I agree Jim... the himalayan is the land rover defender of motorbikes. It was said that the land rover defender is like a Christmas tree and u get to decorate it... the himalayan is the same, the kinda vehicle that one can bolt anything to and it still looks good. Makes one dream of far off adventures.
I’m in the process of looking for a bike now after a 20 year layoff due to work and family commitments, I have looked at this bike a few times but the lack of power is really off putting. I think 7-10 HP more and this could be the only bike anyone would need, it’s so frustrating. Bikes have become so expensive that most motorcycle manufacturers are pricing themselves out of new or returning bikers! It’s so refreshing that Royal Enfield are trying to make motorbikes accessible again for the working man.
Hi Ian. I can understand your frustration if you need to travel regularly on faster roads and have it be your only bike. The Himalayan certainly encourages the quiet road less traveled. If I bought one - which is an intriguing idea - I'd do so with the explicit intent of finding dirt roads and pavement w/speeds of 45 mph or less. And I'd be a lot less worried about dinging it up practicing different skills after an off-road course. The adventure market does currently favor more of everything - like the SUV market worldwide - with prices to match. The effect for many has been to take these bikes off-road less and less for fear of damage. That's why, despite its shortcomings, the Himalayan is a unique machine in my view. Happy hunting.
Ian, I have had 2 BMW adventures and I now have a Himalayan, it will do 80mph tops but will happily do 65 - 70mph all day long, my advice would be to have a test ride, you’ll enjoy it I’m sure 😃👍🏻
Thanks for all the reply’s guys, I’m still looking but I’m finding it really difficult to find a modern dual sport motorcycle that I can use on the highway as well as being capable off road? Why is that? The older bikes hold their value so well that it makes me feel like I should just buy new for the price difference but I just can’t find anything that is affordable as well as capable, am I asking too much?
A good review.. after a year I'm still happy with my purchase, a perfect blue hwys explorer and off-road Billy goat that's more than adequate for it's intended purpose with tons of character. Having grown up around split window VW vans, I'm used to adjusting valves and taking a run at hills! the REH is a huge power upgrade and just as much fun. 😁
Thanks so much for this fun and informative review. After this I’m 100% this will be my next bike. I’ve had a few junk bikes to learn on since i started at the beginning of covid. Now I feel it’s time to get serious. I was looking at the following factors - Support and suitability for beginner to int rider. - practicality for me and a pillion - price range - my ability to grow as a rider - fun - go anyway ability And i think this bike comes out on top. It will go anywhere with ample low end torque. Its like a diesel tank. It is off road ready with its wheel size and spokes and grunt and tires and theres plenty of room for me to grow as a rider on it. Honestly (it may be that I’m a newer rider) I never felt it’s lack of power. Especially when compared to my previous 300 250 and 155 cc bikes. I think this will work for me. At least until I’m ready for the next step.
Picked up a 2019 Himalayan last weekend. I'm really enjoying it. Having never ridden the 2018 version i cant say how different it is but i feel like they fixed the front brake issue. Just a little pressure on the break lever and i can feel the tire slowing. As a new rider it has a nice feel to it and i can't wait to find some dirt trails i can take it on. My only real complaint is the mirrors, i cant tilt them far enough forward to actual see behind me properly.
Congrats and welcome to the sport! It is very easy to ride and now you can go anywhere. Interesting about the front brake. For the mirrors, there are aftermarket items that I'm sure will work and not break the bank. Thanks for commenting and enjoy!
Loosen the bolts on the handlebar where the mirror joins it and you can tilt the whole thing back... moves the brake/clutch lever too so make sure you get it right. Had the same issue with my mirrors bought it off someone smaller than me.
I see you do not have the foot peg rubbers on, i feel no vibration on my Himalayan with them fitted but your spot on with that front brake (strong hand needed) Very good review i agree with all of your points!
Thank you. The owner removed them because they were too slippery after traversing water. I only experienced some vibes above 5.5k. Overall, the bike was smoother than expected.
