Royal Enfield’s heritage in retro-styled motorcycles is legendary—and the Classic 650, launched in India on March 27, 2025, takes that aesthetic to a new scale. Built atop the 650 Twin platform, this is the boldest and biggest Classic yet.
Design & Style: Vintage with a Modern Touch
Inspired by post‑war British bikes and echoing the Classic 350’s iconic lines, the Classic 650 features teardrop fuel tank, curved fenders, round headlamp, and plenty of chrome. Despite its vintage styling, you’ll find modern features like LED lighting, an LCD display inset, and a USB‑C charging port.
Engine & Performance
The heart of this beast is Royal Enfield’s familiar 648 cc parallel‑twin, shared with the Super Meteor and Shotgun 650. It delivers roughly 46–47 hp at 7,250 rpm, with around 52 Nm torque depending on tuning. The steel‑tube frame and suspension geometry deliver a ride that balances presence with proportional comfort.
Chassis & Ride
Weighing in at about 243 kg (curb), this is RE’s heaviest model yet. The ride posture is relaxed yet classic, with an 800 mm saddle height and 154 mm ground clearance. Spoked wheels (19″ front, 18″ rear) come fitted with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS. Suspension hardware includes Showa telescopic forks and twin shocks.
Variants & Pricing (India)
Launched in three variants:
- Classic
- Hotrod
- Chrome
Price range: ₹3.37–3.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
What’s New Compared to the 350?
- Increased displacement via Twin engine for smoother, more capable touring.
- Better power output and highway performance.
- Beefier chassis, premium hardware, more creature comforts.
- A moodier, more premium remix of Classic 350’s visuals.
Riding Experience & First Impressions
Previews and ride reviews by Rider Magazine and Motorcycle.com highlighted the Classic’s charm, with praise for its smooth engine, enjoyable soundtrack, and captivating looks. Owners say it feels like a living museum piece—but without compromise on reliability or performance.
What’s in the Pipeline: Currents & EV Transition
Beyond the Classic 650, Royal Enfield continues to expand its 650cc family. Noteworthy launches include:
- Interceptor Bear 650 (scrambler) – released late 2024, 47 bhp, 57 Nm, USD front suspension, TFT console with navigation.
- Bullet 650 Twin – a more minimalist, purist-friendly 650 with analog charm, expected second half of 2025.
- Flying Flea C6 and S6 – RE’s push into electric bikes, debuting globally in early 2026 under the Flying Flea sub-brand, with vintage styling combined with modern EV tech.
Conclusion
The Classic 650 is a bold statement from Royal Enfield: it takes the charm of their Classic lineage and expands it into 650cc territory, offering more torque, presence, and capability. For riders who love retro aesthetics but demand more grunt and modern conveniences, this one hits the sweet spot.
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