Nice review! My youngest son and his partner rode 15,000 miles over Europe last year, both riding Himalayans. They did their own servicing and tyre changing en route. Much of the riding was off-road. From Gibraltar in the South to Finland in the North, thirty-five countries in Europe over a four month journey. They did mainly camping, interspersed with some stays with frIends and frIendly locals! The only mechanical problem was a broken (after-market) pannier frame on one of the bikes, quickly welded up by a local bike mechanic. The Himalayan is not a cruiser, although mine will hold 70 mph all day. (That;s UK miles) The point of the Himalayan is its ability on country roads and rough tracks. And its day to day usability. And you can service it yourself. And it's economical to run. And it's just a brilliant bike! I'll shut up now. Take care, love and peace.
You have some great ideas! A lot of which I’ve not seen anymore talk about. And I’ve watched hundreds of videos about improving the Himalayan. Thanks for this.
I fixed my stalling by fixing the electrical grounds. Remove the gas tank to expose the chassis grounds. The ground points on the frame (ALL) are powder coated :( and need to be sanded so that the terminals can be grounded to the chassis properly. This includes the ignition coil grounding and ALL of the ground/Battery negative connections on the whole bike, ( Under seat, on the cylender... ect.) I own a 2022 RE Hemi :)
The red star really balances out the tank. The two tone tanks just look awkward and unbalance to me but you fixed it perfectly. She's a beauty. This video is a great unpretentious, real world, user review, that sums up this bike. Thanks.
That this bike is so approachable, well-balanced, easy to use, comfortable, and competent on many surfaces makes it my favorite of all I have tried previously for the kind of riding I use it for.
Your review is Spot on! This is indeed a great motorcycle, under rated to a great extent. I have used this on long rides. My opinion of the Himalayan, enhanced when i went on a 10 day rides with my buddies in the Himalayas. The motorcycle just kept going with no complaints. Two days of off road riding saw the bike performing without any failures. Great bike indeed!
You rode your Himalayan in the Himalayas? Wow, I'm envious! It's a great motorcycle. I've just crossed the 16k mile mark with mine and she's running great. Wahoo!
Considering buying a pair of these for my wife and I to go motor camping and exploring. Both of us have over 40 years of riding experience and anything over 70 mph is past us. Just waiting to have heart surgery in 2 weeks and then we are going to be looking.
I've absolutely enjoyed the one I have. Over 15,000 miles on it in a year. I've owned dozens of motorcycles and consider this one to be my overall favorite. Can't say enough good about them. Wahoo!
I bought one to try it after owning an Armstrong 500MT ex military bike. Before that I owned and rode BMW, Triumph, Ducati and Honda big trail bikes from 750cc to 1200cc. I can say hand on heart that this little slow Indian manufactured motorcycle has given me the happiest motorcycle experiences I have had since I was a lad. I ride along the road and when I see a track or road I haven’t been on before, I just ride it for the fun of it. On the bigger bikes I guess I just rode by without really seeing them. Both of mine (one in the UK and now in Australia) have been trouble free. I might buy other bikes in the future, but I will not part with one of these. It’s given me back a joy in motorcycling I never thought I had lost until I rode one. 😍😍😍😍
I agree totally. This little low powered & slow bike will do everything I want...except go fast. It's the bike I go to 90% of the time. Love this thing. Wahoo!
I only have 1000 miles on my 2022 Himalayan but I wholeheartedly concur with you about the Himalayan being the most fun motorcycle I've ever ridden. And so far, mine has had zero issues at all. It never stalled, no rattles or vibrations, and I did the first service myself -- valve adjustment, oil and filter change, and all the other stuff that went along with it. The motorcycle is so simple mechanically that service is easy. The only real issue I've faced is with the stock CEAT tires on unpaved roads with large, loose gravel. The tires tend to squirm a bit but with practice and experience it will be less of an issue. On regular gravel roads it's fine. And you're right, if you want a fast motorcycle, this isn't what you should choose. But I''m happy living below 70mph. And for most rides I'm doing I ride much slower than that. Thanks for sharing your thoughts in the video. I always enjoy watching!
It's a fun motorcycle and does everything; love exploring on the Himalayan. I liked the feel of the Ceat tires but did wear out the back one in 4400 miles, am still sporting the Ceat on front with 12,000 miles and am about to change it out. Large gravel is a challenge even with the Dunlop. Love the quality of your videos and often wonder how you're able to do it so well. Thank you! Love the Vespa vids too. Wahoo!
@@forgottenmotorcycles I hope I get as many miles out of the tires as you have. Time will tell. The large gravel is gratefully not common here. I'm not sure why it was used on the route of my most recent ride. Maybe the Bureau of Forestry got a deal on some highway project ballast leftovers. I'm still sorting out how to shoot videos. It's fun. The real challenge for me is the idea behind them. It makes my brain itch!
I find that this is the best motorcycle you’ve owned to be quite interesting. I seem to remember seeing a Versys 650 in your garage which many like as their favorite, so I’m impressed. It’s not about speed but the ride. Definitely starting to seriously consider one.
Loved that Versys, it was great fun. Problem was I kept finding myself with the front wheel in the air or the speedo showing triple digits. It did it well and I do miss her. The Himalayan is a different kind of all around fun. Which bike is funner? I'm not sure. Did trade off the Versys about 7 weeks ago. I'd put about 6000 miles on her in 2+ months. Great bike. Wahoo!
I have a 2022 Himalayan. I had the stalling issue at first. Dealer didn't address it at first service. I did a valve adjustment (both too tight), readjusted throttle position sensor to .60 (factory spec) and got an NGK iridium plug..... No issues since with 6000 miles..... Enjoyed the video.... thanks
The stalling issue comes from RE packing way too much Lithium grease in the relays and other connections... Every RE I own the first thing I do is to go through the relays and clean out all of the grease and then recoat the dielectric grease. The problem with Lithium is when it starts to dry and harden keeps the electrical current from getting thru hence the stalling or cutting out.
