For motorcycle enthusiasts, few brands evoke as much passion and loyalty as Royal Enfield. The iconic manufacturer, known for producing motorcycles with timeless designs and reliable performance, has created two models that stand out in the market today: the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the Classic 350. Both bikes cater to different riding needs and styles, making them favorites among diverse groups of riders. While the Himalayan is designed for adventure seekers and long-distance touring, the Classic 350 is perfect for those who appreciate a vintage cruiser for daily commutes and leisurely rides. In this article, we delve into the details of these two motorcycles to help you understand their differences, performance, and overall riding experience.
Royal Enfield Himalayan: The Adventurous Spirit
The Himalayan Bike is built for those who crave the thrill of adventure and exploration. Royal Enfield has designed this motorcycle with off-road capabilities in mind, creating a bike that can handle a wide variety of terrains with ease. Its robust construction and thoughtful engineering make it an excellent choice for riders who prefer long journeys that take them off the beaten path. Whether it’s navigating through rugged trails or gliding along highways, the Himalayan Bike price is designed to perform reliably in diverse conditions.
The bike’s 452 cc engine is a single-cylinder, air-cooled unit that offers a healthy power output of 24.3 bhp at 6,500 rpm. The engine’s peak torque of 32 Nm at 4,000 to 4,500 rpm ensures that the bike can tackle steep inclines and difficult terrains without any trouble. The six-speed manual transmission provides smooth gear shifts, especially when transitioning between different types of roads. This makes the Himalayan an excellent option for both experienced riders and those new to off-roading.
One of the most striking features of the Himalayan is its ability to handle long-distance travel. The 17-litre fuel tank offers an impressive range, ensuring that riders can spend more time exploring and less time stopping for fuel. Whether riding through highways or venturing on less-travelled roads, the bike’s long-range fuel capacity and powerful engine make it ideal for long-haul journeys. The seat height of 825 mm and kerb weight of 196 kg offer a commanding ride position, ideal for navigating off-road terrain and difficult conditions. While the height may be a bit challenging for shorter riders, the ride quality and comfort more than compensate for it.
The Himalayan’s suspension system is designed to withstand the toughest terrains. The telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear provide long travel, which helps smooth out the ride even over uneven surfaces. This durable suspension system ensures stability on both rough trails and smooth roads. The bike also comes with dual-channel ABS, a crucial feature for enhancing safety, especially when riding on slippery or gravel-laden roads. It gives riders more control, allowing them to brake safely in difficult conditions.
In terms of handling, the Himalayan shines. Despite its heavy build, it is design for agility and stability. Whether navigating tight corners, going uphill on mountain roads, or gliding over rocky paths, the Himalayan offers an experience that’s both confident and comfortable. The engine’s torquey nature combined with its sturdy frame makes it an ideal choice for any adventure rider looking for a machine that can handle tough conditions without compromising on comfort.
Royal Enfield Classic 350: A Timeless Cruiser
On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a bike that pays homage to the brand’s heritage while offering a modern take on classic styling. The Classic 350 is design for those who prefer a vintage cruiser with a smooth, comfortable ride. With its elegant design and modern performance, the Classic 350 offers a timeless riding experience, perfect for city commutes, weekend rides, and highway cruising.
The 349 cc engine of the Classic 350 is slightly smaller than the Himalayan’s, offering 20.2 bhp of power at 6,100 rpm and a torque of 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm. While the engine less powerful compared to the Himalayan, it still provides ample power for a comfortable ride, especially at cruising speeds. The five-speed manual transmission allows smooth gear transitions, making the bike well-suited for relaxed, long-distance rides or navigating through city traffic. Riders will appreciate the Classic 350’s ability to maintain a steady, comfortable speed on open roads, as well as its responsive handling in urban environments.
The Classic 350’s 13-litre fuel tank is slightly smaller than the Himalayan’s, but it still provides an adequate range for most riders. This smaller tank, combined with the bike’s 35 kmpl mileage, allows for longer rides without frequent fuel stops. This fuel efficiency, along with its low-maintenance design, makes the Classic 350 ideal for riders who enjoy spending time on the road without the need for extensive upkeep.
One of the key aspects of the Classic 350 is its design. This bike retains a nostalgic charm, featuring a retro-styled build with chrome accents, round headlamps, and classic bodywork. The 805 mm seat height gives riders an upright, comfortable seating position that’s ideal for cruising. At 195 kg, it’s slightly lighter than the Himalayan, which makes it easier to maneuver in urban traffic and tight spaces. The lower seat height and slightly more compact build make the Classic 350 more accessible to riders of different statures, offering a comfortable and relaxed ride even for those with shorter inseams.
The suspension of the Classic 350 features telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, which, while effective, are design more for comfort rather than rugged off-road handling. This makes the Classic 350 a great choice for riders who primarily use their bike for commuting or long-distance highway cruising. The bike also equipped with dual-channel ABS, which improves braking safety, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Although the Classic 350 is not built for rough trails or challenging terrains like the Himalayan, it excels in comfort and style. Its design well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, relaxed riding experience. Whether you’re cruising on open highways or taking a leisurely ride through the city, the Classic 350 offers a sense of classic elegance combined with modern reliability.
Choosing Between the Himalayan and Classic 350
Both the Himalayan and the Classic 350 are fantastic motorcycles in their own right, but they cater to different kinds of riders. The Himalayan is the bike for those who live for adventure and the thrill of exploration. It is design to tackle any challenge the road (or lack thereof) throws at you. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to the mountains or a cross-country road trip, the Himalayan is built to handle it all with ease and confidence.
On the other hand, the Classic 350 is for those who appreciate classic style and modern comfort. It’s a perfect motorcycle for relaxed cruising, whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a weekend ride. With its vintage charm, comfortable riding posture, and efficient engine, the Classic 350 offers an unforgettable experience for those who prefer to take things slow and enjoy the journey.
Both bikes come with their unique set of advantages, and choosing between them depends entirely on your preferences, riding style, and the kind of roads you plan to ride on. If you’re someone who enjoys the thrill of adventure and exploration, the Himalayan is a natural choice. However, if you’re after timeless style, comfort, and a relaxed ride, the Classic 350 will meet your expectations.
Regardless of which bike you choose, both the Himalayan and Classic 350 embody the spirit of Royal Enfield – timeless, dependable, and built to last. They offer not just a mode of transportation, but an experience that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
