A Trustworthy Travel Partner in Changing Terrains
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 continues to prove itself as an all-weather, all-terrain touring machine. In this second long-term review,
we take a deeper dive into how this rugged ADV performed in the unpredictable climate of Jharkhand and Bihar, especially in the Ghats of Koderma, during an unexpected downpour.
Despite no forecast of rain and the monsoon being a few months away, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 faced a sudden and intense challenge. Here’s how the motorcycle stood up to the elements, and why it remains one of the most trusted adventure bikes in India.
Key Highlights of Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
- 452cc liquid-cooled engine
- 40 PS power and 40 Nm torque
- Ride-by-wire throttle with four riding modes
- Long-travel suspension for off-road comfort
- Fully digital TFT instrument cluster with navigation
Caught in a Storm: Himalayan 450 in Koderma
Unexpected Challenge
While cruising through the scenic Ghats of Koderma, situated on the Jharkhand-Bihar border, a sudden storm disrupted the journey.
There were no signs of rain, no alerts from weather apps, and certainly no reason to anticipate a weather shift. But adventure is often born from the unexpected.
Riding Through the Rain
As the skies opened up, it quickly became clear that the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 was more than up for the task.
The bike’s solid build, balanced weight distribution, and grippy dual-purpose tyres allowed for stable movement even on waterlogged, slippery roads.
The windscreen effectively deflected rain while the all-LED lighting ensured clear visibility in fading daylight.
Performance Under Pressure: Engine and Handling
Smooth Power Delivery
The 452cc Sherpa engine delivers consistent power, even when tested in damp, high-altitude conditions. Whether in urban traffic, mountain roads, or during unpredictable weather, the ride-by-wire throttle system offers precision and control.
Suspension That Adapts
The Showa suspension system, with its 43 mm USD front forks and rear monoshock, proved crucial in maintaining rider comfort and control on broken roads.
Even when potholes were camouflaged by rainwater, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 glided over obstacles with minimal jarring.
Long-Distance Comfort and Touring Capabilities
Ergonomics for Extended Rides
The upright seating position, comfortable saddle, and neutral handlebar placement make the Himalayan 450 perfect for long rides.
The seat height of 825 mm (adjustable to 845 mm) caters to a wide range of riders, and the tall windscreen offers much-needed wind protection on highways.
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Range
During the long-term review, the bike returned an average mileage of 28–30 km/l, translating to a range of over 400 km on a full tank. That’s a key advantage for touring riders covering remote areas where fuel stations may be scarce.
Technology and Features in Focus
TFT Display with Navigation
One of the most appreciated features is the color TFT screen, which includes Bluetooth-enabled turn-by-turn navigation. The display remained legible even during heavy rain, thanks to its anti-glare coating and waterproof design.
Riding Modes for Every Scenario
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 comes with multiple riding modes—Performance, Eco, Rain, and Off-Road. During the Koderma ride,
switching to Rain mode helped tame the throttle response and improve traction, a lifesaver in wet conditions.
Build Quality and Reliability
Rugged Yet Refined
The Himalayan 450’s build quality has improved significantly over its predecessor. The chassis feels tighter, the panel gaps are minimal, and there’s a marked reduction in vibrations at cruising speeds.
Water Resistance and Electrical Safety
No water ingress was observed even after prolonged exposure to rain. The switchgear, instrument cluster, and side panels remained fully functional, a testament to Royal Enfield’s attention to weatherproofing.
Pros and Cons of Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
Advantages
- Excellent off-road capability
- Advanced ride modes and technology
- Comfortable touring ergonomics
- Reliable engine performance in diverse climates
- Stylish, rugged ADV design
Disadvantages
- Slightly heavy for beginners
- TFT screen navigation can lag occasionally
- Accessory costs can add up
Conclusion: A Season-Proof Adventure Bike
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 continues to set a benchmark in India’s middleweight ADV segment. Whether it’s the heat of Delhi, the chill of Himachal,
or the unpredicted rainstorms of Koderma, the Himalayan 450 proves it can be your dependable travel partner all year round.
For riders seeking a go-anywhere adventure bike that balances modern features with rugged reliability, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 remains a solid choice.
It doesn’t just take you places—it ensures you enjoy every twist, turn, and thunderstorm along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 suitable for beginners?
Yes, though it’s heavier than entry-level bikes, the friendly power delivery and balanced ergonomics make it beginner-friendly with a little practice.
2. How does the Himalayan 450 perform in rain?
With Rain Mode, ABS, and grippy tyres, it handles wet conditions well, offering safety and confidence.
3. Is the TFT display waterproof?
Yes, it is designed to function in all weather conditions, including heavy rain.
4. What is the service interval for the Himalayan 450?
Royal Enfield recommends service at every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
