"As long as you're not riding like a bellend" 🤣 I just bought a RE Himalayan today and rode it home 2 hours in 4°C, grinning like a maniac the whole way.
Thanks for this review, probably the best I've seen on this bike as far as honesty and not presenting the BS that most reviewers feel compelled to toss into the mix. You have done real-world riding and it has held-up nicely. Of course, any bike or any bike part can break, but overall, I think Royal Enfield has apparently done a good job with this one. I live in the USA and finally got to see and sit on one yesterday, although I did not get to ride it. The balance felt good as did the seat height. As I am getting older (just turned 68) I care less and less about speed, but more and more about handling, comfort, torque (to get me out of trouble) and reliability. I am think that this will probably be my next bike, and will probably be good enough that I won't need any other bike, as this will fill all my needs for commuting and adventuring.
Had mine for 2 weeks now. Absolutely love it. Watched this video awhile back and it was what finally convinced me to bite the bullet and buy one. I've also got two CT110s. A postie and AG version. Ideal bikes for where I live at Lake Taupo, New Zealand. Hope you had a very Merry Christmas. Look forward to your videos 2020.
Nathan always tell the truth - no hype. Brilliantly refreshing. I have been researching this bike from b4 its launch (in India) with view to buying there and riding back. KLR is mentioned which I want for USA, but that needs “farkles”. I have done a few euro tours and power is not needed as much as when going to Tescos! It’s a different more functional type of biking where reliabiality and distance w/o drama is the top priority.
I ride a bullet electra x had it a year, still enjoy it very much. this Himalayan is the only thing I would change to. Like you said - performance could be better, but I am realising the advantages of enough is plenty - I had a bmw 1150 gs before the bullet, and how quickly I got used to the power. with these enfields, you aren`t always trying to get past the next bunch of cars - a pointless exercise as there are always more of them ahead...………..
Yes I think that's a really good point Steve and my previous bike was a 1200 GS so I certainly appreciate the difference in performance. But as you say, rather than see every car as something to overtake, I instead find myself more content to go with the flow and in reality it doesn't really cost you any extra time. I wish it had a bit more for when you do want to overtake, but I wouldn't compromise the low down pull of the engine for more top end. It'd be interesting to hear how it compared to your Bullet.
Thoroughly enjoyed hearing of your experience with the very bike that appeals to me. I'm also following the travels of a young woman (site: Itchy Boots) that's on an extensive trip with her new Himalayan in southern Asia. I'm entertaining the idea of taking delivery of the bike in India but due diligence may put that idea to rest. Meanwhile, enjoy that fine machine and be safe out there.
Excellent review. I’m in Canada and just tested one for first time yesterday. Love this bike. My other bike is a 17 Road King Special but I yearn for the back roads and I think this is the perfect machine for that. Bringing my Moms ashes back to Scotland soon and hoping to hire a Himalayan to take her for a ride around the countryside before her final resting place in Elgin She hated motorcycles though so not sure how happy she will be with this plan 😊
Great video! I'm really looking at getting one of these sometime within the next few years. Seems like a fun all around bike that can tackle the road and the dirt equally. I think you really nailed it when you mentioned they built a bike that has features that the rider will need. I am hoping to test ride one here in the next few weeks!
Like they say, Nathan, the proof of the pudding... Delighted the bike is proving sturdy, reliable and capable. It is obviously a fine choice in its sector, and certainly better than most in terms of luggage capacity, I don’t regret getting the CRF Rally although it is a little tall for me, but still wistfully wonder if the REH wouldn’t have been a better choice as it was in the end the only other contender. Give it a year and we’ll see how I feel. Wonderful comprehensive video, and a lovely trail that. Just right for novices like me!
Great review mate. I'm really glad Royal Enfield has built this bike. Very simple. Very effective. The big manufacturers have been SOOOOOOOOOOOO lazy in this market sector. They all have the components sitting around that could make a good bike, but they haven't really bothered. Hopefully the Himalayan will wake up the lazy buggers and make them put out something good. The KTM 390 ADV might be good, but i'm not holding my breath. The question is will they be able to resist heavily restricting the motor and adding another 30kgs???
Seriously considering buying one of these. A mate has one and he loves it. I think the ABS issue could be a simple fix with a switch for the control unit, if I take the plunge and buy one I'll sort out a solution for it.
I'm keeping my eye on this. Give it the power of the new Interceptor and I doubt I could resist. Just too many open road miles to get to the places I want to go. Love the form factor, seat height, simplicity, etc.
I think I finally realized what these Himalayans look like. People seem to feel like they're familiar, but can't put their finger on why. I think they look a bit like the early GS's, but have almost a military flare to them too (or lack thereof). I think they look awesome. I like the idea of 411cc bike, but at 200# plus touring loads that rumored 650 twin sounds like the perfect bike to me.
That's what made me nervous about the bike Nathan, when I sat on it at Motorcycles of Dulles here in Virginia a couple weeks ago, the 'precarious' feel. I didn't think about it being from the short sidestand but I had no confidence at all. Sadly, I had my VanVan all ready to trade and didn't even take the test ride. May give it another try with 1 1/4" heel boots. Thanks for the honest, informative and entertaining video!
