With a 452 cc single-cylinder engine and 40 hp at 8000 rpm, it aims to conquer not only the roads but also the hearts of adventure-seeking riders. Its robust construction and characteristic design give it a noble presence on the road. The combination of a steel tube frame, a fork at the front, and a monoshock at the rear emphasizes its ability to perform confidently on both paved roads and unpaved paths. With standard ABS and riding modes, the Himalayan offers modern safety features that adventurers appreciate. In this article, we take a closer look at how this royal highland queen stands up against its alternatives.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan and its Alternatives
Heartwarming Adventure Bike - what else is there?
The Royal Enfield Himalayan embodies the best of both worlds - the power of an adventurer and the elegance of a street cruiser. With a distinctive design and a passion for off-road adventures, the Himalayan is a majestic choice for riders who want to explore the unknown.
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Der Horvath
published on 10/05/2024
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The Royal Enfield Himalayan
Kawasaki Versys X-300: Playful Agility
The Kawasaki Versys X-300.
The Kawasaki Versys X-300 stands as a lofty alternative to the Royal Enfield Himalayan. With a 296 cc twin engine delivering 39 hp at 11,000 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm, the Versys X-300 focuses on agility and nimbleness. Its low weight and compact design make it the ideal companion for urban adventures and relaxed tours.
Comparison to the Royal Enfield Himalayan: Compared to the Himalayan, the Versys X-300 scores with its agility and nimble handling. While the Himalayan focuses on off-road capability and robustness, the Versys X-300 offers an alternative perspective for riders who value nimble riding performance more.
Key Facts
Kawasaki Versys-X 300 2021
BMW G 310 GS 2024
Suzuki V-Strom 250 2020
KTM 390 Adventure 2024
Honda NX500 2024
Engine and Drive Train
| Bore | Bore | 62 mm | Bore | 80 mm | Bore | 53.5 mm | Bore | 89 mm | Bore | 67 mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stroke | Stroke | 49 mm | Stroke | 62.1 mm | Stroke | 55.2 mm | Stroke | 60 mm | Stroke | 66.8 mm |
| Engine power | Engine power | 39 HP | Engine power | 34 HP | Engine power | 24.5 HP | Engine power | 44 HP | Engine power | 48 HP |
| Rpm at Max. Power | Rpm at Max. Power | 11,000 rpm | Rpm at Max. Power | 9,500 rpm | Rpm at Max. Power | 8,000 rpm | Rpm at Max. Power | 9,000 rpm | Rpm at Max. Power | 8,600 rpm |
| Torque | Torque | 27 Nm | Torque | 28 Nm | Torque | 23.4 Nm | Torque | 37 Nm | Torque | 43 Nm |
| Rpm at Torque | Rpm at Torque | 10,000 rpm | Rpm at Torque | 7,500 rpm | Rpm at Torque | 6,500 rpm | Rpm at Torque | 7,000 rpm | Rpm at Torque | 6,500 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | Compression Ratio | 10.6 | Compression Ratio | 10.9 | Compression Ratio | 11.5 | Compression Ratio | 12.6 | Compression Ratio | 10.7 |
| Fuel system | Fuel system | Injection | Fuel system | Injection | Fuel system | Injection | Fuel system | Injection | Fuel system | Injection |
| Starter | Starter | Electric | Starter | Electric | Starter | Electric | Starter | Electric | Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | Transmission | Chain | Transmission | Chain | Transmission | Chain | Transmission | Chain | Transmission | Chain |
| Cylinders | Cylinders | 2 | Cylinders | 1 | Cylinders | 2 | Cylinders | 1 | Cylinders | 2 |
| Strokes | Strokes | 4-Stroke | Strokes | 4-Stroke | Strokes | 4-Stroke | Strokes | 4-Stroke | Strokes | 4-Stroke |
| Valves per cylinder | Valves per cylinder | 4 | Valves per cylinder | 4 | Valves per cylinder | 2 | Valves per cylinder | 4 | Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Displacement | Displacement | 296 ccm | Displacement | 313 ccm | Displacement | 248 ccm | Displacement | 373.2 ccm | Displacement | 471 ccm |
Suspension Front
