10 test ride observations which made me book the new Himalayan 450

The motor revs freely without much resistance, but is it as free-revving as the KTM 390 Adventure? NO.

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Took the test ride on Thursday morning at Kwality RE, BSK. Asked them for a long test ride, and I was told I could take it for a very short spin only, nonetheless, I handed over my DL and took the bike for a 10 km test ride.

Though 10 kms is very short to make clear observations, here are my two cents:

1. The bike felt well-balanced for its weight. Didn’t feel top-heavy and the fuel tank was full.
2. I am 5.75, was a tad worried about seat height, but set at 825 mm, it is very easy to handle. It is also nice to know that it can be further reduced to 805 mm with an optional accessory seat (with its taller setting maxing out at 825 mm)
3. The RPM response at low RPMs below 2.5k is slightly sluggish, need to adjust the riding style. Felt underwhelming below 2.5k
4. Tried riding standing up on the interior roads, boy, it’s supremely natural
5. Suspension felt very plush and pliant along with the seat
6. Had to brake hard at one instance as an Auto moving ahead of me changed lanes without indication, I did not feel any flex at the front. Braking felt very good for an RE. It stops without much drama, ABS is non-intrusive for the most part.
7. The motor revs freely without much resistance but is it as free-revving as the 390 Adv, NO.
8. The real estate on the seat is phenomenal, you can move around, find your comfortable position
9. Though at first glance the switchgear looked average in the showroom, it felt tactile to use
10. The motor felt quite buzzy compared to the Interceptor 650 or the R3 that I ride, it was on expected lines, not a deal breaker I suppose.

Overall, there are quite a few trade-offs if you are going to own one, but none that can be a deal breaker. Do not keep your expectations high, for the use case, for the price point, the Himalayan 450 presents a compelling argument for itself, one which I am willing to believe.

Therefore, without further ado, booked a Hanle Black Himalayan 450 for myself after the test ride.

Booking amount -10k (fully refundable against cancellation)

On-road price - Rs. 3,62,728/- for Hanle Black

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