Is the Himalayan 650 just an over powered Himalayan or a whole new beast?
The original Himalayan was simple and rugged, and was perfectly suited to tackling rough terrain. With rumored 650cc engine, though, there's debate as to whether this new version will remain true to its roots or become something totally new. It’s argued it will be more capable as an adventure tourer, while others fear it could lose the charm and accessibility that made the original so popular. The spy shots don't reveal much, but the bike does look beefier, with a new frame (or at least a different one from what's pictured above) and perhaps more advanced suspension. This has led to discussions about whether Royal Enfield is gunning for more premium adventure bikes, or if they’re simply evolving the Himalayan concept based on demand for more power. And curiosity about how the added weight and power will change its off road abilities compared to the nimble 411cc version.
I think it's going to be a whole different animal. The Himalayan with that 650 twin is going to take the plucky little adventurer and turn it into a serious long distance tourer. It’ll probably do highways better, but I’m concerned it might lose some of that nimbleness off road.
No, it's just going to be a bloated Himalayan. That 650 engine is gonna get slapped in and that’s it. It'll be heavier, less maneuverable, and I guess it'll lose a lot of what made the original Himalayan special. A perfect example of fixating the unbroken.
You both miss the point. This isn’t about making the Himalayan ‘better,’ it’s about offering riders options. Those that crave that pure experience, the 411 will still be there, but the 650 will open up a whole new market. It’s smart business, and it’s probably going to be a fine bike in its own right.
I’m withholding judgement until I see the final specs, but from the spy shots it looks like they’ve done more than a simple engine swap. I bet they also upgraded the suspension and the frame looks beefier. That could prove to be a really capable all rounder.
I’m all for it as long as they keep it affordable. The Himalayan is great as it is, but it does struggle on highways. I’m fine with it as long as they can maintain the spirit of the original and make it more versatile.
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Discussions and Questions Is The Himalayan 650 Just An Over Powered Himalayan Or A Whole New Beast
Is the Himalayan 650 just an over powered Himalayan or a whole new beast?
09 January 2025 10:54
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