Hi Natan! You’ve mentioned me in a few videos and comments but you could have just contacted me, because now you’ve said a few things about me (or my installation), that aren’t completely correct :) . I didn’t mention downloading software, because I didn’t had too for it to work. I also didn’t have the engine light fault problem. I agree its not an easy install, and I was happy that Peter did it for me. But if you do the sequence correctly, it is in fact a plug-and-play and not a struggle as you experienced :) Sorry to hear you had problems, but for me it was an easy process. I like the fact you did proper testing to come to an objective opinion, but I don’t think you can rule out subjectiveness completely. You seemed to hate the product from the beginning and the installation problems only made it worse haha. So to be honest, I wasnt surprised to hear your final conclusion ;)
Hey Itchy Boots. Thanks for the comment. Yeah it's been a funny one. I got innundated with people telling me how great you though the system was, which piqued my interest and I'll be honest, when I watched your video I was sceptical of your claims. I agree, subjective improvements count for something but at almost £300 I think you also have to have something objective to show for it. You're definitely right, I didn't want to like it from the get go but by the end I can see how it would appeal to some people but I maybe think you missed some of the negatives of it. As long as it works for you that's the main thing. And i am sorry I had to reference you a few times but your comments on the device spawned a lot of interest in it, so it was kind of innevitable. Safe riding out there
nathanthepostman No worries :) I mean, I’m glad you did a proper testing and review because I just cannot find the time or possibility for that as I’m on the road all the time and struggling to keep up with all of it 😂 I actually never intended to make an instructional video / review video because I’m pretty terrible at that kind of stuff haha, you are way better at it! I do believe that if Race Dynamics improves on the installation manual and its clear what needs to be done it would make a big difference as struggles with installation are indeed a downside of the product!
@@ItchyBoots Itchy Boots yeah I guess that's why I was surprised you'd fitted one as when you're traveling I'd imagine it would be the last thing you'd think about doing to the bike, but now someone else has commented on the drop in running temperature then it completely makes sense . You're making some great videos and showing us parts of the world we'd never otherwise have seen so keep on rolling.
Thanks. That's a thought provoking review. For me, the Himalayan (I have a Scram and absolutely LOVE it) is what it is. If I wanted more power I'd look at another bike. That such power units achieve some of their claims often excites customers more than exploring the downsides. Albeit these claims are not as much as they (often vaguely, for good reason) suggest - Having paid out hundreds owners often seem to justify their purchase with a less than successful upgrade. Too many reviews are 'independent' from reviewers who have, nevertheless, been given or loaned items and whilst they may not glow over the items, they diplomatically don't offer the negatives. Your objectivity is refreshing. Noting that the money could perhaps be better spent on more fuel or tyres may be debated by others, but the cost of any increase in performance is already diluted, and will be more so if they do as you rightly note and inform insurance or lose out on a warranty claim. After many years of riding - and hitting myself in the wallet in many ways - I've learned that if money is no object, these 'improvements' can be fun (although you mention the faff to install). Otherwise, if the bike is lacking, and improvements are not easy, effective (like adding risers, say) and relatively cheap, then look for a different bike - maybe costing a little more, but ultimately no more when some extras are wasted on the cheaper one.
Hi Nathan, good to hear your experience with the PowerTRONIC. Documentation has already been updated for the installation manual. For the REs, we offer refinement in throttle response, reduced vibrations, lower exhaust temperature (which in turn would result in longer engine life). The PowerTRONIC is indeed plug and play, and connecting to a PC is not required unless calibration is needed (rarely) or maps need to be changed.
Thanks guys for commenting. Yes it's good that you've made some Himalayan specific instructions, much needed. And thanks for clarifying if you need to connect it to the computer or not. My bike is running ok but I'm not sure the fuelling at low speeds is as good as without the unit. I also still have the engine management light on so I've probably decided the unit is not for me. Many thanks again with all the assistance with the install.
Hello ! interested in the new fuelx pro, however going by the reviews I feel nothing can be conclusively said unless its tested out on a Dyno ? Would like see that and some other objective tests(like the standard 0-60 0-100 etc). Hope #PowerDrift takes note of this whole affair too as a lot of youtubers seem less and less credible. At this point I can only say that if you need to spend to upgrade Performance Filter, Exhaust, Drivetrain, Camshaft, valve heads, ECU .. only to get gains of 5-10 bhp .. May be save that money and get KLR 650 if its available in your country.
Hey Nathan! Great video as always! Really love your honesty and down to earth approach! Just bought a Himalayan and did some research on the Powertronic ECU to see whether it would improve the Himy's performance on highways. I might be wrong, but we're talking marginal improvements, at the risk of messing with your electronics and voiding the warranty. Kind of distorts the bike's proposition, which is simplicity, reliability and no fancy tech to be broken while on the road. I've been following Itchy Boots as well (you both were my main sources when researching the bike) and she is not using the Powertronic ECU on her 2nd trip for some reason. If the lack of power is a deal-breaker, I don't think the solution is to try to turn the bike into something it is not. Just buy a 2nd hand bigger bike! Cheers!
