Still the only bloke on YT and with his colours earned that not only doesn't have his own head stuck up his own chutney-locker but is the man who you just know if saw him in a cafe or up the bar, would talk and be exactly as he is on-screen. Fair p,ay to you, Nathan, I learn more and get more enjoyment out of your on-screen and on-board work than anyone else. Thank you kindly, chap.....take care of yourself, bloke...
I am still enjoying your reviews above all others, Nathan. No hidden agendas, no kowtowing to any bike or product manufacturers, no BS, and no over inflated ego. Long may you continue!
The thought stream is very very practical and most sensible. Any common man who loves bikes cannot buy costlier bikes, the special editions given to promoters literally free of cost. Given the content created by those guys pays for those buys as well as the companies / dealers pay them. This piece of advice is for common people like me. Love it, too good.
Definitely one of the top adventure bikes out there.. For me . Personally my main adventure bike is a RE classic 500 army with the large cargo rack and continental TKC80 tyres . I will have an adventure on anything though... My c90 ,xr250, txt280 zzr1100 moto.. I just can't stand gatekeepers who think if it doesn't do 0-100 in 5 seconds it's shite, if it doesn't have 200bhp it's shite, if it doesn't cost 20k it's shite and you're a peasant. Then all they do on their 20k 200hp bike is drink coffee and pay lots for someone else to service it because that kind of guy doesn't actually know how to work on bikes😂👍
yeah but they should have made it rev more and gave it more power and at least 110 mph if they had i would have brought one but they havent so ill pass.
tout a fait d'accord avec toi c'est exactement la même chose en france pour beaucoup de motards si tu n'as pas la dernière bmw gs ou une multistrada ou une bécane a moins de 20mille euros tu es presque un bouseux c'est un comportement misérable 🤬
I've owned a Himalayan for the last 2 years as my only form of transport. Have fitted pull back bar risers and smaller rear sprocket to improve fuel consumption. Have looked at various performance modifications, and I found the best one is buy a 650 continental to ride on sunny sundays. The basic Himalayan does what it says on the tin , it handles dumpy backs roads with ease, sips fuel , and is easy to service. I've had no issues with bike what so ever. Of the 60 or so bikes I've owned in the last 45 years I'd put the himi in the top 5.
Hello James, I would love to hear about the rest of your top 5 list. I am looking to get my first bike soon. I was obsessed with the RE Continental GT650 at first, but seeing it in person, it didn't appeal to me as much as I thought it would. Love the Himmy, right now i am thinking my first bike would be the Scram 411, since I wouldn't be offroading 90% of the time. Any advice?
@@mireaaa what did you buy? I was looking at the scram and himmy but have opted for the himmy due to the fact it has centre stand and bars etc already fitted with no extra cost
@@adam-qf2vz oh I haven't bought a bike yet. I changed my mind, since it would be a first bike for me, I'm thinking something smaller. Like a KTM that's under 200cc. I rode my friend 125 and it was so much fun and agile albeit underpowered. My list for a proper bike after that is Scram 411, Duke RC390, Ninja 400. One of those three. For now I think I'll get something smaller so I can learn and make mistakes quickly and not cost me too much. Congrats on your new bike. 💪😌
Spot on about keeping it simple light and most of all cheep .I remember quite a few years ago some enthusiastic clever guys built a six wheeled drive buggy to get over a mountain pass .it cost quite a bit of money .Anyway they got it stuck. but the most embarrassing thing for them came .when a Citroen Dian came pass them with no problem at all they were left scratching their heads .. love to find that clip again .👍😀
Citroen made a 4WD version of the 2CV back in the 60s. One engine at the front as standard and another engine and trnasmission at the rear. It was aimed at the Sahara.
Wise words, as always Nathan. I love the way your videos aim to put the onus on the rider to decide what's best for them, whilst detailing why each modification works (or not) for you. Everyone is different, as are their perceived needs.
Hay mate Paul from Australia, I totally agree with your take on the Himalayan , “ a good 👍 anywhere bike on a budget “ . We have this Aussie fella that’s been travelling around Australia on a Himalayan- Joe Ryan “ he has taken it everywhere “ and surprised a heap of big ADV riders on their big bikes “ . I have a Moto Guzzi V85tt - I know you had one ☝️, for my mainly road riding and BIG Australian distances “ and I also have a Honda CRF 300 Rally - also same as you ( for my snotty riding 😂😂😂) . I get the mod thing And I am guilty as charged 😂. I spent money on the obvious first 1. The soft suspension ( YSS upgrade) and I get what your saying 1200 AUS dollars on a 9000.00 AUS dollars bike 2. Air filter - but soft uni- filter with pre- filter ( Aussie dust ) 3. Rear rack ( I think definitely needed )- was from Thailand so cheap 4. Radiator guard - China - cheap 5. Full exhaust FMF Thailand knock off was 500 AUS , but it actually made notable difference on Low to Mid range . 6. 12 volt outlet , and Barkbasters ( that I had laying around and changed the bars again some old SWM RS 650 fat bars had laying around ( I remember you riding one some years ago ) 7. Believe me the Himalayan does fantastic in the outback - check out Joe Ryan .
That discussion you get into at 7:19 about looking down on small ADVS is spot on! I don't wanna thrash a big expensive motorcycle, even if I could afford it. If I'll do long distance travel and do some real adventure, this is the kind of bike I'd want to take. "If it falls of a cliff, I'm not bankrupt!" LOL, love it. Love your insights and realness, and respect your skills and experience.
Totally agree with you Nathan.... As an owner of a 2022 US model at first I was going to buy a KLR Kawasaki and when I saw the mods people suggested to get it " right " it added another grand or two to a fairly cheap motorcycle. then I saw the Himalayan and it was a couple grand cheaper than the KLR and bought it. Now I see people spending a lot of money to get the Himalayan " right " and again it makes little sense. To each his own but if you want that performance , ect. just buy a bike with those attributes. You will end up spending the same probably !
Cracking video as always Nathan 👌 I agree with your thoughts on what's an ADV Bike had all the big ones myself, gsa's gs etc I'd sooner always go for a smaller single cylinder now.
Real nice video! Good to hear honest opinions on upgrades and when do you feel its worth getting them! It was great to meet you at the Ace Cafe last weekend too! I was thinking of talking about the himalayan with you as the idea of getting it still comes back to me, and it was one of the options for my first bike. Oh and thank you for introducing you to Sylvie!
Great honest review of upgrades. Haven't tried the Tec Cam yet. Good to hear that the cam doesn't affect the running of the engine in the low revs. But from what I heard, the cam mostly affects the mid and top end revs, which as you said, you haven't been able to test because of the running in period. But for people who are going to use this bike on roads to get them to trails (which is what an adventure bike is about), it seems that extra mid and top end power/responsiveness would be a considerable advantage. As you said, 20% more power on a 24hp bike could make quite a big difference. So to me, even paying to get it fitted by a mechanic, it seems like quite a reasonably priced and effective upgrade - if it does what it says on the box.
Thanks Ian. I was out on it yesterday riding with a guy on a stock Himalayan. The bike and engine does feel more alive. A little brisker. But on the road I'm still not sure that directly translates to quicker acceleration/higher speed, certainty not 20% quicker. But it's early days. I like it so far
You’re absolutely right about what’s the best adventure bike. I share your vision. You shouldn’t be afraid of dropping the bike, some scratches or dents.
Love the expression “ if had been on my own a little bit nervous” I have that all the time but keep on spannering myself. Recent disaster changed coil pack on Citroen whilst changing oil, dropped cover bolt in oil cap space ( left open like a nob). Had to remove cam covers adding 1 hr to simple job. You learn by yr mistakes. Another top vlog really enjoy them. Mods and accessories are a whole industry. Best pick up a 2nd hand one with all accessories. Cheers
All good points. Some people buy a bike on the after market accessories they may be able to add. The fact the Himmy is able "out of the box" at that price point, is what makes it a great wee bike. Its the "pie n mash" of a bike perhaps, rather than a decadent "oyster n champagne" beemer.
