The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 marks a bold departure for the iconic Indian motorcycle manufacturer, renowned for its timeless classics that blend retro aesthetics with rugged reliability. Launched in July 2024, this roadster introduces Royal Enfield into the fiercely competitive sub-500cc segment, a space traditionally dominated by sportier and more modern offerings from global brands. Unlike its siblings, such as the Himalayan 450, designed for adventure touring, the Guerrilla 450 is crafted as an urban warrior—a versatile machine tailored for city streets yet capable of delivering thrills on open highways. With its liquid-cooled Sherpa engine, a first for Royal Enfield in this displacement category, and a design that fuses modern-retro styling with contemporary technology, the Guerrilla 450 aims to carve a niche among riders seeking both performance and the brand’s signature character.
Royal Enfield has long been synonymous with motorcycles that evoke nostalgia, such as the Classic 350 and Bullet 350, but the Guerrilla 450 signals an evolution. It’s a bike that retains the brand’s essence—think robust build quality and a distinctive thump—while embracing modernity with features like a TFT display, dual-channel ABS, and tubeless tires. Priced competitively, it goes head-to-head with established players like the Triumph Speed 400, KTM 390 Duke, and Hero Mavrick 440, appealing to a younger demographic and seasoned riders alike. This detailed exploration dives into the Guerrilla 450’s technical prowess, variants, pricing in metro cities, and how it stacks up against its rivals, offering an in-depth look at what makes this bike a compelling addition to India’s two-wheeler landscape.
Technical Specifications
The Guerrilla 450 is powered by the same 452cc Sherpa engine found in the Himalayan 450, but it’s tuned for a roadster’s demands—quick acceleration, agile handling, and a spirited ride. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from BikeDekho, BikeWale, and Royal Enfield’s official website.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
| Displacement | 452 cc |
| Max Power | 40 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 40 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 84 mm x 81.5 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with assist-and-slipper clutch |
| Frame | Steel twin-spar frame, engine as a stressed member |
| Front Suspension | 43 mm telescopic forks, 140 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Linkage-type monoshock by Showa, 150 mm travel |
| Front Brake | 310 mm disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 270 mm disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloy wheels (front and rear) |
| Tires | Front: 120/70-17, Rear: 160/60-17 (tubeless) |
| Seat Height | 780 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 169 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 185 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 liters |
| Mileage | 29.5–31.5 kmpl (tested by BikeWale and BikeDekho experts) |
| Riding Modes | Performance and Eco |
| Instrument Cluster | Analogue: Semi-digital; Dash/Flash: 4-inch TFT with Bluetooth and navigation |
These specifications highlight the Guerrilla 450’s blend of power, agility, and practicality, making it a standout in its class. The liquid-cooled engine ensures consistent performance, while the Showa suspension and wide tubeless tires enhance handling and safety.
Variants
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is available in three distinct variants, each catering to different rider preferences with variations in features and aesthetics. Below is a table detailing the variants and their key differences.
| Variant | Features | Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Analogue | Semi-digital instrument cluster, optional Tripper navigation pod, base model features | Smoke Silver, Playa Black |
| Dash | 4-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, Google Maps navigation, mid-tier features | Peix Bronze, Gold Dip, Playa Black |
| Flash | Top-spec with TFT display, Bluetooth, Google Maps navigation, premium color options | Brava Blue, Yellow Ribbon |
The Analogue variant is the entry-level option, offering essential features at an affordable price point. The Dash variant steps up with a modern TFT screen and additional color choices, while the Flash variant appeals to those who prioritize premium aesthetics and full-featured technology.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Guerrilla 450 varies slightly across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table of on-road prices in major Indian metro cities as of March 31, 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho.
| City | Analogue (On-Road) | Dash (On-Road) | Flash (On-Road) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹2,84,694 | ₹2,95,000 | ₹3,01,333 |
| Mumbai | ₹2,96,300 | ₹3,06,700 | ₹3,13,660 |
| Bangalore | ₹3,16,362 | ₹3,26,900 | ₹3,34,502 |
| Chennai | ₹2,89,251 | ₹2,99,600 | ₹3,06,193 |
| Kolkata | ₹2,84,694 | ₹2,95,000 | ₹3,01,333 |
| Hyderabad | ₹3,05,000 | ₹3,15,500 | ₹3,23,000 |
Note: These are introductory ex-showroom prices (starting at ₹2.39 lakh for Analogue, ₹2.49 lakh for Dash, and ₹2.54 lakh for Flash) plus additional costs. Prices are indicative and may vary based on dealership offers or updates post-March 2025.
