"For the OTD price of a Himalayan, I could get a nice used Suzuki V-Strom 650, which is several times the bike. In fact a bit too much bike. I want something small, light, and simple. And different."
Suitcasejefferson, I did just that, but I bought a new V Strom. There is almost nothing in common between a Himalayan and a Strom. Compared to the RE, the Strom is HUGE, tall, heavy, super fast.......and totally lacking soul, personality, character.......whatever you want to call it. It is a great bike, don't get me wrong, but it does not put a smile on your face like a C5. I considered the Himalayan, but at 6'1", the seat is just a little too far forward and the bike just a bit too cramped. I had already talked to GHG about his willingness to try to get 6 more HP out of it........which he thought would be easy.......a very modest genius that guy. Anyway, a Himalayan with a Powertronic and exhaust would be the cats meow if I were 5'10......I would have one now. As it is, the Strom comes with an awful windscreen, the seat is iffy for more than 45 minutes at a time, the handlebars are too low and forward for 6'1", and it is tall and heavy. So, at least $125 for new screen, some sort of seat pad or new seat $$, and handlebar risers, which may entail new cables $$$. If you want something cool and different and very good, and you fit.......buy a Himalayan. My 2 cents.
9fingers