Thanks to the work of a daring photographer in Southern Europe, recent news has surfaced that Royal Enfield is actively developing a 650cc version of the highly demanded Himalayan bike.
A series of detailed spy photos were shared on outlets like MCNews and 1000ps, showcasing how Enfield is incorporating the popular 650cc engine platform into an adventure tourer:
Appearance
The upcoming Himalayan 650 features a front end reminiscent of the Husqvarna Norden 901. While the fairing is less angular and the cowling doesn’t seamlessly blend into the rest of the bodywork, the signature round headlight remains. Notably, Enfield avoids the beak commonly found on adventure bikes.
The bike is expected to have LED indicators, resembling those on the existing Himalayan 450, along with a similar overall aesthetic for the tail section. Like its predecessor, the 650 model has a two-section seating arrangement and a single exhaust pointing upwards on the right side. The tubed tires, a common cost-saving measure by Royal Enfield, may disappoint some enthusiasts, who are hoping for tubeless spoked wheels on the new model.
Unlike the typical round dials seen on Royal Enfield bikes, the Himalayan 650 showcases a rectangular TFT dash. Emphasizing its adventure intent, a sturdy bash plate extends back to the center stand. The presence of dual front discs, while visually appealing, may be deemed unnecessary for a bike expected to have a peak power output of 47 horsepower.
Despite its off-road capability, Royal Enfields are known for being robust yet heavy machines. The weight of the Himalayan 650 could surpass that of the 450 model, possibly posing a challenge for extreme off-road adventures. While not as performance-oriented as the Yamaha Tenere 700, Enfield prioritizes simplicity, style, and affordability over outright speed.
Engine
The parallel twin engine likely to power the Himalayan 650 is the same air/oil-cooled 648cc twin used in various other 650cc models from Royal Enfield’s lineup. With a peak power output around 47 horsepower and 38 lb-ft of torque, the engine’s performance matches closely with other 650 variants in the range.
While Royal Enfield has managed to enhance the engine’s power for specific racing purposes, the Himalayan 650 is not expected to be a high-performance beast. The company emphasizes durability, aiming for reliability over extreme power output.
Development History
The original 410cc Himalayan 411 single-cylinder model was well-received upon its release in 2018, becoming a best-selling bike in certain markets. Subsequent variants like the Himalayan 450, featuring a liquid-cooled 452cc single, catered to riders seeking more power for touring and commuting applications.
Royal Enfield’s decision to develop a 650cc version of the Himalayan reflects the demand for a larger, more versatile adventure bike. With the brand’s focus on reliability, simplicity, and affordability, the new model is anticipated by enthusiasts eagerly awaiting its arrival in dealerships.