About the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450
Design and Build Quality
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 embodies a modern-retro design philosophy that distinguishes it from both its Royal Enfield stablemates and its competitors. Its aesthetic draws inspiration from the classic roadster silhouette—featuring a round LED headlamp, a teardrop-shaped 11-liter fuel tank, and a slender tail section—yet it’s infused with contemporary touches like sharp lines and bold color schemes. The bike’s proportions are muscular yet approachable, with a low seat height of 780 mm that makes it accessible to a wide range of riders, including shorter individuals. At 185 kg, it’s not the lightest in its class, but its weight is well-distributed, contributing to a planted feel on the road.
Build quality is a hallmark of Royal Enfield, and the Guerrilla 450 doesn’t disappoint. The steel twin-spar frame, with the engine as a stressed member, ensures durability, while components like the Showa suspension and wide-profile tubeless tires (120/70 front, 160/60 rear) reflect a commitment to performance and safety. However, some riders note minor inconsistencies, such as the fiddly joystick on the TFT display or the small mirrors, which could benefit from refinement. The paint schemes, especially on the Flash variant (e.g., Brava Blue and Yellow Ribbon), are eye-catching, though opinions vary—some find them bold and youthful, while others feel they lack the timeless appeal of Royal Enfield’s more subdued palettes.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Guerrilla 450 lies its 452cc liquid-cooled Sherpa engine, a single-cylinder powerplant delivering 40 PS at 8000 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm. This engine, shared with the Himalayan 450, is tuned for roadster duties, offering a balance of low-end grunt and top-end punch. Royal Enfield claims 85% of peak torque is available from 3000 rpm, making it responsive off the line—a boon for city commuting. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with an assist-and-slipper clutch, ensures smooth shifts, though some riders report a slight buzziness at higher revs, particularly near the redline.
On highways, the Guerrilla 450 shines, comfortably cruising at 100-120 kmph with minimal effort, and it can push beyond 150 kmph under optimal conditions, making it the fastest modern-retro roadster in its segment per BikeDekho tests. However, in city conditions, the engine’s lack of bottom-end torque below 2000 rpm can be a drawback, occasionally leading to stalling in stop-and-go traffic if not managed carefully. The liquid-cooling system mitigates heat effectively on open roads, but riders in dense urban settings report noticeable warmth around the legs, especially near the crankcase. Fuel efficiency, tested at 31.5 kmpl in the city by BikeWale, translates to a range of 330-350 km with its 11-liter tank, striking a practical balance for both daily rides and weekend getaways.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Guerrilla 450’s handling is a standout feature, defying its 185 kg kerb weight and 1440 mm wheelbase. The 17-inch alloy wheels and sharp steering geometry make it surprisingly agile, allowing it to weave through traffic or tackle twisty roads with confidence. The 43 mm telescopic forks (140 mm travel) and linkage-type monoshock (150 mm travel) by Showa provide a firm yet composed ride, soaking up most road imperfections while maintaining stability at speed. Riders praise its flickability, especially on routes like Anuskura Ghat, where it flows effortlessly through corners, though quick direction changes at high speeds reveal its heft.
Braking is another strong suit, with a 310 mm front disc and 270 mm rear disc, both equipped with dual-channel ABS, offering precise stopping power. However, the absence of traction control—a feature competitors like the KTM 390 Duke offer—feels like a missed opportunity, particularly given the bike’s 40 PS output. The tubeless tires, often CEAT or Eurogrip Roadhounds, provide excellent grip on dry surfaces but can feel less confident in wet conditions, prompting some owners to consider aftermarket upgrades.
