Top 5 Competitors to the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Exploring Adventure Alternatives

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 has made waves in the adventure motorcycle market, appealing to riders who crave exploration and rugged performance. With its new liquid-cooled engine, improved power figures, and enhanced off-road capabilities, it has set the bar high. However, the adventure bike segment offers a range of competitors that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Let’s take a look at the top five motorcycles giving the Himalayan 450 a run for its money.

1. KTM 390 Adventure

The KTM 390 Adventure is one of the most formidable competitors to the Himalayan 450. Known for its lightweight frame and advanced features, the 390 Adventure is perfect for riders looking for a blend of off-road capability and urban usability.

Engine: 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power: 43 hp
Features: Ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, switchable ABS, TFT display with smartphone connectivity
Strengths: Its sporty nature, high-tech electronics, and excellent on-road dynamics make it a great option for tech-savvy adventure enthusiasts.

While the Himalayan 450 offers a more rugged persona, the 390 Adventure caters to those who value agility and cutting-edge features.

2. BMW G 310 GS

The BMW G 310 GS brings the brand’s legendary GS pedigree into the entry-level adventure segment. Its compact size and premium build quality make it a worthy alternative to the Himalayan 450.

Engine: 313cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power: 34 hp
Features: Adjustable suspension, LED lighting, slipper clutch
Strengths: The G 310 GS shines in terms of refinement, brand value, and ease of handling, especially for beginners.

However, compared to the Himalayan 450, the G 310 GS lacks some of the raw off-road grit but compensates with BMW’s hallmark comfort and reliability.

3. Hero Xpulse 400 (Upcoming)

Hero MotoCorp is gearing up to challenge the Himalayan 450 with the highly anticipated Xpulse 400. Building on the success of the Xpulse 200, this model promises to offer a bigger engine and better performance for hardcore adventurers.

Engine: Expected to be a 400cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled unit
Power: Estimated 35-40 hp
Features: Long-travel suspension, high ground clearance, rally-style ergonomics
Strengths: Hero’s focus on affordability combined with off-road prowess makes it a potential game-changer.

While the Xpulse 400 is still under wraps, its pricing and Hero’s track record of delivering value-for-money products may make it a direct rival to the Himalayan 450.

4. Honda CB500X

For riders seeking a more versatile and road-friendly adventure bike, the Honda CB500X stands out as a strong contender. While positioned at a slightly higher price point, it offers an exceptional balance between touring and light off-road performance.

Engine: 471cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled
Power: 47 hp
Features: Slipper clutch, LED lights, relaxed ergonomics, and a robust fuel tank
Strengths: Its twin-cylinder engine ensures smoother power delivery and better highway manners, making it ideal for long-distance touring.

However, compared to the Himalayan 450, the CB500X leans more toward road-biased adventure touring, with limited off-road capability.

5. Yezdi Adventure

The Yezdi Adventure, a direct competitor in the mid-capacity adventure segment, appeals to riders who love vintage styling blended with modern performance. It’s priced close to the Himalayan 450, making it a strong alternative for budget-conscious adventurers.

Engine: 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power: 30.2 hp
Features: Fully digital instrument cluster, USB charging ports, long-travel suspension
Strengths: Its retro design, combined with solid off-road features, attracts those who want a blend of style and functionality.

Although the Yezdi Adventure is slightly less powerful than the Himalayan 450, its affordable price tag and unique aesthetics keep it in the race.

Conclusion

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 undoubtedly brings a new level of capability and innovation to the adventure motorcycle segment. However, its competitors each bring something unique to the table—whether it’s the tech-packed KTM 390 Adventure, the premium feel of the BMW G 310 GS, or the anticipated ruggedness of the Hero Xpulse 400.

Choosing the right bike boils down to individual preferences, riding style, and budget. Whether you lean toward advanced features, brand legacy, or affordability, there’s an adventure bike out there tailored just for you. So, gear up and choose your companion for the next big journey!