Great review. I agree funniest motorcycle I've ever owned. I grew up on a ranch in rural South Dakota and now live in Sturgis. The roar the ride the rally is the new slogan. My father always said the closest thing you'll get to riding a horse is a motorcycle. Sir Edward Dark Horse...we have some exploring to do.
Thanks fuzzy ❤ I'm very tempted as in the UK they are on special offer as the new one has been released but will be £2000 more in price 😮 But I like the bare bone functionality of the old model and all of the issues have been sorted over the years .... Best wishes from the UK
I think that's the usual fix for it, the stalling. However, are my motorcycle it was something more. I believe they changed the computer. Works great now :-)
My Himalayan is a 2019 and just passed 9000 miles (shorter driving season in Canada) But I completely agree with everything you said. It is just a fun bike. Maintenance is simple (check air pressure occasionally and change oil every 2500 miles - only checked valves twice but both times they were good). I'm on my second back tire but front is still ok. I did front brake pads 2 weeks ago in 7 minutes! I love it. Happy riding!
They are wonderful motorcycles. The easy maintenance and rugged build were strong reasons for choosing this bike. Of course, the main reason was the fun factor. Love everything about it. How did your old brake pads look? Wahoo!
My 2022 had serious stalling issue. So much that I feared riding it. After 4 visits to dealers (2) the 2nd dlr sent ecm back to factory for re programming. Has run great since . 5k miles on it now.
That stalling problem is/was a pain. Really love the bike and didn't want to give it up. Very happy that they were able to fix it. At 17,500+ miles now. Wahoo!
Great review!! Proper riders view of the Himalayan, now confirmed as the ONLY bike I would swap for my RE classic 500. Like you I have owned a shed load of bikes (34 at the last count) and tried loads of friends bikes, never missed a year on the road since 1972. Thanks for talking a lot of sense with no waffle.
Thank you, Sir. Have rode a few 500 RE singles, including a 1957 model, and loved every mile on them. Wonderful bikes. PS I think the first time I actually rode a bike on my own was about 1972. Hot wired Dads honda while he was out of town. Wahoo!
Thank you for sharing your experience with the bike. It is one brand that I am considering going back to riding (I am 77 with incurable itchy feet 😂) My main consideration is a bike that I can lift straight up when I drop it. Is one point that future solo drivers overlook. I live in Australia and follow one photographer, Joe Ryan who loves exploring in his Himalayan that perhaps you like to see his videos. Have a look them, for sure you will find them interesting. Cheers from Tasmania, Australia
I shall check Joe Ryan out. Thanks. I have a Himalayan and a Classic 350, both would make good back road machines. The Himalayan would do better on the rougher roads and areas. Wahoo!
Heck that's just right up the road :-) baxter cycle is just 3 miles off exit 51 on interstate 80. I bike up to Sioux City often.... When the weather isn't quite so cold LOL
I agree too. Just past 3100 miles on my 21 and my poor HD has not been used in months. I find I don't miss the speed and the small niggles are easily fixed.
Good review. I did 11k miles on my Himalayan last year, the most I've done on any bike in the last 40 years so I'd have to agree it's the most smiles per mile.
I bought a blue/white one 2nd hand. 1 year old with 538 miles on it. £1000 worth of extras fitted for £1000 less than new. My 11k miles included a 2.5k mile trip to the south of France from Scotland. I've had no real issues with it and got another planned trip into the Artic Circle in Norway in June.
I have to say I agree 100% It's a really fun bike gust got mine lately have also had a lot of bikes in the past but this him is class It's my go to bike for almost everything thanks for you review Arnold from ireland.
Great review really interesting upgrades and I like your color scheme .. I got mine new last week but haven't rode it yet due to the snow we get, but looking forward to springtime, I will make my own racks and have some soft panniers. I've be riding bikes since 11 years old and nearly 60 now.... I don't need speed and never did, the Enfield will be perfect for me,lots of Gravel and forest roads here. Greetings from Latvia and gave you a subscription 👍.... Harry
You're gonna love that bike. I love mine. Put about 125 miles on her today and finally crossed the 16,000 mile mark with here. Like you, I've owned my share of bikes...this one is my favorite. Wahoo!
These are a no name off brand bag that I picked up on amazon. Have the same bags on my Sportster. They do work well. Search this on amazon: waltyotur Motorcycle PU Leather
I agree .. funnest motorcycle.. my everyday everywhere ( except the track😅) anytime bike… agree maximum smiles per mile… great video and explanation .. good job
Hey man, great video. I like the air pressure sensor mod u have. Ill be buying this bike to go from Florida to Argentina! Hope I can make it :) Im certain of it
Hey that sounds like one heck of a trip. Call baxter cycle they'll give you a heck of a deal on that bike. I replace the pressure sensors I had with a different brand that has a reader that I mounted to the dash. That way of constant monitoring available. Wahoo!
Love the review, love the bike. Have been researching a lot of small adventures and keep coming back to the RE. Love the look. I own a MG V7 850 stone and a fan of retro styles. My only concern is the 24 hp. If only the added 10 more it would be a no brainer. Even pay 1k more for that.
I worried about that horsepower number before buying. Dealer let me the bike for 180 miles and I fell in love with it. It does have a limit I generally do not cruise at over 65 or 70 miles an hour for very long. It will cruise at 65 and 70 all day. Interesting side note; I tried to buy a Pan American and the deal fell through before I bought the Himalayan. Getting the Himalayan was the best thing have happened and I've never regretted it. Would love to take a V7 for a ride. Heard great things about that bike.
