Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram - First Impressions - Ride review - What are the other bike options?

#royalenfieldscram #scram #royalenfield
Reviewing the Australian delivered Himalayan Scram 411 and looking at the other available bike options.

[@davgb7904]

Interesting points. I guess I fall in the older guy who's had enough of big bikes and fast performance. I've just traded a Z900RS for a pair of REs - a Scram and an Interceptor. I rode them both recently and realised how much we lose by always searching for bigger. When we move up over our biking 'career' we often reject moving down and remembering what the smaller bikes have to offer - often far more than the big stuff. The Royal Enfields have been a revelation and I've rediscovered the real spirit of motorcycling that had become lost.

[@motostralia5563]

Greetings, davgb. Thanks for your comment. The Z900RS is a great bike, but the REs certainly have something that is missing from most of todays new “modern” motorcycles. Is it character? Is it soul? You said it so well… many riders like you, and me, have rediscovered (discovered?) the real spirit of motorcycling? Take care and ride well. Cheers, Len

[@boondockduane]

I totally agree with you, My Harleys are sitting and I’m riding my new Scram 411 everyday

[@danny-li6io]

Less is very often more when it comes to motorcycles because the essence of riding a motorbike vs a car is the concept of minimalism. ❤️

[@davgb7904]

@@danny-li6io My comment above was several months ago, when my REs were new. I now have 12-1300 miles on the Scram and just under 1000 on the Interceptor - through the bad wet winter here - and they continue to bring a wider smile to my face every time I ride them. I have to say the Scram is a drug to ride and I love it.

[@Riner.K]

Finally someone describe real differences between himalayan and scram. You make the point. Short but very useful review.

[@AridersLifeYT]

Great review! Thanks for posting

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, AridersLife. Thanks for watching 👍

[@phil.jagger]

You are the ReviewMeister! Great work my friend!

[@chaitanyashervegar8234]

Wait for sometime Royal enfield going to launch meteor -650, Himalayan-650,and many more bike's are in pipeline with traction control, slippers clutch, riding modes and many features.Affordable to buy.

[@dipeshrai1349]

I've gone through all the reviews of scram 411 and I've already booked one of the graphite blue compared with all the seven colors and it will get delivered within a couple of days. Hope it won't disappoint me.

[@motostralia5563]

Nice choice, Dipesh. A friend bought one the same colour. They’re a sweet motorcycle 👍

[@ThrottleDownunder]

I really love the Sliver Spirit, beautiful

[@BikerTorque]

They do look good, looking forward to test riding one.

[@motostralia5563]

I was surprised how much better they look than in the photos and videos. It will be interesting to know your thoughts when you get to test ride. Cheers

[@whatsstefon]

A great review and comparison to the Himalayan. I’m looking forward to having a ride of one and comparing it to the Himi myself.

[@motostralia5563]

Thanks for your kind words. I’m quite sure you’ll enjoy the bike when you get the chance. It will be interesting to hear you thoughts. I’ll look forward to your review. Cheers

[@whatsstefon]

@@motostralia5563 thanks matey. It will be a fun day. I still need to test ride your modified machines. They sound like a tonne of fun. Been so busy. But coming up to some quieter months.

[@motostralia5563]

@@whatsstefon Cheers, mate. Just let me know and we’ll work out something 👍

[@khakimzhanmiras]

Sold my bike last year and haven’t ridden in a while. I’m considering getting one to get my sea legs back and until BMW comes out with the 21” rninet scrambler models.

[@toddparker6807]

Nice review. My last bike was a suzuki 650 vstrom 2013 model but I have also had a Vstrom1000 and a Bonneville T100 too. I am in my mid 50s have not been riding for about 6 years. I am considering a scram 411, himalayan or a KTM 390 Adventure as my main options. I like the look of the Scram 411, but I have reservations about the engine performance. Lovely looking bike.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, thanks for watching and for your compliment. Yes, the Himalayan/Scam machines are not the most powerful on paper, but their power is all useable at low revs. It the Royal Enfield feel that makes these bike quite different. All the best with your decision, and welcome back to riding 😁 Cheers, Len

[@toddparker6807]

@@motostralia5563 Thanks Len

[@timsatch9198]