Good review Nathan, you do us all a favor. One thing to remember with most chiptunes or add on boxes for cars/motorcycles is that they really just change the gas pedal/grip to throttle body ratio. So you get more throttle for the same amount of input = more omph but not really any more power. That said, turbo engines do of course benefit from more boost and fuel. And some engines are clearly detuned for emissions/longevity etc. It appears the Himalayan really doesn't have that much more to give, pity. Like someone else said, if it had around 40-50 hp I'd be all over it.
it does drop the engine temp going by a ton of mentions of that in the comments so it likely does make it richer just that it's a small engine that's only a SOHC, not much there like you said.
Hi Nathan, i've just bought a Himalayan and was considering a powertronic for an additional power boost (as claimed by the manufacturer) when on the motorway. Think i'll stick to stock following your review as the gains appear minimal with also an inevitable drop in MPG. I chose the Himalayan for the bikes simplicity and decent fuel consumption, so not for me this product. Thanks for a good objective review. Safe riding out there. Cheers Scott
There are a couple of points that I failed to mention in the video, one being that I think the unit could allow you to go one bigger on the front cog which would in turn lower the revs at cruising speed. Also, it's been mentioned in the comments that it has helped reduce engine temperature which can be a problem in hotter countries. I found the heat a problem coming across Texas last summer. The engine heat really heats up your boot. I can't assess its improvement to running temperature at the minute as it's still too cool in the uk. Also it seems that some aren't having to connect their unit to a computer so that would be a big bonus if that was the case. Hopefully through more comments of other users we'll figure out what has worked for different people and how they're getting on with it.
I hope that these units improve and they become simpler and more effective. I have had two Harley’s where I replaced the exhaust, the intake and the fuel injection management system. This was painless and effective I hope this is what Himalayan owners can eventually expect.
I fitted Powertronic to my new Himalayan last week. Instructions are pitiful, but support on Whatsapp was good. I chose the wrong coupler for the Spk wire - result engine fault light and poor running. There is no mention of where to plug the oxygen sensor bypass. Now it's ok, with no fault light. As you say, there's a small but noticable improvement in power and acceleration, and a bit more margin for overtaking at highway speeds. Engine runs quite a bit cooler, which is a big plus for me as the temperature where I live is ramping up towards 40C and my ankles were getting uncomfortably hot. All in all I'm glad I bought it so far. I didn't do the computer thing as I don't have a Windows machine available.
Interesting point on running temperatures and something I can't assess at the minute here in the UK but if you're finding the bike running cooler that's a great plus as in the States it was the same, cooking your ankles. How have you found the economy, any change?
Too early to say on mileage - I'll let you know. I have crash bars from Zana, which are great for protecting the engine because they have four point attachments each side, but the right one wraps really close to the exhaust pipe and channels the heat straight onto your foot. Thanks for the vids, best of luck and keep up the good work.
@@alasdairanscombe8731 thanks Alasdair. Yeah interesting on the build up of engine heat. I had the same with an aftermarket sump guard that I had fitted; I felt it worked as a heat trap. If only we could stop fiddling with our bikes!
Alasdair, I too have bought a powertronic which arrived from India today. Are you up for writing out a fitting guide in simple and clear English language? I will search out as much as I can before attempting my fit but would certainly appreciate your help. I'm sure reading through their instructions again and blanking bits out, adding bits in and maybe rearranging the order might be the solution to an easier installation. Look forward to your response.
I would email them and ask them to send you the latest PDF of instructions for the Himalayan. I was sent a copy and they're better than the ones you get with the pack. Once you figure out which connector is which it's not too big a jump to install the wire work. The instructions you get just don't tell you what to do with that short 4 pronged connector that comes in the pack. That's to go in the line between the sensor from the exhaust. You just unclip that, put in the extra wire and rejoin it. @@kirky0073
Hello @nathanthepostman. I do lot of highway riding here in india on my Himalayan. Please let me know if powertronic increase the top speed? Usually it does 90-100kmph cruising effortlessly, any increase in that cruising speed? If it makes 110kmph comfortable that will be good.
Hi Nathan Been watching your channel and feel the royal Enfield could be a good starter bike for me starting adventure riding in Scotland, but I'm 6foot tall in your opinion what do you think? or is there other options I should consider. Thanks scott
Thanks for for the update, I think you have probably saved quite a few people some money. I wouldn't be rushing out to get one at the moment but wouldn't rule one out as part of a bigger list of mods.
Yes I certainly wouldn't deter anyone from buying one as long as they understand that the improvements don't start and end with this unit. I failed to mention in the video that maybe the extra pick up will allow it to pull a bigger front cog and help lower the revs at high cruising speeds
I have no experience with this particular product but one should always use dielectric grease on connections where potential water ingress could happen. Even if there are rubber boots covering the connections.
still need to change the stock header pipe. it's a double wall pipe that chokes the airflow out exhaust. delkovic makes a full exhaust kit with header pipe that is a full inner diameter pipe.