I bought my first bike last year. Wanted a Royal Enfield and was obsessing over them for a couple months, test rode every model, couldn’t decide, wanted them all. Test rode a V7 and instantly bought it. It “spoke to me.” 900 miles later, the V7 is amazing and I love it. But I’ve still been thinking about the Himalayan the whole time. Bought one yesterday. Haha. Rode it home 2 hours from the dealer. Good times. I think my 2 bikes will do everything I would ever want to do. Of course I’ll always research other bikes and wouldn’t be surprised if more end up in the garage down the road, but I’m proud to own both of these amazing machines. Hope that helps.
@@ranplan absolutely love the V7. Beautiful motorcycle. You're right, between that and Himalayan you've got a great set-up. Little motorcycle advice, build a bigger garage lol
Thanks! Hope to have something soon as un update to this vid. Close to 16,000 miles on her. Great motorcycle. I've got to get myself to Australia someday somehow. Wahoo!
I made a rack for a small ice chest out of a metal, wire refrigerator shelf. I want to get the hard bags from Royal, but they're $700, not including the frame.
I like everything you've done but my favorite is the red sticker on the tank. If I get one like yours the sticker would go on first. Is it a custom creation of your own? I'm very interested in this bike as well as the Classic. Thanks for the review.
Great review of a great bike … and like yourself I love my Himi … named ‘Indy’ (after Indiana Jones not India). Mine’s a 2019. I love your windscreen and would like to source one here in Australia if possible. I tried to find it on the Baxter website but no joy. Can you help me out with some details please … who makes it and where so I can contact them directly if possible to arrange one here. Would appreciate it greatly if you can help me out please mate.
It's a Cal Tech, not sure of the model. Contact Jeremy at Baxtercycle.com I'm betting he does have one but it's just not on the website...good chance of that. Baxter's is a real Mom & Pop Shop. Love the Himalayan. Put about 125 miles on mine today. Wahoo!
The original mounting hardware through rubber grommets was insufficient and started to deteriorate and shake. I replaced them with stainless steel screws lock nuts and pan washers. Have not had any trouble since. I consider the extra large windscreen be one of my himalayan's best assets. I ride this bike in the rain cold weather etc and love it
You may or may not be familiar with Mark in Australia.. Biker Bits channel. He and his buddies got a hold of a new Himalayan and started a series of mods for it. I think the series is into video 3 and just getting to know the Himalayan and what mods they are choosing to add. You or viewers might find his build series interesting. Thanks for your great coverage of the ins and outs with your experiences on the 2021 model 👍
My 2021 Himalayan has not been as well mannered. The dealer had it for 10 weeks diagnosing and waiting for parts (lean running, new throttle body and injector, new instrument cluster). It’s no longer stalling,but the idle wanders between 2000 and 2100+ as opposed to the 1200 listed in the owner’s manual. The engine is noisy. It rattles and clatters under load. I’m wondering if it will hole a piston. Only 1500 miles so far but with the new dash it only shows about 400 (like new!). I have ordered the booster plug and maybe things will improve. I’ve had worse bikes but not from new. Glad yours is chuffing happily along. Those are some great roads.
Very sorry to hear this and hope it goes better in the future. Something I'll add is that Himalayan do make a lot of funny noises. Hoping your bikes noises are normal. Where are you located?
@@forgottenmotorcycles Tampa, Florida. The roads are generally straight, flat, and busy. I do still like my Himalayan. Just a little disappointed. Glad to see you’ve recovered from your spill.
I had idling/cutting out issues with my 2018.. it was a love hate relationship. I changed to an irridium plug, deleted the evap, ignition was replaced, changed the fuses, swore at it.. it kept stalling until the FP relay was replaced, thankfully all under warranty. I think the dealer learned all about Himalayans on my bike. No issues since. I agree with Wahoo.. it's the funnest bike everr! Wa-hoo.
Stalling is the evap cannister that's attached to the underguard blank the hose from the throttle body and let the tank hose vent to air problem solved
@@forgottenmotorcycles check the tps as well, I set mine to about 0.68V just richens it a bit at idle. Mine ticks over at just under 1100 rpm from stone cold now, hasn't stalled since I ditched the evap and adjusted the tos and set the tappets properly.
Got that right 👍 and just to let anyone know. If you do ride harder the most and drop the bike, there will be a small overflow on the ground from the fuel tank. No problem...just don't have a cigarette right away 😄
Try an iridium spark plug wire and cap, visit tec bike parts for their hints and wrinkles and take a look at their new camshaft if you want to do the distance
Glad you have had such a great experience! Have my Mod 2 (we have to do two mods in Uk) next weds then in theory can test ride! Am looking at the Himi, Scram, Moto Morini x cape as my first bike. Want to tour Spain next year hopefully. P.s Love that windshield looks great. Wahooo!
Yeah its a tempter! If I could hold out for the beefier Himi I would but the Morini ticks a lot of boxes as a first bike. If I like the Scram and can save money I will. I have a cunning plan to test! (Am gonna take extra weight so I can see if the 24bhp will carry me ok).
G'day mate. Am so pleased to see/hear a proper review on this bike 👍 I'm an Ozzie and same as you I have owned lots and lots of bikes in my time, and have a couple of Harley's now. And like you say I bought my Himalayan a year ago and cannot get enough time on this motorcycle. I have also done many upgrades in performance and rider postion/comfort but have never needed to change suspension, wheels, or brakes. Can I just say one thing you have missed to solve your idle and cold start problems is the electronic relays for your fuel pump and associated circuits. Change them up to what you normally buy in a spares shop and replace the standard ones. There's 2. Anyway like your review @eddiegrillsadventures And I get serious in the Australian Outback.
I'm thinking of getting one but I'm worried about some people's reports on its handling. In the UK there are lots of twisty roads, would the Himalayan handle these well?