BZ good review reminds me of my MZ days many moons ago. I am being tempted to buy one. My dad had a Royal Enfield (original) just after Ww2 he also went extensive touring round the UK
Thank you for commenting and I'm tempted by one as well. I always love hearing stories of longer tours around someone's homeland. I'm sure there were some great stories. If you prefer pavement only, be sure to take a look at the firm's 650cc bikes. Great values all around.
Plus the fact that when 'The Long Way Round' was made, this bikes were not even thought of, let alone available to buy. I think the first model (BS3) came out in early 2017. Ewan and Charlie are, however, in the process of making "The Long Way Up' and have chosen to do the journey on HD Electric bikes when, it would have been fun to see them doing it on a budget 'adventure bike' like the Himalayan. So, I think ' A Taste For The Road ' has a point about 'theatre' for the TV. Still, I'll watch the program whatever they ride.
@@Jaffa1951 Agreed. I think the end product will be enjoyable to watch, but like you I believe it would be more relatable had they (or their producers) made different choices. In the meantime, we have Itchy Boots and a chance to see her blow by them in her "little" adventure bike.
geoff newman True. As for Ewan and Charlie -I have absolutely no interest in electric bikes at this point, so I’ll pass on this adventure and stick with Itchy Boots.
Funny you should ask. I was at my local Triumph dealer on Saturday for a demo day and got two "laps" around an office park on one. Not enough to learn anything, but it looks promising. I'd certainly enjoy one to test for the day.
I enjoyed your review here quite a bit. I will certainly have a look at what other video material you may have as it appears you have a talent for this sort of dialog. I think one of these Enfields would be a great "second bike". Maybe not the one you take on trips with your chums, but it could be the one you hop on mid-week when you want to just go check something out and ride alone. My happy speed for that kind of solo day- touring seems to be about 46-48 mph if i'm being honest.
JP - thanks for commenting. I agree the REH would make an excellent 2nd bike for back lanes, dirt roads, and for checking out the scenery. Have a great weekend. Cheers.
Just subbed your ch...nice roads your on.. very like UK..where I live...I've himalayan and the best compliment I can give the bike is its like a modern but simple replacment for my honda xl250r ... cheers from dave
Roy - the REH has a seat height of 31.5". There is also a tall/comfort seat option. The owner I rented the bike from is 6'2". So, I think the bike would work just fine. The best strategy is to go test one and see how the rider triangle feels to you. And determine which seat is most comfortable.
@@roywalls5595 Ah. But it doesn't sound like you're interested in a trike. I found the RE quite easy to manage so I say give it a test ride and see how it feels.
What's your take on this inexpensive adventure machine in developed markets and would you challenge yourself more on this affordable bike or on a more sophisticated/expensive adventure motorcycle?
I know I'd go down and go down fairly frequently off road, dirt road, trails, etc. so cheap and easy to repair (and light enough to push LOL) would be the way I'd go. I would like to trade my V2K for one of these. Excellent review.
I followed Itchy Boots across the Middle East on her Himalayan, and must say it rather endeared me to it. I currently own/ride a Honda NC750 DCT, but when it is ready to be replaced the Himalayan is up there on my list of possible alternatives, although the Honda will take a lot of beating.
It's the Land Rover of motorcycles, not the modern day Land Rover, but the one we've seen on the plains of Africa.
Jim - this one is pretty inexpensive and reliable. They both look cool and are very functional.
I agree Jim... the himalayan is the land rover defender of motorbikes. It was said that the land rover defender is like a Christmas tree and u get to decorate it... the himalayan is the same, the kinda vehicle that one can bolt anything to and it still looks good. Makes one dream of far off adventures.
@@paulkruger3070 nahh, its a good old Series 2, the Defenders were rubbish
I’ve been looking for a bike to do the Tans America Trail with someday. This could be a riot to try it with. Hmm.
I think it would make a very good choice w/mods that suit your needs. Pick up a low mileage 2nd hand one and you'd save even more and be on your way.
I’m in the process of looking for a bike now after a 20 year layoff due to work and family commitments, I have looked at this bike a few times but the lack of power is really off putting. I think 7-10 HP more and this could be the only bike anyone would need, it’s so frustrating. Bikes have become so expensive that most motorcycle manufacturers are pricing themselves out of new or returning bikers! It’s so refreshing that Royal Enfield are trying to make motorbikes accessible again for the working man.
