My Goan road test ride of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 adventure motorcycle in India
In this post, I share my Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 review. I’ll be the first to admit that I loved the 411 and found that bike a capable machine in the Indian Himalayas last summer.
Read my Himalayan Kingdoms Motorcycle Adventure journey report
The fact that the 411 model is so well known in India, parts are readily available, and almost every mechanic can fix them makes me a little wary of the upgrade.
That said, I love how the new model looks and the bigger engine is a welcome boost to a India’s most established adventure bike.
Let’s get into it…
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 was one of the most anticipated adventure bikes of 2024. With more power, better suspension, and modern features, it’s a big leap from the old Himalayan 411.
But does it really live up to the hype? And more importantly, is it worth buying over its competitors?
After taking the Himalayan 450 on the highways and dusty back roads of North Goa and a smidgen of twisty mountain roads through the Western Ghats, here’s my honest, straight-up review.
First Impressions: Modern Yet Purpose-Built
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 review – seat height and ergonomics
How comfortable is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 for touring?
At first glance, the Himalayan 450 looks more refined than its predecessor. It still has that rugged adventure-tourer DNA but with sleeker bodywork, better aerodynamics, and modern styling.
Some folks say the 450 looks like a bird, but I like it
Lighter Trellis Frame: Better weight distribution for improved handling.
Bigger & More Comfortable Seat: Touring-friendly for long hours in the saddle.
Seat Height: 825mm (adjustable to 845mm) – Tall but manageable for most riders.
Digital TFT Dashboard: Modern, full-color display with Bluetooth navigation.
The ergonomics are spot on, with wide handlebars, a well-cushioned seat, and an upright posture that keeps fatigue at bay on long rides.
As a tall rider, I love the upright riding position and the bird’s eye view of the road. I made one slight adjustment to the angle of the gear pedal to align better on the foot peg with my size 11 Belstaff boot.
Are you ready for a life-changing adventure?
Join me on The Great Himalayan Motorcycle Tour this summer
Engine & Performance: A Big Improvement Over the 411
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 top speed and performance, mileage and fuel efficiency
The most significant change in the Himalayan 450 is the engine. The new 452cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor delivers:
Power: 40 HP @ 8,000 RPM (Up from 24.3 HP in the 411).
Torque: 40 Nm @ 5,500 RPM (More grunt for highway & off-road).
Top Speed: 140 km/h (Much better than the 411’s ~110 km/h).
Gearbox: 6-speed transmission for smoother high-speed cruising.
How does it ride?
City: Smooth, with effortless overtaking power.
Highway: Comfortable cruising at 110-120 km/h (no vibrations!).
Off-road: Strong low-end torque, making steep climbs & tricky terrain easier.
Verdict: The Himalayan 450 finally has enough power for highway touring while keeping the off-road capability intact.
Read my 15000k expedition review of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411
Handling & Off-Road Performance
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 weight and handling
How does the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 handle off-road?
If the 411 was built for off-road, the 450 makes it even better.
Why It’s a Beast Off-Road:
Long-Travel Suspension: USD forks with 200mm travel (absorbs rough terrain better).
Ground Clearance: 230mm – better for rocks, river crossings, and trails.
Lighter Feel: Weight: ~196 kg, slightly lighter than the 411.
21-inch Front & 17-inch Rear Wheels: Proper adventure setup for dirt and sand.
The low-end torque is perfect for technical off-roading, and the chassis feels more balanced than the older 411. The 450 is also better on highways, meaning it’s more versatile overall.
It’s still heavy bike for what it is, but there’s comfort in that – it holds the road well and feels grippy and solid.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a bike to take off the beaten path, this is one of the best in its class.
Here’s a quick walkaround of the Himlayan 450 at the Royal Enfield Garage Cafe showroom in Goa
Tech & Features: Major Upgrade
Best modifications for Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
The Himalayan 450 brings modern adventure tech to the lineup:
Full-Color TFT Display: First on a Royal Enfield – crisp & easy to read.
Turn-by-Turn Navigation: Bluetooth connectivity for seamless directions.
Switchable ABS: You can disable the rear ABS for better off-road control.
Does the Himalayan 450 have ride modes?
Ride Modes? No dedicated ride modes, but engine mapping is well-balanced.
Verdict: This is a massive tech upgrade, perfect for long-distance adventurers.