What is the flat out speed of the bike before and after? It would be super interesting to put it on a Dyno to really end the disagreement on performance...
Hi Nathan thanks for the review, are you planning on leaving the powertronic on your bike for the June GR, it would be good to see how it performs against quite a lot of other Himalayans if you do :) Thanks Grant
I might still have it on. I'm not sure yet. I failed to mention it in the video but I rode alongside Connor on his stock bike and the difference was about 1 or 2 bike lengths in a hard acceleration away from the lights. In the context of the Garbage Run it wouldn't make any difference as we won't be going flat out. But we'll see. Maybe it makes it easier to ride in the hills of Scotland with the crisper pick up. You can certainty have a ride on it if I still have it fitted
Hi Mario. Switching between map 1 and 2 is just a simple case of connecting a wire under the seat. I did the rest with map 2 - the race map - but to be honest I've not felt a huge difference between the two.
Thanks for the information Nathan. Did you try to run the bike without connecting to a computer after you installed the Powertronic unit? I contacted Powertronics two days ago and they replied to me that it was not necessary to download anything else. They said two programs were already loaded in it and it would be ready to go. this is getting very confusing.
hi man,i pat myself on the back when i change from 1st to second without clunk, what are the characteristics on the gear change please, is it me or the bike ,it feels loose, jerky between 1st and 2nd, got 650 mls ,
The gearbox does become easier and less notchy with miles. I personally think it's a nice clean gearbox. I find you do have to be positive with your changes and possibly try 'loading' the lever with a touch of pressure from your boot before you engage the clutch and go up/down the gear. I'd also try and get a ride on another Himalayan to see if it's the same
good advice, yes gears are very smooth, i do not remember a bike that goes so easy into neutral . i try different boots also and maybe stop riding like a pussy cos its new@@nathanthepostman
An incredible concept bike out of the Bauhaus school of minimalistic design.. the mighty 24.5 HP Himalayan. Why is it not a 650.. If it was it wouldn't be enough.. it would need switchable ABS, traction control and heated seat.. and the 4500 usd price tag would be a distant memory. The perfect Himalayan wouldn't be a Himalayan.. then we'd be happy, for a while. 😁😍😣😊😥🤔
I hear a lot about heat reduction, surely heat is a product of combustion and friction. For a given power output these should be the same unless of course the mixture is made richer which will cause the engine to run cooler. This must be at the expense of fuel consumption, as Scotty said to Captain Kirk “I cannot change the laws of physics”.
Nice review.. Hope RaceDynamics realizes they need to provide better documentation for the Himalayan preferably a video overview/installation ( can be updated easily )
Thank you for the objective review and all that messing about. Sounds pretty much like what you thought going in. Certainly not worth the effort and expense in my estimation. I think better to try disconnecting the EVAP system (quick, easy and easily reversible), to see similar gains.
Yeah I've heard of the EVAP removal and have heard some people say it makes a big difference and some people say it makes no difference. it's hard to know what to believe, or maybe if you want it to work then it will and if you're sceptical like me then it won't!
Hi Nathan It would be great if you did the EVAP removal and then the 0-60 , roll on test etc . My experience is that it does make a noticeable difference , but I’m slightly worried it could cause other negative impacts, by the way oI had to have a new head gasket before the EVAP was removed, again looks like it was not torqued down at the factory,
@@liquidcooledvespa I think I'm done with changes to the bike for the time being. I'd rather spend the time and any money on an uprated rear shock for off road use. I think working on the engine is a case of ever decreasing gains. Glad it's working for you tho
Thanks for the info... Love the bike but I think installing one of these is like putting Lipstick on a Pig. Its never going to be a fast powerful bike. As you said if you want that, buy a different bike.
I think Itchy Boots has removed her device because it was potentially interfering with her drone. Most of the comments made in this video confirm my overall impression that installing chips or whatever to improve performance almost always results in negatives that are least as substantial as the gains in performance. My favorite story in this regard is a relative who installed a chip in his huge diesel Duramax and then loved to stomp the accelerator and make all 4 tires squeal like tortured piggies. It may have done that before he installed the chip but felt no need to stomp the accelerator until after the chip install. And then he did it frequently! He gathered no pre- and post- data so whether he ever did gain anything in terms of performance is an unknown, however, there is not doubt in my mind he lost engine longevity and economy. For each and every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. With the little 400cc Himalayan with it's long stroke and low RPM it, also subjectively, seems like there's not much to play with in terms of increasing performance. My inclination is to assume the people who designed the bike including the engine and fuel injection system knew a hell of a lot more about it's performance potential and associated longevity than I or most layperson consumer ever will. I wouldn't stick my inexpert fingers in there anywhere. This is not a highway crotch rocket this is a putt-putt that seems to get around quite nicely, thank you.
So in other words there is no real point to fitting the Powertronic unit, seems a lot of money, time and faffing around for so little return. Itchy Boots has now removed her unit.
