FT450: Limited edition flat tracker exclusively for the Slide School
The Royal Enfield FT450 was developed on the basis of the new Guerrilla 450 and was built specifically for the company’s own Slide School program. In cooperation with Dirt Craft and under the direction of multiple flat track champion Gary Birtwistle, the FT450 is used exclusively on selected speedway tracks in the UK. Participants in the Slide School in Leicester or Kent have the exclusive opportunity to ride the bike themselves on loose surfaces – there are no plans to sell it to private customers.
Technically, the FT450 is based on the liquid-cooled Sherpa 450 single-cylinder engine from the Himalayan 450. The engine’s power output in standard form is 40 hp (29.4 kW) at around 8,000 rpm. The maximum torque is 40 Nm (29.5 lb.ft) and is likely to be increased slightly thanks to a special FuelX tuning module and a sporty complete exhaust system. However, exact figures have not yet been confirmed.
The chassis has been radically streamlined for use on dirt ovals and equipped with specific flat track fairings. The FT450 rolls on specially manufactured hubs with 19-inch rims and has modified ergonomics for maximum control during cross slides. Other special features include:
- Custom flat track tires
- Special handlebars for greater leverage
- Custom graphics kit in the style of the Slide School
While the FT450 can only be ridden on the track, its sister model, the Guerrilla 450, is available for regular use. For this production motorcycle, Royal Enfield offers the optional Flat Track GMA accessory package, which includes a bench seat, engine guards, radiator covers, and handlebar end mirrors for £697 (approx. $825, €885). The Guerrilla 450 starts at £4,850 (approx. €5,740, $6,160).
Himalayan 650: New adventure platform about to hit the market
Away from the Slide School, Royal Enfield is working on expanding its adventure segment. The first images of a new Himalayan with a 648cc twin-cylinder engine have been published on social media. This engine is already used in the Interceptor, Bear, and Continental models and typically delivers 47 hp (34.6 kW) at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque (38.4 lb.ft) at 5,250 rpm.
The prototype model shown looks almost ready for series production. Particularly striking are the long shock absorber with rear deflection, the massive upside-down forks at the front, and the absence of the brand’s signature “beak design.” The 21/17-inch spoked wheels are presumably tube-bound. Two brake discs at the front provide powerful deceleration, while the smaller Himalayan 450 manages with a single disc.
The new Himalayan 650 is positioned well above the current 450 version, which is offered at a base price of £5,450 (approx. €6,450, $6,915). Experts expect pricing in the range of £7,000 to £8,000 (approx. €8,280 to €9,460, $8,890 to $10,160) for the upcoming twin adventure bike. The target audience is primarily touring riders in Europe, North America, and the emerging middle class in India.
Outlook
With the FT450 Flat Tracker and the new Himalayan 650, Royal Enfield is underlining its ambitions in the off-road and adventure segment. While the FT450 brings excitement to the racetrack as an exclusive slide school machine, anticipation is growing for the upcoming large touring enduro, which is set to expand the brand’s adventure portfolio.
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