| Front suspension | Front suspension | Telescopic fork | Front suspension | Upside-Down telescopic fork | Front suspension | Telescopic fork | Front suspension | Upside-Down telescopic fork | Front suspension | Upside-Down telescopic fork |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | Diameter | 41 mm | Diameter | 41 mm | Diameter | 37 mm | Diameter | 43 mm | Diameter | 41 mm |
Suspension Rear
| Shock absorber | Shock absorber | Monoshock | Shock absorber | Monoshock | Shock absorber | Monoshock | Shock absorber | Monoshock | Shock absorber | Monoshock |
|---|
Chassis
| Frame | Frame | Steel | Frame | Steel | Frame | Steel | Frame | Chromium-molybdenum | Frame | Steel |
|---|
Brakes Front
| Type | Type | Single disk | Type | Single disk | Type | Single disk | Type | Single disk | Type | Double disk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | Diameter | 290 mm | Diameter | 300 mm | Diameter | 290 mm | Diameter | 320 mm | Diameter | 296 mm |
| Piston | Piston | Double piston | Piston | Four pistons | Piston | Double piston | Piston | Four pistons | Piston | Double piston |
Brakes Rear
| Type | Type | Disc | Type | Disc | Type | Disc | Type | Disc | Type | Disc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | Diameter | 220 mm | Diameter | 240 mm | Diameter | 240 mm | Diameter | 230 mm | Diameter | 240 mm |
| Piston | Piston | Double piston | Piston | Single piston | Piston | Double piston | Piston | Single piston | Piston | Single piston |
Dimensions and Weights
| Front tyre width | Front tyre width | 100 mm | Front tyre width | 110 mm | Front tyre width | 110 mm | Front tyre width | 100 mm | Front tyre width | 110 mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front tyre height | Front tyre height | 90 % | Front tyre height | 80 % | Front tyre height | 80 % | Front tyre height | 90 % | Front tyre height | 80 % |
| Front tyre diameter | Front tyre diameter | 19 inch | Front tyre diameter | 19 inch | Front tyre diameter | 17 inch | Front tyre diameter | 19 inch | Front tyre diameter | 19 inch |
| Rear tyre width | Rear tyre width | 130 mm | Rear tyre width | 150 mm | Rear tyre width | 140 mm | Rear tyre width | 130 mm | Rear tyre width | 160 mm |
| Rear tyre height | Rear tyre height | 80 % | Rear tyre height | 70 % | Rear tyre height | 70 % | Rear tyre height | 80 % | Rear tyre height | 60 % |
| Rear tyre diameter | Rear tyre diameter | 17 inch | Rear tyre diameter | 17 inch | Rear tyre diameter | 17 inch | Rear tyre diameter | 17 inch | Rear tyre diameter | 17 inch |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Fuel Tank Capacity | 17 l | Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 l | Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.3 l | Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 l | Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.5 l |
| License compliancy | License compliancy | A2 | License compliancy | A2 | License compliancy | A2 | License compliancy | A2 | License compliancy | A2 |
BMW G 310 GS: Comfortable Elegance
The BMW G 310 GS.
The BMW G 310 GS emerges as a comfortable alternative to the Royal Enfield Himalayan. With a 313cc single-cylinder engine delivering 34 hp at 9500 rpm and 28 Nm of torque at 7500 rpm, the G 310 GS focuses on a relaxed seating position and high-quality craftsmanship. Its sleek design and sophisticated ergonomics make it the ideal companion for leisurely long-distance rides.
Comparison to the Royal Enfield Himalayan: Compared to the Himalayan, the G 310 GS impresses with its comfortable seat height and high-quality finish. While the Himalayan focuses on off-road adventures, the G 310 GS offers an alternative for riders who prioritize comfort and sleek design.
Suzuki V-Strom 250: Practical Convenience
The Suzuki V-Strom 250.
The Suzuki V-Strom 250 presents itself as a practical alternative to the Royal Enfield Himalayan. With a 248 cc twin engine delivering 24.5 hp at 8000 rpm and 23.4 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm, the V-Strom 250 focuses on ease of handling and comfortable riding. Its light weight and slim design make it the perfect choice for daily use.
