenish9416]

I have been riding bikes for years and never had to apply full front brake.There are heaps of videos on here of guys riding bikes with powerful front brakes.Most of the crash videos show them flying over the handlebars because their front brake is too powerful! I find the Himalayan just fine,I always use the two brakes together anyway so there is not an issue!

[@shadyoncrf9055]

Just one question. Crf250l or Himalayan?

[@shikharmaru2791]

Himalayan anyday.....just see how beating it can take while keeping ur pocket lighter.

[@stevehoward3981]

Have both. The Himi is 10x more comfortable.

[@maxisgoingaway859]

Good review, I actually love my Himalayan : D

[@slimjim7411]

This bike is perfect really. For someone who is more about the adventure, and the riding rather than what they are riding. Affordable, efficient. Commute to work most of the year, and then once a year set the GPS to alternate route, and go have an adventure on the back roads. The bikes only issue is top speed on the interstate, solution? Stay off the interstate. At this point most of the other "adventure" bikes are just Goldwings for people with long legs.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Or people who watched our tips for short people video... 😏😏

[@PureM_]

My grandad took me out on his for the first time and I love it

[@muugmuug4501]

First I would like to say "thanks for the review". It's a good one: honest, and complete. It's no "product presentation", like most do nowadays. It's about half a year ago that you and I exchanged some mails about this bike. You mentioned a youtube-movie was coming. A question : how stable was your bike on road? I did test one, and on road it wasn't stable at all. It had no straight out stability. If you let go the handlebars, it would instantly go to the left or to the right. It was like there was almost no trail! It really kind of frightened me. And offroad - at a fairly "high" speed, must have been about 50km/h - I had a massive tank slapper when going through several deep potholes - bang bang bang! The suspension couldn't cope at all. About the brakes: it's absurd how bad it is. :-) "Woohoo it has ABS, but it hardly brakes, so why should you need ABS then ???" My conclusion: it's a good bike when you ride it slow, it'll bring you everywhere then.... I might think about buying one if the engine had at least double the power, because, really, like you say yourself, on our Western roads it really is too slow. Even an old Citroën 2CV is faster in acceleration. We live in an concrete and asphalt jungle over here (Flanders, Belgium), and if we want to do some proper offroad we first need to tackle 100-200km motorway. And 120km/u is normal on our motorways. The trucks ride at 100km/u, so you - driving at 80km/u - will be constantly overtaken by those trucks, which is not a nice feel!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Ours felt great. We didn't have that problem but others have mentioned it 🤔 Off-Road what you're feeling is the slow rebound catching you out. The suspension packs down over multiple bumps. Unfortunately this is a compromise in handling that comes with cheaper bikes. You have similar issues on most sub £8000.00 bikes. They're set up to get by not perform well. You have to ride within the limitation of the bike realistically. They aren't dirt bikes and you have to hold that in mind when riding them :) Regarding the motorway speed, it's our least favourite bit. Typically I'd try to avoid all motorway if this was my bike, it'd be horrible.

[@muugmuug4501]

Hi Llel, thanks for the reply. Perhaps it all depends how you mount the ball bearings... i've seen that Hyperpro now sells a complete package: front springs, rear shock absorbers and a fine steering damper. Now if someone could add 20 something horsepower it would be absolutely fabulous. :-D

[@aashirwadtripathy1113]

Hey man, your review is good, let me tell you something, there's also a sleet version of Himalayan with better handle bar, the panniers, engine protector..etc

[@AbdulAllahAbuDaoud]

Aashirwad Tripathy can you give more info about the “sleet” version you mentioned in your comment?

[@stevepreston3151]

Another interesting Videos Guys 👍🏼

[@damania3]

Good review ..big hello from india.. I m planing to buy bs6 .. Himalayan it's more refined..

[@AlejandroTorresBar]

great review. like all the information you provided

[@pujabelgian]

Knowing what I know about the bike, I'd say you gave a very good review. And yes, it's got oodles of character.. and spirit. 😁

[@slamboy66]

It is a dual sport tractor ppl always over critique it . It is a $4k bike. I love it. If you want a great bike , chunk down $10 grand more.

[@ianstewart9487]

Front brake in a tropical thunderstorm is quite scary. But for the budget I love the rest of the bike.

[@pmay222]

lovely filming..fair review... these bikes are perfect for todays overcrowded roads full of text drivers.... the race rep is going out of fashion..... a simple bike you can fix at home and go more places on is better... screaming down a bypass is boring anyway, and i like my licence.. a proper set of trials tyres would see this himalayan handle 10x better off road.. and softer front brake pad material could improve the braking... they do take a while to wear in also.. nice bike i would be tempted by a 650 twin version..

[@mattingray5651]

Awesome review. I am considered this bike for sole reason that it is the ONLY ADVENTURE BIKE in the world with low seat height. Yeah, the front brake looks a bit flimsy, and for 25 hp along with 410 lbs, I am concerned if it can keep up on highway.

