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      Yamaha MotoGP Bike Now Has ‘Call Of The Blue India’ Sticker – Yamaha India Official Sponsor

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      Yamaha India Sponsored MotoGP Team R1 M Race BikeYamaha India Strengthens Motorsports Presence as Official Sponsor of Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP TeamRenowned Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, Yamaha, known for its active involvement in motorsports, operates in India under its subsidiary, India Yamaha Motor Pvt Ltd (IYM). In an exciting announcement today, Yamaha India revealed its official sponsorship of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team for the 2024 season.Yamaha India’s Noteworthy Partnership with MotoGPThis sponsorship follows the resounding success of the inaugural Indian GP in 2023 and signifies Yamaha India’s heightened engagement with the prestigious MotoGP, particularly during the upcoming 2024 season. To proudly showcase this collaboration, the Yamaha R1M race motorcycles ridden by Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins will feature the iconic “The Call Of The Blue” slogan on the front cowl throughout the entire 2024 MotoGP season.Yamaha India Sponsored MotoGP Team – Call Of The Blue SloganIn India, enthusiasts can experience the spirit of this partnership through Yamaha’s Monster Energy MotoGP Edition offerings. “The Call Of The Blue” logo, integral to India Yamaha Motor’s enduring brand campaign, becomes a prominent feature on the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP motorcycles. This development is a source of excitement for Yamaha Motor enthusiasts across the Asian subcontinent.Fortifying Motorsports Culture in IndiaThis collaboration serves as a strategic move by Yamaha India to strengthen its ties with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team and further solidify its reputation in the racing and track rides community. “The Call Of The Blue” slogan is expected to resonate with the fervour of Indian MotoGP fans, connecting Yamaha with a broader global audience.Yamaha India Sponsored MotoGP TeamIn embracing this partnership, Yamaha India aims to elevate its relationship with Indian racing enthusiasts, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history and contributing to the flourishing motorsports culture in India.The Yamaha R1M race machines, a testament to Yamaha’s technological prowess, align with the rich legacy and successful history of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team. Yamaha recently made headlines by discontinuing passenger versions of the Yamaha R1 and R1 M due to EU5+ emission norms in 2025.Insights from India Yamaha MotorChairman of Yamaha Motor India Group, Mr. Eishin Chihana, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “IYM is thrilled to be the newest sponsor of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team for the 2024 season. This partnership not only strengthens our connection with MotoGP but also symbolizes a new era of aspiration and enthusiasm for Yamaha enthusiasts in India.”By prominently featuring ‘The Call of the Blue’ logo on the YZR-M1 bikes, Yamaha India aims to kindle greater enthusiasm among young Indian fans, inviting them to embrace Yamaha’s legacy associated with the thrill of racing. This collaboration marks a significant step in connecting with the youth and Yamaha fans in India, contributing to the ongoing journey of the brand. More

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Arrives At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 2002024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160: Enhanced Features and Design Updates for a Competitive EdgeBajaj, a renowned name in the two-wheeler industry, captured the attention of the motorcycling community with the launch of the Pulsar NS200 back in 2012. Surprisingly, after almost twelve years, the allure of the Pulsar NS series remains strong and resilient.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 Arrives At ShowroomIn response to evolving standards, Bajaj has infused new life into the series with subtle upgrades, presenting the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with a host of improved features. The new Pulsar NS 200 has now arrived at the dealer showroom. Thanks to Sameer Vlogs, we now have a detailed first look walkround of the new P200 NS.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200Contrary to the notion that only retro or classic bikes maintain their charm, the Pulsar NS range defies this stereotype. The motorcycle’s muscular appeal received a boost with the introduction of USD front forks last year. The design, aging gracefully, has now undergone a mild refresh in 2024, showcasing a new face and instrument cluster that align with contemporary customer preferences.2024 updated models offer enhanced features at a slightly increased cost compared to their pre-facelift counterparts. The Pulsar NS160 competes primarily with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ, and Honda SP160, while the Pulsar NS200 faces off against the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0. Bajaj aims to strengthen the sales performance of both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with the refreshed design and feature-rich offerings.[embedded content]Notable Changes in the 2024 ModelTwelve years post its debut, the Pulsar NS receives a design update that retains its overall silhouette while adding a modern touch. The key changes include a new LED headlight, LED DRLs, and LED turn indicators. The redesigned DRLs exude a more prominent and dynamic appearance, reminiscent of a predator’s strong jawbone.The instrument cluster has undergone a significant transformation, now being fully digital. Unlike Bajaj’s recent launches with Bluetooth connectivity, the 2024 Pulsar NS200 and NS160 come equipped with turn-by-turn navigation—a first for Bajaj motorcycles. Additional features include a new button on the left handlebar switchgear and two buttons below the instrument screen for cycling through various functions.Mechanically, both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 retain their pre-facelift specifications. The NS200 boasts a KTM-derived 199.5cc single-cylinder SOHC 4V, triple spark liquid-cooled engine with 24 bhp and 18.74 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.The motorcycles share identical cycle parts, including USD telescopic front forks, rear nitrox mono-shock setup, 300mm front disc, 230 mm rear disc, optional dual-channel ABS, 100/80-17 front tyre and 130/70-17 rear tyre, sporty clip-on handlebars, 12L fuel tank, and more—all mounted on a sturdy perimeter frame. Official launch is expected soon, which is when the ex-sh prices will be revealed. More