Great advice, Nathan! I've been waiting for your review of the Tech cam! I just received a 22 Himi and only have 150 miles to date. So far, I love it as is! I adjusted the shifter and gear levers as they were too low. Put in sintered brakes pads, led headlight, led auxiliary lights, and a USB port. Will be putting on the master cylinder, front brake caliper, and brake reservoir covers soon. Also have the RE handguards. That's it for now as the list of mods for the Himi is quite lengthy, and one could easily spend a bit on farkles if not cautious!
Brilliant clip, thanks. I've just spent about a grand on my Africa Twin 2018 Adventure Sports. That's about my limit to rally slag a bike of it's calibre. Mainly tyres and extra protection. Love the Himalayan and am seriously considering trying one and the Voge to blast around on the TET.
My background is mtb and first mods are always touch points eg bars grips seat pedals . Then onto tyres wheels etc . Nathan is spot on with this video so many people gloss over setting the bike up correctly and go straight for "power modications " that make slight differences ...
Great vid as always. Ryan F9 is not on the press list nor sponsored he is employed by FortNine a retail powersports store. One of the biggest challenges they face is getting bikes. The huge team is Ryan and his videographer. Just two guys. He has a very dry sense of humor and I think if you watch the Scram video again you will see that he is poking fun at all of the big brand "scramblers" and showing that the RE is basically the only bike that deserves the title. I just thought I should clear that up. In closing just wanted to say I love your content and keep it up. Best regards from Canada where here in Ontario we are still waiting on the snow to melt.
Yeah thanks Ian. Yeah totally love his content. It's the benchmark. I'm just always sceptical - as all people should be when viewing YT content Heck, I've even been accused of shilling for Royal Enfield when all I've had out of them is a free jacket! Hope that snow makes way for clear highways soon enough!
@@nathanthepostman It's hard to argue the value of the Royal Enfields. Unfortunately here in Ontario there is only one dealer and they tend to like very high margins bringing the cost of a Himalayan to the same level of a new KLR. They don't even stock the 650's. Anyway as said before I have been following you on YT for a while and really appreciate your content and your down to earth reviews.
Nice work. 100% agree with the view of the F9 video. The Cooperb lift kit remains my favourite mod on mine, but I’m taller, and too heavy for the stock spring.
Hi Nathan, great video as always, only thing I'd add to what you said is for tubeless rims, I went with this as I moved from Indonesia to Dubai with my Himalayan, I did put Ohlins rear shock on and that made a huge difference as I am not light, but didn't fancy pulling a tube out here in Dubai, 38000km so far, bs4, no issues, 2018 Indonesia model with no ABS
Hello Nathan, Roger here from Montreal, Canada. I found a link to your CZcams videos via a RE forum. I just listened to your video comparing the RE Himalayan to a Honda CRF250. Thank you for this. It was honest and informative. I am a relatively new rider (got my licence in 2020 at the age of 64) but I have packed in a lot of miles over the past two years. I started out on a naked sport bike (Yamaha MT-09) but after trying to do moto-camping with it the 1st year (and realizing that I really wanted to return to camping after many years away), it didn’t take long for me to sell it and get an adventure bike that better-suited my goals. As crazy as it may sound, I got a used 2019 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports. And a week later I took a 4000km round trip moto-camping trip up north. Needless to say that was a steep learning curve but not harrowing. I told myself that if I enjoyed the experience, I would travel across Canada in 2022. And I did! 12,000kms round trip with about 200kms off-road, all of that by myself. A simply amazing experience! You learn a lot about yourself and your abilities and you gain so much confidence. All this to give you a bit of background about where I’m coming from. Spring 2023: This year we’re moving in the middle of the year. So I have not planned any major trip (). I still have the AT, and am still deeply in love with it. I ride it a bit like the rebel in me that never got out when I was younger. Enter the Royal Enfield Himalayan: I got the strange idea in my head over the last month that I wanted a smaller bike (while keeping the AT) for puttering around town (I live in a big city). I have always been attracted to the Himalayan because of its retro esthetics and simplicity in terms of gadgets. I also have on my to-do list: learning the ins and outs of a motorcycle (motor, electronics, etc). I want to “tinker”. I considered that perhaps the Himalayan might be a good place to start. I certainly understand and would never compare the Himalayan to my AT: two completely different animals from every aspect other that their intended purpose. (Just from the weight aspect I figure I would be dancing the cha-cha with the Himalayan!). I’m thinking that I might have a different kind of fun with it. There is a dealer in town and it is my intention to have a first look. I am 183cm, 85kgs. I have to check the fit on me. Honda and Yamaha are notorious for their reliability and extensive dealerships across the country. I’m coming from a safe place. But for me a motorcycle is something you FEEL in your gut…..and I FEEL for the Himalayan. My major hesitation is all of the negative press out there about the Himalayan’s quirks. I am following another CZcamsr (Joe Ryan) who is travelling across Australia on a Himalayan and so far no negative issues (and he has gone into some pretty deep outback in my opinion). He uses the bike like I use the AT; a combination of tarmac and off-road, but nothing overly intense. I don’t think that I can ask any question that you can answer for me. Ultimately it’s up to me to make the call. But I thought that by sharing my personal experience you might wish to make a comment. That would be sincerely appreciated. Cheers mate from Canada!
Good video as usual! Couldn't agree with you more. Am surprised that Fortnine disparaged it so much. I had one for a year and loved everything except the lack of power.
Yeah Spot on , i did a trip from Denmark to Gambia in Africa on the Himalayan Euro 5 in mud and dessert and in extreme heat ( that killed the fuel pump though) ., and i did a trip from Denmark to the northcape on it , i just love the bike
Hi Nathan I think everything you said about the cheap adventure bike is absolutely correct. After your reply to my question about Himalayan vs CRF309 Rally I finally got my CRF and sold my Himalayan. Thankfully I like the CRF as much or more than the Himalayan for my needs. I would add to your comments that I think the CRF or Himalayan type of bike is better because of weight and ease of maintenance. I like the CRF because not only weight but also long service interval and fuel efficiency so you don’t have to take as much fuel keeping the weight down. I had planned on not spending too much money on the CRF until I had it a while but one day straight after night shifts I ordered all the expensive extras. I have got the Rally Raid front and rear level one suspension. A MotoX titanium exhaust a Unifilter air filter and a 550 Performance ECU I also took off my barkbusters and Pivot Pegz off my Himalayan before I sold it. The theory being that I think the CFR is the perfect base for a perfect bike build. All the mods not necessarily except maybe the rear shock. Also I have the money at the moment so why not and it makes me think that all the shift work and hard work is worth while. Also I have gone from multiple bikes to just the one lightweight bike which even with all the mods is still cheaper than the bigger mainstream adventure bikes. I need to stop spending money the day after night shift 😅😅 Peter from Perth Western Australia
I love mine, definitely fell for some of the needless accessories but for the most part those I have purchased have served me well. The himy is a good bike, I don't think Fortnine was really meaning to run it down - I get stopped and asked about my Royal Enfield more than any of my buddies with bikes, and I think they are doing a great job of sparking interest in people who may think motorcycles are too expensive to consider. My himalayan got me into motorcycling and hopefully it will be something I do for the rest of my life, and I'm sure it's doing that for a lot of other people too. I'm more likely to get a second street-biased bike than I am to replace it.
Well said Nathan. I was talking to a GS1250 rider a few months back. I suggested a fantastic green lane that is a doddle on my Bullet trials let alone my CRF300 Rally. He couldn’t risk it. Missed out on a spectacular experience with stunning views. I don’t know about you but I think it severely detracts from the adventure/experience/value proposition of the “best” big bikes when owners feel unable rather than enabled.
Great video! You've got a good point saying the best adveture bike is the one you're not afraid to dent or lose in an adventure (All depends on the pay roll I gess) but for me that kind of bike is what I'am looking for for my retirement. Yes I'am a bit concerned about the low power on road for safety reason but I'll have to try one.
