Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450’s 7 Colours Revealed: Is This ₹2.5 Lakh Roadster the Triumph Speed 400 Killer?
The hunt is officially on! In the most definitive sign of an imminent launch, the colour palette for Royal Enfield’s highly anticipated Guerrilla 450 has been revealed, showcasing a stunning range of seven options including Forest Salt, Salt, and Engine Black. This isn’t just a new bike; it’s Royal Enfield’s strategic assault on the booming 400cc modern roadster segment, a space currently dominated by the brilliant Triumph Speed 400. Built on the Himalayan 450’s stellar platform, the Guerrilla 450 is expected to be lighter, more agile, and, crucially, more affordable. But does it have the firepower to dethrone the new king of the ring?
Price & Variants: The Aggressive Strike
This is the number everyone is waiting for. The Guerrilla 450 will share its engine and main frame with the Himalayan 450, but as a stripped-down roadster, it will be significantly more accessible.
- Expected Ex-Showroom Price: We predict a very aggressive starting price in the range of ₹2.40 Lakh to ₹2.60 Lakh. This would strategically undercut key rivals and make it a phenomenal value proposition.
- Expected On-Road Price: For buyers in Ambernath, Maharashtra, the on-road price could fall between ₹2.80 Lakh and ₹3.10 Lakh. The seven revealed colours (Forest Salt, Salt, Engine Black, etc.) will likely be spread across two or three variants, differing in features or finish.
Engine & Mileage (Kitna Deti Hai?): Sherpa Power Unleashed
The heart of the Guerrilla 450 is the fantastic Sherpa 450 engine – Royal Enfield’s first modern liquid-cooled motor.
This 452cc single-cylinder engine is a gem, producing around 40 PS of power and 40 Nm of torque. While these figures are identical to the Himalayan, the Guerrilla 450 is expected to be at least 10-15 kg lighter. This lower weight will make it feel peppier, more responsive in the city, and quicker off the line. In terms of mileage, while the Himalayan delivers around 25-30 kmpl, the lighter Guerrilla could return a slightly better 28-32 kmpl in real-world conditions, making it a powerful yet practical daily rider.
Features & Design: Modern Roadster, Classic Soul
Spy shots and the latest leaks point to a handsome, muscular roadster design.
- Design: It ditches the tall, adventurous stance of the Himalayan for a more grounded, urban-focused look. Expect a classic round headlamp (likely LED), a sculpted teardrop-shaped tank, a single-piece seat, and a tidy tail section. It’s a modern classic with quintessential RE DNA.
- Technology: The Guerrilla 450 will likely inherit the brilliant Tripper Dash – the circular TFT display with Google Maps integration. Ride-by-wire, switchable dual-channel ABS, and possibly different ride modes will make it a very modern package.
- Ergonomics: With a more conventional handlebar and footpeg position, the riding posture will be upright and comfortable for city commutes and weekend highway blasts.
Rival Comparison: The Battle of the 400s
The Guerrilla 450 is walking into a gladiatorial arena.
- vs. Triumph Speed 400: This is the ultimate showdown. The Speed 400 (approx. ₹2.33 Lakh) offers a slightly more premium finish and a punchier, high-revving engine. The Guerrilla 450 will counter with its torquey, characterful engine, more comfortable ergonomics, Google Maps navigation, and the massive Royal Enfield service network.
- vs. Husqvarna Svartpilen 401: The Svartpilen is a quirky, scrambler-styled machine based on the KTM 390 Duke. It’s more aggressive and edgy. The Guerrilla will appeal to riders looking for a more classic and universally appealing design.
- vs. Hero Mavrick 440: While based on the Harley X440, the Mavrick is a strong contender. The Guerrilla 450 offers a significant performance advantage with its liquid-cooled engine, making it the choice for the enthusiast.
Value-for-Money Analysis: Who is This Bike For?
- Who should consider this bike? Riders graduating from 150-200cc bikes, existing Royal Enfield owners looking for a modern upgrade, and anyone who loves the modern classic vibe but wants modern performance. It’s perfect for the rider who wants one bike for everything – daily commutes, weekend rides, and occasional touring.
- Who shouldn’t? Pure performance junkies who crave the sharp, aggressive nature of a KTM. Also, riders who prioritize the premium fit and finish and the British brand cachet of the Triumph might still lean that way.
Buyer Advice (Unique Insight): The Head vs. Heart Dilemma
Here’s my take on the toughest choice in the Indian market right now:
- If you want a feature-packed, comfortable, and powerful modern classic backed by the biggest service network in India, WAIT FOR THE GUERRILLA 450. The inclusion of Google Maps navigation is a massive practical advantage that no rival offers.
- If your heart is set on the most premium finish, the smoothest high-revving engine, and the prestige of the Triumph brand, the Speed 400 is an absolutely brilliant choice RIGHT NOW. You can’t go wrong with it.