@@forgottenmotorcycles I have heard that, although you can't beat the retro-modern look of the Himalayan. I would probably swap out the tires for road tires.
@@garymack411 that's great to hear thanks. Some people had concerns about the dual sport tires and the long travel suspension, but I'm glad to hear you've had no problems! :)
You may have addressed this in an earlier video but how do you deal with a flat tire? Do you pack tools and a spare tube for roadside repair. The tubed tires is the main reason I have not purchased a RA Himalayan yet. The BMW310 GS and KTM 390 adventure have tubeless tires and serve a similar mission. Decisions decisions....
I've had one flat, lost the rear tire to a fence post staple. Used my phone to call a friend and we trucked the bike home. I replaced that tire with a Dunlop Trailmax Mission. Picked that tire because of its very thick tread and large side lugs. Feel that it would not have been punctured by said staple. Problem with that particular tire is that the sidewalls are very stiff making it extra hard to change with tire irons in the field. I did look at both the BMW and the KTM you mentioned. Both are great bikes. Wahoo!
@@forgottenmotorcycles Thank for the reply. The RE 350 classic has two colors that come with tubeless tires that might my answer to slow back roads cross country rides. Enjoy your site. Just subscribed.
@@larssmith2170 I'm supposed to review a Royal Enfield meteor has been turned into an off-road bike. Currently injured and cannot ride motorcycle. I should be able to ride and do that review in about 2 weeks. It's a pretty neat bike. Thank you for subscribing :-)
I would rather change a tube, and have done several times, than try to fix a tubeless tyre ( I mean by the side of the road/trail with no phone signal, in the rain cos thats when they happen) I also heard a tubeless plug is not considered permanent, just to get you to a tyre depot for a new tyre?
@@stevec-b6214 I'm not sure if tire plugs are permanent or not. I have several friends that use them all the time and consider them permanent. I just got us three inch screw in my rear Dunlop trailmax last week. Tire was stiff enough that I drove it 13 miles home at 30 mph. Next day I took it to the bike shop and had it fixed. Wahoo!
Yes, I believe it did. But only by a couple miles per gallon. I also feel that I lost a little bit of top end and definitely lower performance when riding into the wind. However, the bike is smoother when riding into the wind because of the cutting action of the fairing. At least this is how I feel about it. I like the fairing a lot and highly recommend it.
Thx for the video man, i really want this bike but im gona wait until they bring out the 650 in 2024 cause i'm gona use it for highway alot. now i got a 2021 Tmax 560 scooter and a KTM 690 SMC but i still think i this royal enfield could bring me more fun :P
I would agree with most of what you say if it was a 650 but lets not kid ourselves Great for going to the shops and back or on slow slow slow roads We older riders will put up with a lot the younger chaps and lasses will not !!! Hope you agree !!!!!!!!!!
Great video thanks. Is that screen made for the Himmy or did you have to make it fit with making brackets? From what you said I believe you said that is the case?
The windscreen was made for the Himalayan but used the stock hardware to attach. This worked itself loose. Had to pick up some longer hardware with fiber locknuts to get it to work. I did call CalSci, they did know about this problem and offered to send out hardware to fix the problems. It was easier & quicker for me to get the hardware locally, cost a few dollars. Love this windscreen. Wahoo!
Nice review! My youngest son and his partner rode 15,000 miles over Europe last year, both riding Himalayans. They did their own servicing and tyre changing en route. Much of the riding was off-road. From Gibraltar in the South to Finland in the North, thirty-five countries in Europe over a four month journey.
They did mainly camping, interspersed with some stays with frIends and frIendly locals!
The only mechanical problem was a broken (after-market) pannier frame on one of the bikes, quickly welded up by a local bike mechanic.
The Himalayan is not a cruiser, although mine will hold 70 mph all day. (That;s UK miles)
The point of the Himalayan is its ability on country roads and rough tracks. And its day to day usability. And you can service it yourself. And it's economical to run. And it's just a brilliant bike!
I'll shut up now. Take care, love and peace.
Hot dang, love this comment. Thank you! I've got over 24,000 miles on my Himalayan now will ride it all winter long. Wahoo!
You have some great ideas! A lot of which I’ve not seen anymore talk about. And I’ve watched hundreds of videos about improving the Himalayan. Thanks for this.
Thanks, Himalayan is my favorite motorcycle. Have over 24,000 miles on her now. Great fun to ride...everywhere! Wahoo!
I fixed my stalling by fixing the electrical grounds. Remove the gas tank to expose the chassis grounds. The ground points on the frame (ALL) are powder coated :( and need to be sanded so that the terminals can be grounded to the chassis properly. This includes the ignition coil grounding and ALL of the ground/Battery negative connections on the whole bike, ( Under seat, on the cylender... ect.) I own a 2022 RE Hemi :)
Fortunately Baxter's cycle was able to fix the problem for me. I will keep this in mind though for future reference. Thank you
The red star really balances out the tank. The two tone tanks just look awkward and unbalance to me but you fixed it perfectly. She's a beauty. This video is a great unpretentious, real world, user review, that sums up this bike. Thanks.
Thank you, I love this bike. It's the one I ride the most. Closing in on 15,000 miles now. Wahoo!
That this bike is so approachable, well-balanced, easy to use, comfortable, and competent on many surfaces makes it my favorite of all I have tried previously for the kind of riding I use it for.
Couldn't agree more!
Your review is Spot on! This is indeed a great motorcycle, under rated to a great extent. I have used this on long rides. My opinion of the Himalayan, enhanced when i went on a 10 day rides with my buddies in the Himalayas. The motorcycle just kept going with no complaints. Two days of off road riding saw the bike performing without any failures. Great bike indeed!
You rode your Himalayan in the Himalayas? Wow, I'm envious! It's a great motorcycle. I've just crossed the 16k mile mark with mine and she's running great. Wahoo!
