The 1903 bike

 We have discussed the 1903 lineup that included three new motorcycles, much improved over the the original 1901 one. One of them was water cooled with a water tank in the front and the petrol tank in the back. Now, thanks to the Royal Enfield Archive Collection, we have a picture of it.

Himi 450: better than expected

"The Himalayan 411 was a competent motorcycle when the filter of a Royal Enfield was applied to it. The Himalayan 450, on the other hand, is such a big step ahead that it can qualify as a European or Japanese product with ease. This is thanks to bits like a wholly liquid-cooled engine, a twin-spar frame, specially tuned Showa suspension, and features like switchable ABS. All the while, it does not let go of the things about Royal Enfields that appeal to us: a low retail price, simplicity, and the low cost of ownership. The Himalayan 450 manages to do all of this while keeping up with all its rivals, no filter required. That is why it is the Royal Enfield that is better than anyone expected." According to this article.

New US flagship dealership

 

Baxter Cycle in Marne, Iowa, becomes the first US flagship dealership.

Lots of pictures

This Stilltime Collection has lots of old pictures, including several dozens of Enfields, just look for them with the search engine it has. In particular there are a couple of detailed pictures of Enfield trikes I had not seen before.

Our man in Colombia takes a spill

Mateo del Rio is the owner of Royal Enfield Colombia. On the weekends, he leaves his Royal Enfields behind and heads for the track with his Kawasaki Ninja 250. In a recent race he suffered a nasty high-sider. Here is video of the incident. Fortunately he is ok.