January 13, 2025:- Royal Enfield has officially unveiled the Himalayan 650, a highly anticipated addition to the adventure motorcycle market. Building on the success of the original Himalayan, this new model promises enhanced power, performance, and touring capabilities.
Price and Availability
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 is expected to be competitively priced, aligning with the brand’s tradition of value for money. While the official pricing is yet to be announced, industry experts estimate the following price range:
Country | Expected Price (Local Currency)
- India: ₹4,00,000 – ₹4,50,000
- USA: $5,800 – $6,500
- United Kingdom: £5,000 – £5,500
- Australia: AUD 9,000 – AUD 10,000
- Germany: €5,500 – €6,000
The Himalayan 650 is scheduled for a global release in late 2025, with pre-orders opening a few months in advance.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Himalayan 650 is a 648cc parallel-twin engine, similar to those found in the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. This engine, tuned for adventure riding, provides strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both rugged trails and long highway rides.
Key Engine Specs:
- Engine Type: 648cc, air-oil cooled, parallel-twin
- Maximum Power: ~47 PS @ 7,250 rpm
- Maximum Torque: ~52 Nm @ 5,200 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
Design and Styling
The Himalayan 650 maintains the rugged design of its predecessor, with updates to accommodate its larger engine and improve functionality.
Design Highlights:
- Adventure-Ready Look: High-mounted front fender, tall windscreen, and minimalist bodywork.
- LED Lighting: Modern LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility and aesthetics.
- Split Seat Design: Comfortable for both rider and pillion, ideal for long journeys.
- Color Options: Expected to be available in Gravel Grey, Lake Blue, and Sandstorm.
- Improved Tank Design: The redesigned 20-liter fuel tank offers an extended range on a single fill.
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking
The Himalayan 650 features a reinforced chassis to handle the power and weight of the 650cc engine. Its suspension and braking systems have been upgraded for improved performance on various terrains.
Chassis and Suspension:
- Frame Type: Steel semi-duplex cradle frame
- Front Suspension: 41mm USD forks with 200mm travel
- Rear Suspension: Mono-shock with preload adjustment and 180mm travel
Brakes and Tires:
- Front Brakes: 320mm disc with dual-piston caliper
- Rear Brakes: 240mm disc with single-piston caliper
- ABS: Dual-channel ABS as standard
- Tires: 21-inch front and 17-inch rear dual-purpose tires
Technology and Features
The Himalayan 650 is equipped with modern features to enhance the riding experience.
Key Features:
- TFT Display with Navigation: A vibrant display offering turn-by-turn navigation, ride data, and phone connectivity.
- Riding Modes: Multiple modes including Off-Road and Touring to adjust throttle response and ABS settings.
- USB Charging Port: Convenient charging for gadgets during long rides.
- Slipper Clutch: Reduces clutch effort and prevents rear-wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifting.
- Heated Grips (Optional): Ideal for colder climates and high-altitude rides.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Himalayan 650 offers impressive fuel efficiency and range, designed for long-distance touring.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 liters
- Mileage: ~25-28 km/l
- Range (Full Tank): ~500-560 km
Target Audience
The Himalayan 650 is designed for adventure enthusiasts, touring riders, and those seeking an upgrade from the Himalayan 411.
Competition
The Himalayan 650 will compete with other mid-capacity adventure motorcycles, including the KTM 390 Adventure, Honda CB500X, and Benelli TRK 502X.
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 is set to redefine adventure touring in the mid-capacity segment. With its powerful engine, rugged design, and advanced features, it offers a perfect balance of performance, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a long-distance tourer, the Himalayan 650 is ready to take you on your next journey.
