Royal Enfield is reportedly planning to launch the much awaited adventure tourer, the Himalayan, in November 2015.
According to ZigWheels, the bike is expected to be priced between Rs 1.65 lakh and 1.85 lakh.
The Chennai-based manufacturer is keen on not pricing it over Rs 2 lakh and doesn't want the Himalayan to be at the top of their product line-up. The Himalayan will be positioned below Classic 500 and the Continental GT.
The Himalayan will be powered by a new single-cylinder, 410cc engine that is expected to make around 30bhp and 40Nm of torque. This engine will be mounted on a new double cradle frame designed by the Harris Performance. Currently acquired by Royal Enfield, UK-based Harris Performance has also contributed to the new frame in the Continental GT.
The Himalayan has a rugged design ideal for off-road and on-road use. The Spy pictures indicate an upswept exhaust, fatter rear tyre and petrol tank similar to Continental GT. The new adventure tourer will use many parts similar to that of the Thunderbird and the Continental GT so as to keep its cost low.
The Himalayan is an important launch for Royal Enfield, mainly because the brand is planning to reach the global audience. Thus, you can expect a world-class model. Secondly, the Himalayan is the first motorcycle from the brand after ace designer Pierre Terblanche came onboard. Terblanche was instrumental in shaping Ducati's motorcycle design structure till 2007.
If Royal Enfield prices the Himalyan under Rs 2 lakh, the motorcycle will find the sweet spot between Bajaj Pulsar 200AS and Triumph Tiger series. Since the adventure tourer segment in the country is still in teen stage, an early entry will help Royal Enfield to get maximum market share.
