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Royal Enfield's dual purpose motorcycle has been snapped sans camouflage. Currently labelled the Himalayan, the bike has been caught in what appears to be a near production ready avatar. Unlike the images seen until now, the test mules seen here have a pillion seat as well. The Himalayan also features high set front and rear mudguards, metal side-guards mounted near the headlamp cluster, a carrier at the rear, dual purpose tyres, a monoshock rear suspension and an upswept exhaust.
Also seen is a new headlamp cluster with a medium sized windshield, dual disc brakes, rear set foot-pegs, front forks with rubber covers, familiar switchgear and a new instrument cluster, that seems to be a twin-pod setup with a digital MID. A head-on image of the bike is unavailable, but the source states the inclusion of dual headlights as well.
The image also shows the new engine that powers the Himalayan, which is believed to be a 410cc, single-cylinder motor, which could be oil cooled. On the Himalayan, the engine appears to get a large bash plate underneath and the high set handlebars and tall ride stance confirm that this will be Royal Enfield's first dual purpose motorcycle.
An exact launch date is yet to be revealed, but the launch is likely to take place towards the end of 2015. The Himalayan will most likely be an export model as well, but it remains to be seen if the Indian market gets the motorcycle first.
Images via: autoX