First Ride: Royal Enfield’s Guerrilla 450 Apex is all about fun
The Apex aims to bring more focus than the standard Guerrilla, but does it manage it? Jack Evans finds out.
What is it?
The original Guerrilla 450 was launched back in 2024 and aimed to show a more youthful, dynamic side to Enfield.
What’s new?
The Apex also gets a revised tyre setup, with new 17-inch road-focused Verdestein Centauro ST tyres aiming to bring a sharper riding experience and better cornering ability.
What’s it powered by?
Royal Enfield has also equipped the Apex with a revised set of riding modes, with Street and Sport settings there to tweak and change the responsiveness of the bike. These modes can be retained, too, meaning that they won’t immediately change back to default when you switch the bike off.
What’s it like to ride?
The little single-cylinder engine is great fun, too, and the six-speed gearbox is smooth and light to operate. It feels as if the brakes could do with a bit more bite, but they’re progressive enough and have a good action.
How does it look?
As with other Enfields, there’s a good range of colours to choose from with the Apex, with Red and Black models there to bring a brighter or more undercover look should you want them.
What’s the spec like?
Even against far more expensive motorcycles, it’s a very impressive setup for what is a very value-focused bike.
Verdict
The Apex feels like a very pleasant broadening of the Guerrilla range. It’s sporty, lightweight and easy to get along with, meaning that it could prove a popular option within the ‘first big bike’ segment for riders who have just got their licences.
When you consider the Apex’s low price, it all combines to make a very appealing prospect.