Bikes Overview
In the realm of adventure touring, two motorcycles have emerged as strong contenders: the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure X. Both bikes aim to provide riders with a thrilling and capable adventure experience, whether on the open road or off the beaten path.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, a significant upgrade to the popular Himalayan model, promises to take adventure touring to new heights. With its robust design, improved performance, and enhanced off-road capabilities, the Himalayan 450 seeks to attract riders who crave a powerful and versatile adventure machine.
On the other hand, the KTM 390 Adventure X builds upon the success of its predecessor, the 390 Adventure. Known for its aggressive styling, advanced features, and off-road prowess, the Adventure X aims to solidify KTM’s position as a leader in the adventure touring segment.
Engine and Performance Comparison
At the heart of these adventure tourers lie their powerful engines, which define their character and capabilities. Let’s compare the engine specifications and performance metrics:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Engine Type | Liquid Cooled, Single Cylinder, 4 Valves, DOHC | Single Cylinder, 4-stroke, 4 V DOHC Engine |
| Displacement | 452 cc | 373 cc |
| Peak Power | 40.02 PS @ 8000 rpm | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 40 Nm @ 5500 rpm | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
| Fuel Supply | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled | Liquid Cooled |
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is powered by a 452cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with four valves and a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration. This engine delivers a peak power of 40.02 PS at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 40 Nm at 5,500 rpm. The liquid cooling system ensures optimal heat management, even during demanding off-road adventures.
The KTM 390 Adventure X, on the other hand, features a 373cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine with four valves and a DOHC setup. This engine produces an impressive 43.5 PS of peak power at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. KTM’s engine is known for its strong mid-range punch and high-revving nature, making it well-suited for both on-road and off-road riding.
Both bikes employ fuel injection systems for precise throttle response and efficient fuel delivery. The liquid cooling systems on both the Himalayan 450 and the Adventure X ensure consistent performance in various riding conditions.
Suspension and Handling Comparison
Adventure tourers require capable suspension systems to tackle diverse terrains and provide a comfortable ride. Let’s examine the suspension setups of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Suspension Front | Upside down fork | WP Apex 43 mm Upside Down |
| Suspension Rear | Linkage type monoshock | WP Apex Shock Absorber |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 230 mm | 200 mm |
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 features an upside-down fork at the front, offering superior stiffness and improved handling precision. At the rear, it employs a linkage-type monoshock, which provides progressive damping and excellent bump absorption.
The KTM 390 Adventure X comes equipped with WP Apex suspension components. The front features a 43 mm upside-down fork, while the rear utilizes a WP Apex shock absorber. KTM’s suspension setup is known for its adjustability and off-road capability, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike’s behavior according to their preferences.
The Himalayan 450 boasts an impressive ground clearance of 230 mm, which is essential for navigating rough terrains and obstacles encountered during off-road adventures. The Adventure X, with its 200 mm ground clearance, is no slouch either, providing ample clearance for most off-road scenarios.
In terms of wheelbase, the Himalayan 450 has a longer wheelbase of 1,510 mm compared to the Adventure X’s 1,430 mm. The longer wheelbase of the Himalayan 450 contributes to its stability at higher speeds and enhances its overall handling dynamics.
Advanced Electronics and Rider Aids Comparison
Modern adventure tourers often come equipped with advanced electronics and rider aids to enhance safety, control, and convenience. Let’s compare the features offered by the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Traction Control | N/A | Yes |
| Display | N/A | TFT |
Both the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X prioritize safety with their dual-channel ABS systems. This feature ensures optimal braking performance and prevents wheel lockup in various riding conditions, instilling confidence in the rider.
The KTM 390 Adventure X takes the lead in terms of advanced electronics, offering traction control as standard. Traction control helps manage rear wheel slip on loose surfaces, enhancing safety and control during off-road adventures. The Himalayan 450, based on the provided information, does not seem to offer traction control.
In terms of instrumentation, the Adventure X boasts a full-color TFT display that provides comprehensive ride information and allows for easy navigation through the bike’s settings. The display on the Himalayan 450 is not specified in the given data.
Ergonomics and Comfort Comparison
Adventure touring often involves long hours in the saddle, traversing diverse terrains. Ergonomics and comfort are crucial factors to consider when comparing the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Seat Type | Split | Split |
| Saddle Height | 825 mm | 855 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 196 kg | N/A |
Both the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X feature split seat designs, which allow riders to find a comfortable position during long rides. The split seats also facilitate easier movement when navigating through challenging off-road sections.