Hey Victor. Yeah to be honest I only really find it a problem when the bike's fully loaded so the suspension under compression and especially if its on a cambered road. It's just something to be wary off that's all. Better than the G310GS side stand that snaps off!
Nice one Nathan. I would really like to watch you extensively review the versys x300 as you have done with the Himalayan. Your previous review of the x300 along with the gs and crf was one of the reviews that convinced me to get a versys x300 a few months ago.
Hi Nathan. Really enjoyed your reports on the RE Himalayan and subscribed. I live on Vancouver Island and have a lovely 2012 GS. However 4-5 months a years I am in Bali Indonesia. Similar to India roads etc. any bike over 250 cc here is more expensive due to tax . Looking at Honda 250 crf rally for US $5100 versus REH for $7000 due to 400 cc size. Two 2018 Himalayan bikes only left at the new RE dealer here in Bali. No Honda 250 rally’s in stock . Anyway thanks for all the information. I am 63 so ride like a grandpa and can’t go more than 100 kl per hr here anyway. I will go for a test ride this week as you recommend. I am 6 ft and 170 lbs so wondered if it will feel too small.
Nathan, great to see your enthusiasm for the Himalayan which actually inspires me and I am really thinking of getting one of these myself. I was surprised to hear that you travelled Lands End John agroats on this machine several times, what kind of mileage did you do daily and what kind of routes. I really would like to go camping in Brittany and Normandy on one but living in NW England that quite a trek to the south coast loaded up with camping gear. Am I mad and on the wrong page, rural France isn't a problem I would have thought though .Any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated. Geoff
“Golfist’s” 😄 love it Nathan. Is that Golfist’s with golf bats? A really good review and one that makes me closer to pushing the button on my Honda CBF1000 for something smaller. You mention it doesn’t have much power but apart from a quick blast after my MOT this year, I don’t remember the last time I broke the speed limit on my CBF. I’m wondering if I might be happier with something lighter and more manageable. If I could sit at 65mph I think I’d be happy enough and in any case, every time I have toured the highlands it hasn’t been at speed.
Hi Scooty Man. Yes I've toured the Highlands a good three or four times on the Himalayan now and its got plenty of power for that. The journey back down the M74 isn't too bad. She'll sit at between 65 and 75mph depending on wind and incline etc but she'll do it and ride lovely in the Highlands. Different beast to your CBF but it should give you a lot more options in terms of doing a few gentle trails and stuff.
Very nice review. I'm inching towards ordering one. Have you run it on any technical surfaces where you felt something might be lacking? Thanks in advance.
Thank you for articulating my thoughts on the Honda: they phoned it in. Loving the REH, but I need to test one. The only question left in my mind is whether I can live with its highway pace.
Hi Nathan, Great review. Wish you had used an action cam with in-body stabilization and added stabilization in post production. The video would have been buttery smooth :)
Point of interest . Here in the U.S. there is a choice of Himalayans . With or without A.B.S. . You may have guessed , all the non A.B.S. models are sold out . . . Lol . Unlike any other motorcycle maid the A.B.S. Himalayan is cheaper than the Non A.B.S. model because you'll have too wait on a list to get one . . . Lol . Hope you enjoyed that , thanks .
Just looking for a low mileage model right now and would like to know which tyres you prefer, the Pirelli originals or the Continentals? Very good, useful and informative videos by the way. Thank you.
After more and more digging in to advs an bikes overall the Himalayen becomes more and more my dream bike O.O And how did you remove the wind and bike noise? Its amazig
Very good review Nathan,. Reference the seat height and rear shock adjustment. Me at 19stone and 6ft 4 how do you think the bike would cope? I love the thought of owning one but just wish it was a 500 or 650 engine, top review though mate! 👍
Great video Nate I thoroughly enjoyed your review and overall description of the RE Himalayan. I'm very new to off-roading although an old fart on-road rider. It looks to be a good bike for me to take off-road ??
Hi Nathan Please could you let me know where the trail was I'd like to try that one myself Thanks for the review looks like I've found my next bike cheers Phil
I don't see the high maintenance thing personally. Mine went 5500 miles without a service this last time. I think that's more than acceptable and whilst it's down a bit on the 8k mile intervals of the CRF250L, the Himalayan is probably the easiest bike in the world to self service.
nathanthepostman I'm considering picking one up. Things stopping me are the value one can get when buying used, power constraints and reliability. But I think I'll like the bike a lot.
Buying a used bike is always a gamble, but never more so than with a used trail bike. It could have been well used & abused off road. That's why buying a new Himalayan would make lots of sense.
Really considering one for my first bike. I live in a part of Europe where a road that only shatters one section of your spine is considered a good road so as a quite tall bloke my A2 options are either a small ADV or something more cruiser-esque like the classic 500, but I fancy the odd tour up to Rome with my dad on his Goldwing so the Himalayan seems more fitting given the luggage options. What do you reckon of the Himalayan as a first bike that'll probably take a fair few knocks?
ta for the reply mate, I checked one out at a dealer and bloody hell it's comfy. Nice seat height, seat cushioning, body position etc. Really chuffed to find this thing, now just a case of saving up and passing my test 😁
Good honest review. Shame RE previously gave their home market lower quality bikes. Was it worth the loss of reputation (and subsequent revenue) bean-counters?