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      300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales Jan 2024 – RE, Triumph, KTM, R3, RS457, X440, Eliminator

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      Royal Enfield Hunter 350Harley-Davidson has outsold its immediate rivals from Triumph, Jawa/Yezdi and even surpassed KTM 390 range and RE New HimalayanDespite commuters leading the way for 2W sales, most of the enthusiast and premium motorcycle offerings fall in 300cc to 500cc segment. With more motorcycles populating this segment, 300cc to 500cc space has turned out to be a Royal Rumble match where Royal Enfield, Honda, Harley-Davidson, Triumph, Jawa/Yezdi, KTM, TVS, Bajaj and other players operate. The champion of this Royal Rumble match is Royal Enfield with its slew of 350cc, 410cc and 450cc offerings.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales January 2024In total, Royal Enfield sold 67,888 units and 85.3% market share, followed by 4,020 Hondas, 3,349 Harley-Davidsons, 2,808 units of Jawa/Yezdi, 2,015 Triumphs and others. In total, the segment accounted for 79,581 units with 13.97% YoY growth and 21% MoM growth over December 2023.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales Jan 2024Royal Enfield Classic 350 remains the biggest volume generator of this space with 28,013 units sold along with 7.19% YoY growth and 31.93% MoM growth. Classic 350 alone is responsible for 35.2% of market share in this space. Volume growth stood at 1,879 and 6,779 units YoY and MoM respectively.Bullet 350 and Hunter 350 secured 2nd and 3rd places with 15,590 and 13,536 units respectively. While Bullet 350 saw 12.21% YoY growth and 23.66 MoM growth, Hunter 350 lost 18.33% sales YoY and gained 15.64% MoM. Meteor 350 in 4th place showed a similar pattern as Hunter 350 with a 2.66% YoY drop and 22.2% MoM growth from 7,419 units sold.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales Jan 2024 vs Jan 2023 – YoY comparisonAfter the four REs, Honda takes 5th place with 3,687 units of CB350 lineup. There is a massive 239.82% YoY growth and a commendable 88.5% MoM growth with CB350s. Volume growth stood at 2,602 units YoY and 1,731 units MoM. Harley-Davidson X440 has surpassed Triumph 400, RE Himalayan and Jawa/Yezdi to sell 3,349 units last month. This is a commendable feat for Hero-Harley partnership. There was a healthy 52.99% MoM growth too, with 1,160 units gained in volume. In 7th place, we have New Himalayan with 3,330 units and the bike faced a 33.25% YoY growth and a 2.23% MoM decline. In 8th and 9th place, we have Jawa/Yezdi and Triumph 400 with 2,808 and 2,015 units respectively. Classic Legends saw 22.88% YoY decline and 13.18% MoM growth, while Triumph saw 11.35% MoM decline.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales Jan 2024 vs Dec 2023 – MoM comparisonSub 1,000 units of salesKTM sold 858 units of its popular 390 range garnering 9.02% YoY and 47.42% MoM growth. Slightly behind KTM is TVS selling 697 units of 310cc Apache bikes and saw a commendable 54.89% YoY and 47.36% MoM growth. Even though Bajaj Dominar 400 saw an 8.7% YoY decline, there was a 72.58% MoM gain as it sold 535 units last month.Honda’s CB300 lineup saw 285 units sold and registered a 235.29% YoY growth, but there was a 29.98% MoM decline despite the massive price cuts with both CB300 offerings. Ninja 300 is still Kawasaki’s best-seller in this segment with 78 units sold. Despite the age and 15.22% YoY decline, Ninja 300 is hanging on with 52.94% MoM growth.Honda sold 48 units of CB500 last month. Kawasaki sold 33 units of recently launched Eliminator 400 and Ninja ZX-4R each. Yamaha has recently made a comeback in this segment and it sold 30 units of R3. Recently launched Husqvarna 401 and Aprilia RS457 sold 23 and 1 units respectively. Kawasaki Ninja 400 seems to be going strong with 21 units sold and 10.53% YoY growth and 50% MoM growth. More