Excellent review. Really thought you covered everything. Your list of potential buyers is good but I can see the appeal to downsizing oldies like myself and as mentioned in other comments, very appealing. The comparison list is well done and difficult to fill (at the moment). I would set a stricter weight limit and add the likes of the Fantic Caballero scrambler, but the Chinese connection is off putting there, only on political grounds. I think if riders really analyse their riding widow and the 411 exceeds this, it's a no brainer. Enjoyed this thanks.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, Tim. Thanks for watching. I hadn’t really considered the Fantic Caballero (a very cool name - it means a horseman in Italian, or gentleman in Spanish 😁) as it is out of our price range, but it does look like a very interesting bike. I understand your view on the Chinese connection. However, I’m feeling that this is where the future might be. Regarding the Scram, I agree that with all things considered, it’s indeed a great choice. Thanks again for your thoughtful comments. Cheers, Len

[@b.kune.4073]

Nice review. You found some alternatives. Here is two more. Fantic Caballero 450 (500 is fake) KTM 374 Adventure (390 is fake)

[@motostralia5563]

Hi B. Kune, thanks for watching. Cheers, Len

[@deepsdeepskiski9621]

the new 2022 Honda CB500X has 41mm suspension travel increase of few mm over the previous and similar increase to mono shock in rear plus the suspension is now upsidedown fork with more volume to sock up the travel!! i think the photo in this vlog was of pre 2022 models

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, Deeps. Yep, you’re definitely correct. The pic is of the 2021 model. I must have a word with my researcher about that! (Note to self… Double Check!) Thanks for pointing it out 👍 Cheers, Len

[@diksh777]

Greetings from india 🇮🇳❤️

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, Deepak. Thanks for watching 🇦🇺👍 Cheers, Len

[@MikMech]

I really do like the Satin Finishes.

[@tomkitchen2764]

A good review, thanks.

[@fabriciopesenti]

carbureted to injected, the direction of rotation was reversed to take advantage of the same project and that made it lose a lot of breath.,. I don't know if that's the reason but in Brazil it just breaks!!!

[@felixklages1893]

Scram is the best👍

[@jogendra8249]

I ❤️ Royal Enfield

[@LAAM619]

This bike is far more capable than light dirt road. I ended up on the youtube shorts and the algorithm started showing me indian dudes offroading the crap out of these and they pulled through just fine.

[@MauriceTarantulas]

The Zontes GK 350 is an option for me. Doesnt have the tyres for say the off roading. (I just did some on my Zontes G1). But specwise and price has the scram beat (costs the same, 40bhp, 19 litre tank). The thing that is putting me off the Zontes GK is its more a sporty/retro when I want perhaps a classic 350 for a low revving 60mph machine or the more rugged Scram. Testing needed! (I did 4 days touring in Wales on a 125 and yeah not sure 20-24bhp cuts it for Welsh hills/Twisties). So am def still no closer to deciding on my after test bike. If the Scram handles as well as the Zontes GK 350 and 24bhp can do 60 no probs could be my choice (the other thing the Zontes has is a very good modern info screen). The seat on the scram does interest me as after 1.30 on the G1 my ass ceased to exist😜 Of course I will know more when have ridden a 650cc...

[@motostralia5563]

Greetings, Arachnophilia. Thanks for your thoughts. Zontes do make quite nice looking motorcycles. The Zontes ZT310 -T with the 19” front wheel looks like it could also be an option. Wales is such a beautiful country to tour, I was there a few years ago. Touring on a 125 would certainly be a relaxed way to travel, but I can imagine the hills would have been a bit of a challenge. Well done. You would love the seat on the Scram! All the best with your future decisions, Cheers, Len

[@MauriceTarantulas]

@@motostralia5563 Yeah not seen any reviews of their adv bikes. Am not so keen on the looks. Yeah well def go back and do Wales again..the coastal route. P.s But actually the 125 was a struggle as big trucks catching you up and the hills needed 3rd gear! Weirdly I changed to Euro 5 and was hitting 60mp easier on the last day. It still feels very loud!!! But on the right road n no traffic yes was in 7th heaven. Cheers, Maurice.

