Why Michelin Road 5 Makes More Sense on Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450! Here’s my take.

 

Introduction

When it comes to choosing the right tires for your motorcycle, the decision can make a world of difference in your riding experience. After thoroughly examining various options, I firmly believe that the Michelin Road 5 tires are the ideal choice for the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450. Here's why:

Unmatched Performance

The Michelin Road 5 tires are renowned for their outstanding performance. The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450, equipped with its powerful 39.5 bhp Sherpa engine, communicative tubular chassis, and smooth 6-speed gearbox, demands tires that can match its prowess. The Michelin Road 5 delivers exceptional grip and stability, especially at higher speeds. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on highways, these tires provide a seamless and confident ride.

Superior Comfort

One of the key aspects that elevate the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is its comfortable ride. The Michelin Road 5 tires enhance this aspect by absorbing road imperfections and minimizing vibrations. This results in a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience, allowing you to embark on long journeys without feeling fatigued. The combination of the Guerrilla 450's ergonomic design and the Road 5's superior comfort makes for an unbeatable duo.

Longevity and Durability

Tire durability is a crucial factor for any motorcycle enthusiast. The Michelin Road 5 tires are built to last, thanks to their advanced rubber compounds and robust construction. This durability ensures that the tires can withstand the demands of daily commuting, spirited weekend rides, and even longer adventures. Investing in Michelin Road 5 means fewer replacements and more miles covered, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Enhanced Safety

Safety is paramount when it comes to riding motorcycles, and the Michelin Road 5 tires excel in this department. Their superior grip and handling provide riders with the confidence to tackle various road conditions. Whether you're cornering, braking, or accelerating, these tires offer exceptional control and stability. The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450, paired with the Michelin Road 5, ensures a safe and secure ride every time.

Aesthetic Appeal

Let's not forget the visual aspect. The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 boasts a bold and stylish design, and the Michelin Road 5 tires perfectly complement this aesthetic. The sleek and modern look of the Road 5 enhances the overall appearance of the Guerrilla 450, making your bike stand out even more on the road. Plus, with various sizes available, you can find the perfect fit for your wheels.

Conclusion

In my opinion, the Michelin Road 5 tires are the best choice for the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450. They offer unmatched performance, superior comfort, exceptional durability, enhanced safety, and a stylish appearance. Whether you're a daily commuter or an avid adventurer, these tires will elevate your riding experience and provide the confidence to tackle any road with ease.

So, if you're looking to enhance your Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450's capabilities, consider upgrading to the Michelin Road 5 tires. Your bike and your riding experience will thank you.

Happy riding!

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.