Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450: The Roadster Test

Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 in Yellow Ribbon color showing neo-retro roadster design, round LED headlight, and 452cc Sherpa engine badge

The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 strips away the adventure pretense of its Himalayan sibling to deliver a pure roadster experience with the proven 452cc Sherpa engine. After three weeks of city commutes, highway runs, and spirited twisty-road sessions, we’ve gathered real-world data on performance, mileage, and the ownership experience that matters beyond the spec sheet. Here’s everything you need to know before booking one.​

Quick Verdict: The Guerrilla 450 nails the balance between modern performance (40PS/40Nm) and classic Royal Enfield character, delivering quicker acceleration than the Speed 400 (6.57s vs 7.49s to 100kmph) and better real-world fuel economy (29kmpl vs 26kmpl). It’s 11kg lighter than the Himalayan, more city-friendly, and packed with ride modes and TFT connectivity on upper variants. Trade-offs include a small 11-liter tank limiting range to ~300km, firmer suspension that can feel jarring on bad roads, and a slightly heavy clutch in stop-go traffic. Best for: Urban riders who want torque-rich midrange punch, neo-retro style, and modern tech without the bulk of an ADV not for mileage chasers or comfort-first tourers.​

Engine & Performance

Sherpa 452cc Heart

The Guerrilla borrows the Himalayan’s liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve single making 40.02PS at 8,000rpm and 40Nm at 5,500rpm. Royal Enfield tuned it for roadster duty with a 45-tooth rear sprocket (vs 47T on Himalayan) for snappier acceleration. The engine management system includes ride-by-wire throttle, Eco and Performance modes, and a slip-assist clutch.​

Real-World Acceleration

In back-to-back drag tests, the Guerrilla hit 100kmph in 6.57 seconds, nearly a full second quicker than the Triumph Speed 400’s 7.49s. The 0-60kmph sprint takes just 2.87 seconds, making traffic overtakes confident and decisive. The broader midrange torque curve (livelier between 3,000-6,000rpm) gives the Guerrilla a useful punch in low-speed maneuvers compared to the Speed 400’s narrower power-band.​

Top Speed & Highway Cruising

Top speed sits around 140kmph per manufacturer claims, with comfortable cruising at 100-120kmph. Some vibrations emerge past 6,000rpm and become more prominent above 8,000rpm, though less viby than the Himalayan. The 6-speed gearbox holds highway speeds easily, though the engine makes little torque below 2,500rpm, requiring more frequent shifts in crawling traffic.​

City vs Highway Character

City: Exciting acceleration and compact proportions make the Guerrilla slick in traffic, though the slightly heavy clutch and low-end torque dip (under 2,500rpm) can frustrate in stop-go conditions. Once rolling above 4,000rpm, it feels in its element.​

Highway: The 185kg wet weight and long wheelbase deliver planted stability at speed, even in crosswinds or wet conditions. Owner feedback confirms “confident overtakes” and “solid high-speed stability” on open roads.​

Mileage & Fuel Economy

ARAI vs Real-World Numbers

Royal Enfield claims 29.5kmpl ARAI. In mixed riding conditions (city, highway, spirited twisties), the Guerrilla returned 29.08kmpl remarkably close to the claim. By comparison, the Speed 400 delivered 26.25kmpl in identical tests, making the Guerrilla more fuel-efficient despite similar power.​

Tank Range Reality

The compact 11-liter fuel tank (6 liters smaller than Himalayan’s 17L) limits range to approximately 300-320km on a full tank. The Speed 400’s 13-liter tank extends its range to 341km despite worse economy, a 21km advantage that matters on long tours. Owners report 25-28kmpl in city commutes and 30-34kmpl on highways with sane riding.​

Cost Per Kilometer

At current fuel prices (~₹100/liter) and 29kmpl average, you’re spending roughly ₹3.45 per km. Over 10,000km annually, expect ₹34,500 in fuel costs competitive for the 450cc class.​

Design & Build Quality

Neo-Retro Roadster Aesthetic

The Guerrilla blends Hunter 350’s round LED headlight and fork gaiters with a sleeker tank featuring an offset fuel cap, creating what one tester called “a bike that looks like it entered a custom competition”. The rear section mirrors the Himalayan 450 with the same exhaust and taillight-integrated turn indicators.​

Color & Variant Options

Three variants span ₹2.39-2.54 lakh ex-showroom (now ₹2.56-2.72L post-GST 2.0):​

  • Analogue: Smoke Silver (semi-digital cluster from Super Meteor 650)
  • Dash: Playa Black, Gold Dip, Peix Bronze (4″ TFT + Bluetooth)
  • Flash: Brava Blue, Yellow Ribbon (4″ TFT + Bluetooth)