[@motostralia5563]

125cc + trucks = 😬 Let us know what you think of the 650 when you get a chance to ride 🤙 Len

[@andersbarfodsvaneskolan9378]

The 411cc engine has more top end potential.. It is a longer stroked air-cooled unit but Enfield has been a bit conservative in the tuning.. Probably trying to conform to the strict euro 5 emission rules,, and air-cooled engine suffers a bit from this regulation.. But TEC parts in the UK have designed a new UK built high quality camshaft,, together with a high quality air filter and slightly more free flowing exhaust you can get 20% more power so instead of 24.3 bhp you can get 29 bhp

[@julianrose810]

And if you install a 16tooth front sprocket 😉

[@friktionrc]

How would doing these mods affect the MOT emissions readout? It’s just you mentioned about emissions rules and though I don’t want stupid speeds (at the end of the day if I want a fast bike may as well by one) I’d wonder if it’s Worthing doing the mods if I’m paying more when it comes to MOT time. P.s Non biker here so sorry if that’s a dunce question but this is one bike I’m looking at as my first bike, mainly for town/city riding …and well I loved scramblers back in the day 1970s/early1980s so when folks talk about mods I suddenly get more even more interested lol

[@oknevals]

I would add Kawi Versys 300, maybe even Klx 300, Honda crf 300. But, hard to beat value proposal, versatility, reliability and durability of cb500x.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, oknevals. Thanks for mentioning these bikes. I certainly missed the Kawasaki Versys 300, but overlooked the KLX300 and Honda CRF300 as they are full on trail bikes, rather than dual purpose. Yep, the CB500X is a great bike 👍 Thanks for watching, Len

[@philippamicallef5254]

Good review, my favourite Dealer too

[@MiguelB-gd2mg]

Hi Len! I loved your review. I'm 49 years old and I'm going to buy my first motorcycle. I am between the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the Scram 411. I understand that they are for different uses. In my case it is for commuting to work in the city with the possibility of some travel in mind. My question is. Which of these 2 do you consider easier to ride for a beginner? Thanks!

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, Miguel Thanks for the compliment, I really appreciate it. Both the Classic 350 and the Scram are easy bikes to ride and would be fine for a beginner, but they are very different. Your choice would depend on a few factors including your stated intended use. The Scram is a more modern bike and has more power and torque than the Classic. They both have similar seat heights. The Scram is 11kg lighter and has longer travel suspension, both front and back. The Scram and Classic have similar tyre sizes with both having a 19” front, with the Scram having a 17” rear and the Classic a 19” rear. The Scram also has a larger fuel tank, carrying 1.5 L more than the Classic. Looking at the specs for both the bikes, it would seem that the Scram might possibly be the better choice, but the Classic has a real charm that makes it a different kind of ownership… and a bit more cleaning and polishing if you want the bike to stay looking good. The shiny crankcases need to be continually monitored as they can look seriously ordinary very quickly if left unattended. On the plus side when cleaning, the Classic has a centre stand which makes working on the bike easier, while a centre stand for the Scram is optional extra. Buying a stand for the Scram would be a good thing to do for ease of maintenance. However you can always install that at a later time. Another thing to consider is luggage carrying racks for each bike. Have a look online and check out the options for both. Also consider resale value for each bike when it comes time to sell. To answer your question, and all things considered, I feel the Scram could possibly be a better choice, it’s a way more modern bike. But if you are you able to take each bike for a test ride, that would help make your decision a bit easier. I recently rode the Classic 350 and the new Hunter 350 back to back for a comparison video which I’m hoping will be online within the next week, or so. Have you considered the new Hunter? Just throwing something else into the mix for your confusion 😆 Buying your first bike can be both an exciting and anxious time, I hope this helps with your decision making. All the best with whichever bike you decide on… and welcome to the world of motorcycling 🤙 Cheers, Len

[@larrybaby9377]

