🔔 Stay Updated!

Get instant alerts on breaking news, top stories, and updates from News EiSamay.

Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ‘Phantom’ revealed: Rally-ready beast built to go further and harder

A special ‘Phantom’ version of the Himalayan 450 has been unveiled with major off-road upgrades.

By Shaptadeep Saha

Mar 19, 2026 03:23 IST

A new version of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, called the Phantom, has been revealed—but it doesn’t come directly from the manufacturer. Instead, it has been developed by UK-based dealership Cooperb Motorcycles, which specialises in custom builds.

Not a factory bike, but a serious upgrade

The Phantom is essentially a heavily modified version of the standard Himalayan 450, designed to be tougher, lighter and more capable for serious off-road riding. It is not a mass-produced model but a dealer-built package with multiple bolt-on upgrades. Despite being based on the same platform, the Phantom stands apart with its aggressive styling and rally-inspired setup. It is also significantly more expensive than the standard bike due to the extensive modifications.

Also Read | Honda’s big EV bet begins in India as 0 Alpha SUV starts testing ahead of 2027 launch

Built for hardcore off-road performance

The Phantom retains the Himalayan 450’s 452cc liquid-cooled Sherpa engine but adds performance-focused upgrades like a full exhaust system, improved air intake and a fuel management system for better throttle response. Where it really stands out is in its hardware. The bike gets upgraded suspension options, a rally-style seat, stronger protection parts and a larger 23-litre fuel tank for extended range. Additional components such as handguards, skid plates, radiator protection and specialised footpegs improve durability and control during off-road riding. Buyers can also opt for knobby tyres, lightweight rims and other custom add-ons depending on how extreme they want the setup to be. The modifications are not just cosmetic; the bike has already proved its capability in competition, even winning a category at an off-road event in the UK.

Also Read | Hyundai plans big SUV push in India with four new models expected by next year

The Himalayan 450 Phantom shows how far the platform can be pushed when built for extreme adventure riding. While it may not be an official factory model, it highlights the growing demand for rally-ready motorcycles and the flexibility of Royal Enfield’s new 450 platform.

Articles you may like: