Imagine cruising through the city or hitting the open highway, the wind in your face, and the rumble of a powerful engine beneath you. That’s the promise of the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450, a modern-retro roadster that blends style, performance, and affordability. Launched in July 2024, this bike has already captured the hearts of riders with its striking design and robust 452cc engine, all starting at an attractive price of ₹2.39 lakh (ex-showroom). Let’s dive into what makes the Guerrilla 450 a game-changer in the mid-size motorcycle segment.
Why the Guerrilla 450 Stands Out
The Guerrilla 450 isn’t just another bike; it’s Royal Enfield’s bold entry into the sub-500cc roadster market. Unlike its adventure-focused sibling, the Himalayan 450, this bike is built for urban commutes and spirited highway rides. Its modern-retro aesthetic—think a round LED headlight, sculpted 11-litre fuel tank, and minimalist tail section—gives it a distinct identity. Available in six vibrant colours like Peix Bronze, Brava Blue, and Yellow Ribbon, it’s a head-turner wherever you go.
Take Raj, a 28-year-old software engineer from Bangalore. He was torn between the Triumph Speed 400 and the Guerrilla 450. “The Royal Enfield’s unique look and that throaty exhaust note won me over,” he says. “Plus, the price point made it an easier choice for my budget.”
Power-Packed Performance
At the heart of the Guerrilla 450 lies the Sherpa 450 engine, a 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled powerhouse. It delivers 39.47 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox featuring a slip-and-assist clutch. Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or cruising at 120 kmph on the highway, the bike’s ride-by-wire system and dual modes—Eco and Performance—ensure a smooth, responsive ride.
According to a BikeWale review, the Guerrilla 450 achieves a tested mileage of 29.5 kmpl, making it a practical choice for daily riders. However, some experts note a slight lack of low-end grunt below 2,000 rpm, which can make slow city rides tricky. Still, its 0-100 kmph sprint in 6.57 seconds is impressive for its class.
Suspension and Handling
The Guerrilla 450 is built on a steel tubular frame with the engine as a stressed member, offering a balance of agility and stability. Its 43mm telescopic front forks (140mm travel) and linkage-type monoshock rear suspension (150mm travel) soak up bumps effortlessly, even on India’s pothole-ridden roads. With 17-inch alloy wheels and chunky tubeless tyres (120/70 front, 160/60 rear), it boasts the widest rear tyre in its segment, ensuring superior grip.
Tech and Features for the Modern Rider
Royal Enfield has packed the Guerrilla 450 with features to appeal to tech-savvy riders. The top-spec Flash and Dash variants come with a 4-inch TFT display, complete with Google Maps navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and music controls. The base Analogue variant offers a digi-analogue cluster with an optional Tripper navigation pod. A USB-C charging port on the handlebar is a thoughtful touch for long rides.
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors, sums it up: “The Guerrilla 450 is our take on modern roadsters—exciting, accessible, and packed with character.”
Pricing and Variants
The Guerrilla 450 is available in three variants:
- Analogue: ₹2.39 lakh (Smoke, Playa Black)
- Dash: ₹2.49 lakh (Gold Dip, Playa Black, Peix Bronze, Smoke Silver)
- Flash: ₹2.54 lakh (Brava Blue, Yellow Ribbon)
These prices are ex-showroom and position the bike competitively against rivals like the Triumph Speed 400 (₹2.42 lakh) and Hero Mavrick 440. Royal Enfield’s extensive after-sales network and lifestyle ecosystem—think apparel and riding events—add extra value.
Who Should Buy the Guerrilla 450?
This bike is perfect for riders seeking a blend of style, performance, and practicality. It’s ideal for young professionals like Raj who want a versatile machine for daily commutes and weekend getaways. However, hardcore off-road enthusiasts might prefer the Himalayan 450, as the Guerrilla is tuned for tarmac.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eye-catching modern-retro design
- Powerful 452cc engine with smooth delivery
- Feature-rich with TFT display and navigation
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- 11-litre fuel tank limits long-range touring
- Slight low-end torque lag in city traffic
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is a compelling package for anyone craving a stylish, powerful, and affordable roadster. Its unique look, robust engine, and modern features make it a strong contender in the mid-size segment. Whether you’re a first-time Royal Enfield buyer or a seasoned rider, this bike offers a thrilling yet practical riding experience.
Ready to join the Guerrilla tribe? Book a test ride at your nearest Royal Enfield dealership and feel the roadster spirit for yourself!