Comparison to the Royal Enfield Himalayan: Compared to the Himalayan, the V-Strom 250 scores with its easy handling and comfortable seating position. While the Himalayan proves itself in challenging off-road terrain, the V-Strom 250 offers a practical alternative for riders who value everyday comfort more.
KTM 390 Adventure: Versatile Alternative
The KTM 390 Adventure.
The KTM 390 Adventure positions itself as a powerful all-rounder and presents itself as a versatile alternative to the Royal Enfield Himalayan. Equipped with a 373.2 cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 44 hp at 9000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm, the 390 Adventure promises a grunty performance. Its nimble and agile riding performance, combined with modern riding assistance systems, makes it a strong competitor.
Comparison to the Royal Enfield Himalayan: Compared to the Himalayan, the KTM 390 Adventure focuses on a powerful and modern approach. While the Himalayan showcases its strengths off-road and on longer tours, the 390 Adventure presents itself as a dynamic alternative for riders who value power and technical innovations more.
Honda NX500: Pure All-Rounder
The Honda NX500.
The Honda NX500 impresses with its versatility and robust performance. With a 471 cc twin engine delivering 48 hp at 8600 rpm and 43 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm, the NX500 showcases its strengths both on paved roads and light off-road terrain. Its balanced ergonomics, solid chassis, and high-quality features make it a reliable choice for varied adventures.
Comparison to the Royal Enfield Himalayan: Compared to the Himalayan, the Honda NX500 focuses on balanced performance in various environments. While the Himalayan emphasizes its off-road capabilities, the NX500 aims for versatility and solid performance on the road. Both models offer an impressive range, and the choice between them depends on the rider's individual preferences.
Conclusion: Which adventure bike suits you?
The KTM 390 Adventure, the Honda NX500, the Suzuki V-Strom 250, the Royal Enfield Himalayan, the Kawasaki Versys X-300, and the BMW G 310 GS offer a remarkable range in the adventure segment. Each bike has its own advantages and disadvantages that cater to the individual preferences and needs of riders. In the world of adventure riding, there is no wrong bike, only the one that best suits your personal expedition.
All models in price comparison can be found here: Buy A2 Adventure Bikes.
- How much does a Royal Enfield Himalayan 410 cost?
- Here you will find an overview of the price level of new and used motorbikes!
More from 1000PS Magazine
The Royal Enfield Himalayan and its Alternatives Images
Source: 1000PS
Honda NX500 2024
The renowned NX name is now combined with the accessible concept of the A2 adventure bike CB500X. The NX500 inherits all-round qualities and emphasizes the adventurous aspect in its design.
Honda NX500 2024
The Honda NX500 2024 showcases a modern design, significantly enhanced by its electronic components. The NX500 features a new LED headlight, LED taillight, and LED turn signals.
Honda NX500 2024
A new 5-inch TFT color display, which for the first time uses "Optical Bonding" technology for improved readability in bright sunlight, offers three different views and smartphone connectivity via Honda RoadSync for iOS and Android devices. RoadSync can be operated via the backlit 4-way switch on the left handlebar control and allows the display of navigation information as well as other functions (via Bluetooth and helmet headset), such as making calls or listening to music. Non-electronic features also receive an update, with the new slim seat of the NX500 designed to make it easier to reach the ground and provide more seating comfort.
Honda NX500 2024
The NX500 retains its unchanged 35 mm steel tube frame, but with a wet weight of 196 kg, it is 3 kg lighter than the previous model, the CB500X. The NX500 is equipped with a 41 mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD fork, which offers 135 mm of travel. The rear shock provides 135 mm of travel and a five-step preload adjustment.
Honda NX500 2024
The wheel sizes are 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear, with tires sized 110/80-R19 at the front and 160/60-R17 at the rear. The braking system includes, for the first time, a dual disc setup at the front with 296 mm diameter discs and axially mounted Nissin two-piston calipers. At the rear, a 240 mm disc brake with a single-piston caliper provides braking.
