Will the Royal Enfield Sherpa 350 be a true rival to the Himalayan, as its off-road potential suggests, or is it all talk?
With the arrival of the Royal Enfield Sherpa 350, the company's lineup has started a discussion about where this new offering fits in, especially in comparison to the company's tried and tested Himalayan. While some riders see a lighter and more accessible adventure bike as a good thing, arguing that not everyone needs the full capabilities of the Himalayan for light off road use, others are excited about the prospect of a more versatile road bike. Some are skeptical though – they think the Sherpa 350 is more of a styling exercise than a serious off road contender. This debate also includes whether the 350cc engine is powerful enough to get you through true adventure riding, and whether the bike’s suspension and frame is capable of handling rough terrain. Also, how might Himalayan sales be affected, and potentially Royal Enfield is cannibalizing its own market?
The Sherpa 350 won't be a true Himalayan competitor, I doubt. It’s probably more a soft roader for light trails and gravel roads. Not everybody needs a full on ADV bike.
Accessibility has power. Don't underestimate it. Riders who find the Himalayan too intimidating or too expensive might find the Sherpa appealing. It could be a gateway drug to adventure riding.
A marketing gimmick all the way. If RE knows adventure bikes are hot right now, they'll slap some off road styling on a 350 and call it a day. It’ll be no candle to the Himalayan off road.
You're all missing the point. The Himalayan isn't meant to compete with the Sherpa. It’s for urban riders who want the adventure look, but not the bulk. They are a completely different target audience.
It should be more capable than we expect, I think. The Himalayan has taught RE a lot and they could apply that knowledge to make the Sherpa surprisingly competent off road.
It's all about expectations. Sure, compared to a Himalayan or Africa Twin it’ll fall short. But for the weekend trail rides and fire roads? It'll probably be just fine.
Most adventure bikes are never really ridden off road anyway so let's be real. The majority of riders who just want the option to occasionally go off road, the Sherpa might be perfect for.
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Discussions and Questions Will The Royal Enfield Sherpa 350 Be A True Rival To The Himalayan As Its Off Road Potential Suggests Or Is It All Talk
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