Yes I saw F9's video and thought it was a little unfair labeling it the worst ADV. I have owned my Himalayan for over 3 years now and its a great chug along bike. Not fast but gets to most places and doesn't cost a lot to buy, fix or keep running. My bike is pretty much stock and I had a race with a friend who has decatted his down pipe, and fitted the booster plug and free flow air filter. We did a roll on acceleration test and guess what...We rode neck and neck. No difference
Hey Sandy. Hope you're good. Yeah I was out with a mate on his stock (bar a delkevic end can) the other day and I was thinking how much nippier my bike felt, then when he was in front of me he accelerated and I accelerated and I didn't catch him at all. So I think most of the gain is purely psychological!
nice explanation of your take on riding which as you say is very subjective, I watched Ryan's take on the 390 adventure and I tried to buy one in spite of all the useless electrics on it, unfortunately the local dealer sold the bike he broght in for me to somebody who just bought and 890 and he wanted that bike for his missus which pissed me off so much I went to his opposition and bought a DRZ which I like very much but when I see you going up those wet muddy steep climbs at a slow pace I am envious, the DRZ will go the same places but it won't do them slowly, thanks again and don't be to hard on Ryan's take, remember he is a tall guy while you and I are more normal sized
Finally stopped dithering and bought one (2023 red/black). New Oxford heated grips (with control on grips), hand proctors, and Hepco panniers. Now to get some offroad experience.
Nathan, you're on the money, just like you'd so liked the Himalaya you paid your own money for one before there was so many about, and man did you go places on it, next to Itchy the pair of you lite the market on travels, not to mention Sells. Got me interested.. rest history, I'm happy with the Himalaya. After all it was built from the ground up by design and yes made a bench for after market parts and modifications and to that regards the quest to go quicker and faster.. been the case over past centuries, the time, money spent, facture depreciation, just as well bought something faster.. that note, thought by the thumb nail saw the Himalayan 450 on show, turned out the Japanese.. innovative as have always been, it was the Honda CL500.. now could that be a spanner in the Himalaya 450s market bid.. Time as always will tell..
Hi Nathan, I watched this one with interest, having fitted my TEC camshaft a year or so ago, and I'd agree that yes, it's definitely improved the mid-range grunt. What I really picked up on though, was your proposed winter trip to Morocco. If you're opening it up for customers, I'd love to know more. Cheers anyway, Martin.
Cheers Martin. Yes just putting some plans in place now. Thinking end of November. Bikes would be freighted down to avoid the 6/7 days of riding to and from Morocco to make it a manageable (and Morocco packed) 14 day trip. Some trails but nothing too technical.
Definitely my sort of thing Nathan. If you could keep me posted I'd be grateful. I'm down on Newquay next month, so I'll call at the Speed Shop on spec on the way down, or back. Cheers anyway Nathan. 😎
All the way. People forget it's really about the time you're spending on the bike not as much about the bike itself. I still find it hard to beat the time when I was 12 and riding around the woods on a mobylette 50cc moped or later touring Australia on a clapped out xt550. People get hung up on the other stuff-you don't- nice one.
I've got the cam in my bike, it doesn't change it much in my opinion. My brother's is standard and there's hardly any noticeable difference between the two. I've also got all the other mods such as air filter, exhaust and all the deletes. Best thing to do is get the bike set up so the levers and pegs fit to you as best as possible, interesting we have a 20mm riser on the bars and that we felt helped when stood on the pegs.
Hi Nathan, any update on Himalaya project? Feedback on the cam would greatly appreciated ! Love your adventures and great to see Dorothy speedshop with so much activity
Totally agree that less expensive bikes are more fun to ride because you just don't care as much about hurting the bike as you do with a $20,000 bike. I've traded in my Harley Pan America (an awesome bike) for Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 scrambler and I couldn't be happier!
Quite right Nathan. More often than not simpler is better and the marketing hype of what they think you must have versus what is needed is very different. Manufacturers build a bike to suit the middle ground, so it’s right that some element of personal customisation is necessary, it’s knowing when to stop.
Top notch review! That cam addition is for some but not all. Marketing also is interesting when you have big backing/ support.( big guy also doesn't appreciate how well RE has done 😢) IMO the Himalayan is just peachy stock. Boston RE accessorized a Himalayan to the tune of just under $10,000. Almost 5 grand in accessories. Absolutely gorgeous but will that bike ever see the trail....I doubt it. Keep up the Great work Brother!
Great vid Nathan. Totally agree, I have probably spent £2k on my `22 scram which I am now very much questioning after my initial enthusiasm. Not because it didn`t improve my bike, I believe it did, but because relatively it is a crazy spend compared with the bike cost. Not only that, but I now have a nice shiny new bike with loads of mods that I was already concerned about dropping and damaging that I am now more concerned about. If I did it again I would by a £2.5k Himmy 2nd hand with the bits on already and ride it like a beast lol. Maybe I still should!
In regards to the Fortnine point about looking down, you have to remember the markets they are trying to appeal to which is American markets when you're driving hours on smooth highways highways to get to trails. The RE bikes are based on classic British bikes and built for the Indian market where roads are dreadful and it fits well to the British market where we are surrounded by single track and green lanes. If I had to ride a full day on the motorway then I probably would want a 600+ CC bike to get through the distance.
Very little point I think, in trying to get more power from the Himalayan. An extra sub-5 bhp from a new cam? A 'big-bore' kit that gives you and extra 50cc's? Both fairly expensive options for a cheap bike. And a lot of messing about; it's just not worth the time and trouble! I rode my son's Himmy to the Overland event in Oxfordshire last year, as he and his partner were booked to do a presentation about their recent 15,000 mile trip around Europe on two Himalayans. Riding it down there, I was impressed with the bike. It's not fast, but it's fast enough; It's such a great all-rounder. I was tempted to buy one, but then rumours of the new model 452 version started to circulate. I thought I might just hang on for that one! Gradually reviews emerged from India, where the new model is already on sale. Water-cooling, upside-down forks? Optional colour schemes? Riding 'modes'? Eh? Guess what, I'm not buying one. The brilliance of the 411 Himalayan is its simplicity and usability in different terrains. It's indefinable 'fun factor'. And it's cheap to buy and cheap to run. A smile a minute. By happenstance, I know someone associated with Cooperb and I asked if there were any low-mileage 411 Himalayans for sale. Fairly sure that the Himmy shown in your montage covering modifications (suspension) is the same bike that's now in my garage. The one with the HD bash-plate. But I won't be pursuing any 'royalties' , so it's all good! Keep riding. Love and peace.
Interesting vid! Think most people said it just gave you an extra bit of squirt. If I do go for a Himalayan I'll def try and get on yours haha after you have ridden that cam in😂
Thanks for this. I think the only thing I'd look at purchasing for my Himalayan is the handlebar. I saw a lot of people go for a KTM bar. I like the one you've selected.
Yes these are a good cheap bar that's braced so stronger than the stock ones which tend to bend easily. They've got the same upsweep as the standard ones as well so you don't even know you've changed them.
I,v had my tec cam on about a year,, At first I thought I,d wasted my money but gradually I got to realize I could tell the difference and liked the difference..Then I wanted more low down torque..So I blow the budjet and had fitted the 456cc rebore and yss suspension (now I realize it ain,t cost affective ,but I ride my bike every day and wanted it)..The bike is not transformed,its still the same ,,its just better ,,and I like it more..I do not think its much faster,but it gets to 60 faster,,it grunts out of corners really nicely.. Yeah I like my bike...
Seen a few T700 and GS bikes loaded with camping gear, fall over in muddy campsites because the rider can't support the huge top heavy things. Himalayan is like the Land rover of the bike world, it gets there.
Absolutely hits the nail on the head on many levels. My only disagreement is with the bar risers; however I am 6'4 and they were purchased primarily for comfort (much better with the risers). Himi remains to me the "Land Rover" of motor bikes. Keep changes to a minimum and enjoy it for what it is. I have left mine pretty standard (few cosmetic extras, heated grips etc) and works perfect within its brief.
@@nathanthepostman it wasn't too bad tbh but standing was easier as I could adopt a more comfortable stance. The other mod that helped significantly was a seat retrim to flatten out the natural scoop of the OEM seat. This allowed me to move my overall position back slightly. Only a couple of inches or so but again, a big difference in rider comfort. SAS Autotrim is the name of the company; he does an awful lot of Himi seats! Keep up the great channel; I find I trust your opinions more than a lot of the others! 👍 Regards Richard 🙏
I am now on my second Himalayan. I love them. I like the rugged simplicity of the single cylinder air cooled engine. Easy to work on, less to go wrong. It is great fun to ride in the Sussex lanes and roads where I live. It can do a motorway if you really want to but that is not what you buy one of these for. I think the new water cooled one a mistake. More power at the cost of more complexity and as for the silly upside down forks on an adventure bike!
Just found this channel and as a Sussex (E) green laner thought I’d respond. Just got rid of my 1200 gs after doing 700 miles in two years. Had it for about 7 but two dogs cut my riding down a lot and I never took it off road. Got a trophy replica, triumph TRW with a 51 5T motor with alloy barrels and head. Cheap enough cos it’s a lookalike to ride through deep mud, deep water, on icy bits and over tree roots. Done 800 miles in the last four months and I’m enjoying winter laning I don’t feel intimidated by size weight and fragility. If it goes down it’ll almost fall over between my lgs and I can boot it upright if it feels dodgy. Having a great time, might see you out there sometime. I’m in Lewes.
In September 2021 I bought a second-hand 2018 Himalayan to ride it to North Cape in Norway from Belgium. Pretty much stock bike; the only thing I added were topbox and side panniers. The trip was 8600 kms. No issues, just had to add some oil during the trip. Only problem I had was an aching behind. What kind of seat have you put on your Himalayan?
I ride a DR650 and first gen Versys 650, both lowered to accomodate my 26" inseam. I'm an intermediate rider, and beginners riding instructor in the States. After 18 years riding, using the short rider workarounds (all but cowboy mount) and getting along, used to the slight constant anxiety in cities or traffic, I'm so over it, and shopping for a Himalayan or Scram. I'm 47 and starting to creak, and holding that Versys up is getting hard on my left foot. Even though I deleted my ego about motos years ago, I'm occasionally impatient to get to a place, so my worry all these years wanting a Himalayan has been top speed, but I figure I'll switch to a 16T front sprocket and get juuuuuust a bit extra. I watched Ryan F9's review of the Scram today, and agree that his view of the Himmer is very shallow, and uncharacteristically so, for such an insightful reviewer.
I agree nathan You buy this bike because its cheap and gets you out for some fun I'm not one for messing with bikes for more power If you need any help with Morocco give me a shout Great honest video again
Excellent point. 5G and you're good to go. Especially when your riding incompetence is as bad as mine and you're not capable of taking 300kg of loaded metal down difficult terrain. No amount of training will change this for me. It's why that's your price point is where I find myself. Safe, happy travels 👍
Great post and I agree about spending tons of money to upgrade almost everything... Why not just buy a faster bigger bike! I got my new Himalayan for €4600 a few months ago... Made my own steel pannier racks cost €20 put a triumph scrambler end can on it cost €5, I won't be wasteing any more money. I'm perfectly happy with it, too many people are obsessed with getting 10mph extra out of it... Why? The bike does the legal speed in almost every country in Europe and in my country 90% of roads are 90kmph limit, so I don't understand the obsession with increasing top end speed, again... Want something faster.... Buy something faster! My pet hate is journalists and reviewers when drive it like a suzuki bandit and then moan about it. These folk just don't get what the bike is about, cheers....Harry
Mine Is still sitting on the shelf also...................together with a spare complete Hima engine/loom(2500 miles, twisted frame write off)..a large bore kit (piston/rings/liner)... brand new stock cylinder...brand-new head fitted with larger Bullet valves...not sure if it's going to happen...if any readers might be interested…??...😵💫...pickup from Exmoor P.S. just remembered, also got the Hitchcocks version, which I think was a stock re-grind...Oh...!!!...got a brand new stock cam as well.
People are always gonna say "oh you spent $X on your RE, why didn't you just by an (insert more expensive brand here) instead?". Well, you'd probably have ended up wanting to modify that more expensive brand bike too, and the parts would have been much more expensive than those for the RE. I bought and modified my Interceptor and you'll hear people saying"should have got a Triumph!". Well, I'd have ended up modifying a Bonneville too because it's just what I'm prone to do, and I would have faced the Triumph Tax on any parts I'd bought!
I think you can over do the extras for what you get out of it. I've had one for 3 years and happy with what it gives. I wouldn't add 25% of the new value. Cheers anyway.
I have put a Delkevic full exhaust system on mine (looks far better and sounds better). A tech cam (12 months certainly gives longer legs). A decent air filter and essential (in my opinion) givi engine bars. Not really a huge spend but the have all improved a very good bike
I was considering the Delkevic (just the pipe) but am now just going to cut the CAT out and reweld... I too have the tec cam and just rebored to 465 ,,and I have to say I,m just loving my bike
As an owner of a Royal Enfield Classic 500, I see putting money into these bikes, trying to get the power out of them, that is readily available in many bikes for similar price, right from the factory, as a total waste. Its a fun bike, but not one I would dump money into to try and get a decent power output. As I said, mine is a fun bike, and am adding hard panniers to it, but would not spend a penny for power upgrades.
Thanks man. Yeah very keen to ride the Voge. The dealers don't have them in yet but hopefully in the next few weeks. For the price it looks like it could be a very good option. How is it for engine performance compared to the Himalayan; about the same or a bit brisker?
@nathanthepostman I would say the engine is strong, pulls very well even in high gear. The engine is not new. It's been around for some time now. Definitely not a bike for the motorway at a 100kph. It does buzz. That said on A roads and off road it does it all with ease. The build quality is as good as anything else out there. I have now done just under 4000km, 80% off road, and have no complaints, I have done 6 mth owners review, this is the link czcams.com/video/8K7CNPPwm4I/video.html if you are interested. Thanks Lew
Still the only bloke on YT and with his colours earned that not only doesn't have his own head stuck up his own chutney-locker but is the man who you just know if saw him in a cafe or up the bar, would talk and be exactly as he is on-screen. Fair p,ay to you, Nathan, I learn more and get more enjoyment out of your on-screen and on-board work than anyone else. Thank you kindly, chap.....take care of yourself, bloke...
I have had the pleasure of a weekends riding with Nath and you are dead right, sound bloke
Here here….we’ll said….Top bloke.
Totally agree. Nathan is perhaps the most down to earth bike review out there. Fort Nine chap is but a narcissistic rear end of a donkey!
Agreed
I am still enjoying your reviews above all others, Nathan. No hidden agendas, no kowtowing to any bike or product manufacturers, no BS, and no over inflated ego. Long may you continue!
The thought stream is very very practical and most sensible. Any common man who loves bikes cannot buy costlier bikes, the special editions given to promoters literally free of cost. Given the content created by those guys pays for those buys as well as the companies / dealers pay them. This piece of advice is for common people like me. Love it, too good.
Definitely one of the top adventure bikes out there.. For me .