Thanks Paul. I personally think they probably gave them the best bike they could and unfortunately it was up to the first round of buyers to iron out all the creases. I'd probably say that if any manufacturer launched a new model in India it'd also be likely to rack up a tonne of problems given the harsh riding conditions of India. They definitely give their bikes a thorough work out! I also just heard that the G310GS has been recalled for the side stand snapping which ruins the frame and writes off the bike, so RE aren't alone in putting less than perfect bikes. But yeah, I think we struck lucky in getting the Himalayan after all the issues had been ironed out!
RE would have to release a bike that chokes up in an year to lose fans in India. It has a fan following that can make Hollywood stars green with envy. At that for many Indian youth the Himalayan with all its kinks was the only affordable option to hit the dirt. Buying a BMW is expensive because the parts are expensive.
@@vishnumohannair8791 and to be fair the Himalayan is personally a better quality and more capable product than the BMW. The RE is definitely getting good feedback from owners in the west
@@nathanthepostman A lot of noise that hear out of India is because of expectation gap. Himalayan is more expensive them 90% of the bikes on Indian roads though it isthe cheapest bike with genuine offroad capability. There is also the fact that labor is cheap in India, which means very few of us have learned how to tinker with a bike. Plus Himalayan has a heating problem on congested Indian roads along with a hard clutch, makes it cumbersome and tiving to ride in Indian Cities. Most of the chaps buying it in India expect it to be used 80% for city commuting and 20% for fun, which sets stage for a frustrating time on the bike. Then there are those who buy it only for the looks and end up hating it. Himalayan is not a Value for Money Bike at any price unless you take it offroad.
@@vishnumohannair8791 yeah I think that's a great way of saying it; an expectation gap. In the UK it's the other way around in that 90% of bikes cost more than the Himalayan. Over here it's seen as a very cheap bike so I think we're more inclined to accept a few faults. Our servicing is expensive but generally it's done by qualifies technicians so I think we probably get any issues resolved more quickly. And agreed, if you aren't going to take the bike off road then there are certainly better options than the Himalayan. It's funny how it seems to make more sense as an export bike than it does a domestic bike! Definitely looking forward to the 650s as well. Again, over here they're going to be so much cheaper than the competition.
Weight balance mainly; so the luggage weight's not all over the rear.. And usually I'd have panniers so I think on this occasion I had more in the front bags than usual. But I generally just stuff those bags with clothes.
Yeah I'd do a global trip on a Himalayan no problem and it'd be perfect for Mongolia. Nice and manageable, especially if you're on your own. For that type of trip I'd take one over the Versys and 310GS. I've ridden both those bikes and I liked them but I think the Himalayan is more versatile and with the aluminium panniers easily prepared for travelling. The other two are a bit more exciting to ride though.
nathanthepostman I am intrigued by Himalayan it is on my short list for RTW bike along with VersysX and 310GS. The only negative is lack of 75mph cruising capability which is specific to NA many places where you need it on secondary roads. What type of real life tank range you can expect loaded at 70mph? would it even cruise at that speed into headwind? thnx.
So, do you still miss your GS, and would this be the bike to buy for someone who only has one bike? I've got an old GS, which is very nice, but somehow I think the Himalayan might be a better all-around bike for travelling, especially considering the mileage, simplicity, off-road capability and price. Am I being too optimistic?
It's hard to compare a GS1200 with a Himalayan. I do miss the GS but it was an expensive bike to own and run. The Himalayan does everything the GS does, just a bit more slowly. But also the Himalayan is far more manageable for travelling solo. It depends how easy you find your GS to manoeuvre. If it's becoming a bit too big or heavy for you then a Himalayan could be a good option. But the best thing to do is just go out and try one and see what you think.
Hope RE won't go down the same route as the big manufacturers - stop caring about their customer base - as you alluded to in another vid. That'd be a shame considering their recent success ... One way to combat that - e-mail them, be a nuisance, make your voices heard ... Hopefully if enough people make the effort, they might stay on the right track. Things I'd like to know, as a home spannerist - what are they like to work on? Simple, presumably, but what sort of quality is the block/machine screws - are threads nicely machined, resistant to stripping? What do you have to take off to get at the plugs? That sort of thing..... and what sort of MPG are folks getting? What's the road tax been set at? {I must be getting old! No longer bhp fixating! :-/ } I could be quite tempted, at least as a second bike, with something nippier for longer ('normal') journeys, and sunny day hooning...
I guess it depends on whether you're wanting to take motorways/main roads etc and how much of a rush you're in. I think the Himalayan is the better explorers bike, better on the trails, carries its load better, but for getting to Europe in a hurry I'd probably stick with the Honda. Maybe the Rally Raid upgrades?
nathanthepostman TBH I do very little in the way of trails, mostly A & B’s on a day to day basis (which tests the 500Xs suspension) and the occasional motorway / autoroute / autobahn (only when strictly necessary, I hate them) I’ve looked at the RR stuff, but anything over L1 would be overkill for what I do.
