Writing a New Chapter

The Guerrilla 450 signifies a new direction for Royal Enfield. One that looks promising

- Story: Joshua Varghese

WE ALWAYS HAVE GREAT respect for manufacturers who make an attempt to break out of their comfort zones and the stereotypes imposed on them by the market. In a two wheeler-driven economy like ours, it is difficult enough to gain a foothold in some segments but to make an impression in a new category altogether is tougher still. A few manufacturers have done so this year but this story is about Royal Enfield's Guerrilla 450. They had hinted an interest in this space with the Hunter 350 but the liquid-cooled Guerrilla is a fully committed invasion into a region hitherto unexplored by this century-old marque.

Having ridden the motorcycle in Spain on some excellent roads (including part of a hallowed road racing circuit), we were thoroughly impressed by what it offered but that was on excellent European roads. Many months have passed since then before we could bring you a road test on home soil. Apologies for that but we will make up for it with a comprehensive review.