Personally my main adventure bike is a RE classic 500 army with the large cargo rack and continental TKC80 tyres . I will have an adventure on anything though... My c90 ,xr250, txt280 zzr1100 moto.. I just can't stand gatekeepers who think if it doesn't do 0-100 in 5 seconds it's shite, if it doesn't have 200bhp it's shite, if it doesn't cost 20k it's shite and you're a peasant. Then all they do on their 20k 200hp bike is drink coffee and pay lots for someone else to service it because that kind of guy doesn't actually know how to work on bikes😂👍
yeah but they should have made it rev more and gave it more power and at least 110 mph if they had i would have brought one but they havent so ill pass.
tout a fait d'accord avec toi c'est exactement la même chose en france pour beaucoup de motards si tu n'as pas la dernière bmw gs ou une multistrada ou une bécane a moins de 20mille euros tu es presque un bouseux c'est un comportement misérable 🤬
I've owned a Himalayan for the last 2 years as my only form of transport. Have fitted pull back bar risers and smaller rear sprocket to improve fuel consumption. Have looked at various performance modifications, and I found the best one is buy a 650 continental to ride on sunny sundays. The basic Himalayan does what it says on the tin , it handles dumpy backs roads with ease, sips fuel , and is easy to service. I've had no issues with bike what so ever. Of the 60 or so bikes I've owned in the last 45 years I'd put the himi in the top 5.
absolutely! (we have very similar history)
Hello James, I would love to hear about the rest of your top 5 list. I am looking to get my first bike soon. I was obsessed with the RE Continental GT650 at first, but seeing it in person, it didn't appeal to me as much as I thought it would. Love the Himmy, right now i am thinking my first bike would be the Scram 411, since I wouldn't be offroading 90% of the time. Any advice?
Yes - can we hear your other 4 bikes. I’ve only owned 11…
@@mireaaa what did you buy? I was looking at the scram and himmy but have opted for the himmy due to the fact it has centre stand and bars etc already fitted with no extra cost
@@adam-qf2vz oh I haven't bought a bike yet. I changed my mind, since it would be a first bike for me, I'm thinking something smaller. Like a KTM that's under 200cc. I rode my friend 125 and it was so much fun and agile albeit underpowered. My list for a proper bike after that is Scram 411, Duke RC390, Ninja 400. One of those three. For now I think I'll get something smaller so I can learn and make mistakes quickly and not cost me too much. Congrats on your new bike. 💪😌
Spot on about keeping it simple light and most of all cheep .I remember quite a few years ago some enthusiastic clever guys built a six wheeled drive buggy to get over a mountain pass .it cost quite a bit of money .Anyway they got it stuck. but the most embarrassing thing for them came .when a Citroen Dian came pass them with no problem at all they were left scratching their heads .. love to find that clip again .👍😀
Citroen made a 4WD version of the 2CV back in the 60s. One engine at the front as standard and another engine and trnasmission at the rear. It was aimed at the Sahara.
Wise words, as always Nathan. I love the way your videos aim to put the onus on the rider to decide what's best for them, whilst detailing why each modification works (or not) for you. Everyone is different, as are their perceived needs.
Hay mate Paul from Australia, I totally agree with your take on the Himalayan , “ a good 👍 anywhere bike on a budget “ . We have this Aussie fella that’s been travelling around Australia on a Himalayan- Joe Ryan “ he has taken it everywhere “ and surprised a heap of big ADV riders on their big bikes “ . I have a Moto Guzzi V85tt - I know you had one ☝️, for my mainly road riding and BIG Australian distances “ and I also have a Honda CRF 300 Rally - also same as you ( for my snotty riding 😂😂😂) . I get the mod thing And I am guilty as charged 😂. I spent money on the obvious first
1. The soft suspension ( YSS upgrade) and I get what your saying 1200 AUS dollars on a 9000.00 AUS dollars bike
2. Air filter - but soft uni- filter with pre- filter ( Aussie dust )
3. Rear rack ( I think definitely needed )- was from Thailand so cheap
4. Radiator guard - China - cheap
5. Full exhaust FMF Thailand knock off was 500 AUS , but it actually made notable difference on Low to Mid range .
6. 12 volt outlet , and Barkbasters ( that I had laying around and changed the bars again some old SWM RS 650 fat bars had laying around ( I remember you riding one some years ago )
7. Believe me the Himalayan does fantastic in the outback - check out Joe Ryan .
That discussion you get into at 7:19 about looking down on small ADVS is spot on! I don't wanna thrash a big expensive motorcycle, even if I could afford it. If I'll do long distance travel and do some real adventure, this is the kind of bike I'd want to take. "If it falls of a cliff, I'm not bankrupt!" LOL, love it. Love your insights and realness, and respect your skills and experience.
Couldn’t agree more. As always a very informative and honest video from a guy who really knows his shit👍
This is keeping it real at its best. I, too, have a Himalayan and love it for all of the above reasons.
Totally agree with you Nathan.... As an owner of a 2022 US model at first I was going to buy a KLR Kawasaki and when I saw the mods people suggested to get it " right " it added another grand or two to a fairly cheap motorcycle. then I saw the Himalayan and it was a couple grand cheaper than the KLR and bought it. Now I see people spending a lot of money to get the Himalayan " right " and again it makes little sense. To each his own but if you want that performance , ect. just buy a bike with those attributes. You will end up spending the same probably !
Too right! there was a video of 2 guys, on remote trails, and the KLR rider wanted to swap with his Himmy riding partner!
Cracking video as always Nathan 👌 I agree with your thoughts on what's an ADV Bike had all the big ones myself, gsa's gs etc I'd sooner always go for a smaller single cylinder now.
Great video. Really appreciated your commentary here as I look into upgrades.
Always good sense from you, Nathan. Thanks. Les
A good honest review from someone who knows what there talking about! Love watching your videos Nathan keep em coming mate👍🏻
Real nice video! Good to hear honest opinions on upgrades and when do you feel its worth getting them! It was great to meet you at the Ace Cafe last weekend too! I was thinking of talking about the himalayan with you as the idea of getting it still comes back to me, and it was one of the options for my first bike. Oh and thank you for introducing you to Sylvie!
Thanks so much for real world thoughts and advice, common sense good feedback. Love the honesty.
She seems to have the power that suits your riding style. What works for you doesn't do it for everybody. Good stuff!
Great honest review of upgrades. Haven't tried the Tec Cam yet. Good to hear that the cam doesn't affect the running of the engine in the low revs. But from what I heard, the cam mostly affects the mid and top end revs, which as you said, you haven't been able to test because of the running in period. But for people who are going to use this bike on roads to get them to trails (which is what an adventure bike is about), it seems that extra mid and top end power/responsiveness would be a considerable advantage. As you said, 20% more power on a 24hp bike could make quite a big difference. So to me, even paying to get it fitted by a mechanic, it seems like quite a reasonably priced and effective upgrade - if it does what it says on the box.
Thanks Ian. I was out on it yesterday riding with a guy on a stock Himalayan. The bike and engine does feel more alive. A little brisker. But on the road I'm still not sure that directly translates to quicker acceleration/higher speed, certainty not 20% quicker. But it's early days. I like it so far
You’re absolutely right about what’s the best adventure bike. I share your vision. You shouldn’t be afraid of dropping the bike, some scratches or dents.
Love your videos! Great thoughts on the Himi.
Love the expression “ if had been on my own a little bit nervous” I have that all the time but keep on spannering myself. Recent disaster changed coil pack on Citroen whilst changing oil, dropped cover bolt in oil cap space ( left open like a nob). Had to remove cam covers adding 1 hr to simple job. You learn by yr mistakes. Another top vlog really enjoy them. Mods and accessories are a whole industry. Best pick up a 2nd hand one with all accessories. Cheers
All good points. Some people buy a bike on the after market accessories they may be able to add. The fact the Himmy is able "out of the box" at that price point, is what makes it a great wee bike. Its the "pie n mash" of a bike perhaps, rather than a decadent "oyster n champagne" beemer.
My word, man. You are a natural on camera. Great video.
1st time viewing and really impressed with the no nonsense, common sense content 👍
Great advice, Nathan! I've been waiting for your review of the Tech cam! I just received a 22 Himi and only have 150 miles to date. So far, I love it as is! I adjusted the shifter and gear levers as they were too low. Put in sintered brakes pads, led headlight, led auxiliary lights, and a USB port. Will be putting on the master cylinder, front brake caliper, and brake reservoir covers soon. Also have the RE handguards. That's it for now as the list of mods for the Himi is quite lengthy, and one could easily spend a bit on farkles if not cautious!