Standout colors include Brava Blue’s color-matched subframe and front wheel, and the bold Yellow Ribbon for maximum road presence.​

Build Quality & Fit-Finish

Solid construction catches attention everywhere, with good panel gaps and quality materials. The 160-section rear tire is the widest in its segment, adding to the muscular stance. Minor quibbles: some owners dislike the rotary dial switchgear on new RE models.​

Features & Technology

Instrument Console Options

Flash/Dash variants: 4-inch circular TFT with Bluetooth connectivity, Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation, media controls, and multiple ride modes. The screen auto-switches between light/dark themes based on ambient light, though visibility suffers under harsh sunlight due to reflections.​

Analogue variant: Semi-digital cluster with analogue speedometer and digital inset, plus optional Tripper navigation pod.​

Rider Aids & Safety

  • Dual-channel ABS (non-switchable)
  • Ride-by-wire throttle with Eco and Performance modes
  • Engine kill switch, side stand indicator, hazard lights
  • USB Type-C charging port
  • Full LED lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals, DRLs)
  • Gear indicator, service due indicator, distance-to-empty

Missing: Traction control, though testers noted it wasn’t necessary even in monsoon conditions.​

Connectivity & Smartphone Integration

Bluetooth pairing enables call/SMS alerts, music controls, and phone-based navigation mirroring on the TFT. Geo-fencing and vehicle location tracking add security layers.​

Ride Comfort & Ergonomics

Seating Position

Upright, neutral riding posture with a low 780mm seat height accommodates shorter riders and provides commanding visibility. The single-piece seat feels firm on rides over 2 hours, prompting some owners to add aftermarket cushions.​

Suspension Setup

Front: 43mm conventional telescopic forks (non-adjustable), 140mm travel​
Rear: Linkage-type monoshock (preload-adjustable), 150mm travel​

The suspension is tuned firm for sporty handling, absorbing small bumps decently but feeling jarring over potholes or undulations at speed. Owners describe it as “slightly firm but not harsh” in cities, “composed on bumpy village roads,” and “stable in twisties”. Highway riders appreciate the planted feel, though some report rear bounce on really bad patches.​

Weight & Maneuverability

At 185kg kerb weight, the Guerrilla feels light and nimble in traffic, easy to maneuver in tight spots despite not being as flickable as the 176kg Speed 400. The long 1,440mm wheelbase and fat tires (120/70 front, 160/60 rear) favor high-speed stability over quick direction changes.​

Handling & Braking

Corner Stability vs Agility

The Guerrilla doesn’t match the Speed 400’s sharp, sporty agility you need to put in slightly more effort to tip it into corners or flick side-to-side. However, once committed to a line, it holds it with impressive stability. The CEAT block-pattern tires (more form than function) perform well in the dry but don’t inspire confidence on wet roads.​

Brake Performance

310mm front and 270mm rear discs deliver decent initial bite and stable, confident stops. The front brake has adequate power for the class; the rear brake is less aggressive but gets the job done. No reported issues with brake fade or ABS intervention during spirited riding.​

Ownership Experience

Real Owner Feedback (1,000+ km)

From Team-BHP and BikeDekho user reviews:​

Likes:

  • Powerful, smooth engine with effortless hill overtakes
  • Modern, handsome design with strong road presence
  • Alloy wheels with tubeless tires (no puncture anxiety)
  • Feature-rich digital dash that’s intuitive
  • Comfortable for city commutes and occasional tours
  • Service accessibility (wide RE dealer network)
  • Peppy mid-range grunt for highway cruising

Dislikes:

  • Small 11L fuel tank limits range (~250-300km)
  • Firm rear suspension on bad roads
  • Seat firmness on rides beyond 2 hours
  • Heat buildup in slow traffic (clears quickly when moving)
  • Slightly heavy clutch in stop-go conditions
  • Loud/flashy color options may not suit everyone

Maintenance & Service

3-year/30,000km warranty standard. First service at 500km/45 days, second at 5,000km/180 days, third at 10,000km/365 days. Parts availability is strong thanks to Royal Enfield’s extensive India network. Typical service costs align with other 450cc RE models (₹2,000-3,500 per scheduled service).​

Waiting Period & Availability

As of October 2025, waiting periods range 20-45 days across major cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru). Sales jumped from 688 units in July 2025 to 1,781 units in August 2025.​