Hi, thanks for the review! I am a new rider, and I have been excited about the possibilities with the Himalayan, but now that I see the SCRAM411, it seems to me a better option. They say "All roads or no roads" with the Himalayan, but the fact is, most riders, most of the time, in Australia, are on sealed roads, and in the daily grind, more or less smooth roads. I have no experience of this, but it just might be that the Himalayan is optimised for the off-road situation, but can do sealed roads, whereas the SCRAM411 is optimised for sealed roads, but can do off-road. Would that be right? Or perhaps, the SCRAM is an off-road bike configured to handle well on sealed roads. In that case, it seems to me, the SCRAM is as much a tourer as the Himalayan, if not moreso. You have to get to the places you want to go off-road. As far as I understand the 'scrambler' concept is of a stripped down, basic bike capable of covering rough ground, and the SCRAM411 takes this approach. What I want to know is this: Can I now put a windscreen, and front and rear luggage racks back onto the SCRAM to equip it for adventure touring? It seems ideal for it to me. Or does that defeat the purpose? Thankyou.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Larry, it’s such an adventure for you as a new rider - enjoy the experience. From what you are saying, you have detailed your dilemma very well. It’s not an easy decision, but from what you’ve said, it sounds like the Scram is the better bike for you. It’s a great little bike and I would buy one if I didn’t have a desire to ride dirt roads - that I’ve done much of that. The Scram will certainly tackle dirt roads and will only fall a bit shorter on really gnarly tracks. Regarding accessories, there don’t seem to be many around at the moment. However, looking st the Scram, I’m thinking that it may not take a screen. That’s not such a bad thing though, as - for me - I hate the screen on my Himalayan, that’s why I attached an extra spoiler to help divert the air. Screens are very much a personal thing. It’s better to not have a screen at all than to have a bad one. I’m pretty sure someone will eventually develop a good rack that will take a fair bit of luggage. In the end, think about the bike that’s best for you now and sort the other stuff later. I hope this helps. All best for your decisions. Please let us know what you decide. Welcome to the motorcycling community 😊 Cheers, Len

[@bfarm44]

Who’s going to buy it? I am. It’s what I wanted from the Himalayan but didn’t get.

[@rupamdebnath627]

Here in India, the ex-showroom prices(excludes Road Tax, Insurance and Registration Fees) are - ₹203K(USD $2542) for RE Scram 411, ₹335K(USD $4195) for KTM 390 Adventure and ₹580K(USD $7262) for Honda CB500X(2021). So, from price point you can see Honda CB500X is way too much expensive than Scram 411. Most simply can't afford CB500X whereas Scram 411 is comparatively a lot cheaper. The price difference between these bikes in foreign markets isn't that much compared to here.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Rupam, greetings from Australia. Thank you for listing the prices for the bikes in India. I probably should have included these in the video. Yes, the Honda is quite an expensive bike compared to the Scram, even here in Australia. It seems to me that it’s also a bike made for a different buyer market. I hope you’re enjoying your motorcycling. Cheers, Len

[@ToGrimmToWin]

In the United States no scram yet. A classic 350 is 4600 usd I’m betting it’s 5500usd

[@motostralia5563]

@@ToGrimmToWin Hi Eric, in Australia the Scram is the equivalent of around USD$210 more expensive than the Classic 350. Of course it depends on which model/ which dealer/etc. Hopefully they will be relatively cheap for you guys over there. Cheers, Len

[@EmeteriodelaRosa]

Really good review, thanks for it. I just tested de Hymalayan and the scram, loved how easy to maneouver feels de scram and the good looks over the Himalayan, but I'm really concerned about the offroad capabilities of the SCRAM :( , the vendor is giving me same price for the scram and the himalayan and don't nknow what to do, help pls. I will ride 50, 50 road and offroad, and offroad will include some trails with rocks, on road will be twisted roads.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Emeterio, thanks for watching and for your kind words, I really appreciate it. You certainly do have a difficult choice in front of you. However, if you are planning on riding 50/50 road and rocky trails - for me - the obvious choice would be the Himalayan. The Scram of is a marginally better road bike and does have a more comfortable seat than the Himalayan, but in your situation, that may not be enough to warrant buying it over the Himalayan. Also, with the Himalayan there are many luggage options that you might eventually be interested in fitting to your bike - that’s a significant consideration. All the best with your decision, I hope this helps. It will be interesting to hear which bike you buy - please let us know. Cheers, Len

[@EmeteriodelaRosa]

@@motostralia5563 thanks for KZbin comments, surly they helped to buy the Himalayan :)

[@motostralia5563]

@@EmeteriodelaRosa Hey, Emeterio, that’s great news. You are now part of a global camaraderie of discerning adventure riders. I really hope you enjoy the Himalayan. Welcome 👍

[@guzzidelgado]

Very nice video

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Miguel, thanks for watching and for your kind words. Cheers, Len

[@kentwilliams4152]

It is just me, but whenever there is test of a motorcycle in England or Australia I kinda get dizzy because they are riding on the wrong side of the road. 😱

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Kent, Yep, riding on the wrong side of the road is a another skill we had to learn. Just as well our bikes are right had drive, eh? 😆 Thanks for watching. Cheers, Len

[@GapBahnDirk]

Royal Enfields just convey that good feeling to the rider. My interceptor 650 works as a great all round bike, but now I am looking for a single cylinder city bike and the Husqvana Svartpilen 401 may fit the bill. I am hoping that the forthcoming 2023 water cooled Scram will have a bit better build quality. I will wait and see.....