Fuel Efficiency & Touring Capabilities
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 mileage, fuel efficiency and tank capacity
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 litres (Larger than the 411’s 15L).
Mileage: 30-35 km/l (Real-world riding conditions).
Range: ~500 km per full tank – ideal for long-distance touring.
I’m stoked to take this out into the mountains for a proper expedition. I know from my test ride that the bike will do well over the rough stuff and long-distance rides.
The fuel station at Keylong means that there’s not as much range anxiety for riding up to Ladakh as there used to be. However, a jerry can with five litres of XP95 is recommended even with the bigger tank.
Verdict: Great range for remote touring, fewer fuel stops on adventure rides.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs Competitors
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs KTM 390 Adventure vs Triumph Scrambler 400X
How does it compare to other budget adventure bikes?
Himalayan 450 (₹2.8L / £5,599 / $5,999 / €6,500)
Best for: Adventure touring + off-road capability.
Biggest Strengths: Strong torque, rugged build, comfortable ride.
KTM 390 Adventure (₹3.37L / £7,995 / $7,399 / €7,500)
Best for: Fast adventure touring, lightweight performance.
Biggest Strengths: More tech (ride modes, quick-shifter), faster on highways.
Triumph Scrambler 400X (₹2.99L / £5,795 / $5,695 / €6,200)
Best for: Retro styling + city & mild adventure riding.
Biggest Strengths: Premium brand, stylish design, solid engine.
Verdict: If you prioritize off-road capability and rugged adventure touring, the Himalayan 450 is the best choice.
Read my road test review of the Triumph Scrambler 400x
Should I buy the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
Buy the Himalayan 450 if:
- You want a powerful yet affordable adventure bike.
- You ride a mix of off-road and highways.
- You want a simple, rugged machine for long tours.
Maybe not, if:
- You need more high-tech features (the KTM 390 Adventure has more gadgets).
- You want a super-lightweight bike (the Xpulse 200 is lighter).
- You like the retro styling of a classic marque (the Triumph is more agile and responsive).
Real Big Bike Ride Rating: 9/10
The Himalayan 450 is the best budget adventure bike in India right now. If you’re looking for an all-rounder that can take on any terrain, this is it.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Specs and FAQs
What Are the Disadvantages of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 problems and issues
While the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is an impressive adventure bike, it’s not without its flaws. Here are some disadvantages to consider before buying:
Heavy for Its Class
Weight: ~196 kg (kerb weight) – heavier than KTM 390 Adventure (177 kg) and Hero Xpulse 200 (158 kg).
Impact: It can be challenging to lift if dropped, especially in off-road situations.
No Ride Modes or Traction Control
No dedicated ride modes (unlike the KTM 390 Adventure).
Switchable ABS is only for the rear wheel, but there is no traction control or cornering ABS.
Taller Seat Height
Seat height: 825mm (adjustable to 845mm) – taller than the old 411 (800mm).
Impact: Shorter riders (under 5’7″) may struggle at standstills or slow speeds.
No Quickshifter or Slipper Clutch
The 5-speed gearbox was replaced by a 6-speed, but it still lacks a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts.
KTM 390 Adventure has a quick-shifter, making it better for aggressive riding.
Read this guide: How To Plan An All India Long Distance Motorcycle Trip
More Expensive Than the 411
Himalayan 450 Price: ₹2.8 lakh (~£5,599 / $5,999 / €6,500).
Himalayan 411 Price: ₹2.15 lakh (~£4,949 / $5,449 / €5,500).
Impact: Costs more but offers better performance & tech.
Limited Customization & Aftermarket Parts (For Now)
Since it’s new, there are fewer aftermarket parts & mods compared to the 411.
Limited accessories (though this will improve over time).
Verdict: The Himalayan 450 is a fantastic adventure bike, but if you need something lighter, cheaper, or tech-packed, you might want to consider other options.
Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Expensive to Maintain?
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 maintenance and running cost
No, the Himalayan 450 is not expensive to maintain compared to other adventure motorcycles in its class. However, it does have slightly higher maintenance costs than the older Himalayan 411 due to its new liquid-cooled engine and additional features.
Regular Service Costs
Average service cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 (~£20-£35 / $25-$45 / €25-€40) per service.
Service intervals: Every 5,000 km (minor service) and 10,000 km (primary service).