The Himalayan 450 has a relatively accessible saddle height of 825 mm, making it suitable for riders of various heights. The Adventure X, on the other hand, has a taller saddle height of 855 mm, which may be more comfortable for taller riders or those who prioritize a commanding riding position.
In terms of weight, the Himalayan 450 has a kerb weight of 196 kg, which is on the heavier side for an adventure tourer. The specific kerb weight of the Adventure X is not provided in the given data. However, KTM bikes are generally known for their lightweight construction, which contributes to their agility and off-road prowess.
Both bikes are expected to offer an upright and comfortable riding position, with a relaxed reach to the handlebars and footpegs. The windscreens on both models should provide decent wind protection, although the effectiveness may vary based on the rider’s height and preferred riding style.
Adventure Readiness and Gear Compatibility
Adventure tourers should be equipped to handle the challenges of long-distance touring and off-road exploration. Let’s assess the adventure readiness of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Wheels Type | Spoke | Alloy |
| Tyre Size – Front | N/A | 100/90-19 |
| Tyre Size – Rear | N/A | 130/80-17 |
| Fuel Capacity | 17 L | 14.5 L |
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 comes equipped with spoke wheels, which are ideal for off-road adventures. Spoke wheels offer better flexibility and are easier to repair in case of damage during off-road rides. The specific tire sizes for the Himalayan 450 are not provided in the given data.
The KTM 390 Adventure X, on the other hand, features alloy wheels. While alloy wheels are lightweight and offer good on-road performance, they may not be as resilient as spoke wheels in harsh off-road conditions. The Adventure X comes fitted with a 100/90-19 front tire and a 130/80-17 rear tire, providing a balance of on-road stability and off-road traction.
In terms of fuel capacity, the Himalayan 450 has a larger 17-liter fuel tank compared to the Adventure X’s 14.5-liter tank. The extra fuel capacity of the Himalayan 450 allows for longer rides between fill-ups, which is advantageous for adventure touring in remote areas.
Both bikes are expected to offer mounting points for luggage systems, crash guards, and other essential adventure accessories. However, the compatibility and range of available accessories may vary between the two models.
Value and Ownership Comparison
When considering an adventure tourer, it’s essential to evaluate the overall value proposition and ownership experience. Let’s compare the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X in this context:
| Attribute | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Price Range | Rs. 2,85,000 – Rs. 2,98,000 | Rs. 2,81,372 |
| Number of Variants | 4 | 1 |
| Variant Names and Prices |
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The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is available in four variants, with prices ranging from Rs. 2,85,000 to Rs. 2,98,000. The different variants offer various features and cosmetic options, catering to different rider preferences and budgets.
The KTM 390 Adventure X, on the other hand, is offered in a single variant priced at Rs. 2,81,372. This streamlined approach simplifies the buying process for customers and ensures that all riders get the same set of features and capabilities.
In terms of ownership, both Royal Enfield and KTM have a strong presence in the Indian motorcycle market. Royal Enfield has a wide network of dealerships and service centers across the country, ensuring easy access to maintenance and spare parts. KTM also has a growing network and is known for its reliable after-sales support.
Both bikes are backed by reputable brands with a proven track record in the motorcycle industry. However, KTM’s global reputation for performance and off-road expertise may give the Adventure X an edge in terms of brand perception and aspirational value.
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X are two highly capable and exciting offerings in the adventure touring segment. The Himalayan 450 brings the legacy of Royal Enfield’s adventure touring expertise to a more powerful and feature-rich package. With its robust design, improved performance, and enhanced off-road capabilities, the Himalayan 450 is a compelling choice for riders who seek a versatile and capable adventure machine.
On the other hand, the KTM 390 Adventure X builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering advanced features, aggressive styling, and off-road prowess. KTM’s reputation for performance and its strong presence in the global adventure riding community make the Adventure X an attractive option for enthusiasts who prioritize off-road capabilities and cutting-edge technology.
Ultimately, the choice between the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X will depend on the rider’s specific needs, preferences, and budget. The Himalayan 450 offers a more classic and rugged appeal, with its spoke wheels, longer wheelbase, and larger fuel tank. It caters to riders who prioritize stability, comfort, and long-distance touring capabilities.
The KTM 390 Adventure X, with its advanced electronics, lighter weight, and off-road-focused features, is geared towards riders who seek a more performance-oriented and tech-savvy adventure tourer. It excels in off-road conditions and appeals to those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of their riding skills.
Before making a decision, it is recommended to test-ride both motorcycles, evaluate their ergonomics, and assess their suitability for the intended type of riding. By considering factors such as engine performance, suspension setup, off-road capability, and overall value, adventure enthusiasts can make an informed choice between the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure X, ensuring an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure touring experience.