Give the Himalayan a test ride if you can, but by the sounds of it the 500x might be more suited to what you need. The Rally Raid suspension upgrade Level 1 might be worth it as it does improve the ride quality a good deal.
nathanthepostman Got a test ride booked for 2 weeks time. If it is too underpowered I’ll go for the RR L1 suspension, just seems like a lot of money to chuck at a bike that son,y worth £4K!
If you want to see what how much punishment these REs can take watch Ichy Boots. A lassie rides India, Pakistan up into Russia via the old USSR States, these are not road or lanes just rock strewn paths then back into Europe..
Don't know about your country, but here in India kawasaki will cost double compared to Himalayan, I baught Himalayan last year, it's a decent and comfortable.
I wouldn't personally say the brakes are rubbish. They're perfectly adequate for the bike, and maybe just lack the initial bite and one finger use of some other bikes. I haven't hit anything yet so they can't be that bad. Some have tried new pads which some say has given a bit more bite.
Hi mate good video thanks , ive got one of these bikes for touring around the Philippines, could you give me info on were you got the seat cover , i would like to get one sent to my UK address then my mum will send it on , all i need is a phone number and name of place who made it , all the best Bob
How do you check for this dry steering head bearing? I have one at 450 miles right now and need to do the 300 mile valve checkup, oil change, etc. Anything else I need to check? I too LOVE this bike and don't mind the lack of power at the top end. Doing mainly off-road in Utah and it does a fantastic job even against the KTM and BMW bikes. Two other questions: 1. did you ever fix your headlight vibration noise? It's a common issue and mine vibrates louder than the engine. Will have the dealer look at it also during inspection. 2. Where did you get your extra skid plate?
If you want a real life review of Himalayan then go and watch " itchi boots "channel on you tube a lone holand girl is travelling from India to around the world on himalayan
"As long as you're not riding like a bellend" 🤣
I just bought a RE Himalayan today and rode it home 2 hours in 4°C, grinning like a maniac the whole way.
Very honest review. Nice to hear how it really is, from a real owner, not a journo trying to fill air time. Thanks. I'm sold on the Himalayan.
Me too
had mine for nearly 2 years now and love it, just needs a little more power and it will be perfect
I wonder if they will throw in the interceptor motor in a new version. @@bjorn1583
@@euromodeller and meee! 😁
@@BMRTV one can only hope, maybe with the gearing ratio looked at. Someone should do that as a project and wack the video on TH-cam👍
Man I miss that beautiful country, I was stationed there for 6 years but only had a road bike. Great review thanks for sharing
the REH is a lot like a tireless horse that not only packs your gear, but doesn't burn much hay.
not heard this much proper knowledgeable comment on a test EVER. Great stuff!
Thanks for this review, probably the best I've seen on this bike as far as honesty and not presenting the BS that most reviewers feel compelled to toss into the mix. You have done real-world riding and it has held-up nicely. Of course, any bike or any bike part can break, but overall, I think Royal Enfield has apparently done a good job with this one.
I live in the USA and finally got to see and sit on one yesterday, although I did not get to ride it. The balance felt good as did the seat height. As I am getting older (just turned 68) I care less and less about speed, but more and more about handling, comfort, torque (to get me out of trouble) and reliability. I am think that this will probably be my next bike, and will probably be good enough that I won't need any other bike, as this will fill all my needs for commuting and adventuring.
do it - you know you want to.....;)
Had mine for 2 weeks now. Absolutely love it. Watched this video awhile back and it was what finally convinced me to bite the bullet and buy one. I've also got two CT110s. A postie and AG version. Ideal bikes for where I live at Lake Taupo, New Zealand. Hope you had a very Merry Christmas. Look forward to your videos 2020.
More and more wishing I could have stretched my budget to the RE Himalayan. It seems like just the ticket for an only fit like me. Thanks Nathan. Les
Damned spell checker! I meant to type “..an old git like me.” Lol Les
old gits can be fit as well! I am 64 and love to walk since 1966... still do 1000 miles a year
Nathan always tell the truth - no hype. Brilliantly refreshing. I have been researching this bike from b4 its launch (in India) with view to buying there and riding back. KLR is mentioned which I want for USA, but that needs “farkles”.
I have done a few euro tours and power is not needed as much as when going to Tescos! It’s a different more functional type of biking where reliabiality and distance w/o drama is the top priority.
I ride a bullet electra x had it a year, still enjoy it very much. this Himalayan is the only thing I would change to. Like you said - performance could be better, but I am realising the advantages of enough is plenty - I had a bmw 1150 gs before the bullet, and how quickly I got used to the power. with these enfields, you aren`t always trying to get past the next bunch of cars - a pointless exercise as there are always more of them ahead...………..
Yes I think that's a really good point Steve and my previous bike was a 1200 GS so I certainly appreciate the difference in performance. But as you say, rather than see every car as something to overtake, I instead find myself more content to go with the flow and in reality it doesn't really cost you any extra time. I wish it had a bit more for when you do want to overtake, but I wouldn't compromise the low down pull of the engine for more top end. It'd be interesting to hear how it compared to your Bullet.
