Ever since the launch of the Royal Enfield Continental GT, there has been much talk about RE’s next and most anticipated project – the Himalayan. With plenty of ‘leaked’ images doing the rounds, the Himalayan’s existence is no revelation. But there are plenty of details you still don’t know

It made a lot of sense to go in this direction, given that half the RE owners head to the hills whenever they’re given a chance. Instead of taking a Classic 500 which may not be quite up to the task, why not take an RE designed bike that is

2. It’s an all-new motorcycle

The Himalayan gets an all-new 411cc, single cylinder, engine and double-cradle frame that has been built from the scratch. It’s also the first Royal Enfield motorcycle to get monoshock suspension at the rear. This means it gets a new swing-arm and a new wheelbase.

The Himalayan gets 24.5 bhp, along with 3 kgm of torque making it the second most powerful RE motorcycle to be produced, after the Continental GT cafe racer. It’s designed like a proper adventure tourer with a tall, upright riding position, a high mounted spatter guard, a protective skid plate and a large 15 litre fuel tank.

4. The motorcycle is very accessory friendly

Royal Enfield is reportedly working on an extensive accessory category that will offer you a lot of customization options for the bike. The bike also has slots for jerry cans which don’t come as standard but can be selected via Royal Enfield’s accessory catalogue.

5 It’ll be incredible fun off-road

Finally, an RE that’s tailored for Ladakh rides. The Himalayan gets a 21″ inch front wheel (Much like the Triumph tiger) which should make it quite adept, off-road. Although Royal Enfield hasn’t officially launched the motorcycle, we’re looking at a price range between Rs 1.7 to 2 lakh (ex-showroom)