Recognized by The Manual as one of the best motorcycle brands, Royal Enfield introduced an all-new motorcycle for the North American market. The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a premium naked roadster that fills in the model line between the brand’s traditional 350 cc and 650 cc motorcycles. But the Guerrilla 450 brings more than a new engine size to the brand.
In addition to the new model’s liquid-cooled engine, which debuted with the Himalayan 450 adventure touring bike, the Guerrilla 450 also has a slipper clutch for its six-speed transmission and ride-by-wire technological features with two ride modes. With the Guerrilla 450 and the recently introduced Bear 650, Royal Enfield customers now have a wider choice of engine sizes and riding styles than ever.
Why Royal Enfield added a liquid-cooled engine
Many traditionalists are drawn to Royal Enfield because of its 124-year history as the oldest motorcycle company in continuous production. Several of its models, although updated substantially from the originals, have been in production for decades. Liquid cooling in the Himalayan 450 and now the Guerrilla 450, isn’t just a random engine feature on an equipment list; it enables superior temperature control in all riding conditions.
The single-cylinder 452cc engine is rated at 39.48 hp at 8,000 rpm and 40 N/m of torque at 5,500 rpm, but experienced riders attest to its readiness to take off, partially helped by 85% of the torque available at 3,000 rpm.
What else is new
Like the Himalayan 450, the Guerrilla 450 has Eco and Performance modes, which set throttle response accordingly. The user interface on the display includes navigation capability and integrates with Google Maps on the rider’s smartphone.
Available or ready for order at Royal Enfield dealerships in Smoke Silver, Playa Black, or Brava Blue, the Guerrilla 450 starts at $5,299.