Thoroughly enjoyed hearing of your experience with the very bike that appeals to me. I'm also following the travels of a young woman (site: Itchy Boots) that's on an extensive trip with her new Himalayan in southern Asia. I'm entertaining the idea of taking delivery of the bike in India but due diligence may put that idea to rest. Meanwhile, enjoy that fine machine and be safe out there.
Excellent review. I’m in Canada and just tested one for first time yesterday. Love this bike. My other bike is a 17 Road King Special but I yearn for the back roads and I think this is the perfect machine for that. Bringing my Moms ashes back to Scotland soon and hoping to hire a Himalayan to take her for a ride around the countryside before her final resting place in Elgin
She hated motorcycles though so not sure how happy she will be with this plan 😊
Great video, thanks Nathan. Lovin' my Himalayan and have ordered the seat cover - thanks for the recommend.
Love my himalayan
Great review Nathan! Many questions answered! Hail from the western US!
Great video! I'm really looking at getting one of these sometime within the next few years. Seems like a fun all around bike that can tackle the road and the dirt equally. I think you really nailed it when you mentioned they built a bike that has features that the rider will need. I am hoping to test ride one here in the next few weeks!
+Each Adventure , i was wondering if this was on your your short list 😁😜👍
Best review of the Himalayan I’ve seen. Got me tempted!
Like they say, Nathan, the proof of the pudding...
Delighted the bike is proving sturdy, reliable and capable. It is obviously a fine choice in its sector, and certainly better than most in terms of luggage capacity, I don’t regret getting the CRF Rally although it is a little tall for me, but still wistfully wonder if the REH wouldn’t have been a better choice as it was in the end the only other contender. Give it a year and we’ll see how I feel.
Wonderful comprehensive video, and a lovely trail that. Just right for novices like me!
Very tempting! Great review, as always, thanks👍
Great review mate. I'm really glad Royal Enfield has built this bike. Very simple. Very effective. The big manufacturers have been SOOOOOOOOOOOO lazy in this market sector. They all have the components sitting around that could make a good bike, but they haven't really bothered. Hopefully the Himalayan will wake up the lazy buggers and make them put out something good. The KTM 390 ADV might be good, but i'm not holding my breath. The question is will they be able to resist heavily restricting the motor and adding another 30kgs???
Yup, don't hold your breath, ain't happening.
Like the 690 Adventure, also never happened...
Best review to date, very comprehensive.
I actually enjoyed that! Good commentary. You got the bike spot on!
Great video, love my Royal Enfield and good Byway done it many times. I'll definitely be looking at seat cover 👍🏼👍🏼
Seriously considering buying one of these. A mate has one and he loves it. I think the ABS issue could be a simple fix with a switch for the control unit, if I take the plunge and buy one I'll sort out a solution for it.
Did you end up buying one? If yes what did you do about the abs?
Great review , answered a few questions for me . Thanks
Great vid Nathan. So much common sense spoken my friend.
I'm keeping my eye on this. Give it the power of the new Interceptor and I doubt I could resist. Just too many open road miles to get to the places I want to go. Love the form factor, seat height, simplicity, etc.
I think I finally realized what these Himalayans look like. People seem to feel like they're familiar, but can't put their finger on why. I think they look a bit like the early GS's, but have almost a military flare to them too (or lack thereof). I think they look awesome. I like the idea of 411cc bike, but at 200# plus touring loads that rumored 650 twin sounds like the perfect bike to me.
He doesn't think it will suit a 650
Good honest review thumbs up here Nathan :)
That's what made me nervous about the bike Nathan, when I sat on it at Motorcycles of Dulles here in Virginia a couple weeks ago, the 'precarious' feel. I didn't think about it being from the short sidestand but I had no confidence at all. Sadly, I had my VanVan all ready to trade and didn't even take the test ride. May give it another try with 1 1/4" heel boots. Thanks for the honest, informative and entertaining video!
Hey Victor. Yeah to be honest I only really find it a problem when the bike's fully loaded so the suspension under compression and especially if its on a cambered road. It's just something to be wary off that's all. Better than the G310GS side stand that snaps off!
was waiting for this! thanks for sharing... hopefully see you in the uk in a few months, hugs from Nicaragua!
Hey Nathan nice n simple n down to earth review. Your review will help me choose my next bike.
Nice one Nathan. I would really like to watch you extensively review the versys x300 as you have done with the Himalayan. Your previous review of the x300 along with the gs and crf was one of the reviews that convinced me to get a versys x300 a few months ago.
Hi Nathan. Really enjoyed your reports on the RE Himalayan and subscribed. I live on Vancouver Island and have a lovely 2012 GS. However 4-5 months a years I am in Bali Indonesia. Similar to India roads etc. any bike over 250 cc here is more expensive due to tax . Looking at Honda 250 crf rally for US $5100 versus REH for $7000 due to 400 cc size. Two 2018 Himalayan bikes only left at the new RE dealer here in Bali. No Honda 250 rally’s in stock . Anyway thanks for all the information. I am 63 so ride like a grandpa and can’t go more than 100 kl per hr here anyway. I will go for a test ride this week as you recommend. I am 6 ft and 170 lbs so wondered if it will feel too small.
