{"id":247955,"date":"2023-12-09T13:20:18","date_gmt":"2023-12-09T13:20:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/automotobuzz.com\/?p=247955"},"modified":"2023-12-09T13:20:18","modified_gmt":"2023-12-09T13:20:18","slug":"royal-enfield-himalayan-450-initial-impressions-of-a-hunter-350-owner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/automotobuzz.com\/news-features\/royal-enfield-himalayan-450-initial-impressions-of-a-hunter-350-owner\/","title":{"rendered":"Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Initial impressions of a Hunter 350 owner"},"content":{"rendered":"
BHPian kaushalswarup<\/strong> recently shared this with other enthusiasts.<\/p>\n As someone who\u2019s passionate about motorcycles, having previously ridden the Himalayan BS4 and currently enjoying the Hunter 350, I recently had the pleasure of test-riding the new Himalayan. This experience was particularly intriguing as I’m contemplating an upgrade, with the 390adv being a key consideration.<\/p>\n Initial Impressions and Comparisons:<\/strong> Rider Comfort and Ergonomics:<\/strong> Engine and Performance:<\/strong> Handling and Control:<\/strong> Vibrations:<\/strong> A Concerning Observation:<\/strong> Final Thoughts:<\/strong> I wanted to know if others have experienced the throttle issue I mentioned.<\/p>\n It\u2019s great that RE has the bike ready for test rides soon after the release!<\/p>\n Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.<\/p>\n
The new Himalayan makes a striking first impression. It’s notably larger than its predecessor, and even seems a tad bigger than the 390adv, thanks to its imposing 21\u201d front wheel. The increased bulk is noticeable, and it takes a bit of getting used to.<\/p>\n
At 173cm, I found the ergonomics to be quite accommodating. The seating is comfortable, though a more contoured front would have been ideal. The handlebars and console are well-placed, ensuring a pleasant and unobstructed riding experience.<\/p>\n
The Sherpa 450 engine is a compact powerhouse. Its linear power delivery starts picking up noticeably around 2.5-3k rpm. The performance is smooth and predictable, a characteristic vital for both city commutes and long rides.<\/p>\n
Handling is an area where the new Himalayan truly shines. The suspension efficiently absorbs bumps, promising a smooth ride. The balance between comfort and sporty handling needs to be seen through further test rides.<\/p>\n
One aspect that stood out was the vibration in the handlebars, tank, and pegs. While this is somewhat expected from a single-cylinder engine, its impact on long rides remains to be seen.<\/p>\n
A slight delay in throttle response was noticeable during the ride. From the time I twisted the throttle, to the time the bike responded, there was a noticeable lag. This lag, though minor, could be a point of concern, especially for riders who value immediate feedback from their machine.<\/p>\n
In summary, the new Himalayan represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor. It promises to be a reliable companion for long highway tours and is well-equipped to handle rough terrains and trails. However, its suitability for aggressive off-roading and high-speed highway riding would require further test rides.<\/p>\n