Price & Variants

Ex-Showroom Pricing (Post-GST 2.0)

Prices increased up to ₹18,479 in September 2025:​

  • Analogue: ₹2,56,387 (was ₹2.39L)
  • Dash: ₹2,67,116 (was ₹2.49L)
  • Flash: ₹2,72,479 (was ₹2.54L)

On-Road Prices (Major Cities)

CityOn-Road Price (starting)
Bangalore₹3,31,883
Mumbai₹3,12,640
Pune₹3,08,727
Hyderabad₹3,08,727
Chennai₹3,09,014
Ahmedabad₹2,93,631
Delhi₹3,03,599

Value Proposition

At ₹2.56L ex-showroom (base), the Guerrilla costs ₹23,000 more than the Triumph Speed 400 (₹2.34L) and ₹17,000 more than the Harley-Davidson X440 (₹2.40L). You’re paying for the extra torque, modern tech (TFT, ride modes, Bluetooth), and Royal Enfield’s service network is competitive if those priorities matter.​

Pros & Cons Table

ProsCons
Powerful 40PS/40Nm Sherpa engine with broad midrange torque ​Small 11L fuel tank limits range to ~300km ​
Quicker acceleration than Speed 400 (6.57s vs 7.49s to 100kmph) ​Firm rear suspension jarring on potholes/bad roads ​
Better real-world mileage (29kmpl vs Speed’s 26kmpl) ​Seat firmness causes discomfort after 2+ hours ​
Modern tech: TFT display, Bluetooth, Google Maps, ride modes ​Heat buildup in slow traffic (clears when moving) ​
11kg lighter than Himalayan 450, more city-friendly ​Slightly heavy clutch frustrating in stop-go ​
Widest 160-section rear tire in segment, stable handling ​Not as agile/flickable as lighter Speed 400 ​
Low 780mm seat height, accessible to shorter riders ​Traditional telescopic forks (not inverted) ​
Strong road presence, unique neo-retro styling ​Flashy color options may not suit everyone ​
Extensive Royal Enfield service network ​Costs ₹22k more than Speed 400 ​
3-year/30,000km warranty ​TFT screen suffers glare in harsh sunlight 

Comparison Table (Vehicle Specs)

FeatureGuerrilla 450Triumph Speed 400Hero Mavrick 440Harley X440
Engine452cc liquid-cooled398cc liquid-cooled440cc air/oil-cooled440cc oil-cooled
Power40.02PS @ 8000rpm40PS @ 8000rpm27PS @ 6000rpm27.37PS @ 6000rpm
Torque40Nm @ 5500rpm37.5Nm @ 6500rpm38Nm @ 4000rpm38Nm @ 4000rpm
Kerb Weight185kg176kg191kg190kg
Mileage (real-world)29kmpl26kmpl~30kmpl~28kmpl
0-100kmph6.57s7.49s9.91s~8.5s
Top Speed140kmph145kmph150kmph137kmph
Fuel Tank11L (~300km)13L (~341km)13.5L13.5L
Suspension Front43mm tele, 140mm43mm tele, 130mm37mm tele, 130mm41mm tele
Brakes310mm F / 270mm R300mm F / 230mm R276mm F / 220mm R320mm F / 240mm R
ABSDual-channelDual-channelDual-channelDual-channel
Seat Height780mm790mm803mm805mm
Price (ex-showroom)₹2,56,387₹2,33,754₹2,40,000₹2,39,500
Unique StrengthTorque + tech + mileageAgility + refinementEasy-going tractabilityHarley badge + style

Guerrilla 450 vs Competition

SpecificationGuerrilla 450Triumph Speed 400Hero Mavrick 440
Engine452cc liquid-cooled398cc liquid-cooled440cc air/oil-cooled
Power40.02PS @ 8000rpm40PS @ 8000rpm27PS @ 6000rpm
Torque40Nm @ 5500rpm37.5Nm @ 6500rpm38Nm @ 4000rpm
Weight185kg176kg191kg
Mileage (tested)29kmpl26kmpl30kmpl (claimed)
0-100kmph6.57s7.49s9.91s
Fuel Tank11L13L13.5L
Price (ex-showroom)₹2.56L₹2.34L₹2.40L
Top Speed140kmph145kmph150kmph (claimed)