Brilliant clip, thanks. I've just spent about a grand on my Africa Twin 2018 Adventure Sports. That's about my limit to rally slag a bike of it's calibre. Mainly tyres and extra protection. Love the Himalayan and am seriously considering trying one and the Voge to blast around on the TET.
Cracking vid, love your attitude, telling it like it is.
Excellent justification for the Himilayan as an adventure bike!
Excellent video, Nathan. Cheers!
i really like the grounded honesty
My background is mtb and first mods are always touch points eg bars grips seat pedals .
Then onto tyres wheels etc .
Nathan is spot on with this video so many people gloss over setting the bike up correctly and go straight for "power modications " that make slight differences ...
Great vid as always. Ryan F9 is not on the press list nor sponsored he is employed by FortNine a retail powersports store. One of the biggest challenges they face is getting bikes. The huge team is Ryan and his videographer. Just two guys. He has a very dry sense of humor and I think if you watch the Scram video again you will see that he is poking fun at all of the big brand "scramblers" and showing that the RE is basically the only bike that deserves the title.
I just thought I should clear that up.
In closing just wanted to say I love your content and keep it up. Best regards from Canada where here in Ontario we are still waiting on the snow to melt.
Yeah thanks Ian. Yeah totally love his content. It's the benchmark. I'm just always sceptical - as all people should be when viewing YT content Heck, I've even been accused of shilling for Royal Enfield when all I've had out of them is a free jacket! Hope that snow makes way for clear highways soon enough!
@@nathanthepostman It's hard to argue the value of the Royal Enfields. Unfortunately here in Ontario there is only one dealer and they tend to like very high margins bringing the cost of a Himalayan to the same level of a new KLR. They don't even stock the 650's. Anyway as said before I have been following you on YT for a while and really appreciate your content and your down to earth reviews.
Great video Nathan, Keep up the real world advice
Nice work. 100% agree with the view of the F9 video. The Cooperb lift kit remains my favourite mod on mine, but I’m taller, and too heavy for the stock spring.
Very well said sir, great content and sensible real world review
you're so right about needing them to feel a 'bit disposable'
Hi Nathan, great video as always, only thing I'd add to what you said is for tubeless rims, I went with this as I moved from Indonesia to Dubai with my Himalayan, I did put Ohlins rear shock on and that made a huge difference as I am not light, but didn't fancy pulling a tube out here in Dubai,
38000km so far, bs4, no issues, 2018 Indonesia model with no ABS
What you see is what you get, no side to Nathan just a top bloke 👍
Need to come down your way, you have great looking lanes
really enjoyed this video and agree with everything you said...RE are great bikes for every people.
Hello Nathan,
Roger here from Montreal, Canada. I found a link to your CZcams videos via a RE forum. I just listened to your video comparing the RE Himalayan to a Honda CRF250. Thank you for this. It was honest and informative.
I am a relatively new rider (got my licence in 2020 at the age of 64) but I have packed in a lot of miles over the past two years.
I started out on a naked sport bike (Yamaha MT-09) but after trying to do moto-camping with it the 1st year (and realizing that I really wanted to return to camping after many years away), it didn’t take long for me to sell it and get an adventure bike that better-suited my goals. As crazy as it may sound, I got a used 2019 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports. And a week later I took a 4000km round trip moto-camping trip up north. Needless to say that was a steep learning curve but not harrowing. I told myself that if I enjoyed the experience, I would travel across Canada in 2022. And I did! 12,000kms round trip with about 200kms off-road, all of that by myself. A simply amazing experience! You learn a lot about yourself and your abilities and you gain so much confidence.
All this to give you a bit of background about where I’m coming from.
Spring 2023: This year we’re moving in the middle of the year. So I have not planned any major trip (). I still have the AT, and am still deeply in love with it. I ride it a bit like the rebel in me that never got out when I was younger.
Enter the Royal Enfield Himalayan: I got the strange idea in my head over the last month that I wanted a smaller bike (while keeping the AT) for puttering around town (I live in a big city). I have always been attracted to the Himalayan because of its retro esthetics and simplicity in terms of gadgets. I also have on my to-do list: learning the ins and outs of a motorcycle (motor, electronics, etc). I want to “tinker”. I considered that perhaps the Himalayan might be a good place to start.
I certainly understand and would never compare the Himalayan to my AT: two completely different animals from every aspect other that their intended purpose. (Just from the weight aspect I figure I would be dancing the cha-cha with the Himalayan!). I’m thinking that I might have a different kind of fun with it.
There is a dealer in town and it is my intention to have a first look. I am 183cm, 85kgs. I have to check the fit on me.
Honda and Yamaha are notorious for their reliability and extensive dealerships across the country. I’m coming from a safe place.
But for me a motorcycle is something you FEEL in your gut…..and I FEEL for the Himalayan.
My major hesitation is all of the negative press out there about the Himalayan’s quirks. I am following another CZcamsr (Joe Ryan) who is travelling across Australia on a Himalayan and so far no negative issues (and he has gone into some pretty deep outback in my opinion). He uses the bike like I use the AT; a combination of tarmac and off-road, but nothing overly intense.
I don’t think that I can ask any question that you can answer for me. Ultimately it’s up to me to make the call. But I thought that by sharing my personal experience you might wish to make a comment. That would be sincerely appreciated.
Cheers mate from Canada!
Did you get the Himalayan?
@kleitosaliagas5668 yes I did, and loving it!
Another cracking vid Nathan,
Good video as usual! Couldn't agree with you more. Am surprised that Fortnine disparaged it so much. I had one for a year and loved everything except the lack of power.
Yeah Spot on , i did a trip from Denmark to Gambia in Africa on the Himalayan Euro 5 in mud and dessert and in extreme heat ( that killed the fuel pump though) ., and i did a trip from Denmark to the northcape on it , i just love the bike
Hi Nathan I think everything you said about the cheap adventure bike is absolutely correct. After your reply to my question about Himalayan vs CRF309 Rally I finally got my CRF and sold my Himalayan. Thankfully I like the CRF as much or more than the Himalayan for my needs. I would add to your comments that I think the CRF or Himalayan type of bike is better because of weight and ease of maintenance. I like the CRF because not only weight but also long service interval and fuel efficiency so you don’t have to take as much fuel keeping the weight down. I had planned on not spending too much money on the CRF until I had it a while but one day straight after night shifts I ordered all the expensive extras. I have got the Rally Raid front and rear level one suspension. A MotoX titanium exhaust a Unifilter air filter and a 550 Performance ECU I also took off my barkbusters and Pivot Pegz off my Himalayan before I sold it. The theory being that I think the CFR is the perfect base for a perfect bike build. All the mods not necessarily except maybe the rear shock. Also I have the money at the moment so why not and it makes me think that all the shift work and hard work is worth while. Also I have gone from multiple bikes to just the one lightweight bike which even with all the mods is still cheaper than the bigger mainstream adventure bikes.
I need to stop spending money the day after night shift 😅😅
Peter from Perth Western Australia
Great chat Nathan, well said👍
Good honest opinions, most refreshing. Glad to see there was no one to wave to! We know how that can end….
I just learned to edit those bits out!
I love mine, definitely fell for some of the needless accessories but for the most part those I have purchased have served me well. The himy is a good bike, I don't think Fortnine was really meaning to run it down - I get stopped and asked about my Royal Enfield more than any of my buddies with bikes, and I think they are doing a great job of sparking interest in people who may think motorcycles are too expensive to consider. My himalayan got me into motorcycling and hopefully it will be something I do for the rest of my life, and I'm sure it's doing that for a lot of other people too. I'm more likely to get a second street-biased bike than I am to replace it.
Well said Nathan. I was talking to a GS1250 rider a few months back. I suggested a fantastic green lane that is a doddle on my Bullet trials let alone my CRF300 Rally. He couldn’t risk it. Missed out on a spectacular experience with stunning views. I don’t know about you but I think it severely detracts from the adventure/experience/value proposition of the “best” big bikes when owners feel unable rather than enabled.