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      2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 Incoming – Homologated Ahead Of Launch

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      Husqvarna Svartpilen : Image for reference onlyMost of the components of upcoming 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 will be shared with recently launched 2024 Vitpilen 250Bajaj Auto has been handling motorcycle production for as many as three international motorcycle brands. These are KTM, Husqvarna and more recently, Triumph. There has been a significant launch with Husqvarna in the form of 2024 Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 250. Now there is a new motorcycle incoming, which is Svartpilen 250.2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 IncomingEarlier this year, the iconic Swedish motorcycle manufacturer, Husqvarna, launched a 401 version of its Black Arrow (Svartpilen) and a 250 version of its Silver Arrow (Vitpilen). At that time, there was no Vitpilen with the larger 401 and no Svartpilen with smaller 250. This was likely done to associate displacement categories with character and design DNA.As per the company, there won’t be a (Silver Arrow) Vitpilen 401 launch keeping the Roadster-styled Vitpilen limited to smaller 250cc segment. However, Svartpilen (Black Arrow) seems to be getting ready to be launched in both 401 and 250 segments. Last month, Husqvarna had only launched Svartpilen 401.The new Svartpilen 250 has been recently homologated, post Svartpilen 401 launch. As per the leaked homologation document type approved by Transport Department of India, Svartpilen will be a slightly taller version of Vitpilen 250, launched last month. Other dimensions like 1,368 mm long wheelbase, 807 mm width and 2071 mm length are common between both 250cc bikes.2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 homologatedHowever, there is a slight difference in gross weight. Upcoming Svartpilen 250 features a 315 kg gross weight, while it is 314 kg for recently launched Vitpilen 250. Type approval documents also show the same engine displacement at 249.07cc and the same 22.8 kW peak power (30.57 bhp).Changes expected with Husqvarna’s Black ArrowThere seems to be a slight retune in Svartpilen 250’s engine as its peak power comes in at 9,250 RPM as opposed to 9,500 RPM of Vitpilen 250. This is done to suit respective character and styling genres. The same 249.07 cc single-cyl liquid-cooled DOHC 4V engine is likely to be carried over to Svartpilen 250 as well.This engine will generate 30.57 bhp peak power and 25 Nm peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox and a slip and assist clutch. Where componentry is concerned, there will be non-adjustable USD telescopic front forks and single-sided rear mono-shock shared with Vitpilen 250. Wheels could be wire-spoke ones with tube-type dual-sport tyres. Probably Pirelli Scorpions.2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 : For referenceWhen opposed to previous Svartpilen 250, there will be a larger fuel tank, a tail-section (no more factory tail tidy), a larger headlight cowl and a much larger and more accommodating seat. There will be a sole matt black shade with neon highlights. More

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      Royal Enfield Scram 650 And Classic 650 Spotted Testing Together