I purchased the Powertronic ECU and handlebar map switch and installed it a week or so ago. The installation wasn't too bad and I didn't have any issues with the throttle calibration using a Windows 10 laptop and the USB drivers from Powertronic. I initially had the check engine light come on, but after unplugging the ECU and running the stock ECU again then plugging the Powertronic ECU, the check engine light went off. I don't like the increase in engine noise my 2019 had after the ECU installation. The benefit of the ECU is pretty minimal and not worth the expense and strain on the motor in my opinion. I removed the unit and returned it to Powertronic.
A good ..realistic.. review of the effect of fitting a Powertronic unit Nathan, because unless the laws of physics have changed and 'perpetual motion' has suddenly become a reality, there is simply no way on God's Earth that it can improve the 'engine responsiveness' of the Himalayan when twisting the throttle ..without.. causing a change in the metering of the injection system's rate of fuel delivery and that simply means that any 'perceived' performance benefit simply has to also come at a simultaneous cost of worsened fuel economy from the bike. There is also no way in the world that the Powertronic by altering the fuel metering injection profile can 'improve' the bike's speed by 20Kms/Hr unless it also simultaneously removes/over-rides the factory preset stock, engine upper rev limit programming in the ECU thus allowing the engine to spin faster in the red-line, which will no doubt lead to some very, very interesting warranty claim conversations in future, between anybody who does fit one of these Powertronic units to their own RE Himalayan bike while it's still operating under the factory's standard two year warranty conditions. The only way the bike's top speed can possibly be improved by 20Kms/Hr without removing the factory set ECU's stock preset rev limit setting is by altering the bike's actual final drive gear ratios and the simplest way to achieve that is to replace the stock factory fitted front drive cog with a taller geared one ie, one with more teeth but, that of course comes with the associated trade-offs of a worsened higher 1st gear minimum creeping speed when trying to negotiate any really gnarly tracks, and a worsened 5th gear top road speed, responsiveness, when attempting to overtake other traffic. When I first started looking at other folks reviews on the Himalayan my own immediate thoughts were that what this bike would really benefit from, at least on the export models intended for sale outside of the Indian domestic market, is a 6th gear final drive fitted to it as an overdrive, to allow for higher road speeds to be achieved in other countries where the better quality roads regularly allow it, but also doing so, at lower top engine speeds.
I love the look of these bikes but 25 hp is a no no for me. I love big singles so bought a GS 650 on the weekend instead. It they made this a 450cc with 35-40 hp it would be a market leader, the 650 twin that everyone talks about would ruin this bike. Well explained review.
I definitely take your point but in fairness to the Himalayan it already is the market leader in the sub 500 class and I imagine most of that success is down to the price. More power = more money = less sales, maybe. like you say, the next one should be interesting
I love my carbureted bikes, but their exhaust is pretty noxious even running stock. Of course, if you're bumping up your fuel ratio and trying to hot rod your engine you're gonna have nasty exhaust regardless.
@@nichisjesus never in my life have I even thought of that as an issue lol. I'm a two stroke fanatic so I savor the smells of good old fashioned technology. Besides you leave it all behind you after the startup.
@@pauld.b7129 It's not the smell for me, and I know a lot of ppl enjoy the "aromas", I just feel less than good if I'm hangin around a bunch of idling carbd engines. And nice mate, great logic there. I hate riding behind upjetted bikes or cars with the cats taken off. I adore the twin CV's on my '87 Honda, but my next bike will be fuel injected.
Hi Natan! You’ve mentioned me in a few videos and comments but you could have just contacted me, because now you’ve said a few things about me (or my installation), that aren’t completely correct :) . I didn’t mention downloading software, because I didn’t had too for it to work. I also didn’t have the engine light fault problem. I agree its not an easy install, and I was happy that Peter did it for me. But if you do the sequence correctly, it is in fact a plug-and-play and not a struggle as you experienced :) Sorry to hear you had problems, but for me it was an easy process. I like the fact you did proper testing to come to an objective opinion, but I don’t think you can rule out subjectiveness completely. You seemed to hate the product from the beginning and the installation problems only made it worse haha. So to be honest, I wasnt surprised to hear your final conclusion ;)
Hey Itchy Boots. Thanks for the comment. Yeah it's been a funny one. I got innundated with people telling me how great you though the system was, which piqued my interest and I'll be honest, when I watched your video I was sceptical of your claims. I agree, subjective improvements count for something but at almost £300 I think you also have to have something objective to show for it. You're definitely right, I didn't want to like it from the get go but by the end I can see how it would appeal to some people but I maybe think you missed some of the negatives of it. As long as it works for you that's the main thing. And i am sorry I had to reference you a few times but your comments on the device spawned a lot of interest in it, so it was kind of innevitable. Safe riding out there
nathanthepostman No worries :) I mean, I’m glad you did a proper testing and review because I just cannot find the time or possibility for that as I’m on the road all the time and struggling to keep up with all of it 😂 I actually never intended to make an instructional video / review video because I’m pretty terrible at that kind of stuff haha, you are way better at it! I do believe that if Race Dynamics improves on the installation manual and its clear what needs to be done it would make a big difference as struggles with installation are indeed a downside of the product!