Considering buying a pair of these for my wife and I to go motor camping and exploring. Both of us have over 40 years of riding experience and anything over 70 mph is past us. Just waiting to have heart surgery in 2 weeks and then we are going to be looking.
I've absolutely enjoyed the one I have. Over 15,000 miles on it in a year. I've owned dozens of motorcycles and consider this one to be my overall favorite. Can't say enough good about them. Wahoo!
Hope the surgery went well and you got the Himalayans 🙏🙏🙏
I bought one to try it after owning an Armstrong 500MT ex military bike. Before that I owned and rode BMW, Triumph, Ducati and Honda big trail bikes from 750cc to 1200cc. I can say hand on heart that this little slow Indian manufactured motorcycle has given me the happiest motorcycle experiences I have had since I was a lad. I ride along the road and when I see a track or road I haven’t been on before, I just ride it for the fun of it. On the bigger bikes I guess I just rode by without really seeing them. Both of mine (one in the UK and now in Australia) have been trouble free. I might buy other bikes in the future, but I will not part with one of these. It’s given me back a joy in motorcycling I never thought I had lost until I rode one. 😍😍😍😍
I agree totally. This little low powered & slow bike will do everything I want...except go fast. It's the bike I go to 90% of the time. Love this thing. Wahoo!
I only have 1000 miles on my 2022 Himalayan but I wholeheartedly concur with you about the Himalayan being the most fun motorcycle I've ever ridden. And so far, mine has had zero issues at all. It never stalled, no rattles or vibrations, and I did the first service myself -- valve adjustment, oil and filter change, and all the other stuff that went along with it. The motorcycle is so simple mechanically that service is easy.
The only real issue I've faced is with the stock CEAT tires on unpaved roads with large, loose gravel. The tires tend to squirm a bit but with practice and experience it will be less of an issue. On regular gravel roads it's fine.
And you're right, if you want a fast motorcycle, this isn't what you should choose. But I''m happy living below 70mph. And for most rides I'm doing I ride much slower than that.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts in the video. I always enjoy watching!
Just wait till you've got 3,000 miles on the bike and the engine is fully run in, is then on in optimal operating condition.
It's a fun motorcycle and does everything; love exploring on the Himalayan. I liked the feel of the Ceat tires but did wear out the back one in 4400 miles, am still sporting the Ceat on front with 12,000 miles and am about to change it out. Large gravel is a challenge even with the Dunlop.
Love the quality of your videos and often wonder how you're able to do it so well. Thank you! Love the Vespa vids too. Wahoo!
@@forgottenmotorcycles I hope I get as many miles out of the tires as you have. Time will tell.
The large gravel is gratefully not common here. I'm not sure why it was used on the route of my most recent ride. Maybe the Bureau of Forestry got a deal on some highway project ballast leftovers.
I'm still sorting out how to shoot videos. It's fun. The real challenge for me is the idea behind them. It makes my brain itch!
@@ScooterintheSticks making these videos is an absolute ball. Maybe, maybe just funner than riding motorcycle :-)
I find that this is the best motorcycle you’ve owned to be quite interesting. I seem to remember seeing a Versys 650 in your garage which many like as their favorite, so I’m impressed. It’s not about speed but the ride. Definitely starting to seriously consider one.
Loved that Versys, it was great fun. Problem was I kept finding myself with the front wheel in the air or the speedo showing triple digits. It did it well and I do miss her. The Himalayan is a different kind of all around fun. Which bike is funner? I'm not sure. Did trade off the Versys about 7 weeks ago. I'd put about 6000 miles on her in 2+ months. Great bike. Wahoo!
Hi from UK Great vid one of the best vids I've seen on the himalayan thank you ride free
Thank you! Love this bike. Have about 27,000 miles on it now. Wahoo! PS Problem free miles too!
I have a 2022 Himalayan. I had the stalling issue at first. Dealer didn't address it at first service. I did a valve adjustment (both too tight), readjusted throttle position sensor to .60 (factory spec) and got an NGK iridium plug..... No issues since with 6000 miles..... Enjoyed the video.... thanks
They are great bikes. Stalling issue is gone on mine too. Love this motorcycle. Over 15,000 miles on her now. Wahoo!
The stalling issue comes from RE packing way too much Lithium grease in the relays and other connections... Every RE I own the first thing I do is to go through the relays and clean out all of the grease and then recoat the dielectric grease. The problem with Lithium is when it starts to dry and harden keeps the electrical current from getting thru hence the stalling or cutting out.
I'm very happy that they were able to fix this on my Himalayan. Wahoo!
Great review. I agree funniest motorcycle I've ever owned. I grew up on a ranch in rural South Dakota and now live in Sturgis. The roar the ride the rally is the new slogan. My father always said the closest thing you'll get to riding a horse is a motorcycle. Sir Edward Dark Horse...we have some exploring to do.
Sounds like you're living a good life :-) beautiful motorcycle
Nice bike. Beautiful locations. Loved the video!
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks fuzzy ❤
I'm very tempted as in the UK they are on special offer as the new one has been released but will be £2000 more in price 😮
But I like the bare bone functionality of the old model and all of the issues have been sorted over the years ....
Best wishes from the UK
I have about 25,000 miles on my Himalayan now. Have loved every single mile. Possibly the best overall motorcycle I've ever owned. Wahoo!
The stall issue is just TPS adjustment, a batch of bikes came with that mis-adjusted
I think that's the usual fix for it, the stalling. However, are my motorcycle it was something more. I believe they changed the computer. Works great now :-)
My Himalayan is a 2019 and just passed 9000 miles (shorter driving season in Canada) But I completely agree with everything you said. It is just a fun bike. Maintenance is simple (check air pressure occasionally and change oil every 2500 miles - only checked valves twice but both times they were good). I'm on my second back tire but front is still ok. I did front brake pads 2 weeks ago in 7 minutes! I love it. Happy riding!
