Royal Enfield Classic 650 Brings Twin Cylinder Magic For Retro Lovers

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a motorcycle that has evolved through generations and yet remains timeless in its appeal. In an era dominated by fully digital instrument clusters, sharp lines and lightweight designs, the Classic 350 proudly embraces the 1960s fashion. Ever since the 2019 platform upgrade though, the Classic fanclub begged for a larger capacity successor to the legendary Classic 500. In 2024, Royal Enfield acknowledged the demand and gave us the Classic 650.

Royal Enfield took the wraps off the Classic 650 at the EICMA 2024 event in Milan as its heaviest 650cc motorcycle yet. RE has expertly blended the heart of the Super Meteor 650 with the iconic bodyline of the Classic 350, giving this motorcycle a striking bobber look in its stock single-seater version.

For those who adore the thump and rev of the classic 350, this new model offers an even more powerful experience. The design elements, such as the handlebars, footpegs, headlight and fuel tank remain largely unchanged from the 350 variant but they now feature slightly larger dimensions, adding to the bike's commanding presence on the road. 

The Classic 350 is an amazing choice for riders who use it as a daily commuter, thanks to its flat handlebars and relaxed riding posture. But can we say the same for the Classic 650? 

Let's not pause to catch our breath; instead, let’s dive into the specifications and explore what this remarkable motorcycle has to offer.

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Why the Royal Enfield Classic 650 exists?

Since 2008, the Classic 350 has been one of Royal Enfield's most iconic motorcycles, inspired by the 1948 Royal Enfield G2. Traditionally powered by a 349cc engine, the Classic model has recently received a powerful upgrade with a 648cc parallel-twin engine, tested first in the Super Meteor 650. However, while the Meteor is aimed primarily at cruisers, the Classic 650 is designed for a more versatile experience.

The Classic 650 offers a comfortable, straight-bar riding posture, taller seat height and improved ground clearance—features that are lacking in the low-slung Super Meteor 650. It’s tailored for enthusiasts who rely on their motorcycle for daily commuting but crave the extra power and torque that goes beyond the capacity of the Classic 350.

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Royal Enfield Classic 650: All that's new

The all-new Royal Enfield Classic 650 arrives with the brand’s signature logo, a fresh colour scheme, and, most notably, a powerful 648cc parallel-twin engine. This engine delivers an impressive 46.39 hp at 7,250 RPM and 52.3 Nm of torque at 5,650 RPM. Like other models in the 650 lineup, the Classic 650 features a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-assist clutch.

Staying true to the retro styling of the original Classic 350, the new Classic 650 weighs in at 243 kg, making it the heaviest Royal Enfield model to date. It offers a seat height of 800 mm and a 19-18 inch spoke wheel setup, with 100/90-19 front and 140/70-R18 rear MRF Nylohigh tyres, designed for a solid and stable ride.

The Classic 650 is fitted with a 43mm Showa telescopic front suspension and twin shock suspension at the rear, similar to the Shotgun 650, though with stiffer tuning for added stability. The motorcycle comes standard with a single-seat setup, with the option to add a pillion seat just like on the Shotgun 650.

Royal Enfield has preserved the vintage charm of the Classic 350 by including an analogue instrument console with an LCD display and the older-spec Tripper navigation. The Classic 650 also features LED headlights and taillights, adjustable levers, a USB Type-C charging port and dual-channel ABS. Additionally, it has a 14.8-liter fuel tank, which is the largest on any Royal Enfield 650 model.

Royal Enfield Classic 650: Colourways

The Royal Enfield is now available in four different color tones, including the Classic's signature Chrome finish. The other colors include Teal, Bruntingthorpe Blue and Vallam Red. The Vallam Red features a differently styled Royal Enfield logo on the bike's fuel tank.

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Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs rivals

While Royal Enfield has not yet announced the price, it’s expected to be priced closer to the Super Meteor 650's ex-showroom price of INR 3.54 lakh.

The Classic 650 may present tough competition to models like the Kawasaki Vulcan S and Benelli 502C, yet it’s likely to carve out a unique space for itself, offering a balance of price and performance that appeals to loyal fans of Royal Enfield.

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