Always playing the main role in the retro motorcycle space, Royal Enfield’s all-new 450 promises to take things to a new level of what is possible in a retro roadster. It will not be too long before it is the bike that will seamlessly negotiate city roads and long highway rides – with classic design and modern technology. Does it live up to that hype? Here’s our first ride review of Royal Enfield’s latest offering.
Design: Old-school flavor with a dash of modernity
At first glance, the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is very much a classic roadster. The large round headlamp, tear-drop fuel tank and the single-piece seat do make this motorcycle look timeless in design. And, you don’t miss the LED lighting along with the minimalist digital-analog instrument cluster upon first glance as well, subtly blending old-school aesthetics with modern functionality.
The fit and finish are excellent with high-end paint work and chrome surrounds that will be great for the retro looks of the bike. For all its nostalgic styling, there is nothing old-fashioned about the Guerrilla 450 in the way it rides; instead, it unites those who think the best of the past in one bike that bridges two eras.
Engine and Performance: A Smooth Operator
New to the game is an all-new 450cc single-cylinder engine. Liquid-cooled, of course it’s going to be as it’s the first in any Royal Enfield powerplant in this displacement class. This will give the bike both the necessary grunt and refinement. On paper, this is a good package: 40 bhp, 38 Nm of torque numbers seem like ones that work well together to be punchy yet smooth on the road.
That was pretty impressive even in the ride itself; power delivery of the Guerrilla 450 is very linear. The engine responsiveness indeed feels just right, with quite some torque offered even at low-to-mid-range RPMs, making it all spot on for use within city commutes and even occasional highway sprints. The 6-speed gearbox is silky smooth, and the added slipper clutch does contribute to an overall ease to ride, especially being aggressively downshifted.
But the big feature of the 450 is its balance. Any vibrations that have occasionally beset Royal Enfield models are few and far between, even at higher RPM, meaning long rides won’t be too much of a task on the reader’s backside. It cruises easily at 100-120 km/h but does still have more to give if some spirited riding is in order.
Ride and Handling: Built for All Roads
This will be the brand-new chassis of the Guerrilla 450, nimble yet stable. The bike performs very well, be it Hustle of city traffic or open cruisings. Its low center of gravity, coupled with an extremely well-tuned suspension setup, ensures a very comfortable ride with no bumps and potholes to trouble it.
The kerb weight of about 190kg made the bike feel much lighter than it should look like, adding to an ease of movement even for less-proficient riders. The wide handlebars and upright riding position create a commanding road feel and are so perfect for long-distance comfort.
Braking and Safety
The Guerrilla 450 is also fitted with a dual-channel ABS system, with disc brakes at both ends, so it can stop with total confidence in all conditions. The braking power here is progressive and reliable as well as pretty decent, offering adequate feedback through the levers. Although the ABS intervention is smooth, it still happens to always be a door that may not need to be opened to be useful because sometimes it intervenes when not absolutely necessary but does so without being intrusive.
Features and Technology Simple Yet Smart
The simple has been made functional by Royal Enfield through the introduction of this Guerrilla 450. The cluster is analog as well as digital. But what makes it special is the central place that a speedometer occupies, combined with this unit having display information related to fuel level, trip meters, and the kinds of information riders would want to know on their bikes. That the inclusion of the Royal Enfield Tripper Navigation system is beneficial for those riders who enjoy new routes is also a helpful addition.
Although the motorcycle doesn’t come covered with a lot of high-tech gizmos like ride modes or traction control, the basics have been well achieved. For all you users who need to carry your devices around and have them charged, it’s a nice touch to have a USB charging port.
Verdict: Best Retro Roadster?
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is really a mighty addition to the lineup with a very compelling mix of retro styling, modern performance, and everyday practicality. What might make it rather endearing to roadster fans is the fact that it brings it all-that classic roadster charm with enough modern technology to make it relevant in today’s market.
This Guerrilla 450 can surely be rated as brand new for the retro roadsters with its very smooth engine and of course, this high quality in terms of ride. It’s not a very technology-heavy motorcycle, but it holds that status as the go-to motorcycle that offers everything one might wish for in a fun, reliable, and stylish ride. It might just prove to be one of the best retro roadsters of its class for those who enjoy that feel of old school without giving up on performance.
Key Specification Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450
Engine: 450cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
Power: 40 bhp
Torque: 38 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed with slipper clutch
Suspension: Telescopic, twin gas-charged unit at the rear
Brakes: Dual disc with dual-channel ABS
Price: The bike will reportedly cost around Rs 2.5 lakh (ex-showroom)
If you are in the mood for a roadster that has the design straight off the past but still packs an adequate amount of punch to keep that smile going after every ride, then you are definitely spoiled for choice. Try the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 for all your adventurous requirements.