It's a no brainer you bought the best bike for off-roading. A sleeping bag, tent & three years warrant. What more do you want? She's a winner.
Great review. I'm in Northampton, probably getting this in custom matt green :)
Sensible review. Thanks Nathan. 👍
I think all my questions have been answered so it just leaves an extended test ride as you suggested to see if the Himalayan and I suit each other.
nice to see you back...enjoy!
thanks for the review will now be getting a test ride
Nathan, great to see your enthusiasm for the Himalayan which actually inspires me and I am really thinking of getting one of these myself. I was surprised to hear that you travelled Lands End John agroats on this machine several times, what kind of mileage did you do daily and what kind of routes. I really would like to go camping in Brittany and Normandy on one but living in NW England that quite a trek to the south coast loaded up with camping gear. Am I mad and on the wrong page, rural France isn't a problem I would have thought though .Any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated. Geoff
“Golfist’s” 😄 love it Nathan. Is that Golfist’s with golf bats? A really good review and one that makes me closer to pushing the button on my Honda CBF1000 for something smaller. You mention it doesn’t have much power but apart from a quick blast after my MOT this year, I don’t remember the last time I broke the speed limit on my CBF. I’m wondering if I might be happier with something lighter and more manageable.
If I could sit at 65mph I think I’d be happy enough and in any case, every time I have toured the highlands it hasn’t been at speed.
Hi Scooty Man. Yes I've toured the Highlands a good three or four times on the Himalayan now and its got plenty of power for that. The journey back down the M74 isn't too bad. She'll sit at between 65 and 75mph depending on wind and incline etc but she'll do it and ride lovely in the Highlands. Different beast to your CBF but it should give you a lot more options in terms of doing a few gentle trails and stuff.
Best review I've seen! Thanks!
Very nice review. I'm inching towards ordering one. Have you run it on any technical surfaces where you felt something might be lacking? Thanks in advance.
You, Sir, are a natural!
Thank you for articulating my thoughts on the Honda: they phoned it in.
Loving the REH, but I need to test one. The only question left in my mind is whether I can live with its highway pace.
just keep off the highway (as much as poss)- simples
Hi Nathan, Great review. Wish you had used an action cam with in-body stabilization and added stabilization in post production. The video would have been buttery smooth :)
I've ridden that byway many times. Near Elan Valley.
What a cracking review.
"Golfists" i like that terminology , some one once said " Golfing is a good walk ruined" no offence :)
Nice review, the Himalayan is looking to be a good do anything machine. Any chance you could add a link for the seat cover. Thanks
Great video man
Point of interest . Here in the U.S. there is a choice of Himalayans . With or without A.B.S. . You may have guessed , all the non A.B.S. models are sold out . . . Lol . Unlike any other motorcycle maid the A.B.S. Himalayan is cheaper than the Non A.B.S. model because you'll have too wait on a list to get one . . . Lol . Hope you enjoyed that , thanks .
I didn't know John snow had a himalayan! 😉
Brilliant honest bike great review.
Bike is awesome ..value for money
Just looking for a low mileage model right now and would like to know which tyres you prefer, the Pirelli originals or the Continentals? Very good, useful and informative videos by the way. Thank you.
After more and more digging in to advs an bikes overall the Himalayen becomes more and more my dream bike O.O
And how did you remove the wind and bike noise? Its amazig
Very useful, thanks.
Excellent video again. What is the location of the track? Grid/map reference? Do any others link in?
MADE IN INDIA, MADE FOR THE WORLD>
Designed at Royal Enfield-Britain ,new tech center & built in India.
Triumph guys did a lot of engine designing for RE. Indian guys managed marketing and money only.
Very good review Nathan,. Reference the seat height and rear shock adjustment. Me at 19stone and 6ft 4 how do you think the bike would cope? I love the thought of owning one but just wish it was a 500 or 650 engine, top review though mate! 👍
If a 650 comes out.... I will buy it.
Blimey they've tamed the Golf links road. A few years since I was on it and they've graded out all the interesting bits. What a shame 🙁
Great video Nate I thoroughly enjoyed your review and overall description of the RE Himalayan. I'm very new to off-roading although an old fart on-road rider. It looks to be a good bike for me to take off-road ??
Hi Nathan
Please could you let me know where the trail was I'd like to try that one myself
Thanks for the review looks like I've found my next bike cheers
Phil
To me, this is like a Lada Niva. Both in function as in style, they would make an awesome pair!
Ha. Yes. It does have a hint of Lada Niva about it! Crossed with an old Land Rover Defender.
Actually, more like a Trabant---durable, but high maintenance...
I don't see the high maintenance thing personally. Mine went 5500 miles without a service this last time. I think that's more than acceptable and whilst it's down a bit on the 8k mile intervals of the CRF250L, the Himalayan is probably the easiest bike in the world to self service.
nathanthepostman I'm considering picking one up. Things stopping me are the value one can get when buying used, power constraints and reliability. But I think I'll like the bike a lot.
