410cc thumper offers pure no-frills dual-sport experience

The bike everyone claims they want is set to come to North America; Royal Enfield announced this week that the 410cc Himalayan will be available in 2018.

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Royal Enfield – the self-described “oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world” – has been on a tear recently, with the once-British-now-Indian company announcing earlier this month the addition of two new parallel-twin-engined motorcycles.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Coming to North America

“2018 will be a very exciting year for Royal Enfield in North America,” said said Royal Enfield North America President Rod Copes. “These new motorcycles are fun, easy and affordable, and are perfect for new motorcyclists, veteran riders, and everyone in between.”

“Purpose-built for adventure,” the Himalayan is built on a duplex split cradle frame designed and developed by UK-based Harris Performance. The Himalayan boasts a 9-inch ground clearance, which should mean it will be able to take on most obstacles comfortably. While a 31.5-inch seat height may make it a little more accessible to those who are a little shorter of leg.

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The Himalayan is powered by an overhead camshaft engine platform that forms the base for its new long-stroke single-cylinder LS 410 engine. Royal Enfield says the engine delivers high torque and usable power at lower RPMs, which it claims makes for smooth riding in higher gears at lower speeds. The company stresses that this isn’t simply a bored-out version of the 350cc single it’s used in India for decades, but an all-new powerplant.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Coming to North America

“Touring utility is built inherently into the Himalayan,” declares a Royal Enfield media release.

It says the Himalayan’s 15-liter (4 US gallons) tank provides a range of approximately 280 miles. Adding to the bike’s tour-worthiness is “an ergonomical sync between footpegs, handlebar, and seat height,” which RE says “provides a comfortable upright riding posture that is necessary for long rides.”

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The Himalayan will be in available in two colors — Graphite and Snow — in the summer of 2018. The model will retail for US $4,499 MSRP. Like all Royal Enfield models, it comes with a two-year, unlimited mile warranty.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Coming to North America

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