Royal Enfield launched the BS6 Himalayan in mid-January 2020 at a starting price of Rs 1.86 lakh ex-showroom (recently hiked by almost Rs 2,800). In addition to new dual-tone colour choices and a cleaner engine specification, Royal Enfield’s popular adventure tourer motorcycle carries a few improvements over its BS4 counterpart. This includes a leaner side stand, switchable dual-channel ABS, hazard lights and white backlighting for the instrument console.
It has gained almost 5kg in the latest avatar. The power plant is the same 411cc air/oil-cooled SOHC single-cylinder unit updated to BS6 emission norms. There is a mild drop in peak output but remains around the mark, 24bhp @ 6,500rpm and 32Nm @ 4,000rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox (no slipper clutch).
Though sales have been a bit slow due to India’s COVID-19 crisis, Royal Enfield witnessed a decent response for the first batch of BS6 Himalayan units. However, a good majority of buyers started raising complaints regarding abnormal engine stalls whilst on low RPM. From users’ words, the motorcycle tends to shut off during warm-up, regular idling, heavy traffic or when the clutch is disengaged for a slightly longer interval. Some have even reported stalls while changing gears (particularly at low speeds).
Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6.
It seems the feedback has reached Royal Enfield’s office as service centres have started rectifying the issue at no cost. As per an owner, three adjustments come part of the fix: voltage tweak from 63V to 65V, throttle position sensor change to ‘0.5’ and idling set at 1,340rpm instead of 1,280rpm. There are claims that the BS6 Himalayan, besides posing no stalling issues, rides significantly better after the fix.
The Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer has not made a formal announcement regarding the fix but has directed its dealer partners to let owners know. Furthermore, the issue is not consistent and there are several customers who are happy with the way their BS6 Himalayan performs.
With the introduction of the Himalayan back in early 2016, Royal Enfield essentially created a new segment of buyers on the Indian two-wheeler market. At present, the motorcycle faces tough competition from the KTM 390 Adventure as well as Hero MotoCorp’s Xpulse 200. BMW Motorrad India, on the other hand, is yet to launch the BS6 G 310 GS. Rumours suggest that it could debut with a massive price drop of Rs 75,000 — read more.
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
