I think Richard makes some very good points. RE is opening a new market in India. Remember they virtually own the leisure bike market which was a happy acccident of the emerging middle class along with an iconic brand. I think India is ready for this next phase. You are also right that it may be a long time before we see them here because the bike has a carburetor. Here is my take on it and it is only a partial examination of the launch
Been a lot posted around the net today about the official introduction of the Himalayan and thought we would post from this Indian trade magazine to put it all together.
As the former US distributor we have been involved with bike development with RE for over 16 years. The Himalayan is without a doubt the best planned and executed launch ever done by the company illustrating it's growing sophistication.
The GT was "introduced" and promised for three consecutive years with no product available. When they were finally available it was long after the "fever" had passed. RE did not do a total reveal of the Himalayan until it was ready and apparently within a month of product actually being available. The Himalayan took much longer to develop than RE expected and kudos to them for waiting and getting it right.
I think that Royal Enfield hit the nail squarely on the head in design, performance and execution for it's intended market. The price is really aggressive and will position them perfectly in the marketplace. I think this is their best new offering ever for many reasons and could be the beginning of a new chapter for RE.
Two thumbs up! - Kevin Mahoney
http://www.indianbikenews.com/…/royal-enfield-himalayan.html