Does ADV makes sense as a Daily Driver? ft. Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450

The Indian motorcycle market is diversifying rapidly. Young consumers are choosing ADVs over roadsters and commuters for their versatility and go-anywhere nature. However, the question that arises the most while purchasing one is whether an ADV makes sense as a Daily Driver?

While offroading and adventure touring have been gaining popularity lately, these trips don't last more than a month in a stretch. Besides those 30 days of joyriding, most ADVs spend time in cities. Are ADVs only meant to slog through hours of mindless traffic congestion and pothole-ridden roads throughout the year? Do their abilities become overkill when commuting?

The simple answer to that is yes. While some may argue about the situations where ADVs prove their superiority over other motorcycles. Situations such as a sudden pothole while going fast or need to go through flooded areas in monsoons. However, one has to remember that such situations are rare. Also, both commuters and roadsters are capable of tackling them, albiet with a bit more effort.

In my opinion, ADVs have been glorified more than needed in the past few years. Especially by people going on trips to Leh and Ladakh. Sure the convenience of higher ground clearance and bigger wheels come in handy, however, several people have done those trips even on scooters, cruisers, and low-capacity commuters.

Apart from capabilities, one has to pay a hefty premium to acquire an ADV in the first place. Further adding to the cost are the accessories such as a top box, saddle bags, sturdier crash guards, jerry can holders, and a few others, all of which can easily be fitted to a roadster as well. 

From my personal experience of riding with saddle bags on Dominar 400 (both in the city and on highway runs) felt more comfortable than being on a RE Himalayan 411 or KTM ADV range. I was able to tackle bad roads, no roads, loose surfaces, rocky patches, and even slush to a certain extent on the D400, never feeling nervous once. A few friends of mine did those kinds of rides on RE's Meteor and Classic 350s with all types of luggage onboard.

There is no doubt that the new Himalayan 450 is a gem of a machine, most buyers will not be able to do those offroad runs more often. While it may emerge as a status symbol, the majority of these riders will actually be better off with the new Guerrilla 450. Why you ask?

Firstly, with 17-inch wheels, the Guerrilla 450 will be much nimbler in traffic. Secondly, lower seat height will further aid riders with short stature. Also, with a much lighter kerb weight, the Guerrilla will be easier to move around than the Himalayan in crowded parking lots. The lower weight will also aid in better fuel efficiency. Also, with a starting price tag of around Rs. 2.9 lakh (on road, Thane), the Guerrilla is roughly Rs. 66,000 cheaper than the base Himalayan model (Rs. 3.56 lakh, on road, Thane).

For that amount, one can purchase a lot of accessories and still save enough money for fuel for a few months. Or better, even invest it wisely to gain good returns. Sure the Guerrilla may have a few shortcomings over the Himalayan. However, those can easily be overlooked, considering what the motorcycle brings to the table.

I don't expect everyone to have the same opinion as mine. However, I do advise one to find out their needs with the motorcycle rather than trying to follow the market trend. Also, make sure you take a test ride before going ahead with the purchase. As your opinion on a motorcycle's handling may differ from the automotive journalist you follow. It all boils down to your needs from the bike. If your criteria are fulfilled and the bike feels right when testing, then go for it.

On a personal note, I've been waiting for something like the Guerrilla 450 for a while now. Loved the Sherpa engine, but Himalayan was never going to be my choice. I'm more of a roadster/power cruiser kind of rider.