TRIUMPH 400X | HIMALAYAN H450 | BMW 310GS | HARLEY X440 | KTM 390ADV - Likes & Dislikes

Summary

In this motorcycle review, the hosts discuss the top five middle-weight bikes, highlighting the Triumph Scrambler 400X for its engine and handling, the Himalayan for its versatile suspension, the BMW 310 GS for its suspension and engine, the Harley-Davidson X440 for its understated design and rideability, and the KTM 390 for its power-to-weight ratio. They critique aspects like high-speed stability and mechanical clatter while expressing anticipation for upcoming models like the new KTM 390 Adventure and the Expulse 400.

Takeaways

• 🏍️ The Scrambler 400X is praised for its fit and finish, low-speed handling, and ease of controls.
• 🛠️ The Scrambler 400X's engine is noted for being smooth with little mechanical or combustion clatter, but its high-speed handling on bumpy roads is considered nervous.
• 🌟 The Royal Enfield Himalayan is highlighted for its excellent suspension, both on and off-road, and good brakes.
• 🚴‍♂️ The Himalayan's ergonomics and seating posture are considered very natural, making for a comfortable long-distance ride.
• 🔨 The BMW 310 GS is recognized for its suspension, which is on par with the Himalayan, and its rev-happy engine.
• 🛤️ The BMW 310 GS's high-frequency vibrations at speed and high maintenance costs are noted as downsides.
• 🌙 The Harley-Davidson X440 is the most understated motorcycle in its category, with excellent low-end rideability and a standout headlight.
• 🔧 The KTM 390 is known for its fast power-to-weight ratio, nimble handling, and minimal vibes at high RPM.
• 🚦 The KTM 390's suspension is seen as more road-biased, and there are expectations for improvements in the upcoming model.
• 🏙️ For urban use, the Harley-Davidson X440 is chosen for its capabilities in city traffic and ease of riding.
• 🛣️ The Himalayan is selected for long-distance touring due to its comfort and performance on highways.

Q & A

What are the top five middle-weight motorcycles discussed in the script?

The script does not explicitly list all five motorcycles, but it mentions the Scrambler 400X, the Himalayan, the BMW 310 GS, the Harley-Davidson x440, and the KTM 390 Duke.

What is the most appreciated feature of the Scrambler 400X according to the script?

The most appreciated features of the Scrambler 400X are its fit and finish, low-speed handling, maneuverability, and the ease of controls including the clutch, throttle, and gear shifts.

What is the main criticism regarding the high-speed handling of the Scrambler 400X?

The main criticism is that the Scrambler 400X feels nervous on slightly bumpy roads at high speeds, and a steering damper might be needed to keep the handlebars steady.

What is special about the engine of the Himalayan according to the speakers?

The Himalayan's engine is praised for being the coolest, smoothest, with very little mechanical or combustion clatter, and having a great throttle response and overall package.

What is the main issue when parking the Himalayan as mentioned in the script?

The main issue is the weight of the Himalayan, which makes it a bit challenging to maneuver out of a parking spot without planning ahead or needing assistance.

What is the best feature of the BMW 310 GS according to the script?

The best feature of the BMW 310 GS is its suspension, which is considered the best in its class and performs well both on and off-road.

What is the most understated motorcycle in its category as per the script?

The Harley-Davidson x440 is described as the most understated motorcycle in its category, often overlooked but performing well in all aspects.

What is the most liked feature of the Harley-Davidson x440's engine?

The most liked feature of the Harley-Davidson x440's engine is its low-end rideability and the fact that it runs cool with minimal heat radiation.

What is the main area for improvement in the KTM 390 Duke according to the speakers?

The main area for improvement in the KTM 390 Duke is its suspension, which is more road-biased and could be better for off-road use.

Which motorcycle has the best ergonomics and seating posture according to the speakers?

Both speakers agree that the Himalayan has the best ergonomics and seating posture, making it comfortable for long rides.

What is the consensus on the motorcycle best suited for city use among the speakers?

The consensus is that the Harley-Davidson x440 is best suited for city use due to its rideability and performance in urban conditions.