Exclusive: This Is How Auto Engina Developed The 822cc Parallel Twin Himalayan

Globally, the custom motorcycle scene is pretty ripe. Customisation is a very unique way of artistic expression and requires as much engineering as an eye for aesthetics. But building a custom engine isn’t for everyone, it requires painstaking precision and complicated engineering which isn’t possible in your average workshop with a welding machine. Here’s Pune-based custom bike builder – Auto Engina – telling us what went into making what is the world’s first 822cc parallel-twin Royal Enfield Himalayan.

Auto Engina hasn’t used an existing platform like the 650cc, twin-cylinder motor from a Continental GT 650 and bored the cylinder heads to arrive at 822cc. Instead, it has taken two BS3 Himalayan 411cc cylinder heads and fused them into one single motor. It then reworked the internals to make it a parallel twin motor.

Hence, the two pistons have been mounted to a custom-built crankshaft and the stroke cycle is set to a 180-degree firing order. Even the valves over each cylinder head have had to be redesigned and therefore operate on a custom built camshaft. It still retains a five-speed gearbox though.

The result in power (not dyno tested) is an approximate 45-50PS and the torque is so fat, Auto Engina says that the Himalayan 822 in second gear feels like a stock Himalayan in 3rd-4th gear. That claim shall be tested very soon when we get the bike for a proper road test.   

• World’s First 822cc Parallel Twin Royal Enfield Himalayan In 9 Images

• Surprise, Surprise! Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Incoming

• Check Out Royal Enfield Himalayan Price

Big engine means increase in thermal outputs, hence, the Himalayan 822 has been given the larger oil cooler borrowed straight from the Royal Enfield 650cc twins. Furthermore, as both engines are from the BS3 era, the fueling is still carbureted (twin stock carbs). 

A bigger engine has by default led to significant increase in weight. The Himalayan 822 weighs roughly 240kg (kerb) without panniers and top box. Built in partnership with design house Autologue Design, fifteen examples of this Himalayan 822 will be built and would cost approximately Rs 10 Lakh a pop! A bit expensive we’d say, especially as they aren’t road legal.