Biker’s choice: Triumph Scrambler 400X vs. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450

This Sunday morning started with a plan to finalize the purchase of a Scrambler 400X at One Triumph in Gurugram, a bike that had been reserved earlier. However, unexpected turns led to a test ride and an eventual decision to order a Himalayan 450 instead.

Spontaneous Decision at the Dealership:

While en route to purchase the Scrambler 400X, the sight of someone riding a new Himalayan 450 caught the attention. The allure of the recently released Himalayan led to an impromptu decision to check it out. Without hesitation, a visit to the Royal Enfield (RE) dealership ensued, and a trial ride request was made.

Unexpected Himalayan Bike Experience:

The RE dealership swiftly arranged the necessary paperwork, and the keys to a brown Kaza Himalayan were handed over. The test ride revealed the bike’s robust suspension, effortlessly handling pothole-ridden roads. Comparisons with the Scrambler 400X, which had a test ride planned on the same route, favored the Himalayan’s performance.

City Ride Impressions:

Navigating city traffic on the Himalayan, the rider noted the substantial feel of the large gasoline tank. Gears demanded attention due to engine noise in second gear, but the light clutch facilitated smooth shifts. A brief twenty-minute city ride left a lasting impression, prompting a quick return to the dealership.

Decision-Making at the Dealership:

With the Himalayan parked alongside the Hanley Black variant, a preference for the Kaza Brown emerged during the comparison. Concerns about additional costs for color preferences led to a conversation with the RE executive. A reservation for the Kaza Brown was made with a commitment to expedite delivery within 60 days, contrasting with the longer wait for the Hanley Black.

Finalizing the Choice:

A visit to the Triumph showroom followed, where the reservation for the Scrambler 400X was gracefully canceled. Despite not seeking explanations or attempts to retain the reservation, the decision was made in favor of the Himalayan, considering its versatility and budget-friendly appeal.

This spontaneous journey of choices and test rides culminated in a reserved anticipation for the Kaza Brown Himalayan, reflecting the joy of finding the right bike for diverse riding needs.