Comparison: Slightly higher than the Himalayan 411 (~₹1,500-₹2,500 per service) but cheaper than the KTM 390 Adventure (~₹4,000 per service).
In the Royal Enfield Himalayan Group on Facebook, there’s a discussion about the 450 vs 411 full of owner’s insight and recommendations. You may have to request to join.
Spare Parts & Repair Costs
Affordable genuine spare parts – Royal Enfield parts are cheaper than KTM, BMW, or Triumph alternatives.
Easy availability – Royal Enfield has one of the largest service networks in India & globally.
DIY-friendly repairs – Simple mechanics mean most routine maintenance can be done at home.
Potential Higher Costs:
Liquid cooling system – Coolant changes (~₹800-₹1,200) increase maintenance costs slightly compared to the air-cooled Himalayan 411.
USD front forks – More advanced but may cost more to repair/replace if damaged.
Long-Term Reliability
The engine is new, so long-term reliability is still being tested.
Based on early ownership reviews, it seems well-built and has low maintenance.
Verdict: The Himalayan 450 is affordable to maintain compared to premium adventure bikes like KTM, BMW, or Triumph. While it costs slightly more than the Himalayan 411, it remains one of the best value-for-money adventure bikes in terms of maintenance.
Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Comfortable for Long Rides?
How comfortable is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 for touring?
Yes! The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is built for long-distance touring and is one of the most comfortable adventure bikes in its price range.
Comfortable Riding Posture
Upright seating position – Less strain on the back and shoulders.
Wide handlebars – Natural hand positioning reduces wrist fatigue.
Well-cushioned seat – More comfortable than the old 411, great for full-day rides.
Over on the Indian Bikes subreddit, there’s a deep dive into the Himalayan 450 vs 411 machine. You can join the conversation here.
Improved Suspension for Long Rides
Upside-down (USD) Front forks – 200mm travel, soaks up potholes & rough terrain.
Monoshock rear suspension – Improved stability and comfort over long distances.
Seat Comfort & Height Adjustability
Seat height: 825mm (adjustable to 845mm) – Better for taller riders.
Wider, softer seat than the 411 – More support for long hours in the saddle.
Pillion seat also improved – More comfortable for two-up touring.
Fuel Efficiency & Tank Range
Mileage: 30-35 km/l (real-world conditions).
Tank size: 17 litres (~500 km range) – Fewer fuel stops on long rides.
Wind Protection & Ergonomics
Tall windscreen – Reduces wind blast at highway speeds.
Relaxed footpeg position – Prevents knee strain on long rides.
Verdict: A Touring-Ready Adventure Bike
The Himalayan 450 is one of the most comfortable bikes for long rides, thanks to its ergonomics, suspension, and fuel range.
Is the Himalayan 450 good for long-distance travel?
However, riders under 5’7″ may find the seat height a bit tall.
If you’re looking for a touring-friendly adventure bike, the Himalayan 450 is a great choice!
Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Good for a Ladakh Trip?
Is the Himalayan 450 the Best adventure bike for Ladakh?
Yes! The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is among the best motorcycles for a Ladakh trip. Built for rugged terrain, high-altitude riding, and long-distance touring, it improves upon the Himalayan 411’s legendary Ladakh-ready capabilities with more power, better handling, and modern features.
Can the Himalayan 450 handle high altitude?
More Power & Better High-Altitude Performance
40 HP & 40 Nm torque – Stronger than the 411 (24.3 HP), handles steep climbs better.
Fuel-injected, liquid-cooled engine – More reliable at high altitudes than air-cooled bikes.
6-speed gearbox – Easier highway cruising compared to the 411’s 5-speed.
Superior Off-Road & Trail Capability
Why the Himalayan 450 is Perfect for Ladakh
21-inch front wheel, 17-inch rear wheel – Ideal for Ladakh’s rocky terrain & river crossings.
USD front forks (200mm travel) – Absorbs potholes and rough trails better than the old 411.
230mm ground clearance – No scraping over high rocks or bad roads.
Fuel Range & Efficiency for Remote Areas
17-litre fuel tank (~500 km Range) – Fewer fuel stops in Ladakh’s remote stretches.
Mileage: 30-35 km/l – Good for high-altitude riding.
Fuel injection ensures smooth performance at high altitudes.
Touring Comfort for Long Rides
Comfortable upright seating & wide handlebars – Reduces fatigue on long rides.