Hi Ian. I can understand your frustration if you need to travel regularly on faster roads and have it be your only bike. The Himalayan certainly encourages the quiet road less traveled. If I bought one - which is an intriguing idea - I'd do so with the explicit intent of finding dirt roads and pavement w/speeds of 45 mph or less. And I'd be a lot less worried about dinging it up practicing different skills after an off-road course.
The adventure market does currently favor more of everything - like the SUV market worldwide - with prices to match. The effect for many has been to take these bikes off-road less and less for fear of damage. That's why, despite its shortcomings, the Himalayan is a unique machine in my view. Happy hunting.
Ian, I have had 2 BMW adventures and I now have a Himalayan, it will do 80mph tops but will happily do 65 - 70mph all day long, my advice would be to have a test ride, you’ll enjoy it I’m sure 😃👍🏻
Myabe you have two choices, you can buy the interceptor 650, or wait for the himalayan 650 (this is a rumor for now)
Thanks for all the reply’s guys, I’m still looking but I’m finding it really difficult to find a modern dual sport motorcycle that I can use on the highway as well as being capable off road? Why is that? The older bikes hold their value so well that it makes me feel like I should just buy new for the price difference but I just can’t find anything that is affordable as well as capable, am I asking too much?
@@iangriffiths9930 or You can try a Suzuki Vstrom 650.
A good review.. after a year I'm still happy with my purchase, a perfect blue hwys explorer and off-road Billy goat that's more than adequate for it's intended purpose with tons of character. Having grown up around split window VW vans, I'm used to adjusting valves and taking a run at hills! the REH is a huge power upgrade and just as much fun. 😁
Excellent. Enjoy!
Fair review. I'm loving mine. In Australia they are $6999 with carby. Efi model is about $7500.
Thank you and I'm glad to hear you're enjoying the bike. I know motos can be expensive in Australia. Our pricing doesn't include any state/local VAT.
Is it true that there are tons of REH available in used market in Au?
Thanks so much for this fun and informative review.
After this I’m 100% this will be my next bike.
I’ve had a few junk bikes to learn on since i started at the beginning of covid. Now I feel it’s time to get serious.
I was looking at the following factors
- Support and suitability for beginner to int rider.
- practicality for me and a pillion
- price range
- my ability to grow as a rider
- fun
- go anyway ability
And i think this bike comes out on top.
It will go anywhere with ample low end torque. Its like a diesel tank. It is off road ready with its wheel size and spokes and grunt and tires and theres plenty of room for me to grow as a rider on it.
Honestly (it may be that I’m a newer rider) I never felt it’s lack of power. Especially when compared to my previous 300 250 and 155 cc bikes.
I think this will work for me. At least until I’m ready for the next step.
You're welcome and happy hunting for YOUR bike! Happy Holidays as well.
Picked up a 2019 Himalayan last weekend. I'm really enjoying it. Having never ridden the 2018 version i cant say how different it is but i feel like they fixed the front brake issue. Just a little pressure on the break lever and i can feel the tire slowing. As a new rider it has a nice feel to it and i can't wait to find some dirt trails i can take it on. My only real complaint is the mirrors, i cant tilt them far enough forward to actual see behind me properly.
Congrats and welcome to the sport! It is very easy to ride and now you can go anywhere. Interesting about the front brake. For the mirrors, there are aftermarket items that I'm sure will work and not break the bank. Thanks for commenting and enjoy!
Loosen the bolts on the handlebar where the mirror joins it and you can tilt the whole thing back... moves the brake/clutch lever too so make sure you get it right. Had the same issue with my mirrors bought it off someone smaller than me.
If you can't tilt the mirror, tilt the stem.
I see you do not have the foot peg rubbers on, i feel no vibration on my Himalayan with them fitted but your spot on with that front brake (strong hand needed)
Very good review i agree with all of your points!
Thank you. The owner removed them because they were too slippery after traversing water. I only experienced some vibes above 5.5k. Overall, the bike was smoother than expected.