@@ItchyBoots Itchy Boots yeah I guess that's why I was surprised you'd fitted one as when you're traveling I'd imagine it would be the last thing you'd think about doing to the bike, but now someone else has commented on the drop in running temperature then it completely makes sense . You're making some great videos and showing us parts of the world we'd never otherwise have seen so keep on rolling.
nathanthepostman Thanks 🙏😊
@@ItchyBoots @nathanthepostman My Two Himalayan Freaks Chatting hehehheh....My day just got Better !
Thanks for the honest review Nathan
Thanks. That's a thought provoking review. For me, the Himalayan (I have a Scram and absolutely LOVE it) is what it is.
If I wanted more power I'd look at another bike.
That such power units achieve some of their claims often excites customers more than exploring the downsides. Albeit these claims are not as much as they (often vaguely, for good reason) suggest - Having paid out hundreds owners often seem to justify their purchase with a less than successful upgrade.
Too many reviews are 'independent' from reviewers who have, nevertheless, been given or loaned items and whilst they may not glow over the items, they diplomatically don't offer the negatives.
Your objectivity is refreshing.
Noting that the money could perhaps be better spent on more fuel or tyres may be debated by others, but the cost of any increase in performance is already diluted, and will be more so if they do as you rightly note and inform insurance or lose out on a warranty claim.
After many years of riding - and hitting myself in the wallet in many ways - I've learned that if money is no object, these 'improvements' can be fun (although you mention the faff to install). Otherwise, if the bike is lacking, and improvements are not easy, effective (like adding risers, say) and relatively cheap, then look for a different bike - maybe costing a little more, but ultimately no more when some extras are wasted on the cheaper one.
Hi Nathan, good to hear your experience with the PowerTRONIC. Documentation has already been updated for the installation manual. For the REs, we offer refinement in throttle response, reduced vibrations, lower exhaust temperature (which in turn would result in longer engine life).
The PowerTRONIC is indeed plug and play, and connecting to a PC is not required unless calibration is needed (rarely) or maps need to be changed.
Thanks guys for commenting. Yes it's good that you've made some Himalayan specific instructions, much needed. And thanks for clarifying if you need to connect it to the computer or not. My bike is running ok but I'm not sure the fuelling at low speeds is as good as without the unit. I also still have the engine management light on so I've probably decided the unit is not for me. Many thanks again with all the assistance with the install.
Do I have to change my exhaust system ,is there any change in mileage
Hello ! interested in the new fuelx pro, however going by the reviews I feel nothing can be conclusively said unless its tested out on a Dyno ? Would like see that and some other objective tests(like the standard 0-60 0-100 etc). Hope #PowerDrift takes note of this whole affair too as a lot of youtubers seem less and less credible. At this point I can only say that if you need to spend to upgrade Performance Filter, Exhaust, Drivetrain, Camshaft, valve heads, ECU .. only to get gains of 5-10 bhp .. May be save that money and get KLR 650 if its available in your country.
Hey Nathan! Great video as always! Really love your honesty and down to earth approach!
Just bought a Himalayan and did some research on the Powertronic ECU to see whether it would improve the Himy's performance on highways. I might be wrong, but we're talking marginal improvements, at the risk of messing with your electronics and voiding the warranty. Kind of distorts the bike's proposition, which is simplicity, reliability and no fancy tech to be broken while on the road.
I've been following Itchy Boots as well (you both were my main sources when researching the bike) and she is not using the Powertronic ECU on her 2nd trip for some reason.
If the lack of power is a deal-breaker, I don't think the solution is to try to turn the bike into something it is not. Just buy a 2nd hand bigger bike!
Cheers!
She removed it because it interfered with her drone, nothing else.
Good honest review mate 👍
Good review Nathan, you do us all a favor. One thing to remember with most chiptunes or add on boxes for cars/motorcycles is that they really just change the gas pedal/grip to throttle body ratio. So you get more throttle for the same amount of input = more omph but not really any more power.
That said, turbo engines do of course benefit from more boost and fuel. And some engines are clearly detuned for emissions/longevity etc. It appears the Himalayan really doesn't have that much more to give, pity. Like someone else said, if it had around 40-50 hp I'd be all over it.
it does drop the engine temp going by a ton of mentions of that in the comments so it likely does make it richer just that it's a small engine that's only a SOHC, not much there like you said.
Hi Nathan, i've just bought a Himalayan and was considering a powertronic for an additional power boost (as claimed by the manufacturer) when on the motorway. Think i'll stick to stock following your review as the gains appear minimal with also an inevitable drop in MPG. I chose the Himalayan for the bikes simplicity and decent fuel consumption, so not for me this product. Thanks for a good objective review. Safe riding out there. Cheers Scott
There are a couple of points that I failed to mention in the video, one being that I think the unit could allow you to go one bigger on the front cog which would in turn lower the revs at cruising speed. Also, it's been mentioned in the comments that it has helped reduce engine temperature which can be a problem in hotter countries. I found the heat a problem coming across Texas last summer. The engine heat really heats up your boot. I can't assess its improvement to running temperature at the minute as it's still too cool in the uk. Also it seems that some aren't having to connect their unit to a computer so that would be a big bonus if that was the case. Hopefully through more comments of other users we'll figure out what has worked for different people and how they're getting on with it.
