Royal Enfield has been working on several new motorcycles in the Indian and global markets. We have spotted the test mules frequently driving these underdevelopment bikes. A recent test mule, an all-new adventure tourer, might carry a new 450cc engine. We consider it a radical approach by the automaker, as we initially expected the Himalayan range to spawn only a 650cc version.
The Himalayan 650 is also said to be in development, but judging by the spy shots, the Himalayan 450 could be the first to make it to the market. The Chennai-based manufacturer is doing well in the international market thanks to the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, Himalayan 411 and the latest 350cc range comprising the Meteor and Classic.
The expected launch of the Himalayan 450 is in early 2023, and there is a possibility of it going directly against the KTM 390 Adventure. Royal Enfield has created the latest bike on a modern platform and most of the body panels appear to be developed specifically for the dual-purpose adventure tourer.
The latest Himalayan looks more hardcore off-road bike compared to the existing Himalayan. It is likely to feature an upright handlebar, split single-piece seat, dual-purpose tyres, rear luggage rack, large fuel tank, USD front forks, wire-spoke wheels, front beak, tall windscreen, LED lighting system and a possible large digital console.
It is going to be a 450cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled FI BS6 engine that is developed from scratch. We expect the engine to generate a maximum power of around 40 HP and a peak torque of 45 Nm. The powertrain is to be coupled with a 6-speed transmission and a slipper and assist clutch and dual-channel ABS as standard.
To appeal to the domestic and global markets, RE is developing a 650cc cruiser, a 650cc classic themed bike, 650cc bobber, naked scrambler style 450cc and in addition, Hunter 350, single-seat Classic 350 and next-gen Bullet might also join the fray.