Tests of the Royal Enfield Himalayan Electric have been ongoing for a while. Whether the concept of an electric adventure bike makes sense has generated equal parts wonder, curiosity, and scepticism. To put an end to all of these emotions, sources have exclusively disclosed a number of intriguing features of the electric motorcycle, including test-ride impressions.
According to experts, the Royal Enfield Himalayan Electric has a huge 14 kWh battery pack that can be charged on board. For comparison, the Ultraviolette F77, which has the biggest battery pack on an e-motorcycle in India right now, has a 10.3 kWh capacity. The motor is manufactured by Stark, which should come as no surprise given the Spanish company’s extensive experience in this industry and Royal Enfield’s ownership of the brand.
Interestingly, according to some sources, it produces 74.5 kW of power (in the ridden prototype), more than twice as much as the Ultraviolette F77. As a result, it is also claimed to be able to quickly surpass the 120 km/h speed limit. Given that it is manufactured by Stark, a company with extensive experience in producing electric dirt bikes, we can only speculate as to what kind of raw torque this one produces. Although the range is unknown, 200–250 km appears plausible given the powerful motor and large-capacity battery pack. Keep in mind that this is merely an extrapolation.
Off-road, Tour, Rally, and Zen (city) are the four riding modes. Because always having 100 horses at your disposal may prove to be a bit overwhelming to some, expect the production figures to change depending on the mode selected. However, we were also informed that there is no ABS or traction control, which is not shocking given that the bike is still undergoing testing and that it takes time to perfect such sophisticated electronics.
Based on the specifications we have learnt, it appears that Royal Enfield is investing heavily in the Himalayan electric, both literally and figuratively. But getting on the road is still a long way off. Even if it does, it won’t be inexpensive. We believe that the ex-showroom price of about Rs 7-8 lakh is likely.