The Royal Enfield Classic series has been a major player in the modern-classic motorcycle segment, with the Classic 350 being a favorite for decades. Its retro appeal, thumping engine, and laid-back riding style have made it an iconic choice for riders in India and around the world. Building on this legacy, Royal Enfield is preparing to launch the Classic 650, a new, larger, and more powerful version set to debut in March 2025. This new bike is aimed at enthusiasts looking for a bigger, more refined motorcycle while still retaining the timeless appeal of the Classic nameplate.
With its expected price range of ₹ 3.4 to ₹ 3.5 lakh (ex-showroom), the Classic 650 will sit in the competitive mid-size motorcycle segment. It will face off against established rivals such as the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, Shotgun 650, and BSA Goldstar 650. But what sets the Classic 650 apart, and what can we expect from this new model? In this blog, we’ll delve deep into the design, performance, features, and more, to give you a comprehensive look at what the Classic 650 has to offer.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to the Royal Enfield Classic 650
Royal Enfield’s Classic range has always been synonymous with retro-styled motorcycles that pay homage to the company’s British roots. The Classic 350 has been one of the best-selling bikes in India, with its vintage design and signature thump making it a beloved machine. However, for riders who felt the need for more power and performance, Royal Enfield had to up its game with the 650cc platform.
The Classic 650 will be based on the same platform as the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, and the newer Super Meteor 650. However, the new model will carry the signature Classic design that made the 350 so popular, with a more substantial presence thanks to its bigger engine and premium features. Given Royal Enfield’s success with the Classic 350, the 650 is expected to be a hit among purists who want to upgrade without losing the charm of the iconic brand.
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | March 2025 |
| Expected Price | ₹ 3.4 – ₹ 3.5 lakh |
| Engine Capacity | 647.95 cc |
2. Design & Styling
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 retains much of the design language that made the Classic 350 such a huge success. For instance, the bike features a circular headlamp, a minimalistic fuel tank, and wide handlebars. These elements are staples of the Classic series and instantly recognizable to fans of the brand. However, the 650 is not a simple scale-up; it has its own distinctive identity.
One of the key differences is the larger presence of the bike. While the front looks almost identical to the Classic 350, the rear of the bike is significantly more substantial. The 650cc engine is bigger and more powerful, and this is reflected in the wider rear fender and dual exhaust pipes. The rear of the bike, in particular, gives the 650 a more muscular stance compared to its 350cc sibling.
The build quality of the Classic 650 is also noticeably higher than that of the 350. The handlebar clamp, switchgear, and paint finish exude a premium feel that was missing in the earlier models. This shows that Royal Enfield has gone above and beyond to create a motorcycle that not only looks good but also feels like a high-end product.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Headlamp Design | Circular, LED |
| Exhaust | Dual exhaust pipes |
| Rear Fender | Wider, more robust |
The choice of colors for the Classic 650 further enhances its premium appeal. Expect to see shades like deep maroons, blacks, and silvers, which complement its old-school aesthetic while offering something fresh and modern for the new generation of riders.
3. Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Classic 650 is a 649cc parallel-twin engine, which is the same as the one used in the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. This engine has been tuned to produce 46.39 bhp at 7250 rpm and 52.3 Nm of torque at 5650 rpm, making it a potent powertrain for a retro-styled bike.
While the Classic 650 doesn’t offer the same aggressive performance as some of its more sport-oriented counterparts, its power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it perfect for leisurely cruising on highways or winding roads. The 6-speed manual transmission, with a 1-down-5-up gear shifting pattern, ensures a comfortable and fluid riding experience, whether you’re in the city or on the open road.
Despite the impressive power output, some riders might feel that the Classic 650 lacks the characteristic “thump” that made the 350 so famous. The exhaust note is relatively subdued compared to the 350’s signature rumble. While this may be a point of contention for purists, the smoother engine note adds to the overall refinement of the motorcycle.
| Engine Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 647.95 cc |
| Max Power | 46.39 bhp @ 7250 rpm |
| Max Torque | 52.3 Nm @ 5650 rpm |
That being said, the bike’s overall performance is impressive. With a top speed of 140 km/h, the Classic 650 can hold its own on long highway stretches. The 243 kg kerb weight may feel heavy for some, particularly in urban environments, but it adds to the stability of the bike, ensuring that it doesn’t feel jittery at high speeds.