Features and Technology
The Guerrilla 450’s feature set varies by variant, catering to different rider needs. The Analogue variant keeps things simple with a semi-digital cluster and an optional Tripper navigation pod, ideal for purists or budget-conscious buyers. The Dash and Flash variants, however, elevate the experience with a 4-inch TFT display—the same unit seen on the Himalayan 450—featuring Bluetooth connectivity, Google Maps navigation, and ride mode toggles (Performance and Eco). The TFT screen is crisp and intuitive, though its joystick and home button can be finicky, requiring multiple presses at times.
Additional conveniences include a USB-C charging port, LED lighting all around, and two riding modes that adjust throttle response and fuel efficiency. The lack of adjustable levers or a quickshifter, however, places it slightly behind some rivals in terms of tech sophistication. Still, the navigation system, with route recording and sharing capabilities, adds a practical edge for touring enthusiasts, though it can drain phone batteries quickly without the charger handy.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomically, the Guerrilla 450 strikes a sporty yet relaxed posture. The 780 mm seat height and upright stance, combined with mid-set footpegs, make it comfortable for long rides without straining the rider. The single-piece seat is well-padded for the rider but less accommodating for pillions, especially older passengers, due to its compact design and the bike’s firm suspension in Performance mode. Visibility is excellent, thanks to the lack of a headlight cowl, though the small mirrors—carried over from other Royal Enfield models—limit rearward awareness, a common critique among owners.
Competitors Comparison
The Guerrilla 450 enters a crowded segment, facing stiff competition from bikes like the Triumph Speed 400, KTM 390 Duke, Hero Mavrick 440, and Honda CB300R. Here’s how it measures up:
- Triumph Speed 400: Priced at ₹2.41 lakh (ex-showroom), the Speed 400 offers a 398cc engine with 40 PS and 37.5 Nm, paired with a lighter 176 kg frame and a refined ride. It edges out the Guerrilla in smoothness and weight but lacks the Royal Enfield’s distinctive character and lower seat height (790 mm vs. 780 mm). The Triumph’s after-sales network, however, lags behind Royal Enfield’s widespread presence.
- KTM 390 Duke: At ₹3.11 lakh (ex-showroom), the Duke delivers 45 PS and 39 Nm from its 373cc engine, with a lighter 171 kg chassis and advanced features like traction control and a quickshifter. It’s the performance king of the segment, ideal for aggressive riders, but its high seat (820 mm) and sporty ergonomics contrast with the Guerrilla’s accessibility and comfort.
- Hero Mavrick 440: Priced at ₹1.99-2.24 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mavrick’s 440cc engine produces 27 PS and 36 Nm, prioritizing low-end torque and a relaxed 36 kmpl mileage over outright power. It’s heavier at 191 kg and less tech-laden, but its affordability and lazy-riding appeal make it a direct rival for urban commuters.
- Honda CB300R: With a 286cc engine pumping out 31 PS and 27.5 Nm, priced at ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom), the CB300R is lighter (146 kg) and nimbler, appealing to riders seeking a premium naked bike. However, it lacks the Guerrilla’s torque, range, and modern features like a TFT display.
The Guerrilla 450 holds its own with a blend of power, style, and practicality, bolstered by Royal Enfield’s extensive service network and lifestyle appeal (think apparel and riding events). It may not match the KTM’s raw performance or the Honda’s finesse, but its competitive pricing and unique identity give it an edge in the modern-retro niche.
Verdict and Market Position
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a bold step forward for a brand traditionally rooted in nostalgia, offering a compelling package for riders who want a versatile roadster with character. Its strengths—robust build, spirited performance, and accessible ergonomics—make it a worthy contender in the 400-500cc segment. However, minor flaws like the lack of traction control, inconsistent throttle response in Performance mode (noted by BikeWale), and small mirrors suggest room for improvement.
Priced between ₹2.39-2.54 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts premium rivals like the KTM 390 Duke while offering more power than the Hero Mavrick 440, positioning it as a sweet spot for value-conscious buyers. In metro cities, where traffic demands agility and highways beckon for weekend escapes, the Guerrilla 450 delivers a practical yet thrilling ride. Whether you’re a young enthusiast drawn to its bold colors or a seasoned rider seeking Royal Enfield’s signature thump in a modern avatar, this bike promises to leave a mark—both on the road and in the brand’s storied legacy.