They are wonderful motorcycles. The easy maintenance and rugged build were strong reasons for choosing this bike. Of course, the main reason was the fun factor. Love everything about it. How did your old brake pads look? Wahoo!
My 2022 had serious stalling issue.
So much that I feared riding it.
After 4 visits to dealers (2) the 2nd dlr sent ecm back to factory for re programming. Has run great since .
5k miles on it now.
That stalling problem is/was a pain. Really love the bike and didn't want to give it up. Very happy that they were able to fix it. At 17,500+ miles now. Wahoo!
Great review!! Proper riders view of the Himalayan, now confirmed as the ONLY bike I would swap for my RE classic 500. Like you I have owned a shed load of bikes (34 at the last count) and tried loads of friends bikes, never missed a year on the road since 1972. Thanks for talking a lot of sense with no waffle.
Thank you, Sir. Have rode a few 500 RE singles, including a 1957 model, and loved every mile on them. Wonderful bikes. PS I think the first time I actually rode a bike on my own was about 1972. Hot wired Dads honda while he was out of town. Wahoo!
A great review. Off to have a test ride next week.
You're going to love it. Be sure and test ride the scram 411 also
Thank you for sharing your experience with the bike. It is one brand that I am considering going back to riding (I am 77 with incurable itchy feet 😂)
My main consideration is a bike that I can lift straight up when I drop it. Is one point that future solo drivers overlook.
I live in Australia and follow one photographer, Joe Ryan who loves exploring in his Himalayan that perhaps you like to see his videos. Have a look them, for sure you will find them interesting.
Cheers from Tasmania, Australia
I shall check Joe Ryan out. Thanks. I have a Himalayan and a Classic 350, both would make good back road machines. The Himalayan would do better on the rougher roads and areas. Wahoo!
My family and I need to check out your shop this February! We are from Sioux City.
Heck that's just right up the road :-) baxter cycle is just 3 miles off exit 51 on interstate 80. I bike up to Sioux City often.... When the weather isn't quite so cold LOL
I agree too. Just past 3100 miles on my 21 and my poor HD has not been used in months. I find I don't miss the speed and the small niggles are easily fixed.
Love this motorcycle. I'm at over 15,000 miles now and still runs like a charm. I put a hundred miles on it this afternoon :-)
Good review. I did 11k miles on my Himalayan last year, the most I've done on any bike in the last 40 years so I'd have to agree it's the most smiles per mile.
They really are fabulous motorcycles. What color did you get? Wahoo!
I bought a blue/white one 2nd hand. 1 year old with 538 miles on it. £1000 worth of extras fitted for £1000 less than new. My 11k miles included a 2.5k mile trip to the south of France from Scotland. I've had no real issues with it and got another planned trip into the Artic Circle in Norway in June.
I envy you! Please take a GoPro. So many of us would love to share in your wonderful adventures. Wahoo! PS Scotland would be a dream ride for me.
Here's a short montage I took around the west of Scotland last year.
ua-cam.com/video/hRoDW2SBsPs/v-deo.html
I have to say I agree 100% It's a really fun bike gust got mine lately have also had a lot of bikes in the past but this him is class It's my go to bike for almost everything thanks for you review Arnold from ireland.
I love this motorcycle. Just turned 15,000 miles this evening. Wahoo!
Great review really interesting upgrades and I like your color scheme .. I got mine new last week but haven't rode it yet due to the snow we get, but looking forward to springtime, I will make my own racks and have some soft panniers. I've be riding bikes since 11 years old and nearly 60 now.... I don't need speed and never did, the Enfield will be perfect for me,lots of Gravel and forest roads here. Greetings from Latvia and gave you a subscription 👍.... Harry
You're gonna love that bike. I love mine. Put about 125 miles on her today and finally crossed the 16,000 mile mark with here. Like you, I've owned my share of bikes...this one is my favorite. Wahoo!
Like the bags, what are they. Remember I am in the UK
These are a no name off brand bag that I picked up on amazon. Have the same bags on my Sportster. They do work well. Search this on amazon: waltyotur Motorcycle PU Leather
I agree .. funnest motorcycle.. my everyday everywhere ( except the track😅) anytime bike… agree maximum smiles per mile… great video and explanation .. good job
Right on, I mean ride on. Wahoo!
Hey man, great video. I like the air pressure sensor mod u have. Ill be buying this bike to go from Florida to Argentina! Hope I can make it :) Im certain of it
Hey that sounds like one heck of a trip. Call baxter cycle they'll give you a heck of a deal on that bike. I replace the pressure sensors I had with a different brand that has a reader that I mounted to the dash. That way of constant monitoring available. Wahoo!
Love the review, love the bike. Have been researching a lot of small adventures and keep coming back to the RE. Love the look. I own a MG V7 850 stone and a fan of retro styles. My only concern is the 24 hp. If only the added 10 more it would be a no brainer. Even pay 1k more for that.
I worried about that horsepower number before buying. Dealer let me the bike for 180 miles and I fell in love with it. It does have a limit I generally do not cruise at over 65 or 70 miles an hour for very long. It will cruise at 65 and 70 all day. Interesting side note; I tried to buy a Pan American and the deal fell through before I bought the Himalayan. Getting the Himalayan was the best thing have happened and I've never regretted it. Would love to take a V7 for a ride. Heard great things about that bike.
I bought my first bike last year. Wanted a Royal Enfield and was obsessing over them for a couple months, test rode every model, couldn’t decide, wanted them all. Test rode a V7 and instantly bought it. It “spoke to me.” 900 miles later, the V7 is amazing and I love it. But I’ve still been thinking about the Himalayan the whole time. Bought one yesterday. Haha. Rode it home 2 hours from the dealer. Good times. I think my 2 bikes will do everything I would ever want to do. Of course I’ll always research other bikes and wouldn’t be surprised if more end up in the garage down the road, but I’m proud to own both of these amazing machines. Hope that helps.
