Royal Enfield’s Classic 650 expands the RE twin series to six motorcycles. The iconic silhouette connects instantly with enthusiasts; but how is it to ride? Read out the first ride review report of Royal Enfield Classic 650 here:
Ooty: For years now, Royal Enfield Classic motorcycles have become synonymous with leisurely riding experiences. Their flagship, the Classic 650 Twin is expected to follow this tradition, so two factors are clearly in its favour; its 648cc parallel twin engine and retro design being two examples. I put the Royal Enfield through its paces in Ooty’s scenic and serpentine terrain in order to test whether its logic matches emotion when it comes to ride time:
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Design: Dressed To Impress?
At first glance, its silhouette is instantly recognisable: round LED headlamps with pilot lamps and metallic caps make this Classic signature vehicle. Its wide headbar features switches and buttons shared with Shotgun 650; additionally round mirrors, an analogue (circular) speedometer featuring multi-information displays, tripper navigation capabilities and round mirrors complete a comfortable cockpit experience.
Only when approaching the bike does its difference from its predecessor become clear. The Classic 650 features a larger engine, larger discs, chunkier forks and two long chrome-clad exhaust pipes with twin, long chrome exhaust pipes – giving an imposing presence. Attention to detail is generally satisfying and there are four colorways to choose from.
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Ergonomics: One Size Fits All?
The Classic 650 holds the distinction of being the heaviest Royal Enfield motorcycle ever available for purchase, tipping the scales at 243 kilograms – two more kilograms than its Super Meteor counterpart – which requires you to hit the gym regularly to maintain it. While its fluid suspension makes for enjoyable twisty rides while hiding its weight well during travel, pulling it out of parking spots or stop-and-go traffic will prove challenging and it may need assistance during inclines to gain control.
Motorcyclists sit upright and comfortably on both the 350 and 650, although the latter feels wider at the tank and handlebar than its counterpart. At 800-mm seat height, even someone 5.2-feet tall can flat foot at ease; footpegs are neutrally set – on the move one would find that their designers have managed to preserve a classic motorcycle stance.
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Engine Cycle Parts Are Custom-Made
As with its design, the Classic 650 features numerous components from other Royal Enfield motorcycles for its engine and cycle parts. Its 648cc parallel twin air/oil-cooled engine produces 46.3hp with 52 Nm peak torque output mated to a 6-speed gearbox featuring slip-and-assist clutching system for optimal performance.
RE Classic 650 utilizes 19-inch front (100/90) and 18-inch rear (140/70) cross-spoke wheels with tube-type tyres shod with tubeless rubber, both fitted with tubeless tubeless tires. Aside from wheel size differences from Shotgun 650, which differs significantly in terms of front suspension features; Classic uses 43 mm telescopic suspension up front while Shotgun uses upside down forks of similar size. Both motorcycles share similar steel tubular frames used to hold engine components while nestling engine components together as well as similar swingarms; as both motorcycles use subframes that secure pillion seats.
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Ride Review: Remarking on Resemblance
The tried-and-tested 648cc engine feels smooth and refined. Power is never an issue with this motor, and with 80 per cent of torque available as early as 3,000rpm the rider enjoys tractability of it. Cruising along at steady highway speeds with your Classic 650 comfortably set at the same gear is pure delight; but fast speeds of 100kmph or above come naturally for this motorcycle!
Riding a Classic 650 in city traffic would likely result in fatigue due to constantly feathering a relatively heavy clutch and heat generated from its massive twin engine. On highways however, its long wheelbase (1475mm) should help it feel at home; filtering in traffic may require extra caution however.
The Classic 650 was both direct and enjoyable to ride on winding mountain roads with subpar traffic conditions. Steering felt engaging; steering may differ more in cities. With its higher ground clearance (154mm vs the Shotgun and Super Meteor’s 148.5 mm), the Classic 650 handled moderate speed breakers without scraping its underbelly.
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Price and Market Analysis:
Royal Enfield’s Classic 650 motorcycle starts at an ex-showroom price of Rs 3.37 lakh, while its Chrome model costs an extra Rs 13,000 to own. Continental GT650 and Interceptor 650 models are more cost-effective, while Bear, Shotgun and Super Meteor bikes all sit above this model in terms of overall pricing.
Royal Enfield now has six parallel twin motorcycles for enthusiasts to choose from, each offering something different. Riding on strong brand recall, Royal Enfield may find itself with the Classic 650 being its best seller shortly. Though flawed but evocative of emotions – like its Himalayan brother it may not take you everywhere you need or desire, but will fill you with pride nonetheless – Royal Enfield’s Classic 650 may serve as an upgrade option to their Classic 350 or Classe 350 bikes while providing something a few loyalists would consider an upgrade upgrade option over their classic 350 and Classe 350 counterparts.