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      Royal Enfield Scram 650Where Classic 650 dwells into its Classic-ness, Scram 650 emerges as the more sporty offering and it could be the lightest RE 650 bikeThe iconic British motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield, is gearing up to launch new motorcycles to further expand its ever-expanding portfolio. The latest launch from Bullet-maker was Shotgun 650 and the 650cc portfolio will be further expanded to include Classic 650 and Scram 650, as both were spotted testing.Royal Enfield Scram 650 & Classic 650 SpottedThe four motorcycle launches per year strategy keenly followed by Royal Enfield has yielded the first product – Shotgun 650. There are three more to go for the year 2024 and one of these three is likely to be Scram 450, which is a stripped-down version of New Himalayan 450. The other two launches might include both 350cc and 650cc offerings.Scram 650 and Classic 650Upcoming motorcycles in 650cc category are Classic 650 and Scram 650. Both these motorcycles are currently under testing. The recent spy shots credited to automotive enthusiast DerpBDerpy, show both upcoming Classic 650 and Scram 650 in the same frame, trundling down the streets of Chennai city.Where design is concerned, Classic 650 looks very much like a lengthened Classic 350, which is not a bad thing at all. This formula exudes timeless appeal and radiates understated elegance. Whereas, Scram 650 looks like an Interceptor 650 on steroids. When launched, Scram 650 is likely to get the name Interceptor Bear 650.Tripper Dash on Scram 650Scram 650 is the most feature-loaded and lightest RE 650Where main frame is concerned, Scram 650 is closely related to Interceptor 650, while Classic 650 is more relatable with Super Meteor 650. Where componentry is concerned, it is the opposite. We’re talking about Classic 650 showing less premium components and Scram 650 lapping up more premium hardware.Digital speedo of the upcoming Scram 650Both motorcycles fall under two distinctly different motorcycle umbrellas within RE’s 650cc portfolio. There are stark differences between two umbrellas in Royal Enfield’s 650cc motorcycle portfolio. One umbrella has Interceptor 650 and GT Continental 650, while the other umbrella houses Super Meteor 650 and recently launched Shotgun 650.This bifurcation is important for Royal Enfield and both these umbrellas get different equipment. Classic 650 will join the lower-level and less-equipped 650cc bikes with conventional instrument cluster, RSU telescopic front forks, silver engine bay and the likes. Whereas Scram 650 is a more premium offering with USD telescopic front forks, black engine bay and RE’s new Tripper Dash screen.Side view of the Scram 650Scram 650 gets a single-sided exhaust and knobby tyres with a minimal tail, while Classic 650 goes full regalia where classic-ness is concerned. Both motorcycles come equipped with the same 648cc parallel twin engine that is capable of developing around 47 bhp peak power and 52 Nm peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. Engine tuning might differ between both bikes to suit their respective character. More

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      Honda CB350X ADV Renders Based On Leaked Sketch – Africa Twin Colours

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      Honda CB350X ADV RenderHonda is working on a new adventure motorcycle based on the CB350 – Based on the leaked patent sketch, here is a digital renderRenowned Japanese automaker, Honda, continues to make waves in India’s motorcycle market, particularly with its dominance in scooters and commuter motorcycles. Seeking to expand its premium single-cylinder portfolio, Honda is rumoured to be working on a new adventure motorcycle, based on the CB350. Say Namaste to Honda CB350X ADV Render.Honda CB350X ADV RenderedRecent design patents from Honda showcase an adventure bike and a scrambler, both based on the CB350 platform, sparking anticipation for their potential launch in India. Pratyush Rout has visualized the Honda CB350X ADV based on these leaked designs, presenting a rendering that draws comparisons to the Royal Enfield Himalayan.Honda CB350 ADV Design Sketch Patent LeaksWhile some critics may point out similarities with Royal Enfield designs, the render features a purposeful and robust ADV/tourer motorcycle based on leaked design elements. The design includes a muscular fuel tank with tank shrouds, a circular LED headlight similar to the CB350 series, a tall windscreen, knuckle protectors on the handlebar, and a distinctive front beak. Colour themes are based on Honda’s flagship ADV, the Africa Twin.Honda CB350 ADV boasts a spacious rider’s seat and a stepped, split pillion seat, accompanied by a grab rail that doubles as an integrated luggage rack. The up-swept exhaust can, potentially identical to the standard CB350, complements the overall design. The tail light and rear turn indicators may also share similarities with the CB350 RS.Honda CB350X ADV RenderStrategic Market PositioningHonda’s foray into the single-cylinder adventure bike segment aims to capitalize on the current trend, competing with models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Triumph Scrambler 400X, BMW G 310 GS, KTM 390 Adventure, and Yezdi Adventure. Rather than leveraging the CB300R platform, Honda takes a unique approach by basing its offering on the CB350 platform.Honda CB350X ADV RenderThe envisioned motorcycle is anticipated to weigh approximately 195 kg, deliver 20.78 bhp and 30 Nm torque, equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled SOHC 4V engine, and conventional suspension. Expect it to be priced around Rs. 2.4 lakh (ex-showroom).At this price point, the CB350X ADV will position itself in proximity to competitors like the Triumph Scrambler X and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, albeit with potentially superior hardware and performance. With a speculated launch towards the end of 2024, the Honda CB350X ADV might not only cater to the domestic market but also hold export potential, following in the footsteps of the recently launched Honda CB350 Classic. More