@@ranplan absolutely love the V7. Beautiful motorcycle. You're right, between that and Himalayan you've got a great set-up. Little motorcycle advice, build a bigger garage lol
Awesome review and thanks for sharing from Australia
Thanks! Hope to have something soon as un update to this vid. Close to 16,000 miles on her. Great motorcycle. I've got to get myself to Australia someday somehow. Wahoo!
Such an enjoyable review . Thanks
You're welcome. Wahoo!
Things will always go wrong with transport. It's not that it went wrong that matters but how they sort it out for you that counts.
Agreed
Appreciate the metric system input
Love these bikes. Wahoo!
I made a rack for a small ice chest out of a metal, wire refrigerator shelf. I want to get the hard bags from Royal, but they're $700, not including the frame.
I'm a soft bag kinda guy myself. Wahoo!
I like everything you've done but my favorite is the red sticker on the tank. If I get one like yours the sticker would go on first. Is it a custom creation of your own? I'm very interested in this bike as well as the Classic.
Thanks for the review.
Thanks! The star is from Amazon, think I paid about $7 USD. PS Love that Classic too. Wahoo!
Great review of a great bike … and like yourself I love my Himi … named ‘Indy’ (after Indiana Jones not India). Mine’s a 2019. I love your windscreen and would like to source one here in Australia if possible. I tried to find it on the Baxter website but no joy. Can you help me out with some details please … who makes it and where so I can contact them directly if possible to arrange one here. Would appreciate it greatly if you can help me out please mate.
It's a Cal Tech, not sure of the model. Contact Jeremy at Baxtercycle.com I'm betting he does have one but it's just not on the website...good chance of that. Baxter's is a real Mom & Pop Shop. Love the Himalayan. Put about 125 miles on mine today. Wahoo!
Great comprehensive review. Thanks brother.👍🌲
Glad you enjoyed it. Wahoo!
Hey I found those star decals on Amazon do you know if that was an 8x8 or 6x6, thanks and great video too!
I'm thinking the ones I have are 5 inch in diameter. Take a ruler and check the bike to see if 6 inch will work. Love those stars!
What a great informative video. Thanks for sharing. Liked and subscribed.
Ride safe - Alex (Bundaberg Qld, Australia)
Awesome, thank you!
I'm also enjoying my Himalayan and thinking of adding a larger windscreen. What specifically did you have to do to beef up the mounting points?
The original mounting hardware through rubber grommets was insufficient and started to deteriorate and shake. I replaced them with stainless steel screws lock nuts and pan washers. Have not had any trouble since. I consider the extra large windscreen be one of my himalayan's best assets. I ride this bike in the rain cold weather etc and love it
You may or may not be familiar with Mark in Australia.. Biker Bits channel. He and his buddies got a hold of a new Himalayan and started a series of mods for it. I think the series is into video 3 and just getting to know the Himalayan and what mods they are choosing to add. You or viewers might find his build series interesting. Thanks for your great coverage of the ins and outs with your experiences on the 2021 model 👍
I just subscribed to that channel, thank you! Love these Himalayan, love all that can be done with them. Wahoo!
That is a cool windshield indeed. Did it come with that anti buffeting air hole in it already, or did you cut that in?
That is a CalSci and the hole is factory. I think all their windshields have that hole...kind of a trade make for them. Love that thing. Wahoo!
My 2021 Himalayan has not been as well mannered. The dealer had it for 10 weeks diagnosing and waiting for parts (lean running, new throttle body and injector, new instrument cluster). It’s no longer stalling,but the idle wanders between 2000 and 2100+ as opposed to the 1200 listed in the owner’s manual. The engine is noisy. It rattles and clatters under load. I’m wondering if it will hole a piston. Only 1500 miles so far but with the new dash it only shows about 400 (like new!). I have ordered the booster plug and maybe things will improve. I’ve had worse bikes but not from new. Glad yours is chuffing happily along. Those are some great roads.
Very sorry to hear this and hope it goes better in the future. Something I'll add is that Himalayan do make a lot of funny noises. Hoping your bikes noises are normal. Where are you located?
@@forgottenmotorcycles Tampa, Florida. The roads are generally straight, flat, and busy. I do still like my Himalayan. Just a little disappointed. Glad to see you’ve recovered from your spill.
I had idling/cutting out issues with my 2018.. it was a love hate relationship. I changed to an irridium plug, deleted the evap, ignition was replaced, changed the fuses, swore at it.. it kept stalling until the FP relay was replaced, thankfully all under warranty. I think the dealer learned all about Himalayans on my bike. No issues since. I agree with Wahoo.. it's the funnest bike everr! Wa-hoo.
Thank you
You're welcome :) You may like this link: ua-cam.com/play/PLibU4ftcEH0cISdxH2HHpjDzd7ZwLYyJ5.html
Stalling is the evap cannister that's attached to the underguard blank the hose from the throttle body and let the tank hose vent to air problem solved
We had actually done that earlier. It alleviated the problem but did not eliminate it.
@@forgottenmotorcycles check the tps as well, I set mine to about 0.68V just richens it a bit at idle. Mine ticks over at just under 1100 rpm from stone cold now, hasn't stalled since I ditched the evap and adjusted the tos and set the tappets properly.
Got that right 👍 and just to let anyone know. If you do ride harder the most and drop the bike, there will be a small overflow on the ground from the fuel tank. No problem...just don't have a cigarette right away 😄
Try an iridium spark plug wire and cap, visit tec bike parts for their hints and wrinkles and take a look at their new camshaft if you want to do the distance
Glad you have had such a great experience! Have my Mod 2 (we have to do two mods in Uk) next weds then in theory can test ride!