Well-padded, wider seat – More comfortable than the 411 for full-day rides.
Tall windscreen – Protects against wind blast at high speeds.
Reliability & Easy Repairs
Strong Royal Enfield service network – Many mechanics & spare parts available in Ladakh.
Air-cooled bikes struggle at high altitudes – The 450’s liquid-cooled engine prevents overheating.
Things to Consider Before a Ladakh Ride
Weight (~196 kg) – Heavier than a Hero Xpulse 200, but manageable.
Seat Height (825 mm-845 mm) – Taller riders will love it, but shorter riders (under 5’7″) might struggle.
Limited fuel stations in Ladakh – Carry extra fuel cans for longer off-road routes.
Ladakh Verdict: The Himalayan 450 is One of the Best Bikes for Ladakh
More power, better off-road capability, and a high-altitude-friendly engine make the Himalayan 450 an ideal adventure bike for Ladakh.
If planning a Ladakh ride, the Himalayan 450 is one of the best choices for tackling high passes, off-road trails, and long highway stretches!
Read my road report from Riding a Royal Enfield in the Himalayas
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Specifications (2024 Model)
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 specs, engine performance, top speed and weight
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is a next-gen adventure bike, built for high-altitude riding, off-road performance, and long-distance touring. Here are the full specifications:
Engine & Performance
- Engine: 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC
- Power Output: 40 HP @ 8,000 RPM
- Torque: 40 Nm @ 5,500 RPM
- Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
- Gearbox: 6-speed transmission with slipper clutch
- Top Speed: ~140 km/h (tested)
- Mileage: 30-35 km/l (real-world conditions)
Chassis & Dimensions
- Frame: Trellis frame (lighter & stronger than 411)
- Weight: ~196 kg (kerb weight)
- Seat Height: 825mm (adjustable to 845mm)
- Ground Clearance: 230mm (great for off-roading)
- Wheelbase: 1,510mm
Suspension & Brakes
- Front Suspension: USD forks (Upside-down) – 43mm, 200mm travel
- Rear Suspension: Mono-shock with linkage, 180mm travel
- Front Brake: 320mm disc, dual-piston caliper (ABS)
- Rear Brake: 270mm disc, single-piston caliper (ABS)
- ABS: Dual-channel (switchable rear ABS for off-road riding)
Wheels & Tires
- Front Tire: 90/90-21 (Spoke wheels)
- Rear Tire: 140/80-17 (Spoke wheels)
- Tire Type: Dual-purpose adventure tires (semi-knobby)
- Fuel & Touring Capability
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 liters
- Range: ~500 km per tank (ideal for long tours)
- Instrument Cluster: Full-color TFT display with Bluetooth navigation
- Charging Port: USB port for mobile/GPS charging
Features & Electronics
- Lighting: Full LED setup (headlight, tail light, indicators)
- Navigation: Turn-by-turn Tripper Navigation (Bluetooth connectivity)
- Traction Control: No traction control
- Ride Modes: No dedicated ride modes, but well-tuned engine mapping
- Switchable ABS: Yes (Rear ABS can be disabled for off-road use)
Verdict: Is the Himalayan 450 Worth It?
More powerful, smoother, and more comfortable than the Himalayan 411.
A perfect upgrade for adventure riders who want modern features and great off-road ability.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 vs 450: Which Adventure Bike Wins?
Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 vs 450 comparison – which is the better ADV bike for India?
Over the years, I’ve put countless miles behind me on rugged terrains, from Ladakh’s rocky trails to Spiti’s high passes. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is the newest adventure bike in the market, but how does it compare to the tried-and-tested Royal Enfield Himalayan 411? Is it worth the upgrade?
Let’s break it down in this detailed Himalayan 450 vs 411 comparison review.
Design & Build: Rugged Meets Refined
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 seat height and comfort
At first glance, both bikes look ready for adventure. The Himalayan 411 keeps the classic Royal Enfield rugged aesthetic—exposed frame, high front fender, and minimalist styling. The Himalayan 450, however, introduces a more modern adventure touring look, with a sleeker design, improved aerodynamics, and a taller stance.
Read my trip report from My Awesome Six Month Motorcycle Tour of India
Seat Height & Comfort
Himalayan 411: 800mm seat height – great for average riders.