Was there any change in mileage (miles per gallon or km/l)
Good to see a more thorough review from you. And glad you mentioned the front cog in your comment. My thoughts exactly. Thanks!
I was going to message you on checking this out. Mine has arrived but I'll wait until I have the first service out of the way before fitting.
@@kirky0073 good idea.
I'd like to get mine installed right away, but I have family in from out of town. Will have to wait.
Thank you very much sir. 👍
I hope that these units improve and they become simpler and more effective. I have had two Harley’s where I replaced the exhaust, the intake and the fuel injection management system. This was painless and effective I hope this is what Himalayan owners can eventually expect.
I fitted Powertronic to my new Himalayan last week. Instructions are pitiful, but support on Whatsapp was good. I chose the wrong coupler for the Spk wire - result engine fault light and poor running. There is no mention of where to plug the oxygen sensor bypass. Now it's ok, with no fault light. As you say, there's a small but noticable improvement in power and acceleration, and a bit more margin for overtaking at highway speeds. Engine runs quite a bit cooler, which is a big plus for me as the temperature where I live is ramping up towards 40C and my ankles were getting uncomfortably hot. All in all I'm glad I bought it so far. I didn't do the computer thing as I don't have a Windows machine available.
Interesting point on running temperatures and something I can't assess at the minute here in the UK but if you're finding the bike running cooler that's a great plus as in the States it was the same, cooking your ankles. How have you found the economy, any change?
Too early to say on mileage - I'll let you know. I have crash bars from Zana, which are great for protecting the engine because they have four point attachments each side, but the right one wraps really close to the exhaust pipe and channels the heat straight onto your foot. Thanks for the vids, best of luck and keep up the good work.
@@alasdairanscombe8731 thanks Alasdair. Yeah interesting on the build up of engine heat. I had the same with an aftermarket sump guard that I had fitted; I felt it worked as a heat trap. If only we could stop fiddling with our bikes!
Alasdair, I too have bought a powertronic which arrived from India today. Are you up for writing out a fitting guide in simple and clear English language? I will search out as much as I can before attempting my fit but would certainly appreciate your help. I'm sure reading through their instructions again and blanking bits out, adding bits in and maybe rearranging the order might be the solution to an easier installation. Look forward to your response.
I would email them and ask them to send you the latest PDF of instructions for the Himalayan. I was sent a copy and they're better than the ones you get with the pack. Once you figure out which connector is which it's not too big a jump to install the wire work. The instructions you get just don't tell you what to do with that short 4 pronged connector that comes in the pack. That's to go in the line between the sensor from the exhaust. You just unclip that, put in the extra wire and rejoin it. @@kirky0073
Hello @nathanthepostman. I do lot of highway riding here in india on my Himalayan. Please let me know if powertronic increase the top speed? Usually it does 90-100kmph cruising effortlessly, any increase in that cruising speed? If it makes 110kmph comfortable that will be good.
Will it reduce the heat that comes from the engine.?
Hi Nathan
Been watching your channel and feel the royal Enfield could be a good starter bike for me starting adventure riding in Scotland, but I'm 6foot tall in your opinion what do you think? or is there other options I should consider.
Thanks scott
Nathan have you tried the ECU fault clearance using Karmakazi method?
Thanks for for the update, I think you have probably saved quite a few people some money. I wouldn't be rushing out to get one at the moment but wouldn't rule one out as part of a bigger list of mods.
Yes I certainly wouldn't deter anyone from buying one as long as they understand that the improvements don't start and end with this unit. I failed to mention in the video that maybe the extra pick up will allow it to pull a bigger front cog and help lower the revs at high cruising speeds
I have no experience with this particular product but one should always use dielectric grease on connections where potential water ingress could happen. Even if there are rubber boots covering the connections.
Top speed ?
still need to change the stock header pipe. it's a double wall pipe that chokes the airflow out exhaust. delkovic makes a full exhaust kit with header pipe that is a full inner diameter pipe.
What is the flat out speed of the bike before and after?
It would be super interesting to put it on a Dyno to really end the disagreement on performance...
stock it'll do 140-145 with a gearing change(no headwind lol). powertronic, based on those torque figures, look like they'll do 150(or more).
Hi Nathan thanks for the review, are you planning on leaving the powertronic on your bike for the June GR, it would be good to see how it performs against quite a lot of other Himalayans if you do :) Thanks Grant
I might still have it on. I'm not sure yet. I failed to mention it in the video but I rode alongside Connor on his stock bike and the difference was about 1 or 2 bike lengths in a hard acceleration away from the lights. In the context of the Garbage Run it wouldn't make any difference as we won't be going flat out. But we'll see. Maybe it makes it easier to ride in the hills of Scotland with the crisper pick up. You can certainty have a ride on it if I still have it fitted
@@nathanthepostman cool cheers, we'll see how you get on it with it then over the next few months
Hello mate, how can I get in touch with you? Cheers!