[@pujabelgian]

Mattingray, see Seattle to Alaska on a Royal Himalayan.. 2800 miles doing 70-75 mph, and never once hit a moose!

[@denisobrien699]

Great review, very pertinent.

[@thinkingoutofthebox.9421]

All sounds OK for the money, just makes you wonder why it's so low on power 24 bhp for a new modern 400cc bike. An old Suzuki Drz400s from 18 years ago had 39 bhp and top speed of 95mph and cruise speed of 70/80 mph.

[@dotcombubbles]

Thinking out of the box. Yea but it’s not meant to be a modern bike tho. Something this reviewer hasnt covered: The ride quality is pretty vintage. Deliberately so by design. That’s where the low hp comes in. If yoi hate the vintage ride feel you will hate it, but if you love it you will love it.

[@vishnumohannair8791]

It is tuned for torque and not hp. Also this was a bike designed for India where avg. speed on highways is 80-90 km/hr. Matter of fact except US & EU rest of the world runs on that speed

[@MrIdleknight]

Nice review, would you say its the Dacia duster of the bike world?, ie not that bad but people are still hearing rumours of problems with older models. Have subbed.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yes. That's an accurate assessment. :)

[@paulg7294]

Good review. On paper seems a decent bike for a world adventure tour.Speed/power limitations I don't think are an issue as the roads in a lot of countries are so poor you wouldn't want to do more than this anyway! Besides who wants to see the world flash by doing 70mph + on a boring highway/motorway! My main concern with this bike is reliability. In this review you speak highly of build quality but I came across a detailed review of this bike by a local Indian guy using it to tour around his country and he was having all kinds of issues with the bike breaking down, leaking oil etc that he was spending more time off road getting things fixed than touring!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Our impression of the build quality is mostly from a short time with the bike. It's important to take in what people living with the bike say. Please be aware there are now two generations of the Himalayan and a lot of small things changed between them :) Thanks for watching!

[@chambarider76]

Nice review video I like that ✌️✌️✌️🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🏍🏍🏍

[@vansantsam]

Many including myself don't want a high powered bike.. Grab a hand full of throttle and you don't want to have to hang on for dear life.. As long as you can cruise at 50-55 mph and have enough torque to get through some rougher stuff then that is fine.. I don't want to go down a trail at 35-40 mph I want to put along at 5-15 mph and look around.. I don't want to grab air or do wheelies, don't want to be able to do twice+ the speed limit on freeways (been there done that).. When you go fast all you see is what is in front of you and the whole idea of adventure riding is to explore and see the sights, so slower is better in that respect..

[@BrakeMagazine]

I get that and agree. I'm not saying I want it to be high powered, I want it to have enough to not be problematic on western roads. 😊

[@lecsu131]

After this review, i'm not gonna buy it, i'm gonna adopt it and raise it as my own.

[@biscuitsalive]

Good honest review.

[@Buledoyanmotor]

a bike you are not afraid to drop, that resume it nicely , just kidding i liked it

[@n5zm]

Great review! Love the Himalayan

[@l2azor07]

off road bikes(trail and not dirt) are supposed to have accessible power(read torque). if you are comparing it with crf250l thats a differently tuned engine. if i have to twist the throttle all the way on a trail that robs me of the control. on the other hand if my bike is just trumbling along even on 2000rpm strongly what else do i need. 32nm of torque is what this review missed from a bike of this budget. show me any other bike in this price bracket which gives more than 30nm torque and you gt yourself a beer on me..

[@djmumbhai1]

Very Honest Opinion...!!!!

[@gomudhen]

Outstanding review. Thanks.

[@lumbini56]

A good review mate! I suppose you could strike all the cords!

[@tonylayfield6862]

Great review, many thanks!

[@urbanfireblade]

Hi great review, i am seriously considering buying one of these and trading in my Triumph Street Triple R. My question is that this bike obviously has been built to be used off our roads, as well as on them. But what about those buyers who will only ride them on-road? With that in mind are there better alternatives for people who prefer slower and more relaxed end of the spectrum of riding? I can't help but consider comparing it to a Yamaha MT125, on paper, they are closely matched in performance, despite the big difference in cc, there is also a 50-60kg weight difference which is why the 14.7bhp 125cc Yamaha can match the acceleration, top speed and everything inbetween with the Himalayan. And mpg are real world 40-50% more on the Yamaha MT125@120-135mpg compared to the Himalayan, which speaking to owners can achieve 80-90mpg which is still incredible. But i cannot find any serious reviews on the 125 bike as they are mostly owned by youngsters and no journalists seem to give them a looking at. Which out of the two would be the better option for doing the local A and B road commute to work and some country roads come the weekend are legal speeds? Without any off road intended use for the bike?

[@jibinbaby5030]

RE isn't built for speed. It's all about Classy Torque letting you climb the Himalaya .

[@rogeralvarado6060]

It's a workhorse like the Suzuki's that were made back in the 70s and 60s