With the new Himalayan 440, Royal Enfield can target enthusiasts who miss the classic aesthetics and simple systems of the original Himalayan 411.
In development Based on market feedback and the need to improve platform utilization, Royal Enfield is reportedly working on a new Himalayan 440 bike (codenamed D4G). As of now, Royal Enfield’s 440cc engine platform is used only with the Scram 440. All other platforms (350cc, 450cc and 650cc) are based on multiple bikes. With the new Himalayan 440, Royal Enfield will be targeting multiple objectives. Let us know more details about this new Himalayan 440 bike.
Himalayan 440 – Market Position
While using the engine and core hardware of the Scram 440, the profile of the new Himalayan 440 is expected to be similar to the original Himalayan 411. Himalayan’s development in the 450cc version is commendable, but it has also created an entry-level gap for the brand in the adventure segment. This is especially true in terms of budget-oriented customers, who may be comfortable with a more accessible price point.
Discontinued in 2023, the base Himalayan 411 was available at a starting price of Rs 2.15 lakh. In comparison, the current Himalayan 450 is available in the price range of Rs 3.06 lakh to Rs 3.37 lakh. The pricing difference is quite obvious. In Royal Enfield’s portfolio, the new Himalayan 440 is expected to be positioned between the Scram 440 and the Himalayan 450. The launch is expected to happen later this year, possibly during the festive season.
Design and Features
The overall profile of the upcoming Himalayan 440 is expected to be similar to the discontinued Himalayan 411. It can be expected to feature features like raised front fenders, fork gaiters, circular headlamps, a compact windscreen and circular rear-view mirrors. Other key features of the Himalayan 411 include the sculpted fuel tank, side rack, split seats and upswept exhaust.
The wheel combination with the new Himalayan 440 is expected to be 21-inch at the front and 17-inch at the rear. It is similar to the Himalayan 411. However, it remains to be seen whether the new Himalayan 440 gets tubed dual-purpose tires or the standard wire spoke wheels with cross spoke rims that support tubeless tyres. The latter may be offered as an accessory or optional upgrade to ensure an accessible entry-level price point.
The Himalayan 440 is expected to get a completely new range of color options and graphics. Some of the older options available with the Himalayan 411 may be retained, or introduced later depending on the market response.
Benefits for riders
Apart from the low price, there are several other reasons why the upcoming new Himalayan 440 could be a better option. One of these may be a more manageable seat height. The seat height of the original Himalayan 411 was 800 mm. In comparison, the seat height of the current Himalayan 450 is 825 mm to 845 mm.
Another factor is system complexity, where the new Himalayan 440 may have an advantage in terms of easy maintainability and repairability. Powering the Himalayan 440 will be the same 443cc single cylinder, air-cooled engine as the Scram 440. It generates 25.4 PS and 34 Nm of torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
In comparison, the Himalayan 450 uses a 452 cc liquid-cooled Sherpa engine. It produces 40.02 PS and 40 Nm, and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The bike features advanced systems like slip and assist clutch and ride by wire technology. The upcoming Himalayan 440 is expected to have features like tripper navigation and switchable ABS. However, it may lack features like traction control and riding modes.