It’s more like an MZ250 crossed with an XT500
feeling dizzy looking that bounce up and down all the time
Hi Nathan, what pannier racks do you have on your Himalayan? Are they the RE ones? regards
Himalayan 650 is going to launch soon .
Prem Singh it’s Feb 2020, and no sign of it yet😂.. apparently 2021.. news.maxabout.com/bikes/royal-enfield/royal-enfield-himalayan-650-launch-2021/
Buying a used bike is always a gamble, but never more so than with a used trail bike. It could have been well used & abused off road. That's why buying a new Himalayan would make lots of sense.
No ABS on the US version too, at least for now.
It got switchable ABS in 2020 model
Just bought one to ride in Yucatan, Mexico, No ABS.
Can't you remove the ABS fuse ?
Really considering one for my first bike. I live in a part of Europe where a road that only shatters one section of your spine is considered a good road so as a quite tall bloke my A2 options are either a small ADV or something more cruiser-esque like the classic 500, but I fancy the odd tour up to Rome with my dad on his Goldwing so the Himalayan seems more fitting given the luggage options.
What do you reckon of the Himalayan as a first bike that'll probably take a fair few knocks?
Yeah I'd say it's a very good first bike. Soft power, low seat height, fairly light and manageable. It'll take knocks very well. Mine has.
ta for the reply mate, I checked one out at a dealer and bloody hell it's comfy. Nice seat height, seat cushioning, body position etc.
Really chuffed to find this thing, now just a case of saving up and passing my test 😁
I will wait for Himalayan 650.
How come we didn't get to hear it running !
Did you need to hear it?
@@nathanthepostman yes, I'd like to hear how she sound's !
Great vid! How can we go about buying one of the seat covers?
You can get them direct from here: www.coolcovers.co.uk
Good honest review. Shame RE previously gave their home market lower quality bikes. Was it worth the loss of reputation (and subsequent revenue) bean-counters?
Thanks Paul. I personally think they probably gave them the best bike they could and unfortunately it was up to the first round of buyers to iron out all the creases. I'd probably say that if any manufacturer launched a new model in India it'd also be likely to rack up a tonne of problems given the harsh riding conditions of India. They definitely give their bikes a thorough work out! I also just heard that the G310GS has been recalled for the side stand snapping which ruins the frame and writes off the bike, so RE aren't alone in putting less than perfect bikes. But yeah, I think we struck lucky in getting the Himalayan after all the issues had been ironed out!
RE would have to release a bike that chokes up in an year to lose fans in India. It has a fan following that can make Hollywood stars green with envy. At that for many Indian youth the Himalayan with all its kinks was the only affordable option to hit the dirt. Buying a BMW is expensive because the parts are expensive.
@@vishnumohannair8791 and to be fair the Himalayan is personally a better quality and more capable product than the BMW. The RE is definitely getting good feedback from owners in the west
@@nathanthepostman A lot of noise that hear out of India is because of expectation gap. Himalayan is more expensive them 90% of the bikes on Indian roads though it isthe cheapest bike with genuine offroad capability. There is also the fact that labor is cheap in India, which means very few of us have learned how to tinker with a bike. Plus Himalayan has a heating problem on congested Indian roads along with a hard clutch, makes it cumbersome and tiving to ride in Indian Cities. Most of the chaps buying it in India expect it to be used 80% for city commuting and 20% for fun, which sets stage for a frustrating time on the bike. Then there are those who buy it only for the looks and end up hating it. Himalayan is not a Value for Money Bike at any price unless you take it offroad.
@@vishnumohannair8791 yeah I think that's a great way of saying it; an expectation gap. In the UK it's the other way around in that 90% of bikes cost more than the Himalayan. Over here it's seen as a very cheap bike so I think we're more inclined to accept a few faults. Our servicing is expensive but generally it's done by qualifies technicians so I think we probably get any issues resolved more quickly. And agreed, if you aren't going to take the bike off road then there are certainly better options than the Himalayan. It's funny how it seems to make more sense as an export bike than it does a domestic bike! Definitely looking forward to the 650s as well. Again, over here they're going to be so much cheaper than the competition.
How difficult is it to access the fuses, and what happens if you pull the ABS fuse?
Check out dinos vault on TH-cam review, the Himalayan 2020 ds6 with switchable abs and other extras from Royal Enfield. 👍
Could you talk about why you like to have such big luggage up front? I have little bags up front and big on the back. What tank bag is that?
Weight balance mainly; so the luggage weight's not all over the rear.. And usually I'd have panniers so I think on this occasion I had more in the front bags than usual. But I generally just stuff those bags with clothes.
Thanks Nat for honest review.
You mentioned VersysX and 310, have you had a chance to ride them?
Would you ride your Himalayan to Mongolia?
Yeah I'd do a global trip on a Himalayan no problem and it'd be perfect for Mongolia. Nice and manageable, especially if you're on your own. For that type of trip I'd take one over the Versys and 310GS. I've ridden both those bikes and I liked them but I think the Himalayan is more versatile and with the aluminium panniers easily prepared for travelling. The other two are a bit more exciting to ride though.
nathanthepostman I am intrigued by Himalayan it is on my short list for RTW bike along with VersysX and 310GS. The only negative is lack of 75mph cruising capability which is specific to NA many places where you need it on secondary roads. What type of real life tank range you can expect loaded at 70mph? would it even cruise at that speed into headwind? thnx.