vs Triumph Speed 400

The Speed 400 is lighter (176kg), more agile, and cheaper (₹22k less) with better refinement. The Guerrilla counters with superior acceleration (nearly 1s quicker to 100kmph), better fuel economy (29 vs 26kmpl), more tech (TFT with Bluetooth, ride modes), and broader midrange torque for real-world overtaking. Choose Speed 400 if: you prioritize nimbleness, refinement, and value. Choose Guerrilla if: you want torque, character, and modern features.​

vs Hero Mavrick 440

The Mavrick is the torquier (38Nm) but laziest of the trio, taking 9.91s to 100kmph nearly 3.5s slower than the Guerrilla. It’s more commuter-oriented with softer suspension and higher fuel economy claims (30kmpl). The Guerrilla is 6kg lighter, significantly quicker, and more performance-focused. Choose Mavrick if: you want easy-going tractability and comfort. Choose Guerrilla if: you crave excitement and acceleration.​

Who Should Buy the Guerrilla 450?

Best For:

  • Urban riders wanting torque-rich performance without ADV bulk
  • Royal Enfield enthusiasts upgrading from 350cc models
  • Riders who value modern tech (TFT, Bluetooth, ride modes) with classic DNA
  • Buyers seeking quicker acceleration than Speed 400 with better mileage
  • Weekend warriors doing 200-300km trips (not long-distance tourers)
  • Style-conscious riders who want neo-retro head-turner aesthetics

Skip If You Want:

  • Absolute fuel economy champion (Hunter 350 does 40+ kmpl)
  • Long-distance touring range (small 11L tank is limiting)
  • Plush, comfortable suspension for bad roads (Mavrick 440 better)
  • Lightest, most flickable handling (Speed 400 wins here)
  • Budget priority (Speed 400 costs ₹22k less)

Buying Checklist

Before You Book:

  •  Test ride in your typical riding conditions (city traffic, highway, if possible)
  •  Check waiting period at local dealer (varies 20-45 days)
  •  Compare on-road prices in your city (registration/insurance vary by state)
  •  Sit on seat for 15+ minutes to assess comfort (firm seat may need upgrade)
  •  Evaluate 300km tank range against your riding patterns
  •  Confirm service center proximity (RE network is extensive)
  •  Consider ₹15-25k for accessories (crash guards, flyscreen, seat upgrade, panniers)
  •  Ask about current offers/exchange bonuses (vary by month/dealer)

Post-Purchase Priorities:

  •  First service at 500km/45 days (critical for engine break-in)
  •  Install phone mount if using navigation frequently
  •  Add tank pad to protect paint from zipper scratches
  •  Consider seat cushion/upgrade if planning 2+ hour rides
  •  Join RE owner communities for tips, rides, maintenance insights

The Bottom Line

The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 carves a unique space as a torque-rich, tech-forward roadster that doesn’t pretend to be practical. It beats the Speed 400 in straight-line acceleration and fuel economy while delivering more emotional engagement than the numbers suggest. The Sherpa 452cc engine proves versatile, the neo-retro styling polarizes but turns heads, and the modern features (TFT, Bluetooth, ride modes) finally bring RE into 2025.​

Trade-offs are honest: the small tank demands frequent stops, the firm suspension won’t pamper on broken roads, and the weight doesn’t vanish in tight corners. But for urban riders craving a characterful, powerful daily rider with weekend adventure potential without the bulk of an ADV or the sterility of a sportbike the Guerrilla 450 hits a sweet spot few competitors reach.​

At ₹2.56-2.72 lakh, it asks a premium over the Speed 400, but you’re buying into Royal Enfield’s expanding modern lineup with the service network to back it. If your rides rarely exceed 250km per leg and you value torque over absolute refinement, this is the roadster that finally makes the “new Royal Enfield” promise real.​

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you prioritize torque-rich performance (40Nm), modern features (TFT, Bluetooth, ride modes), and neo-retro style over absolute comfort or touring range. It accelerates quicker than the Speed 400 (6.57s vs 7.49s to 100kmph) and delivers better real-world mileage (29kmpl vs 26kmpl), making it a strong choice for urban and weekend riders. However, the small 11L tank (~300km range) and firm suspension may deter long-distance tourers or comfort-first buyers.​

What is the real-world mileage of the Guerrilla 450?
In mixed riding conditions (city, highway, spirited twisties), the Guerrilla 450 returned 29.08kmpl, remarkably close to the 29.5kmpl ARAI claim. Owners report 22-28kmpl in city commutes and 30-35kmpl on highways with sane riding. With the 11-liter tank, expect approximately 300-320km range per fill-up.​

