Himalayan 450-first thoughts

[Anthony Byrne]

I picked top the new steed Friday afternoon. Usual great service from Gary in Overlanders in Gorey, Wexford.

I hadn't yet sat on the bike so I was buying based on the online reviews and chat on this site over the past few months. First thoughts........

Lovely bike and very happy with the purchase.

• The gears are so smooth, best ive had on any bike-maybe I got lucky
• The display is a nice touch, easy to use and clean to view
• I was surprised how light and nimble I found it, I had read they feel heavy but a lot easier pushing around the garage than the 1250
• Doesn't lack power although still running in so early days and yet to get on the motorway
• The suspension is better than I thought, I expected a soft suspension but holds it own under my fat ass

My only gripe from the outset is the seat, I may aswell be sitting on a concrete block. Hard as fook

 

[Posh Pete]

The gearbox is indeed excellent.

The bike wears it's weight well.

Suspension and tyres/roadholding are very good also.

We also agree on that seat!

It's a great bike. Even after 5k miles in my case. But keep an eye on that offside chain adjuster!

 

[Wapping]

Five points for use of the word ‘steed’. Minus 10 points for failure to employ the adjective ‘awesome’ anywhere in the post. Redeem yourself in a follow up post by including, ‘awesome’ (at least once) along with ‘stable’ and ‘baby’. ‘Hooning’ and ‘twisties’ will add extra bikermate credibility to your report(s) too. Do though avoid the word ‘presence’, as only huge motorcycles, with humongous panniers, vast screens and blazing lights (preferably now, front and rear) possess this.

 

[Jockser]

Well may she wear Anto

 

[Anthony Byrne]

Added a few extras over the past week

1. Double take mirrors-same weight as originals
2. Luggage rack-an extra 3kg of weight. Made from steel and feels well put together
3. Engine guard and bash plate-an extra 2.5kg. The engine guard is solid and similar to the luggage rack but the bash plate feels a little light.

Starting to take shape now