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      Suzuki Motorcycle India Production Milestone – Access The Road Ahead

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      Suzuki India officials with the 1 millionth two wheeler – New Access 2024Suzuki Motorcycle India Production Milestone Growth Trajectory: From 2006 to 1 Million in FY 2023-24Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL) celebrates a monumental achievement: producing 1 million two-wheelers in FY 2023-24. This feat demonstrates SMIPL’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The Suzuki Access, a popular model, marked this milestone at the Kherki Dhaula plant in Gurugram.Since its establishment in February 2006, SMIPL has steadily expanded its presence in the industry. This accomplishment strengthens the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality, reliable, and innovative two-wheelers to riders. The future of Indian two-wheeler industry looks promising, with opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement driving growth and competitiveness in the market.Customer Expectations Met: SMIPL’s PromiseExceeding the annual production capacity within a year is remarkable. SMIPL has surpassed its original installed capacity of 1 million units per year to meet rising demand. The workforce and engineers displayed exceptional ingenuity and commitment to achieve this milestone.An achievement that reflects SMIPL’s unwavering commitment to meeting customer expectations. The company prioritises both demand and quality standards associated with the Suzuki brand. Gratitude is extended to employees and business associates for their continuous support. Emergence of digital technologies is transforming the way customers interact with brands and make purchasing decisions. Companies are leveraging digital platforms for marketing, sales, and customer service, enhancing the overall consumer experience.Suzuki India officials with the 1 millionth two wheeler – New Access 2024India’s Two-Wheeler Future: OpportunitiesSMIPL’s success is a testament to its adaptability and responsiveness to market demands. The company remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of customers. This milestone further solidifies SMIPL’s position as a leader in the two-wheeler industry.Focus on quality and innovation continues to drive its growth and success. SMIPL is poised to capitalise on future opportunities and challenges in the industry. Commitment to delivering excellence remains unwavering. As Suzuki Motorcycle India celebrates this significant milestone, it acknowledges the collective efforts of its workforce and partners. Together, they have contributed to the company’s success and growth. SMIPL looks forward to continued collaboration and success in the future.Beyond Numbers: SMIPL’s Million-Dollar MilestoneAchieving the Suzuki Motorcycle India production milestone of 1 million two-wheelers within a year highlights SMIPL’s operational efficiency and dedication to customer satisfaction. The company is keen on delivering exceptional products and experiences to its customers.In India’s competitive two-wheeler space, technological advancements and changing consumer preferences continue to shape the industry landscape. With the rise of electric vehicles and increasing focus on sustainability, manufacturers are exploring innovative solutions to stay ahead. Companies like Suzuki Motorcycle India are investing in research and development to introduce eco-friendly options and cater to the evolving needs of customers.Sustainable Solutions: SMIPL’s Next Frontier?Furthermore, the expansion of urbanisation and the growing middle-class population present significant growth opportunities for the two-wheeler market. As cities become more congested, there’s a greater demand for compact and efficient modes of transportation, driving the sales of motorcycles and scooters.Moreover, with the government’s emphasis on promoting electric mobility and reducing carbon emissions, there’s a growing impetus for manufacturers to invest in electric two-wheelers. This shift towards cleaner alternatives is expected to revolutionise the industry and create new avenues for growth and innovation. More

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      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Long Term Review – First Impression