Great video! You've got a good point saying the best adveture bike is the one you're not afraid to dent or lose in an adventure (All depends on the pay roll I gess) but for me that kind of bike is what I'am looking for for my retirement. Yes I'am a bit concerned about the low power on road for safety reason but I'll have to try one.
Yes I saw F9's video and thought it was a little unfair labeling it the worst ADV. I have owned my Himalayan for over 3 years now and its a great chug along bike. Not fast but gets to most places and doesn't cost a lot to buy, fix or keep running.
My bike is pretty much stock and I had a race with a friend who has decatted his down pipe, and fitted the booster plug and free flow air filter.
We did a roll on acceleration test and guess what...We rode neck and neck. No difference
Hey Sandy. Hope you're good. Yeah I was out with a mate on his stock (bar a delkevic end can) the other day and I was thinking how much nippier my bike felt, then when he was in front of me he accelerated and I accelerated and I didn't catch him at all. So I think most of the gain is purely psychological!
Good advice as usual !
nice explanation of your take on riding which as you say is very subjective, I watched Ryan's take on the 390 adventure and I tried to buy one in spite of all the useless electrics on it, unfortunately the local dealer sold the bike he broght in for me to somebody who just bought and 890 and he wanted that bike for his missus which pissed me off so much I went to his opposition and bought a DRZ which I like very much but when I see you going up those wet muddy steep climbs at a slow pace I am envious, the DRZ will go the same places but it won't do them slowly, thanks again and don't be to hard on Ryan's take, remember he is a tall guy while you and I are more normal sized
spot on youth, spot on
Finally stopped dithering and bought one (2023 red/black). New Oxford heated grips (with control on grips), hand proctors, and Hepco panniers. Now to get some offroad experience.
Nathan, you're on the money, just like you'd so liked the Himalaya you paid your own money for one before there was so many about, and man did you go places on it, next to Itchy the pair of you lite the market on travels, not to mention Sells. Got me interested.. rest history, I'm happy with the Himalaya.
After all it was built from the ground up by design and yes made a bench for after market parts and modifications and to that regards the quest to go quicker and faster.. been the case over past centuries, the time, money spent, facture depreciation, just as well bought something faster.. that note, thought by the thumb nail saw the Himalayan 450 on show, turned out the Japanese.. innovative as have always been, it was the Honda CL500.. now could that be a spanner in the Himalaya 450s market bid.. Time as always will tell..
Honest truth spoken. Well done great video
Hi Nathan, I watched this one with interest, having fitted my TEC camshaft a year or so ago, and I'd agree that yes, it's definitely improved the mid-range grunt.
What I really picked up on though, was your proposed winter trip to Morocco. If you're opening it up for customers, I'd love to know more. Cheers anyway, Martin.
Cheers Martin. Yes just putting some plans in place now. Thinking end of November. Bikes would be freighted down to avoid the 6/7 days of riding to and from Morocco to make it a manageable (and Morocco packed) 14 day trip. Some trails but nothing too technical.
Definitely my sort of thing Nathan. If you could keep me posted I'd be grateful. I'm down on Newquay next month, so I'll call at the Speed Shop on spec on the way down, or back. Cheers anyway Nathan. 😎
All the way. People forget it's really about the time you're spending on the bike not as much about the bike itself. I still find it hard to beat the time when I was 12 and riding around the woods on a mobylette 50cc moped or later touring Australia on a clapped out xt550. People get hung up on the other stuff-you don't- nice one.
I've got the cam in my bike, it doesn't change it much in my opinion. My brother's is standard and there's hardly any noticeable difference between the two. I've also got all the other mods such as air filter, exhaust and all the deletes. Best thing to do is get the bike set up so the levers and pegs fit to you as best as possible, interesting we have a 20mm riser on the bars and that we felt helped when stood on the pegs.
Hi Nathan, any update on Himalaya project? Feedback on the cam would greatly appreciated ! Love your adventures and great to see Dorothy speedshop with so much activity
Totally agree that less expensive bikes are more fun to ride because you just don't care as much about hurting the bike as you do with a $20,000 bike. I've traded in my Harley Pan America (an awesome bike) for Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 scrambler and I couldn't be happier!
Quite right Nathan. More often than not simpler is better and the marketing hype of what they think you must have versus what is needed is very different. Manufacturers build a bike to suit the middle ground, so it’s right that some element of personal customisation is necessary, it’s knowing when to stop.
Top notch review!
That cam addition is for some but not all. Marketing also is interesting when you have big backing/ support.( big guy also doesn't appreciate how well RE has done 😢) IMO the Himalayan is just peachy stock.
Boston RE accessorized a Himalayan to the tune of just under $10,000.
Almost 5 grand in accessories. Absolutely gorgeous but will that bike ever see the trail....I doubt it.
Keep up the Great work Brother!
Cheers man. Yeah you can spend some big money on them but there's something honest about a stock bike. It just does what it does!
Great vid Nathan. Totally agree, I have probably spent £2k on my `22 scram which I am now very much questioning after my initial enthusiasm. Not because it didn`t improve my bike, I believe it did, but because relatively it is a crazy spend compared with the bike cost. Not only that, but I now have a nice shiny new bike with loads of mods that I was already concerned about dropping and damaging that I am now more concerned about. If I did it again I would by a £2.5k Himmy 2nd hand with the bits on already and ride it like a beast lol. Maybe I still should!
In regards to the Fortnine point about looking down, you have to remember the markets they are trying to appeal to which is American markets when you're driving hours on smooth highways highways to get to trails. The RE bikes are based on classic British bikes and built for the Indian market where roads are dreadful and it fits well to the British market where we are surrounded by single track and green lanes. If I had to ride a full day on the motorway then I probably would want a 600+ CC bike to get through the distance.
Thank you brother
Very little point I think, in trying to get more power from the Himalayan. An extra sub-5 bhp from a new cam? A 'big-bore' kit that gives you and extra 50cc's? Both fairly expensive options for a cheap bike. And a lot of messing about; it's just not worth the time and trouble!
I rode my son's Himmy to the Overland event in Oxfordshire last year, as he and his partner were booked to do a presentation about their recent 15,000 mile trip around Europe on two Himalayans. Riding it down there, I was impressed with the bike.
It's not fast, but it's fast enough; It's such a great all-rounder.
I was tempted to buy one, but then rumours of the new model 452 version started to circulate. I thought I might just hang on for that one! Gradually reviews emerged from India, where the new model is already on sale. Water-cooling, upside-down forks? Optional colour schemes? Riding 'modes'? Eh?
Guess what, I'm not buying one.
The brilliance of the 411 Himalayan is its simplicity and usability in different terrains. It's indefinable 'fun factor'. And it's cheap to buy and cheap to run. A smile a minute.
By happenstance, I know someone associated with Cooperb and I asked if there were any low-mileage 411 Himalayans for sale.
Fairly sure that the Himmy shown in your montage covering modifications (suspension) is the same bike that's now in my garage. The one with the HD bash-plate. But I won't be pursuing any 'royalties' , so it's all good!
Keep riding. Love and peace.
Interesting vid! Think most people said it just gave you an extra bit of squirt.
If I do go for a Himalayan I'll def try and get on yours haha after you have ridden that cam in😂
Always great content on this channel. Really considering a himalayan as a winter/green laner and this info really helps.
Cheers
Thanks for this. I think the only thing I'd look at purchasing for my Himalayan is the handlebar. I saw a lot of people go for a KTM bar. I like the one you've selected.
Yes these are a good cheap bar that's braced so stronger than the stock ones which tend to bend easily. They've got the same upsweep as the standard ones as well so you don't even know you've changed them.
@@nathanthepostman Hello Nathan, what bars are they& where did you source them please? very much enjoying your vlogs.
I was talking to a bloke today who put the cam shaft in his Himalayan and he was impressed.
