The design of the new Himalayan carries forward the same rugged, purposeful aesthetic that fans of the older model loved. The motorcycle has a big-bike presence, thanks to its tall stance, high ground clearance, and muscular bodywork. The Slate Poppy Blue color scheme on the test bike further enhances its visual appeal, making it stand out on the road.

At first glance, the Himalayan's design is all about practicality and function. The front end features a large round headlight, with the LED indicators integrated into the taillight at the rear, offering a unique lighting signature, especially in low-light conditions. The tank’s metal bars are a nod to the older Himalayan, providing protection in case of a fall. The side profile is dominated by the high-set exhaust and long-travel suspension, further emphasizing the Himalayan’s off-road DNA.

The overall fit and finish on the new Himalayan is notably better than its predecessor. The quality of materials used is improved, giving it a more premium feel. However, the mirrors remain a weak point, as they are not as adjustable as one would expect, which can be frustrating on long rides.

The star of the new Royal Enfield Himalayan is undoubtedly the Sherpa 450 engine. This new engine is a revelation, providing the Himalayan with the power it always needed. Producing 27.2 bhp and 33 Nm of torque, the engine offers ample grunt for both on-road and off-road adventures.

The 450cc single-cylinder engine is the most technologically advanced motor that Royal Enfield has produced, and it delivers a balanced performance. The engine can easily maintain speeds of 70-80 km/h on highways, but if you feel the need for speed, it can comfortably cruise at 100-110 km/h all day long. What stands out the most is the tractability of the engine—you can ride in 4th gear at 40 km/h and still accelerate to triple-digit speeds without needing to downshift.

The engine feels a bit lazy at lower RPMs, especially below 3500 RPM, but once the revs climb, there’s a surge of torque that keeps things lively. Overtaking on highways requires some planning, but it’s never a hassle, especially once you get used to the engine’s characteristics.

The gearbox is another highlight of the new Himalayan. Gear shifts are buttery smooth, and the clutch action is light, making it easy to ride in city traffic. While there are some vibrations at the higher end of the rev range, they are not intrusive enough to detract from the overall riding experience.

The new Royal Enfield Himalayan impresses with its off-road capabilities. With 200 mm of suspension travel at both ends and 230 mm of ground clearance, the Himalayan is more than capable of tackling rough terrain, rocks, bumps, and potholes with ease. The low center of gravity and wide handlebar provide excellent balance and control, even when the bike is fully loaded with gear. Riding the Himalayan off-road is confidence-inspiring, and despite its 196 kg weight, the bike feels surprisingly agile once it’s on the move.

The suspension setup is on the firmer side, but it does a great job of absorbing undulations on the road. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel provide stability over uneven surfaces, making the Himalayan a solid choice for long-distance touring. On the road, the Himalayan feels planted and stable at higher speeds. Despite its long wheelbase, the bike handles corners fairly well, though it takes some persuasion to change direction quickly due to its size.

The Ceat tires offer good grip on paved roads, but off-road performance could be better, as the tires tend to lose traction in loose gravel or mud. For serious off-road enthusiasts, upgrading the tires may be a consideration.

The braking system on the new Himalayan is also improved, with a 320 mm disc up front and a 270 mm disc at the rear, offering strong bite and progression. The ABS is switchable at the rear, which is particularly useful when riding off-road.

Royal Enfield has placed a significant emphasis on ergonomics in the new Himalayan. The seat height of 825 mm is approachable for most riders, and the seat itself is wide and well-padded, making it comfortable for long-distance rides. The riding position is upright and neutral, with the wide handlebars providing good leverage for off-road riding. Even when standing on the pegs, the Himalayan feels comfortable and natural, a crucial factor for adventure touring.

The pillions seat is also quite spacious, though it could benefit from more cushioning for added comfort on longer rides. The bike’s 17-liter fuel tank offers a range of about 420-450 kilometers, depending on the riding conditions, which is more than enough for most touring needs.