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      Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450 First Impression ReviewWhen compared to discontinued Himalayan 411, Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450 is a significant upgrade to rival offerings from Triumph, Yezdi, KTM and BMWIndian 2W market has a multitude of sub-segments. Adventure lifestyle motorcycle segment might not be the volume generator that manufacturers rely on. But it garners the most interest from enthusiasts. Hero Impulse and Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 kick-started and are stalwarts in this segment. Royal Enfield New Himalayan a.k.a. Himalayan 450 is the latest entrant to this sub-segment and this is our first impression after around 1,000 km with this motorcycle.Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450New Himalayan is one of Royal Enfield’s latest launches. The company loaned us a New Himalayan for a long-term review. Around 1,000 km with this motorcycle, this is a perfect time for us to share our first impressions on RE’s new adventure horse. New Himalayan is the spiritual successor to Himalayan 411, which has touched thousands of thrill seekers’ hearts worldwide.New Himalayan 450 Side ProfileWith a detailed review underway, I would be sticking to positives and negatives revolving around New Himalayan and laying down my thoughts in a systematic way. As impressive as Royal Enfield New Himalayan is, there is still a lot of work at company’s hands.Himalayan 450 Long Term Review – Positives1. Design & Road presenceNew Himalayan is not offensive in any way. It sticks to classic ADV motorcycle genre with a purposeful approach. Personally, I’m not a fan of large beaks on motorcycles without a fairing (semi-fairing or full-fairing) and that’s the only thing I would get rid of, which is subjective, though. Overall silhouette might be similar to Himalayan 411, but there is a significant bulk with New Himalayan that is immediately evident. It grabs eyeballs and I often faced multiple inquiries from strangers regarding the motorcycle. Never in a bad way.New Himalayan 450 Ergonomics2. ErgonomicsI did a 550 km ride in a day on this New Himalayan. The upright posture with centre-set footpegs positioning ensured I was devoid of any fatigue and strain in my wrists, shoulders, elbows, neck, back and legs. There are two seat height settings – 825 mm and 845 mm. Being a 182 cm tall individual, the taller setting appealed to me more and I could easily flat foot too.3. Performance & EfficiencyNew Sherpa 450 engine has oodles of performance. 100 km/h mark comes in under 7 seconds and the urge with which this machine accelerates is unlike any single-cyl Royal Enfield. Acceleration is addictive too, tempting you to flick the throttle more often than necessary. Peak power is 40 bhp and peak torque is 40 Nm and these are very healthy numbers. 120+ km/h cruising speed is a cakewalk. Efficiency is respectable for a 452cc, 40 bhp, 40 Nm, 196 kg motorcycle. The 550 km ride I embarked on, took around 16L of fuel, which works out to be a good 34 km/l fuel efficiency and 550 km to 580 km tank range.4. TechnologyThe new Sherpa 450 engine is the first of its kind for Royal Enfield. It features liquid cooling, a DOHC 4V head, electronic throttle (ride by wire), a slip and assist clutch and a 6-speed gearbox (a smooth one at that). Overall appeal of New Himalayan is that of a tech-loaded package, which is unlike any other Royal Enfield. Heating is well-contained with a large radiator and active cooling fans do a pretty good job. It gets warm, but not uncomfortably hot.New Himalayan 450 Liquid-cooling5. Ride & Handling43 mm USD telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock with long travel offer a decent balance between ride and handling. There is a sense of indestructibility about this setup and inspires a lot of confidence on smooth asphalt, speed humps, broken and beaten paths, trails and off-road situations. Standing and riding provide a greater sense of control while tackling the rough stuff too.Himalayan 450 is proving to be a capable handler, for what it is. The large 21-inch wheels need some effort to steer, but it is surprising how well Himalayan masks its weight at medium to high speeds. Straight-line stability is commendable, given its long wheelbase. Even though they’re not tubeless, the specially designed CEAT-sourced 90/90-21 and 140/70-17 front and rear tyres invoke confidence.New Himalayan 450 Specific CEAT TyresBraking hardware has seen an upgrade with strong performance from 320 mm front and 270 mm rear disc and dual-channel ABS with ride modes. There are no vibrations till around 95 km/h mark and the same vibe-free experience continues upwards of 125 km/h.6. GadgetsAll-around lighting is LEDs and rear blinkers also house tail lights, which is a neat touch. New Himalayan debuts Royal Enfield’s Tripper Dash, which is the world’s first circular display on a motorcycle to integrate Google Maps. There is a dedicated smartphone app to configure this display and it supports notifications, call alerts, music controls and other aspects via a 5-way clickable