RE Scram 411 2,000km Long Term Report: 4 Things We Liked, 3 Things We Didn't

With the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 heading back, it was time for a change. I had two options to pick from, the snazzy RE Continental 650 or the rugged RE Scram 411, and my choice was clear. I liked the Scram 411 when we first got to ride it a couple of months back, but since the first ride experience was focussed on its off-road credentials, I was curious to test its real-world performance, Having ridden the bike close to 2,000km, here’s what we liked and disliked about the baby Himalayan.

Likes 

1, Comfortable ergonomics
The Himalayan had a comfortable riding posture, but with the Scram 411, RE has improved it further. The handlebar is positioned lower and closer to the rider, and although it is as wide as that of the Himalayan, on the Scram 411 you get the sensation that it’s wider offering better leverage. The upright riding stance is perfect for riding long hours and even after doing a couple of Mumbai-Pune runs, I never felt fatigued. Another very likeable aspect of the bike is the seat foam, which isn’t too firm and yet you don’t sink into the seat even after riding for three hours non-stop.

2, Handling
The 19-inch front wheel has been a boon for the Scram 411. The smaller wheel has not only improved its agility in city traffic but also improved its overall handling dynamics. On the mountain twisties it feels more predictable thereby instilling a lot of confidence in the rider. While it isn’t as sharp as the KTM 250 Adventure, the difference when compared to the Himalayan is stark and the Scram 411 feels more enjoyable.

3, Fuel efficiency
With rising fuel prices, fuel efficiency is taking prominence no matter what segment or displacement of motorcycle one rides. Gladly, the RE Scram 411 has been kind to my wallet. It has been constantly delivering 30-32kmpl and with its 15-litre fuel tank, one is looking at a real world range of close to 400km, which in my opinion is great. Most of my riding has involved 70 per cent highway and 30 per cent city and I am keen to see its performance at city speeds.

4, Cruising Ability
The Scram 411 is powered by the same single-cylinder engine as seen on the Himalayan and even the power output is similar. While the long-stroke mill isn’t the most powerful one out there, the dollops of torque that it offers makes the Scram a really good cruiser. You can hold speeds around 90-100kmph all-day long in a stress-free manner and overtakes require you just go down one cog. While it isn’t the most refined motor out there, vibes are mild and aren’t too intrusive.

Dislikes

1, Gearbox
I faced issues with the gearbox at the first ride and was hoping that it would improve with more miles clocked. Sadly, that isn’t the case, the gearbox is very notchy and requires a lot of effort to actuate, especially shifting between first and second gear. And owing to this, finding neutral will make you feel like Sherlock Holmes.

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2, Engine heat
Yes, the summer of 2022 has been very severe and the Scram 411 too experienced its effect. In stop and go traffic, one could feel engine heat being directed towards the rider’s legs. While it wasn’t severe or made me feel uncomfortable, it could have been avoided.

3, Weight
The meagre weight difference between the Himalayan and the Scram 411 is disappointing. The Scram is able to make up for it with better agility, but you do feel its heft while parking the bike. One needs to muscle it around and that wouldn’t have been the case if RE could have made it at least 10kg lighter than the Himalayan.