How does the Guerrilla 450 compare to the Triumph Speed 400?
The Guerrilla is quicker (6.57s vs 7.49s to 100kmph), more fuel-efficient (29kmpl vs 26kmpl), and packs more tech (TFT, Bluetooth, ride modes). The Speed 400 is lighter (176kg vs 185kg), more agile, cheaper (₹2.34L vs ₹2.56L), and more refined. Choose the Guerrilla for torque, character, and modern features; pick the Speed 400 for nimbleness, refinement, and value.​

What are the main problems with the Guerrilla 450?
Owners report four recurring concerns: (1) small 11L fuel tank limiting range to 250-300km, (2) firm rear suspension feeling jarring on bad roads, (3) seat firmness causing discomfort after 2+ hours, and (4) heat buildup in slow traffic, though it dissipates quickly when moving. The slightly heavy clutch can frustrate in stop-go traffic.​

Which variant of the Guerrilla 450 should I buy?
The Dash variant (₹2.67L ex-showroom) offers the best value, adding the 4-inch TFT with Bluetooth and navigation for just ₹11k over the base Analogue. The Flash (₹2.72L) only adds different colors (Brava Blue, Yellow Ribbon) for ₹5k more worthwhile only if those shades appeal. Skip the Analogue unless the budget is tight; the TFT dramatically improves usability.​

Is the Guerrilla 450 good for long rides?
It’s capable but not ideal. The 40PS/40Nm engine cruises comfortably at 100-120kmph, and owners report successful 600+ km trips. However, the 11-liter tank requires fuel stops every 250-300km, the firm seat causes discomfort after 2 hours, and the stiff suspension can be taxing on bad highways. For occasional 200-300km weekend rides, it’s fine; for serious touring, the Himalayan 450’s 17L tank and softer suspension are better.​

What is the top speed of the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450?
The Guerrilla 450 has a claimed top speed of 140kmph per official specifications. Some sources estimate it could reach approximately 170kmph under optimal conditions, though vibrations become prominent above 8,000rpm. Comfortable highway cruising sits at 100-120kmph with stable, planted handling.​

How much does the Guerrilla 450 cost on-road?
On-road prices (including registration, insurance, taxes) range from ₹2.94 lakh in Ahmedabad to ₹3.32 lakh in Bangalore for the base Analogue variant. Ex-showroom pricing post-GST 2.0 (September 2025) starts at ₹2,56,387 (Analogue), ₹2,67,116 (Dash), and ₹2,72,479 (Flash). Prices vary by state; check with local dealers for accurate quotes.​

Quick Specs

Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Key Specs (2025): 452cc liquid-cooled single, 40.02PS @ 8000rpm, 40Nm @ 5500rpm, 185kg kerb weight, 29kmpl real-world mileage, 11L fuel tank (~300km range), dual-channel ABS, ride modes, TFT display (Dash/Flash variants). Price: ₹2.56-2.72L ex-showroom.

Real-World Performance

0-100kmph acceleration: 6.57 seconds (vs Speed 400’s 7.49s). Top speed: 140kmph claimed. Mileage: 29.08kmpl in mixed conditions (city + highway + spirited riding). Tank range: ~300-320km per 11L fill-up.

Guerrilla 450 vs Triumph Speed 400

Guerrilla 450 wins: Quicker acceleration (6.57s vs 7.49s), better mileage (29 vs 26kmpl), more tech (TFT + Bluetooth). Speed 400 wins: Lighter (176kg vs 185kg), more agile, cheaper (₹2.34L vs ₹2.56L), more refined. Choose based on priority: torque/character (Guerrilla) or nimbleness/value (Speed).

Common Issues

Owners report: (1) Small 11L tank limits range to 250-300km, (2) firm rear suspension jarring on bad roads, (3) seat discomfort after 2+ hours, (4) heat buildup in traffic (clears quickly when moving), (5) slightly heavy clutch in stop-go.

Best Variant

Dash variant (₹2.67L) offers best value: 4-inch TFT with Bluetooth + Google Maps navigation for just ₹11k over base Analogue. Flash (₹2.72L) adds only colors (Brava Blue, Yellow Ribbon) for ₹5k more. Skip Analogue unless budget-constrained TFT dramatically improves usability.

Who Should Buy

Ideal for: Urban riders wanting torque-rich performance without ADV bulk, RE enthusiasts upgrading from 350cc, tech-forward buyers seeking TFT/Bluetooth, weekend warriors doing 200-300km trips. Skip if: You need touring range (11L tank too small), plush comfort (suspension is firm), or tightest budget (Speed 400 ₹22k cheaper).

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