Royal Enfield Roadster Spotted Testing, India Launch Soon

Recent spy photos offer a clearer look at a Royal Enfield motorcycle undergoing testing, believed to be the upcoming Roadster 450, possibly also known as the Hunter 450. This motorcycle has been generating interest for its potential to combine the Himalayan's engine with a roadster design.

The recent photos show a test model with minimal camouflage, suggesting a potential launch in the near future. The design appears clean and straightforward. What can be seen is the teardrop-shaped fuel tank that complements the motorcycle's proportions. Side panels are kept minimal in terms of design. The tail section borrows design elements from the Himalayan 450, including the integrated taillight and turn signals.

The Roadster 450 is expected to utilise the same 450cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine found in the Himalayan 450. This engine produces 39.47 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. Royal Enfield may adjust the engine's tuning and possibly the gearing to better suit a roadster's riding style.

The chassis is also likely derived from the Himalayan 450, with a potentially modified subframe. The motorcycle appears to have 17-inch wheels, likely with a wide rear tyre (mostly a 140 section) for better grip. Disc brakes with dual-channel ABS are expected on both wheels.

Previous spy images hinted at a potentially feature-rich offering, including all-LED lighting. However, cost considerations may lead to a standard halogen headlight setup. The test mules featured a round LED headlight with flanking LED turn signals. The instrument cluster remains unconfirmed but it will be either the colour TFT display from the Himalayan 450 or a more cost-effective LCD from the Hunter unit but Bluetooth connectivity will be seen on both. Scope of the features offered via bluetooth will vary depending up on the unit that will be used.

The launch date remains unconfirmed, but rumours suggest a potential release within the next few months. The Royal Enfield Roadster 450, possibly named the Hunter 450, could become a contender in the mid-range roadster segment. With its established engine and contemporary design, it will compete with motorcycles like the Triumph Speed 400, Harley-Davidson X440 and Husqvarna 401.

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