The 2021 Himalayan sticks to the same formula as the previous model, so the 411cc single-cylinder engine is still producing 24.3bhp 6500 rpm, however it’s now been tweaked to meet Euro5 specifications. The Himalayan has been a runaway success since it first launched in 2016, offering an alternative to the powerful, high tech heavyweights that most adventure bikes have become. In February 2021 Royal Enfield updated the Himalayan with a collection of small changes to improve the overall riding experience.

Royal Enfield Himalayan range updated for 2021 There are big old gaps between the gears too, so dropping a cog for an overtake doesn’t help. In its defence it’s vibe free, the screen keeps off the worst of the wind and the Enfield only sips at the petrol, so you can get over 50mpg.īut 24.5bhp simply isn’t enough when you’re dicing with bigger and more powerful vehicles. On a fast A-road with the throttle twisted to the stop in fifth, I had to watch as the photographer’s van pulled away with ease.Ī glance at the speedo showed it had topped out at an indicated 75mph.

Within minutes you’re wringing its neck and the gentle throbbing is replaced by terrifying clattering. Sadly, that joy soon drains away when you hit the road. Stand back while it warms up and it looks every inch the part – the reinforced steel frame designed by Harris Performance oozes adventure, as does the 21in front.Įven the humble little alloy panniers (£499 extra) fill you with a sense of joy at the adventures to come. Twist the choke (no really.), prod the starter and the gentle thump of the 410cc air-cooled single sends your heart a flutter. So how does it handle things here in Blighty? Fast forward to 2018 and it’s Euro4 with fuel injection, a cat converter and ABS. We then rode it in through the Himalayan mountains in India, but back then it was carburetted and not destined for the UK.

We first saw the Enfield Himalayan in 2015 and it showed a lot of promise.

Related: See this bike in our best A2 motorcycles article.

If it had the new 650-twin found in the Royal Enfield Interceptor and the associated 46bhp, then it could be a serious mainstream contender, but alas, we don't expect a Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 any time soon. If you want to cross a continent on bad roads – a ride into the Himalayas perhaps – then it would excel, but on fast UK roads it struggles.

The Royal Enfield Himalayan is not a bike aimed at our market, but it turns out it's extremely popular over here regardless.

Royal himalayan