Wise words. 👍
I,v had my tec cam on about a year,, At first I thought I,d wasted my money but gradually I got to realize I could tell the difference and liked the difference..Then I wanted more low down torque..So I blow the budjet and had fitted the 456cc rebore and yss suspension (now I realize it ain,t cost affective ,but I ride my bike every day and wanted it)..The bike is not transformed,its still the same ,,its just better ,,and I like it more..I do not think its much faster,but it gets to 60 faster,,it grunts out of corners really nicely.. Yeah I like my bike...
Cheers Lipsee. Always been keen to try that big bore kit. I bet it pulls nice and strong with that on.
Trotting on there Nath in the beginning bit , well held
Cheers Martyn. I've got a KTM 390 video to put up where I don't hold it quite so well!
Wise words about real world adventures
Seen a few T700 and GS bikes loaded with camping gear, fall over in muddy campsites because the rider can't support the huge top heavy things. Himalayan is like the Land rover of the bike world, it gets there.
Any bikes an adventure bike, done Stella alpina twice on a street triple. Would advise a sump guard though 👍
I've got a euro 5 Himalayan, giving the cam some serious thought - will have to wait for the warranty to expire first
Absolutely hits the nail on the head on many levels. My only disagreement is with the bar risers; however I am 6'4 and they were purchased primarily for comfort (much better with the risers).
Himi remains to me the "Land Rover" of motor bikes. Keep changes to a minimum and enjoy it for what it is. I have left mine pretty standard (few cosmetic extras, heated grips etc) and works perfect within its brief.
Yes definitely, if you're that tall the risers are definitely going to be a big help. I bet without them it was a right hunch to the bars
@@nathanthepostman it wasn't too bad tbh but standing was easier as I could adopt a more comfortable stance.
The other mod that helped significantly was a seat retrim to flatten out the natural scoop of the OEM seat. This allowed me to move my overall position back slightly. Only a couple of inches or so but again, a big difference in rider comfort.
SAS Autotrim is the name of the company; he does an awful lot of Himi seats!
Keep up the great channel; I find I trust your opinions more than a lot of the others! 👍
Regards Richard 🙏
I am now on my second Himalayan. I love them. I like the rugged simplicity of the single cylinder air cooled engine. Easy to work on, less to go wrong. It is great fun to ride in the Sussex lanes and roads where I live. It can do a motorway if you really want to but that is not what you buy one of these for. I think the new water cooled one a mistake. More power at the cost of more complexity and as for the silly upside down forks on an adventure bike!
Just found this channel and as a Sussex (E) green laner thought I’d respond. Just got rid of my 1200 gs after doing 700 miles in two years. Had it for about 7 but two dogs cut my riding down a lot and I never took it off road. Got a trophy replica, triumph TRW with a 51 5T motor with alloy barrels and head. Cheap enough cos it’s a lookalike to ride through deep mud, deep water, on icy bits and over tree roots. Done 800 miles in the last four months and I’m enjoying winter laning I don’t feel intimidated by size weight and fragility. If it goes down it’ll almost fall over between my lgs and I can boot it upright if it feels dodgy. Having a great time, might see you out there sometime. I’m in Lewes.
In September 2021 I bought a second-hand 2018 Himalayan to ride it to North Cape in Norway from Belgium. Pretty much stock bike; the only thing I added were topbox and side panniers. The trip was 8600 kms. No issues, just had to add some oil during the trip. Only problem I had was an aching behind. What kind of seat have you put on your Himalayan?
P.S.: another GREAT video! I've subscribed!
I ride a DR650 and first gen Versys 650, both lowered to accomodate my 26" inseam. I'm an intermediate rider, and beginners riding instructor in the States.
After 18 years riding, using the short rider workarounds (all but cowboy mount) and getting along, used to the slight constant anxiety in cities or traffic, I'm so over it, and shopping for a Himalayan or Scram. I'm 47 and starting to creak, and holding that Versys up is getting hard on my left foot.
Even though I deleted my ego about motos years ago, I'm occasionally impatient to get to a place, so my worry all these years wanting a Himalayan has been top speed, but I figure I'll switch to a 16T front sprocket and get juuuuuust a bit extra.
I watched Ryan F9's review of the Scram today, and agree that his view of the Himmer is very shallow, and uncharacteristically so, for such an insightful reviewer.
I agree nathan
You buy this bike because its cheap and gets you out for some fun
I'm not one for messing with bikes for more power
If you need any help with Morocco give me a shout
Great honest video again
could not agree more !
Excellent point.
5G and you're good to go.
Especially when your riding incompetence is as bad as mine and you're not capable of taking 300kg of loaded metal down difficult terrain.
No amount of training will change this for me.
It's why that's your price point is where I find myself.
Safe, happy travels 👍
Great post and I agree about spending tons of money to upgrade almost everything... Why not just buy a faster bigger bike! I got my new Himalayan for €4600 a few months ago... Made my own steel pannier racks cost €20 put a triumph scrambler end can on it cost €5, I won't be wasteing any more money. I'm perfectly happy with it, too many people are obsessed with getting 10mph extra out of it... Why? The bike does the legal speed in almost every country in Europe and in my country 90% of roads are 90kmph limit, so I don't understand the obsession with increasing top end speed, again... Want something faster.... Buy something faster! My pet hate is journalists and reviewers when drive it like a suzuki bandit and then moan about it. These folk just don't get what the bike is about, cheers....Harry
Yup 👍
Well said, lad.
Mine Is still sitting on the shelf also...................together with a spare complete Hima engine/loom(2500 miles, twisted frame write off)..a large bore kit (piston/rings/liner)... brand new stock cylinder...brand-new head fitted with larger Bullet valves...not sure if it's going to happen...if any readers might be interested…??...😵💫...pickup from Exmoor
P.S. just remembered, also got the Hitchcocks version, which I think was a stock re-grind...Oh...!!!...got a brand new stock cam as well.
Common sense! Subscribed. 🙌🏻
People are always gonna say "oh you spent $X on your RE, why didn't you just by an (insert more expensive brand here) instead?". Well, you'd probably have ended up wanting to modify that more expensive brand bike too, and the parts would have been much more expensive than those for the RE. I bought and modified my Interceptor and you'll hear people saying"should have got a Triumph!". Well, I'd have ended up modifying a Bonneville too because it's just what I'm prone to do, and I would have faced the Triumph Tax on any parts I'd bought!
I think you can over do the extras for what you get out of it. I've had one for 3 years and happy with what it gives. I wouldn't add 25% of the new value. Cheers anyway.
I have put a Delkevic full exhaust system on mine (looks far better and sounds better). A tech cam (12 months certainly gives longer legs). A decent air filter and essential (in my opinion) givi engine bars. Not really a huge spend but the have all improved a very good bike
I was considering the Delkevic (just the pipe) but am now just going to cut the CAT out and reweld... I too have the tec cam and just rebored to 465 ,,and I have to say I,m just loving my bike
I thought the camshaft was principally for improving the top end for road riding whilst retaining its tractor qualities offroad
As an owner of a Royal Enfield Classic 500, I see putting money into these bikes, trying to get the power out of them, that is readily available in many bikes for similar price, right from the factory, as a total waste. Its a fun bike, but not one I would dump money into to try and get a decent power output.
As I said, mine is a fun bike, and am adding hard panniers to it, but would not spend a penny for power upgrades.
Great review. I have the Voge 300 rally my wife did have the royal enfield himalayan the Voge has proven to be the better bike.
Thanks man. Yeah very keen to ride the Voge. The dealers don't have them in yet but hopefully in the next few weeks. For the price it looks like it could be a very good option. How is it for engine performance compared to the Himalayan; about the same or a bit brisker?
@nathanthepostman I would say the engine is strong, pulls very well even in high gear. The engine is not new. It's been around for some time now. Definitely not a bike for the motorway at a 100kph. It does buzz. That said on A roads and off road it does it all with ease. The build quality is as good as anything else out there. I have now done just under 4000km, 80% off road, and have no complaints, I have done 6 mth owners review, this is the link
czcams.com/video/8K7CNPPwm4I/video.html
if you are interested. Thanks Lew