I would imagine it makes more of a difference if you use a high flow air filter and a less restrictive exhaust.
Hi Natham. Thanks for the review. I think one point was not mentioned: did you install map 1 or map 2? Safe travels.
Hi Mario. Switching between map 1 and 2 is just a simple case of connecting a wire under the seat. I did the rest with map 2 - the race map - but to be honest I've not felt a huge difference between the two.
@@nathanthepostman , thank you.
Thanks for the information Nathan. Did you try to run the bike without connecting to a computer after you installed the Powertronic unit? I contacted Powertronics two days ago and they replied to me that it was not necessary to download anything else. They said two programs were already loaded in it and it would be ready to go. this is getting very confusing.
Maybe it was because I was having problems but if I'm honest the calibration didn't have much effect and so perhaps it's not universally necessary.
If your bike runs ok as soon as you plug it in I'd just get out and try it
Pain in the ass!
hi man,i pat myself on the back when i change from 1st to second without clunk, what are the characteristics on the gear change please, is it me or the bike ,it feels loose, jerky between 1st and 2nd, got 650 mls ,
The gearbox does become easier and less notchy with miles. I personally think it's a nice clean gearbox. I find you do have to be positive with your changes and possibly try 'loading' the lever with a touch of pressure from your boot before you engage the clutch and go up/down the gear. I'd also try and get a ride on another Himalayan to see if it's the same
good advice, yes gears are very smooth, i do not remember a bike that goes so easy into neutral . i try different boots also and maybe stop riding like a pussy cos its new@@nathanthepostman
@@antonyross1811 I took mine fairly gentle to about 800 miles and then thrashed it.
i building up to that,haven't gone over ,50 and 4000 rpm yet. changed my boots better gear change, see you out there,watch the black ice
i will buy it for my bike
updates? thanks :)
An incredible concept bike out of the Bauhaus school of minimalistic design.. the mighty 24.5 HP Himalayan. Why is it not a 650.. If it was it wouldn't be enough.. it would need switchable ABS, traction control and heated seat.. and the 4500 usd price tag would be a distant memory. The perfect Himalayan wouldn't be a Himalayan.. then we'd be happy, for a while. 😁😍😣😊😥🤔
Haha. Great summary that John. I think you nailed it
The only thing that I would change is quitting air-cooling.
I hear a lot about heat reduction, surely heat is a product of combustion and friction. For a given power output these should be the same unless of course the mixture is made richer which will cause the engine to run cooler. This must be at the expense of fuel consumption, as Scotty said to Captain Kirk “I cannot change the laws of physics”.
fuel cools the engine so leaner= hotter. too much fuel can also ruin cylinder walls so theres a fine balance
Nice review.. Hope RaceDynamics realizes they need to provide better documentation for the Himalayan preferably a video overview/installation ( can be updated easily )
Yeah I think that's all it'd take. Would be a big help for the thickos like me
Thank you for the objective review and all that messing about. Sounds pretty much like what you thought going in. Certainly not worth the effort and expense in my estimation. I think better to try disconnecting the EVAP system (quick, easy and easily reversible), to see similar gains.
Yeah I've heard of the EVAP removal and have heard some people say it makes a big difference and some people say it makes no difference. it's hard to know what to believe, or maybe if you want it to work then it will and if you're sceptical like me then it won't!
Hi Nathan
It would be great if you did the EVAP removal and then the 0-60 , roll on test etc . My experience is that it does make a noticeable difference , but I’m slightly worried it could cause other negative impacts, by the way oI had to have a new head gasket before the EVAP was removed, again looks like it was not torqued down at the factory,
@@liquidcooledvespa I think I'm done with changes to the bike for the time being. I'd rather spend the time and any money on an uprated rear shock for off road use. I think working on the engine is a case of ever decreasing gains. Glad it's working for you tho
@@nathanthepostman Thanks Nathan! BTW how much does such a Powetronic piggyback ECU cost? thanks again!
@@watchandknock607 they're £280 from the importer in the UK or I believe $280 if you order direct
Thanks for the info... Love the bike but I think installing one of these is like putting Lipstick on a Pig. Its never going to be a fast powerful bike. As you said if you want that, buy a different bike.
I have to agree with you, I installed the Powertronic ECU and it didn't make much of a difference. I removed and returned it.