4. Brakes, Suspension & Handling
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 comes equipped with a capable braking system designed for both safety and performance. The front features a 320 mm disc brake paired with a 2-piston caliper, while the rear gets a 300 mm disc brake, also with a 2-piston caliper. The dual-channel ABS ensures that the bike remains stable even in emergency braking situations or when riding in wet conditions.
In terms of suspension, the Classic 650 features a 43 mm telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This suspension setup ensures a comfortable ride, even on long journeys or over uneven roads. The suspension has been fine-tuned to offer a smooth ride while maintaining the classic look and feel of the motorcycle.
Handling is another strong point for the Classic 650. Its larger size and heavier weight do affect maneuverability, especially in crowded city streets or tight spaces. However, once on the open road, the bike is incredibly stable and offers great comfort during longer rides.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Brake | 320 mm Disc |
| Rear Brake | 300 mm Disc |
| Suspension | Telescopic (front), Twin Shock (rear) |
The wider rear fender and dual exhaust pipes also enhance the bike’s stability, providing a planted feel on high-speed rides. However, the bike’s weight may be a challenge in cities with heavy traffic, so riders should be mindful of this while maneuvering.
5. Features & Technology
The Classic 650 isn’t just about looks and performance—it also comes loaded with modern features that make it a practical machine for today’s riders. The bike comes with an LED headlamp and tail light, which offer better visibility and energy efficiency than traditional bulbs. Additionally, the bike is equipped with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) for added safety, especially during day rides.
For convenience, the Classic 650 features a USB charging port, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. It also has adjustable levers, making it more comfortable for riders of different hand sizes and preferences. The bike also benefits from automatic headlight-on (AHO) technology, ensuring that the headlamp stays on even when the engine is running.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Lighting | LED Headlamp, Tail Light |
| Charging Port | USB Charging Port |
| Levers | Adjustable |
Although there’s no pillion backrest or grab rail, the Classic 650 does feature footrests for the pillion rider, ensuring that passengers have a comfortable ride. These features reflect Royal Enfield’s focus on creating a motorcycle that is both classic in looks and modern in functionality.
6. Competition
The Classic 650 enters a competitive market segment, facing competition from various other mid-size motorcycles. Among the most notable competitors are the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650, both of which share the same platform but offer different styling and features. Additionally, the BSA Goldstar 650, another retro-style motorcycle, is also vying for the attention of classic bike enthusiasts.
The upcoming Royal Enfield Continental GT 450, scheduled for launch in 2026, may also be a competitor in the future. However, the Classic 650 stands apart due to its undeniable heritage and the emotional connection many riders have with the Classic name.
| Competitor Model | Price Range (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Super Meteor 650 | ₹ 3.5 lakh approx. |
| Shotgun 650 | ₹ 3.59 lakh approx. |
| BSA Goldstar 650 | ₹ 3.5 lakh approx. |
7. Pricing & Verdict
At an expected price of ₹ 3.4 to ₹ 3.5 lakh, the Royal Enfield Classic 650 is positioned as a premium offering in the mid-size motorcycle market. For this price, it offers a combination of vintage styling, modern technology, and solid performance that is hard to beat. It’s a perfect choice for Royal Enfield enthusiasts looking for an upgrade from the Classic 350 or for those seeking a bike that blends retro design with contemporary features.
| Price Range | ₹ 3.4 – ₹ 3.5 lakh |
|---|---|
| Verdict | Ideal for enthusiasts seeking a premium Classic experience |
While the Classic 650 may not offer the raw power of sportier bikes, it delivers everything that a true retro enthusiast desires—looks, comfort, and performance. The bike’s ability to offer modern amenities while retaining that classic feel makes it a worthy investment.
8. Final through
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 promises to be a game-changer in the modern-classic motorcycle segment. With its vintage charm, modern features, and powerful engine, it offers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a newbie looking for a premium motorcycle, the Classic 650 is a bike that’s hard to ignore.
As we wait for its official launch in March 2025, there’s little doubt that the Classic 650 will quickly become a favorite among Royal Enfield fans and motorcycle enthusiasts alike. If you’ve been longing for an upgrade to your Classic 350, or if you simply want a motorcycle that offers timeless looks and modern-day performance, the Royal Enfield Classic 650 is definitely worth considering.
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