So, do you still miss your GS, and would this be the bike to buy for someone who only has one bike? I've got an old GS, which is very nice, but somehow I think the Himalayan might be a better all-around bike for travelling, especially considering the mileage, simplicity, off-road capability and price. Am I being too optimistic?
It's hard to compare a GS1200 with a Himalayan. I do miss the GS but it was an expensive bike to own and run. The Himalayan does everything the GS does, just a bit more slowly. But also the Himalayan is far more manageable for travelling solo. It depends how easy you find your GS to manoeuvre. If it's becoming a bit too big or heavy for you then a Himalayan could be a good option. But the best thing to do is just go out and try one and see what you think.
@9:31 Except a decent DZ400. ;)
Hope RE won't go down the same route as the big manufacturers - stop caring about their customer base - as you alluded to in another vid. That'd be a shame considering their recent success ... One way to combat that - e-mail them, be a nuisance, make your voices heard ... Hopefully if enough people make the effort, they might stay on the right track.
Things I'd like to know, as a home spannerist - what are they like to work on? Simple, presumably, but what sort of quality is
the block/machine screws - are threads nicely machined, resistant to stripping? What do you have to take off to get at the plugs? That sort of thing..... and what sort of MPG are folks getting? What's the road tax been set at? {I must be getting old! No longer bhp fixating! :-/ }
I could be quite tempted, at least as a second bike, with something nippier for longer ('normal') journeys, and sunny day hooning...
Himalayan or CB500X ... I’m really tempted to change to the REH but I’m worried that it’d just be too underpowered to take to Europe.
I guess it depends on whether you're wanting to take motorways/main roads etc and how much of a rush you're in. I think the Himalayan is the better explorers bike, better on the trails, carries its load better, but for getting to Europe in a hurry I'd probably stick with the Honda. Maybe the Rally Raid upgrades?
nathanthepostman TBH I do very little in the way of trails, mostly A & B’s on a day to day basis (which tests the 500Xs suspension) and the occasional motorway / autoroute / autobahn (only when strictly necessary, I hate them) I’ve looked at the RR stuff, but anything over L1 would be overkill for what I do.
Give the Himalayan a test ride if you can, but by the sounds of it the 500x might be more suited to what you need. The Rally Raid suspension upgrade Level 1 might be worth it as it does improve the ride quality a good deal.
nathanthepostman Got a test ride booked for 2 weeks time. If it is too underpowered I’ll go for the RR L1 suspension, just seems like a lot of money to chuck at a bike that son,y worth £4K!
If you want to see what how much punishment these REs can take watch Ichy Boots. A lassie rides India, Pakistan up into Russia via the old USSR States, these are not road or lanes just rock strewn paths then back into Europe..
Kawasaki versys x300 or himalayan?
Don't know about your country, but here in India kawasaki will cost double compared to Himalayan, I baught Himalayan last year, it's a decent and comfortable.
Any work on the front brake. Everyone says it's rubbish.
I wouldn't personally say the brakes are rubbish. They're perfectly adequate for the bike, and maybe just lack the initial bite and one finger use of some other bikes. I haven't hit anything yet so they can't be that bad. Some have tried new pads which some say has given a bit more bite.
👍👍👍
Nice rewiew, where are those nice trails?
In Mid Wales, just outside Rhayader, but there's plenty of trails around there to ride. Good area.
Who do you do guided tours for?
11:50 I wonder what the actual % of riders who get their valve checks done actually is. BMW boxer riders don't count. That's basically cheating.
I was not riding like a BELLEND!!!! I was just going downhill,,you tend to speed up going down,(its a gravity thing)
looking to put a drz400 engine in mine and l recon she will be perfect then
Then you'll be left with a Drz with a Himalayan motor...
Hi mate good video thanks , ive got one of these bikes for touring around the Philippines, could you give me info on were you got the seat cover , i would like to get one sent to my UK address then my mum will send it on , all i need is a phone number and name of place who made it , all the best Bob
You should have a abs fuse. Take it out and throw it away
Any mechanical or electric issues you faced till now?
No, only the dry steering head bearings that I mentioned about, which sounds to be a common problem on the bike.
K thanks..... Booking one next month ☺️
How do you check for this dry steering head bearing? I have one at 450 miles right now and need to do the 300 mile valve checkup, oil change, etc. Anything else I need to check?
I too LOVE this bike and don't mind the lack of power at the top end. Doing mainly off-road in Utah and it does a fantastic job even against the KTM and BMW bikes.
Two other questions:
1. did you ever fix your headlight vibration noise? It's a common issue and mine vibrates louder than the engine. Will have the dealer look at it also during inspection.
2. Where did you get your extra skid plate?
If you want a real life review of Himalayan then go and watch " itchi boots "channel on you tube a lone holand girl is travelling from India to around the world on himalayan
chitrakant sahasrabudhe I watched it, now picking up my Himalayan this weekend.
This guy sounds like greekgodx