I think Itchy Boots has removed her device because it was potentially interfering with her drone. Most of the comments made in this video confirm my overall impression that installing chips or whatever to improve performance almost always results in negatives that are least as substantial as the gains in performance. My favorite story in this regard is a relative who installed a chip in his huge diesel Duramax and then loved to stomp the accelerator and make all 4 tires squeal like tortured piggies. It may have done that before he installed the chip but felt no need to stomp the accelerator until after the chip install. And then he did it frequently! He gathered no pre- and post- data so whether he ever did gain anything in terms of performance is an unknown, however, there is not doubt in my mind he lost engine longevity and economy. For each and every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. With the little 400cc Himalayan with it's long stroke and low RPM it, also subjectively, seems like there's not much to play with in terms of increasing performance. My inclination is to assume the people who designed the bike including the engine and fuel injection system knew a hell of a lot more about it's performance potential and associated longevity than I or most layperson consumer ever will. I wouldn't stick my inexpert fingers in there anywhere. This is not a highway crotch rocket this is a putt-putt that seems to get around quite nicely, thank you.
this ecu allows a 12000rpm limit, almost double stock. i don't know how much the valve springs can take but that alone probably adds a bit
So in other words there is no real point to fitting the Powertronic unit, seems a lot of money, time and faffing around for so little return.
Itchy Boots has now removed her unit.
She removed it because it interfered with her drone, nothing else. Let´s not hint on that she removed it because it did not perform.
I purchased the Powertronic ECU and handlebar map switch and installed it a week or so ago. The installation wasn't too bad and I didn't have any issues with the throttle calibration using a Windows 10 laptop and the USB drivers from Powertronic. I initially had the check engine light come on, but after unplugging the ECU and running the stock ECU again then plugging the Powertronic ECU, the check engine light went off. I don't like the increase in engine noise my 2019 had after the ECU installation. The benefit of the ECU is pretty minimal and not worth the expense and strain on the motor in my opinion. I removed the unit and returned it to Powertronic.
Some other dude above you said his was more noisy too but he's put on 15,000km without issues. oh decisions, decisions
A good ..realistic.. review of the effect of fitting a Powertronic unit Nathan, because unless the laws of physics have changed and 'perpetual motion' has suddenly become a reality, there is simply no way on God's Earth that it can improve the 'engine responsiveness' of the Himalayan when twisting the throttle ..without.. causing a change in the metering of the injection system's rate of fuel delivery and that simply means that any 'perceived' performance benefit simply has to also come at a simultaneous cost of worsened fuel economy from the bike.
There is also no way in the world that the Powertronic by altering the fuel metering injection profile can 'improve' the bike's speed by 20Kms/Hr unless it also simultaneously removes/over-rides the factory preset stock, engine upper rev limit programming in the ECU thus allowing the engine to spin faster in the red-line, which will no doubt lead to some very, very interesting warranty claim conversations in future, between anybody who does fit one of these Powertronic units to their own RE Himalayan bike while it's still operating under the factory's standard two year warranty conditions.
The only way the bike's top speed can possibly be improved by 20Kms/Hr without removing the factory set ECU's stock preset rev limit setting is by altering the bike's actual final drive gear ratios and the simplest way to achieve that is to replace the stock factory fitted front drive cog with a taller geared one ie, one with more teeth but, that of course comes with the associated trade-offs of a worsened higher 1st gear minimum creeping speed when trying to negotiate any really gnarly tracks, and a worsened 5th gear top road speed, responsiveness, when attempting to overtake other traffic.
When I first started looking at other folks reviews on the Himalayan my own immediate thoughts were that what this bike would really benefit from, at least on the export models intended for sale outside of the Indian domestic market, is a 6th gear final drive fitted to it as an overdrive, to allow for higher road speeds to be achieved in other countries where the better quality roads regularly allow it, but also doing so, at lower top engine speeds.
I love the look of these bikes but 25 hp is a no no for me. I love big singles so bought a GS 650 on the weekend instead. It they made this a 450cc with 35-40 hp it would be a market leader, the 650 twin that everyone talks about would ruin this bike. Well explained review.
I definitely take your point but in fairness to the Himalayan it already is the market leader in the sub 500 class and I imagine most of that success is down to the price. More power = more money = less sales, maybe. like you say, the next one should be interesting
Sometimes your just better off leaving the Bike (stock). Not worth the headache 🤕
Remember when you could just get some jets and throw them in the carburator and off you go. Now you need computers and programs and new hardware...
I love my carbureted bikes, but their exhaust is pretty noxious even running stock. Of course, if you're bumping up your fuel ratio and trying to hot rod your engine you're gonna have nasty exhaust regardless.
@@nichisjesus never in my life have I even thought of that as an issue lol. I'm a two stroke fanatic so I savor the smells of good old fashioned technology. Besides you leave it all behind you after the startup.
@@pauld.b7129 It's not the smell for me, and I know a lot of ppl enjoy the "aromas", I just feel less than good if I'm hangin around a bunch of idling carbd engines. And nice mate, great logic there. I hate riding behind upjetted bikes or cars with the cats taken off. I adore the twin CV's on my '87 Honda, but my next bike will be fuel injected.
torch can´t be invented....they are there.
This i big 👎 for powertronic, a product that clearly not ready for the market yet.
I think with clearer instructions it'd be fine. And in fairness to them it does meet their claims, just the mpg figures I need to check