[@motostralia5563]

Hi GapBahnDirk, You said it very well, Royal Enfields really do deliver a feel good vibe. It will be interesting to see when / if the liquid cooled 450 engine makes it into production. Also, to see if it will be much more expensive, especially if they place more focus on build quality? Cheers, Len

[@tomkitchen2764]

I have heard that the Svartpilen 401 has a small petrol tank, i don't know if that bothers you, it sure looks good.

[@critterIMHO]

I can’t imagine wanting to ride off road at 7000 to 9000 RPMs. And is a 19 inch front wheel really that limiting?

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Keith, Thanks for bring up a couple of interesting points. When considering max power/torque on bikes that require height revs to achieve that power, we can consider what power they would be making at the same revs that the Scram achieves its max power. This is a more relevant and real-world riding factor than just looking at cold power stats. It’s true that the 19” front wheel really only finds its limits on rutted and deeply washed out, or rocky 4WD tracks, or when high speed dirt road riding is attempted. Under those conditions suspension travel becomes an important factor. However, if you ride off-road like I do (slowly 😁) the 19” wouldn’t really make that much difference. It just promotes more confidence to try some trails that are a little more difficult - especially when riding up or down steeper inclines. Cheers, Len

[@critterIMHO]

@@motostralia5563 Agreed. I just wish they would bring this to the United States.

[@samsanpaul275]

This is the My Dream bike I love this bike but I have no money😔☹️

[@motostralia5563]

Greetings, Samsan. I hope one day you will be in a position to buy one. In the mean time… remember, dreams are our our life’s inspiration. Go well, brother.

[@EdgeMasterPro]

I would love to see one without the tank guards. I guarantee if you take them off and do a video it will get views.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Francis, thanks for watching. Those “tank guard” things are just a bit odd, eh?

[@davidescalco6479]

Voge ACX 300 ?

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Davide, the Voge ACX 300 looks like an interesting bike. I’m not sure if it will ever make its way to Australia, but it would be a contender as an option to the Scram. Thanks for drawing our attention to it. Cheers, Len

[@tonydoc903]

Tried to watch this vid, but the overdubbing music like nearly all KZbin videos spoils the information I’m trying to get from this video. Maybe it’s my age but I find it hard to concentrate on what you’re trying to say when your playing music at nearly the same volume as your commentary. Sorry.

[@motostralia5563]

Hi Tony, Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate it. I hope you’re enjoying your riding. Cheers, Len

[@samsanpaul275]

I love this bike 🤗 I have no money ☹️😔 I want this bike😭😭😭😭 This my dream bike😫 Without this bike my life is so empty😢😨😰

[@247ADIE]

ktm 390 ?

[@motostralia5563]

Greetings, thanks for finding the KTM - I totally missed that bike 👍 Below are the figures for the KTM 390 Adventure: Weight: 172 kg / 379 lb Front Wheel: 19 in Suspension: F. 170 mm / 6.7 in R. 177 mm / 8 in Engine: 373 cc Single Liquid Cooled Power: 32 kW / 44 hp @ 9000 rpm Torque: 37 Nm / 27 ft lb @ 7000 rpm Price: AUD$9970 / USD$6836 The 390 produces good power and quite good suspension. However, at 855 mm / 33.7” it does have the tallest seat height of the group. But it’s low-ish weight shouldn’t make this too much of a problem for most riders. The KTM 390 Adventure certainly deserves to be included in the list. Thanks again for bringing the bike to my attention. Cheers, Len

[@247ADIE]

@@motostralia5563 no sweat Len :)

[@javierc2726]

Why Do You Make Pauses When Talking

[@motostralia5563]

Hi, Javier, I like the way you asked that 👍 It’s a very good question 🤔

[@tomkitchen2764]

I thought that he was precise and articulate, easy to listen to, i'm looking forward to seeing your video.