BZ good review reminds me of my MZ days many moons ago. I am being tempted to buy one. My dad had a Royal Enfield (original) just after Ww2 he also went extensive touring round the UK
Thank you for commenting and I'm tempted by one as well. I always love hearing stories of longer tours around someone's homeland. I'm sure there were some great stories. If you prefer pavement only, be sure to take a look at the firm's 650cc bikes. Great values all around.
I always said, Ewan and Charlie should have taken these bikes instead of those big, heavy BMWs.
True. But good TV is about theater, not functionality. BMW gained a lot by sponsoring them and we'll see if HD will accomplish the same.
A Taste for the Road good point. And KTM May have lost a few as well. But, I’m sure KTM is still doing fine. Haha
Plus the fact that when 'The Long Way Round' was made, this bikes were not even thought of, let alone available to buy. I think the first model (BS3) came out in early 2017. Ewan and Charlie are, however, in the process of making "The Long Way Up' and have chosen to do the journey on HD Electric bikes when, it would have been fun to see them doing it on a budget 'adventure bike' like the Himalayan. So, I think ' A Taste For The Road ' has a point about 'theatre' for the TV. Still, I'll watch the program whatever they ride.
@@Jaffa1951 Agreed. I think the end product will be enjoyable to watch, but like you I believe it would be more relatable had they (or their producers) made different choices. In the meantime, we have Itchy Boots and a chance to see her blow by them in her "little" adventure bike.
geoff newman True. As for Ewan and Charlie -I have absolutely no interest in electric bikes at this point, so I’ll pass on this adventure and stick with Itchy Boots.
Will you review the Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro?
Funny you should ask. I was at my local Triumph dealer on Saturday for a demo day and got two "laps" around an office park on one. Not enough to learn anything, but it looks promising. I'd certainly enjoy one to test for the day.
I enjoyed your review here quite a bit.
I will certainly have a look at what other video material you may have as it appears you have a talent for this sort of dialog. I think one of these Enfields would be a great "second bike". Maybe not the one you take on trips with your chums, but it could be the one you hop on mid-week when you want to just go check something out and ride alone. My happy speed for that kind of solo day- touring seems to be about 46-48 mph if i'm being honest.
JP - thanks for commenting. I agree the REH would make an excellent 2nd bike for back lanes, dirt roads, and for checking out the scenery. Have a great weekend. Cheers.
Just subbed your ch...nice roads your on.. very like UK..where I live...I've himalayan and the best compliment I can give the bike is its like a modern but simple replacment for my honda xl250r ... cheers from dave
Dave - thanks for subscribing! The bike has limitations but as a machine to get you anywhere at an affordable price - it's compelling.
thank you sir
🇮🇳🙏
Nice road.
True - quiet and fun to ride.
I am research Royal Enfield Himalayan because most motorcycle to low the ground stand 6`1" !
Roy - the REH has a seat height of 31.5". There is also a tall/comfort seat option. The owner I rented the bike from is 6'2". So, I think the bike would work just fine. The best strategy is to go test one and see how the rider triangle feels to you. And determine which seat is most comfortable.
@@atastefortheroad4475 Thanks. I been wearing knee brace 16 yrs. Lot people tell me get a Trike?
@@roywalls5595 Ah. But it doesn't sound like you're interested in a trike. I found the RE quite easy to manage so I say give it a test ride and see how it feels.
@@atastefortheroad4475 I got super cub going test out but first need get over the flu!
@@roywalls5595 Sorry to hear about the flu. Had the same 2 weeks ago. I'd enjoy riding a super cub. Get better and go riding!
What's your take on this inexpensive adventure machine in developed markets and would you challenge yourself more on this affordable bike or on a more sophisticated/expensive adventure motorcycle?
I know I'd go down and go down fairly frequently off road, dirt road, trails, etc. so cheap and easy to repair (and light enough to push LOL) would be the way I'd go. I would like to trade my V2K for one of these. Excellent review.
I followed Itchy Boots across the Middle East on her Himalayan, and must say it rather endeared me to it. I currently own/ride a Honda NC750 DCT, but when it is ready to be replaced the Himalayan is up there on my list of possible alternatives, although the Honda will take a lot of beating.
"Performance" and "Himalayan" in the same sentence ... lmao
"himalian" lol