Himalayan 450: 825mm (adjustable) – better for taller riders but still manageable for most.
Verdict: If you prefer old-school aesthetics, the Himalayan 411 wins. But for a more modern, highway-friendly adventure touring bike, the Himalayan 450 is better.
Engine Performance
Does the 450 Have More Power?
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs 411 top speed and performance
The Himalayan 411 runs on a 411cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, producing 24.3 HP and 32 Nm torque. It’s reliable but struggles on highways beyond 100 km/h.
The Himalayan 450 introduces a new 452cc liquid-cooled engine with 40 HP and 37 Nm torque. That’s nearly 60% more power!
Top speed: 411 maxes out at ~110 km/h; 450 can cruise at 120+ km/h easily.
Torque: The 450 feels more responsive, especially on steep climbs.
Gearbox: The 6-speed transmission on the 450 makes highway rides smoother.
Verdict: The Himalayan 450 is a clear winner in engine performance. If you want more speed and better highway cruising, go for the 450.
Handling & Off-Road Capability
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs 411 off-road review
How does the Himalayan 450 handle off-road?
Both bikes are built for off-road, but there are some key differences:
Himalayan 411: 21-inch Front & 17-inch rear wheels, soft suspension, great for rocky trails.
Himalayan 450: Improved suspension, adjustable USD forks, and better stability.
The 450 feels more agile, while the 411 has a softer ride. If you do more technical off-road riding, the Himalayan 450 is better.
Planning your overland adventure?
Tech & Features: Old-School vs. Modern Adventure
What are the after-market modification options for the Himalayan 450?
Best modifications for Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs 411
Himalayan 411: Basic analog-digital dash, trip meter, and fuel gauge.
Himalayan 450: Full TFT display, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride modes.
The 450 is more tech-packed, while the 411 sticks to simplicity. If you like gadget-free riding, the 411 is for you.
Fuel Efficiency & Touring Range
How is the Himalayan 450 fuel efficiency and mileage for off-road mountain trails
Himalayan 411: 30-35 km/l with a 15-litre tank (~450 km range).
Himalayan 450: Similar mileage, but the larger fuel tank gives a slightly longer range.
For long-distance adventure touring in India (like Ladakh or Spiti), both bikes are good, but the 450 offers a slight edge.
Pricing & Value: Which Bike is Worth the Money?
Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 worth it?
Which one to buy, ride or rent: Himalayan 411 or Himalayan 450?
Himalayan 411: ₹2.15 lakh (~$2,600 USD/£)
Himalayan 450: ₹2.8 lakh (~$3,500 USD)
For the price, the 411 is unbeatable for budget-conscious riders. But if you want modern features and better performance, the 450 is worth the extra cash.
I’ll choose the Himalayan 450 for my motorcycle tours in India. The 411 is a great bike, but the 450 is the better for short-term rental.
What I Loved vs. What Could Be Better
What I Loved:
Himalayan 411: Affordable, classic look, ultra-reliable engine.
Himalayan 450: More power, modern tech, great for highway & off-road.
What Could Be Better:
Himalayan 411: Heavy, lacks highway speed, outdated tech.
Himalayan 450: Pricier, seat height may not suit shorter riders.
Last Word: Which One Should You Choose?
If you want affordable, no-frills adventure riding, go for the Himalayan 411. It’s tested, simple, and reliable for off-road adventurers on a budget.
But if you want more power, better highway capability, and modern features, the Himalayan 450 is the better buy. It’s the next-gen Royal Enfield adventure bike and worth the upgrade.
For me? The Himalayan 450 is my pick. It’s the best Royal Enfield adventure bike yet, and I’d take it on my next big ride without hesitation.
Looking for an organised trip?
TLDR; Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 FAQs
Is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 better than the 411?
Yes, the 450 offers more power, better handling, and modern tech, making it a better choice for most riders.
What is the top speed of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
The Himalayan 450 has a top speed of ~140 km/h, while the 411 maxes out at ~110 km/h.
Is the Himalayan 450 good for beginners?
Yes, despite its power boost, the Himalayan 450 is beginner-friendly and easier to handle than the 411.
How does the Himalayan 450 compare to the KTM 390 Adventure?
The KTM 390 Adventure is faster and more high-tech, but the Himalayan 450 is better for rugged off-road conditions.
Have you ridden the Himalayan 450? Share your review in the comments: