Spy video catches KTM 390 Adventure-rivalling Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 exhaust note

- Test mule equipped with top-box mount and saddle stays

- To be powered by a 450cc, liquid-cooled engine

- Launch likely in September 2023

The upcoming Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 has been spotted once again. However, this time, the KTM 390 Adventure-rivalling adventure tourer was caught on video, and it revealed the exhaust note of this motorcycle. Further, this particular test mule was equipped with additional accessories such as a top-box mount and saddle stays. The motorcycle is almost production ready, and we expect to hear a launch announcement in the coming months, most likely before the high-demand festive season.

The exhaust note from this engine will be noticeably different from the existing Himalayan’s long-stroke thumping sound. The sound from this exhaust note hints at a shorter stroke, higher-revving engine, which retains the traditional Royal Enfield thump to a certain extent. As reported exclusively, the new Himalayan 450 will use a 450cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that will make approximately 40bhp and 45Nm of peak torque. In comparison, the KTM 390 Adventure produces 42.9bhp and 37Nm from its 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor.

This new adventure tourer will also pack more features than the existing Himalayan. The lighting, for example, will be full-LED and include a rear turn indicator-integrated stoplight. Then, the instrument cluster will feature a fully-digital layout and should benefit from Bluetooth connectivity. Further, the rider aids will most likely comprise a switchable dual-channel ABS and an assist and slipper clutch mechanism. The 390 Adventure, in contrast, benefits from additional electronics such as ride modes, a traction control system, and a quickshifter.

As mentioned above, the new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 could arrive ahead of the festive season. Thus, we expect to hear an official announcement around September this year. We also expect this motorcycle to be priced at around Rs. 2.70 lakh (ex-showroom), which will put it against the KTM 390 Adventure X and the BMW G 310 GS in India.

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