Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 | Photo Credit: Yash Gawde
The Apex features a striking red finish, complemented by a small fairing and a removable seat cowl, enhancing its visual appeal. These additions create a cohesive look compared to the standard Guerrilla and are paired with Vredestein Centauro ST+ tyres. A newly designed lower and flatter aluminum handlebar lends a forward-leaning stance, while bar-end mirrors contribute to its neo-retro style. The black-out cycle parts contrast nicely with the vibrant red, and quality of fit and finish exceeds expectations.
Under the hood, the Apex retains the 452cc Sherpa single-cylinder engine, delivering 39.45 bhp and 4 kg-m torque, with a kerb weight of 185 kg. While this weight surpasses some competitors, it does not detract significantly from the riding experience. The motorcycle offers two ride modes: Street and Sport, maintaining the intake roar under hard acceleration that characterizes the model. Royal Enfield states that the engine provides 90% of its torque starting from 3000 rpm, a claim that holds true during testing, with noticeable power surges at these revs becoming an enjoyable experience. Additionally, even at lower throttle, the exhaust notes add to the overall appeal.
Smooth Operator
The gearing appears slightly tall, necessitating frequent gear shifts at lower revs. However, mid-range performance excels, highlighting the engine’s torque-rich nature. Prolonged high-rpm use may lead to some vibrations in the hands and feet, but in normal riding conditions, the bike feels smooth and composed. A significant alteration in handling comes from the switch to high-grip road tyres, enhancing the motorcycle’s capabilities. This enables riders to explore its power potential across various lean angles, supported by the nimbleness of its frame. The overall ride quality remains stable and comfortable for this motorcycle type.
Braking performance, aided by a twin-disc setup, is satisfactory, although some movement of the rear under hard braking may be felt, adding a playful element rather than instability. However, the LED headlight underperforms and the small 11-litre fuel tank may pose a challenge on longer journeys. Some issues also arose with the switchgear, making it difficult to accurately select options on the display.
Nevertheless, the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Apex stands out as an engaging and trustworthy motorcycle. Priced at ₹2.49 lakh (ex-showroom introductory price), it presents a focused and complete offering. If rumors of a scrambler variant based on the Sherpa platform materialize, it may fulfill the promise of this line. For those not prioritizing sheer power figures but seeking a reliable and quick motorcycle, the Guerrilla 450 Apex offers numerous advantages.
@TheMotorGram
Published on May 29, 2026