Honda NX500 2024
The drivetrain of the NX500 remains largely unchanged and still consists of a liquid-cooled eight-valve parallel-twin engine with a displacement of 471 cc. The engine output remains constant at 48 hp at 8,600 rpm, while the maximum torque is 43 Nm at 6,500 rpm. New for the 2024 model year is the integration of HSTC traction control (Honda Selectable Torque Control), which provides additional safety under slippery conditions.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
The revised Royal Enfield Himalayan represents a successful evolution of the original concept. Instead of focusing on performance or sportiness, it continues to emphasize accessibility and adventure feeling.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Royal Enfield has made significant improvements, particularly in the brakes and chassis. With 40 horsepower, it offers more riding pleasure and practicality than ever before.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Moreover, it surprises with features such as the TripperDash, which integrates 3D Google Maps navigation. For those who want to break away from the performance fixation of Western adventure bikes, the Himalayan presents a nimble, accessible, and entertaining option for both small and large adventures.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
This single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 452 cc marks a milestone as the first engine from Royal Enfield with liquid cooling and a double overhead camshaft. Thanks to modern cooling and the use of contemporary materials, the compression ratio could be increased from 9.5:1 to 11.5:1 without compromising reliability. The engine delivers a power output of 40.2 hp at 8,000 rpm and a torque of 40 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
The Himalayan comes standard with a center stand, spoked wheels, crash bars, a USB-C charging port on the handlebar, and a chain guide. Despite the now larger fuel tank with a capacity of 17 liters and the more powerful engine, Royal Enfield's engineers have managed to reduce the overall weight by three kilograms to 196 kg in wet weight.
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Of course, there are some signs that indicate the price range of the bike. This would also be unavoidable for the significantly more expensive, established brands in the adventure bike market.
Benelli TRK 502 X
The design of the Benelli TRK 502 X is reminiscent of some established models in the adventure bike category. However, this does not detract from the positive aspects of this bike.
Benelli TRK 502 X
The 500cc twin runs smoothly and sounds just as good. The power delivery feels more like 60 than just 48 hp. This is due to a rather short gearing. So, you often find yourself riding at revs beyond 5500 rpm. The engine's flexibility is impressive, but the twin only really develops power at higher revs.
Benelli TRK 502 X
More than mature, the Benelli TRK 502 X presents itself not only in stature but also in weight. At 235 kilograms with a full 20-liter fuel tank, it is relatively heavy.
Benelli TRK 502 X
The chassis relies on an upside-down fork at the front and a steel dual swingarm at the rear, ensuring stability and riding comfort. The rear mono shock provides balanced suspension.
Benelli TRK 502 X
In terms of dimensions, the TRK 502 X features a balanced configuration with a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. The tires, sized 110/80-R19 at the front and 150/70-R17 at the rear, contribute to stable road handling. With a length of 2180 mm, a width of 912 mm, and a height of 1465 mm, the adventure bike presents itself in a well-proportioned form.
Benelli TRK 502 X
The generous fuel tank with a capacity of 20 liters promises extended tours, and the A2 license class makes the TRK 502 X accessible to a wide range of riders.
BMW G 310 GS
Equipped with four valves, two overhead camshafts, and electronic fuel injection, the single-cylinder engine of the BMW G 310 GS features characteristic design elements such as the rearward-tilted cylinder arrangement and the 180-degree rotated cylinder head, positioning the intake at the front and the exhaust at the rear.
BMW G 310 GS
The output of 25 kW (34 hp) at 9,500 rpm and the maximum torque of 28 Nm at 7,500 rpm meet the requirements of the current EU-5 homologation, making the single ideal for the A2 license.
BMW G 310 GS
A new feature since 2021 is the ride-by-wire system. Additionally, an automatic idle boost prevents the engine from stalling abruptly when starting off. The anti-hopping clutch is also a new addition and contributes to an improved riding experience.
BMW G 310 GS
While the previous BMW G 310 GS was already equipped with an LED brake light, the BMW G 310 GS from 2021 onwards features a full LED headlight, ensuring improved visibility during night rides. The LED turn signals contribute to increased visibility in traffic.
BMW G 310 GS
Another improvement is that both the clutch and the brake levers are now adjustable in four stages.
BMW G 310 GS
If you're looking for a cool A2 adventure bike with the blue and white propeller, the BMW G 310 GS is a great choice.
KTM 390 Adventure
With the help of the revised traction control and additional electronic features, the 2022 KTM 390 Adventure model is expected to be even better equipped for off-road adventures. The introduction of Offroad and Street modes provides the rider with improved control over rear-wheel slip, especially on loose or wet surfaces.
