Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009 are both popular models in the adventure motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities, they also have notable differences in terms of specifications and features.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020 has a bore of 78 mm and a stroke of 86 mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009 has a bore of 81 mm and a stroke of 62.6 mm. This indicates that the Himalayan has a longer stroke, which can contribute to better low-end torque and off-road performance. In terms of power, the Himalayan has 24.5 HP compared to the V-Strom's 49 HP. However, the V-Strom has a higher torque rating of 60 Nm compared to the Himalayan's 32 Nm. The displacement of the Himalayan is 411 cc, while the V-Strom has a larger displacement of 645 cc.

Moving on to the chassis, the Himalayan features a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin-spar design. The choice of materials and frame design can affect the overall weight and handling characteristics of the motorcycles. The V-Strom has a larger fuel tank capacity of 22 liters compared to the Himalayan's 15 liters, which can be advantageous for long-distance touring.

Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020

In terms of braking, the Himalayan has a single disc front brake, while the V-Strom is equipped with dual disc front brakes. This suggests that the V-Strom may offer better braking performance and control. Both motorcycles have a 17-inch rear tire, but the Himalayan has a 21-inch front tire compared to the V-Strom's 19-inch front tire. The wider rear tire of the V-Strom at 150 mm may provide better stability and traction.

When it comes to ergonomics, the Himalayan has a seat height of 800 mm, while the V-Strom has a slightly higher seat height of 820 mm. The Himalayan also features a compass, which can be useful for off-road navigation. The V-Strom, on the other hand, has handguards for added protection and an aggressive-looking exhaust.

Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009

In terms of strengths, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020 offers a unique appeal with its rugged design and a coherent concept. It also has a comfortable seat and a robust technology. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009, on the other hand, has a good-natured chassis, a relaxed seating position, and a relatively powerful engine. It also features an aggressive exhaust and handguards for added protection.

However, the Himalayan has some weaknesses, including a subpar front brake, performance that may be considered weak for the European market, and a relatively high weight. The V-Strom, on the other hand, lacks a sophisticated appearance and has a small windshield.

In conclusion, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 2009 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Himalayan offers a unique appeal and a comfortable riding experience, while the V-Strom provides a more powerful engine and added protection features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended usage.