Am looking at the Himi, Scram, Moto Morini x cape as my first bike. Want to tour Spain next year hopefully.
P.s Love that windshield looks great. Wahooo!
Wish I could get my hands on that Moto Morini X Cape. Love what I've seen online but that bike is not available in the USA. Dang!
Yeah its a tempter! If I could hold out for the beefier Himi I would but the Morini ticks a lot of boxes as a first bike.
If I like the Scram and can save money I will. I have a cunning plan to test! (Am gonna take extra weight so I can see if the 24bhp will carry me ok).
may be FUELX PRO will solve stalling,heat problem , i have ordered for my Himmi today.
Let us know how it works for you.
G'day mate. Am so pleased to see/hear a proper review on this bike 👍 I'm an Ozzie and same as you I have owned lots and lots of bikes in my time, and have a couple of Harley's now. And like you say I bought my Himalayan a year ago and cannot get enough time on this motorcycle.
I have also done many upgrades in performance and rider postion/comfort but have never needed to change suspension, wheels, or brakes.
Can I just say one thing you have missed to solve your idle and cold start problems is the electronic relays for your fuel pump and associated circuits. Change them up to what you normally buy in a spares shop and replace the standard ones. There's 2.
Anyway like your review @eddiegrillsadventures
And I get serious in the Australian Outback.
Where about are you at in Iowa? I am from south central Iowa. Looking into buying one.
I'm west central between Carroll and Atlantic or about 30 miles from Baxter Cycle in Marne. Check out what they have at Baxtercycle.com Wahoo!
I'm thinking of getting one but I'm worried about some people's reports on its handling. In the UK there are lots of twisty roads, would the Himalayan handle these well?
I actually love taking mine and twisty roads. If you're going to do a lot of pavement maybe look at the scram 411
@@forgottenmotorcycles I have heard that, although you can't beat the retro-modern look of the Himalayan. I would probably swap out the tires for road tires.
It was made for twisty roads where 50-60mph is plenty. I'm lucky enough to live in the north of Scotland where those roads are the norm.
@@garymack411 that's great to hear thanks. Some people had concerns about the dual sport tires and the long travel suspension, but I'm glad to hear you've had no problems! :)
You may have addressed this in an earlier video but how do you deal with a flat tire? Do you pack tools and a spare tube for roadside repair. The tubed tires is the main reason I have not purchased a RA Himalayan yet. The BMW310 GS and KTM 390 adventure have tubeless tires and serve a similar mission. Decisions decisions....
I've had one flat, lost the rear tire to a fence post staple. Used my phone to call a friend and we trucked the bike home. I replaced that tire with a Dunlop Trailmax Mission. Picked that tire because of its very thick tread and large side lugs. Feel that it would not have been punctured by said staple. Problem with that particular tire is that the sidewalls are very stiff making it extra hard to change with tire irons in the field. I did look at both the BMW and the KTM you mentioned. Both are great bikes. Wahoo!
@@forgottenmotorcycles Thank for the reply. The RE 350 classic has two colors that come with tubeless tires that might my answer to slow back roads cross country rides. Enjoy your site. Just subscribed.
@@larssmith2170 I'm supposed to review a Royal Enfield meteor has been turned into an off-road bike. Currently injured and cannot ride motorcycle. I should be able to ride and do that review in about 2 weeks. It's a pretty neat bike. Thank you for subscribing :-)
I would rather change a tube, and have done several times, than try to fix a tubeless tyre ( I mean by the side of the road/trail with no phone signal, in the rain cos thats when they happen) I also heard a tubeless plug is not considered permanent, just to get you to a tyre depot for a new tyre?
@@stevec-b6214 I'm not sure if tire plugs are permanent or not. I have several friends that use them all the time and consider them permanent. I just got us three inch screw in my rear Dunlop trailmax last week. Tire was stiff enough that I drove it 13 miles home at 30 mph. Next day I took it to the bike shop and had it fixed. Wahoo!
Did the larger windshield affect your fuel mileage?
Yes, I believe it did. But only by a couple miles per gallon. I also feel that I lost a little bit of top end and definitely lower performance when riding into the wind. However, the bike is smoother when riding into the wind because of the cutting action of the fairing. At least this is how I feel about it. I like the fairing a lot and highly recommend it.
Think I might be getting one of these from Baxter Omaha soon™️
They're great bikes if you like riding off the pavement and not bad on the pavement. Loads of fun!
Thx for the video man,
i really want this bike but im gona wait until they bring out the 650 in 2024 cause i'm gona use it for highway alot.
now i got a 2021 Tmax 560 scooter and a KTM 690 SMC but i still think i this royal enfield could bring me more fun :P
Yeah not sure can hold out till next year...but would make sense..
@@MauriceTarantulas You are right i cannot i might go look for 1 tomorrow :D
Would love to take that KTM 690 for a spin. Wahoo!
I would agree with most of what you say if it was a 650 but lets not kid ourselves Great for going to the shops and back or on slow slow slow roads We older riders will put up with a lot the younger chaps and lasses will not !!! Hope you agree !!!!!!!!!!
This bike works very well for me. I like it :)
Not wishing to sound negative but why would you be proud of 10 K miles ??? My yamaha YZF R 750 has covered 107 K miles without a single hitch ??
Yamaha makes great motorcycles. I've owned several of them.
Great video thanks. Is that screen made for the Himmy or did you have to make it fit with making brackets? From what you said I believe you said that is the case?
The windscreen was made for the Himalayan but used the stock hardware to attach. This worked itself loose. Had to pick up some longer hardware with fiber locknuts to get it to work. I did call CalSci, they did know about this problem and offered to send out hardware to fix the problems. It was easier & quicker for me to get the hardware locally, cost a few dollars. Love this windscreen. Wahoo!