KTM 390 Adventure
Even with intensive use or a mishap, the OFFROAD traction control remains active, even after an engine stop or a fall. The advanced features of the traction control allow for more precise adjustment of engine power to different riding situations.
KTM 390 Adventure
To meet the demands of more challenging terrain, the KTM 390 Adventure is equipped with robust cast wheels. By reducing the number of spokes, the design aims to offer greater rigidity and durability.
KTM 390 Adventure
Additionally, the 390 Adventure features a robust steel trellis subframe, which is secured with four bolts and harks back to KTM's rally heritage. This construction is aimed at better performance in challenging terrain and was developed with the help of experienced test riders such as multiple Baja 1000 rally winner Quinn Cody and world traveler Paolo Cattaneo.
KTM 390 Adventure
For 2024, KTM presents the 390 Adventure with two fresh color schemes. In the usual KTM tradition, the base color combination of orange and black is complemented by a new gray-white graphic set.
KTM 390 Adventure
All color and graphic variants are carefully matched to the proportions of the KTM 390 ADVENTURE. The designs are applied using the proven wet paint process and feature protective coatings.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
The twin-cylinder engine, originally used in the Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma, has been completely reworked for the V-Strom to ensure higher torque in the lower and mid-range RPMs.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
This is particularly important for an adventure bike, which often navigates twisties or narrow country roads. Consequently, the V-Strom 250 delivers a power output of 25 hp at 8,000 rpm and a torque of 23.4 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
The practical implementation of this concept improvement is effectively demonstrated in the Suzuki V-Strom 250. The engine accelerates smoothly even below 3,000 rpm, and only at revs below 2,000 rpm is a slight jerk noticeable. However, to realize the additional torque, peak performance had to be sacrificed.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
Compared to the competition, Suzuki opts for a 17-inch front wheel instead of the 19-inch wheel found on models like the Kawasaki Versys-X 300. Despite this setup, light off-road sections on gravel roads should still be possible to maintain the character of the adventure bike.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
Even at highway speeds, the 188 kg light machine maintains a relaxed line and does not feel small at all. Thanks to the high handlebars, the bike can also be easily maneuvered through tight city traffic.
Suzuki V-Strom 250
The cockpit is extremely clear, featuring a tachometer, a gear indicator, a fuel gauge, multiple trip meters, the time, and other relevant information, providing all the necessary details while riding. Suzuki states that the V-Strom 250 consumes 2.3 liters per 100 kilometers, which should allow for a range of about 500 kilometers.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
The central element of the Versys-X 300 is a well-known engine from Kawasaki, which was first used in the Ninja 300 and also finds its place in the Versys-X after previously being used in the Z 300. By making adjustments to the airbox and exhaust, the machine meets the Euro-4 standard and even managed to gain an additional horsepower.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
The engine output is now 40 hp at 11,500 rpm and 25.7 Nm at 10,000 rpm. How do these 40 hp feel? Not bad, although you shouldn't expect brutal acceleration figures. The engine is characterized by high revviness and is equipped with a rev limiter at 13,000 rpm.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
The entertainment value of the Versys-X 300 lies in its moderate power. Even when repeatedly winding out the rev limiter, you don't reach speeds that could jeopardize your license. Approaching corners is also more deliberate, with momentum being used more effectively and each gear change carefully planned.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
As an entry-level adventure bike, the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 must prove its robustness not only on asphalt but also during occasional detours off-road. It is important to emphasize that it is not a true off-road machine. This is also evident in the tires, which are not specifically designed for off-road adventures.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
Nevertheless, the tire dimensions promise a lot of potential, with 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear, allowing for a wide selection of tires, including those with knobbies. The Versys-X 300 effortlessly handles dirt roads and unpaved paths, supported by its low overall weight of 175 kg in wet weight, making it easy to maneuver.
Kawasaki Versys X-300
Robust, straightforward, good. Whether you push the Kawasaki Versys X-300 to its limits at 12,000 RPM and make the pegs scrape, or leisurely explore the landscape via dirt roads – the versatility of the Versys-X 300 becomes evident. With the use of accessories, it can effortlessly be transformed into a long-distance touring machine that impresses with its simple technology even in the long run.