D-Pad and a Mode button on left switchgear. The display is surprisingly bright with an auto-brightness feature via a dedicated sensor. It is crisp and high-resolution too.New Himalayan 450 Tripper DashHimalayan 450 Long Term Review – Negatives I faced so far1. The Tripper DashAs good as Royal Enfield’s new Tripper Dash is, our unit never once worked to its full potential. The unit connects with my Samsung S Series smartphone. But music controls and Google Maps never once worked. Even Royal Enfield personnel fiddled around with it for an hour and gave up in despair. I even tried the same with an iPhone. It just never worked.2. Cumbersome city ridesThe 196 kg kerb weight is masked beautifully on open roads, but it makes its presence known in the city. Even more bothersome is a rather heavy clutch lever action, despite New Himalayan having a slip-and-assist clutch. I’ve faced both these negatives in OG Himalayan 411 too and remain unchanged. There’s a new negative with Himalayan 450 that Himalayan 411 never showed, which is low-speed tractability. There is absolutely no low-speed tractability with this engine and I have stalled the engine even in 1st gear on multiple occasions in peak Bengaluru traffic. With all three factors combined, I wouldn’t choose New Himalayan as my city commute partner. This beast yearns to be unleashed on the highway.New Himalayan 4503. Surprising vibrationsVibrations are one of the more surprising elements of Himalayan. We say this because the Sherpa 450 engine is very smooth and vibe-free at most speeds. Till 95 km/h, there are no vibrations at all. Post that, there are strong vibes that I felt in the handlebar, seat and even footpegs. Surprisingly, vibes taper off post 125 km/h speed. This grey area between 95 km/h and 125 km/h is actually the sweet spot for cruising on New Himalayan, but that’s exactly where the vibes kick in.New Himalayan 450 Switchgear4. Finicky switchgearThe new starter rocker shared with other Royal Enfields works beautifully. However, I wish Royal Enfield hadn’t re-invented high beam flasher and re-positioned it within low/high beam rocker switch. Especially when wearing leather gloves, it is hard to reach too. There is a mode button where flasher switch used to be that I hardly ever used. The 5-way clickable D-Pad to control is not a quality item and triggers false registers very frequently.5. Un-calibrated fuel guageI don’t know if this is with just our unit or all New Himalayans, but the fuel gauge is not acting as expected. When I first collected the motorcycle, DTE (Distance To Empty) was showing 42 km, which dropped to 15 km after going just 2 km. At this point, the tank was almost empty and I refuelled Rs. 1,000 worth, in New Himalayan’s 17L tank. Rs. 1,000 gives only 9.8L in Karnataka. Surprisingly, the fuel gauge showed 100%.I recreated this scenario. Only, this time I refuelled Rs. 800 worth (7.8L) in an almost empty tank. Surprisingly, the fuel gauge showed 100% again. Curiously, I recreated this scenario one last time and I refuelled just Rs. 100 (0.8L) in an almost empty tank to see how it would react. The meter didn’t fail to amuse as it rose 1 full bar, which is 25% of this tank. Yeah! When full, the first two bars of fuel level drop very slowly. Third bar is faster and the fourth is the fastest. I could see the fourth bar drop in real-time with a wide open throttle.New Himalayan 4506. Misaligned triple clampOur unit has never fallen once. But I could already see the triple clamp misaligned. Because of that, the handlebar tilts towards the exhaust side, while going straight. This kind of messes up the steering feedback as well. Also, strong rattles are coming out from this triple clamp area too.New Himalayan 450 Seat7. Uncomfortable seatI mentioned how comfortable New Himalayan’s ergonomics are, but it is exactly the opposite when it comes to its seat. The shape is perfect. It is only the foam used, which is very firm. I couldn’t ride on this seat more than 60 or 70 km in a stretch and I had to stand on the motorcycle every 30 km and shift my position every 15 km. No wonder why Royal Enfield sells a touring seat as an accessory.New Himalayan 450 Kamet White Pattern8. AestheticsI’m not a fan of how this Tripper Dash looks as it is tacked on with an exposed clamp. It could have been tidied up. Three people asked me why paint was flaking on a brand-new motorcycle. That’s because the pattern on Kamet White colour looks less like camouflage and more like flaking paint. I can’t unsee it now. Royal Enfield seems to be pushing the Kamet White colour with the media, but I think Kaza Brown, which is white, is the best colour for the New Himalayan.9. Missing featuresI am used to self-cancelling indicators on motorcycles and was surprised to see that New Himalayan doesn’t get it. Indicators don’t beep as well, so I often forgot that indicators were on. My Rs. 75,000 (on-road) Bajaj Pulsar 150 from 2010 has self-cancelling turn indicators and Royal Enfield New Himalayan 450 costs Rs. 4 lakh (on-road Karnataka). Ouch! Also, there is a ride-by-wire throttle and yet Royal Enfield didn’t develop cruise control on this wonderful touring machine. More