“Make sure that you always have the right tools for the job. It's no use
trying to eat a steak with a teaspoon, and a straw.”
- Anthony T. Hincks
- Anthony T. Hincks
This is the bike I'll be riding. This adventure model was released a few years ago to pretty good reviews. It's manufactured by Royal Enfield and is (aptly) called the Himalayan. Royal Enfield is an Indian motorcycle manufacturing brand with the distinction of being the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production. Enfields are manufactured in factories in Chennai, India and shipped around the world. Honestly, when I think about reliability, my first thought is not "Made in India". However, 95% of the bikes traversing the Nepalese and Tibetan terrain are Royal Enfields in one form or another. If these bikes can hold up under those conditions, then who am I to question them? After all, I ride a Harley. But I digress. I've been told you can find Enfield parts in everywhere in Nepal, I hope I don't have to prove that.
I don't know how mine will be equipped in terms of bags and racks, but I'll manage. I'm not overly impressed with the look of that seat, but I spend 90% of my time standing when riding off-road anyway. The 411cc motor should produce all the torque I need and at 421 pounds, it's heavier than my dirt bikes, but still half the weight of my Harley. The stock fuel tank is only four gallons, which could prove interesting, but the motor is fuel injected which will eliminate the need to alter the carburetor as I make my way into the upper elevations. All in all, I'm happy with this option and I remain optimistic.
