There is still no doubt that the 2026 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450CC is the best 450cc adventure motorbike on the market. Because it is tough, can handle all kinds of terrain, and has an engine that is balanced for touring, the Himalayan 450 is the bike that Indian bikers choose when they want to go on a real trip without spending a lot of money.
From the winding mountain roads in Himachal to the deserts of Rajasthan, riders have praised its stability, low-end torque, and comfortable fit. Still, even though it’s still the best in its class, two problems keep coming up in discussions with riders and long-term owner comments.
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Problem 1: The gearbox makes noises below 2,000 RPM
One thing that Himalayan 450 owners often talk about is how the gearbox feels at lower speeds. The engine has a lot of torque, but when changing between lower gears between 1,500 and 2,000 rpm, the transmission can feel rough and hesitant.
On trails and streets that are smooth, this isn’t a big deal. However, riders have said that the gear shifts don’t feel as smooth as they should for a bike in this price range when they’re in heavy traffic or on rough terrain.
Royal Enfield fans hope that future updates, even if they’re just small changes to the quality of the shifts, will make riding even better.
Problem 2: Suspension Feedback on Quick Changes in Terrain
This bike’s suspension is set up to make long rides more comfortable. It does a good job of handling broken roads and highway undulations, but the response can be a bit harsh on sudden bumps or sharp changes in terrain.
Some riders say that the rear shock compresses a bit quickly when they hit something hard, especially when they have a passenger or goods on board. Most people thought that a bike meant for exploring would be a little more flexible when going fast over rough terrain.
Still King of the 400cc Class
Even with these problems, the 2026 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is still the best 450cc bike because of its reliable engine, comfort for touring, and true adventure qualities.
Despite these issues, this bike is still a great choice for long rides or weekend trips, as long as you know about them.
Are you thinking about getting the Himalayan 450? Before you book, check out prices, test ride FAQs, and reviews from real owners. Your trip is waiting!
