Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650: A Cruiser with Identity Crisis (sports bike-like stiff rear suspension)

 

Royal Enfield has long been synonymous with classic, retro-styled motorcycles that exude timeless charm and robust performance. The introduction of the Super Meteor 650 marks a significant departure for the brand, blending the relaxed aesthetics of a cruiser with the spirited performance of a sports bike. However, one particular feature has sparked much debate among riders—the bike's stiff rear suspension. Let's delve deeper into what makes the Super Meteor 650 unique, and how this sportsbike-inspired suspension impacts its performance and rider comfort.

Design and Aesthetics

At first glance, the Super Meteor 650 impresses with its elegant cruiser lines. The sweeping tail section, broad fuel tank, and distinctive round headlight pay homage to classic cruiser designs. The bike's low-slung stance, wide handlebars, and forward footpegs promise a laid-back, comfortable riding posture suitable for long-distance cruising.

Yet, beneath this cruiser facade lies an unexpected twist—the Super Meteor 650's rear suspension. The stiff suspension setup, more akin to what you'd find on a sports bike, immediately sets it apart from traditional cruisers. This fusion of design elements caters to riders seeking both style and performance.

Engine and Performance

Central to the Super Meteor 650's appeal is its 648cc parallel-twin engine, which delivers a robust 47 horsepower and 52 Nm of torque. This engine, shared with the well-regarded Interceptor and Continental GT models, offers a smooth and responsive ride. Its power delivery is linear, providing ample torque throughout the rev range, making it suitable for leisurely cruises and more spirited rides.

The Super Meteor 650’s performance on the road is a testament to its versatile engine. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways, the bike's engine offers a satisfying blend of power and refinement. Its smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox enhances the riding experience, allowing for effortless transitions between gears.

The Stiff Rear Suspension: A Double-Edged Sword

The most contentious feature of the Super Meteor 650 is its rear suspension. Unlike the soft, plush suspension typically associated with cruisers, Royal Enfield has opted for a stiffer setup. This decision has both its advocates and detractors, each with valid points.

Advantages:

• Enhanced Handling: The stiffer rear suspension significantly improves the bike's handling characteristics. Riders will appreciate the increased stability and precise feedback when tackling corners, making the Super Meteor 650 feel more agile and responsive than a traditional cruiser.
• Sporty Performance: For those who enjoy a more dynamic riding experience, the stiff suspension adds a touch of sportsbike performance. The bike feels planted and controlled, encouraging riders to push their limits and enjoy a more engaging ride.
• Reduced Squat: Under hard acceleration, the stiff suspension helps reduce rear squat, maintaining a balanced and composed ride even when pushing the bike to its limits.

Drawbacks:

• Reduced Comfort: The most significant drawback of the stiff rear suspension is the compromise on comfort. Riders accustomed to the cushioned ride of traditional cruisers may find the Super Meteor 650's suspension less forgiving, particularly on rough or uneven surfaces.
• Vibration Transfer: The stiffer setup can transfer more road vibrations to the rider, potentially leading to fatigue on longer rides. This is a notable trade-off for those prioritizing comfort over sporty performance.
• Adaptation Period: Riders new to this suspension setup may require time to adapt. Initial rides might feel harsher than expected, but with time and familiarity, the benefits in handling and stability become more apparent.

Riding Experience

Despite the stiffer suspension, the Super Meteor 650 remains a joy to ride. Its comfortable seating position, ergonomic handlebars, and well-cushioned seat ensure that long rides are still manageable. The bike's weight distribution, though on the heavier side at approximately 241 kg, is well-balanced, making it easier to handle than it appears.

On smooth roads and highways, the Super Meteor 650 excels. The engine's mid-range torque allows for effortless overtakes, while the stiff suspension ensures stability at higher speeds. However, on bumpy roads or uneven terrains, the ride quality can feel harsh, a direct consequence of the sports bike-inspired suspension.

Market Position and Competition

The Super Meteor 650 carves out a unique niche in a market saturated with cruisers. It offers a blend of classic cruiser aesthetics with sporty performance, appealing to various riders. Competitors like the Kawasaki Vulcan 650 and the Benelli 502C offer similar cruiser experiences but lack the flair that the Super Meteor 650 brings.

Conclusion

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is a bold experiment in blending the worlds of cruisers and sports bikes. Its stiff rear suspension, while a point of contention, ultimately serves to enhance the bike's handling and performance. For riders seeking a cruiser with a sporty edge, the Super Meteor 650 offers a compelling package.

While traditionalists may find the suspension setup a departure from the cushioned comfort of classic cruisers, those willing to embrace this hybrid design will find a bike that is both versatile and engaging. The Super Meteor 650 is more than just a motorcycle; it's a statement of Royal Enfield's commitment to innovation and performance, challenging the conventions of what a cruiser can be.

Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350: The Dawn of Factory Bobber in India?

 

Introduction

The motorcycle industry in India has seen a resurgence of retro-styled bikes, and Royal Enfield has been at the forefront of this trend. With the launch of the Goan Classic 350 at the 2024 Motoverse event, Royal Enfield has introduced the first factory bobber in India, marking a significant milestone in the country's motorcycle landscape.

Design and Styling

The Goan Classic 350 is a bold and vibrant motorcycle that combines the timeless appeal of the Classic 350 with a modern bobber-inspired design. The bike features a low-slung design with a longer swingarm and retuned rear suspension for improved comfort and stability. The standout elements include the tall ape-hanger handlebars and a floating pillion seat, giving it a relaxed yet stylish character.

Performance and Features

Under the hood, the Goan Classic 350 is powered by the 349cc J-series engine, which produces 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox, offering a smooth and responsive riding experience. The bike boasts a fuel economy of around 32 kmpl, making it an efficient option for long rides.

The Goan Classic 350 comes equipped with 41mm telescopic front forks and twin rear gas-charged shock absorbers, ensuring smooth handling and versatility across different terrains. The bike features dual disc brakes with Dual Channel ABS for reliable stopping power. The retro white-wall tyres by CEAT, mounted on spoked rims designed for tubeless compatibility, add to its distinctive bobber look.

Technology and Convenience

The Goan Classic 350 enhances practicality with a digital-analog instrument cluster, combining a retro look with modern functionality. It includes a gear position indicator and a Tripper navigation pod for turn-by-turn directions, adding to its tech-savvy appeal. For added convenience, a USB Type-C charging port is available, ensuring riders stay connected on the move.

Competition and Market Position

The Goan Classic 350 competes with bikes like the Jawa Perak, Honda H'ness CB350, Yezdi Roadster, and Benelli Imperiale 400. These motorcycles, priced similarly, offer a mix of retro styling and modern features, catering to the growing demand for classic-inspired bikes in India.

Conclusion

The Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 is a game-changer in the Indian motorcycle market, bringing the bobber style to the masses for the first time. With its blend of classic design and modern features, it appeals to both new riders and seasoned enthusiasts. As the dawn of factory bobbers in India, the Goan Classic 350 sets a new standard for retro-styled motorcycles, promising an exciting future for the industry.

Royal Enfield Classic 350: This One Wins More Hearts Than Heads

 

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a legend on wheels. Over the years, this bike has developed a cult following and has become an icon in the world of motorcycling. It’s not just about the specifications or the performance; it’s about the charm, the nostalgia, and the sheer joy of riding that has won the hearts of many. Let’s delve into why the Royal Enfield Classic 350 wins more hearts than heads.

Aesthetic Appeal: Timeless Design

One of the first things that draws riders to the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is its timeless design. The bike’s retro styling, with its teardrop fuel tank, classic fenders, and chrome elements, evokes a sense of nostalgia. It’s a design that harks back to the golden age of motorcycling, yet it still manages to look contemporary and fresh.

The Classic 350’s design is all about simplicity and elegance. The round headlamp, with its chrome bezel, the simple yet stylish fuel tank with the Royal Enfield emblem, and the single-piece saddle with springs give the bike a distinctive look. It’s a design that appeals to the heart, drawing in riders who appreciate the blend of old-school charm and modern sensibilities.

Engine and Performance: Smooth and Refined

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is powered by a 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is not about raw power but about delivering a smooth and refined riding experience. It produces around 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque, which might not sound like much on paper, but the way it delivers this power is what sets it apart.

The Classic 350’s engine is tuned for torque, providing ample low-end grunt that makes it a joy to ride in city traffic and on the open road. The thumping exhaust note, characteristic of Royal Enfield bikes, adds to the overall riding experience. It’s a bike that doesn’t rush; it encourages you to take your time, enjoy the ride, and soak in the surroundings.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for Leisurely Rides

One of the standout features of the Classic 350 is its comfort. The bike’s upright riding position, with mid-set footpegs and wide handlebars, ensures that the rider is comfortable even on long rides. The seat is well-cushioned and provides good support, making it ideal for leisurely cruising.

The Classic 350’s suspension setup, with telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, offers a plush ride. It handles bumps and rough roads with ease, ensuring that the rider and pillion are comfortable at all times. This focus on comfort makes the Classic 350 a popular choice for long-distance touring and daily commuting alike.

Build Quality and Reliability: Solid and Dependable

Royal Enfield has made significant strides in improving the build quality and reliability of its bikes, and the Classic 350 is a testament to this progress. The bike feels solid and well-built, with high-quality materials and attention to detail evident throughout.

The Classic 350’s robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use and long rides. Routine maintenance is straightforward, and Royal Enfield’s extensive dealership network ensures that spare parts and services are easily accessible. This reliability adds to the bike’s appeal, making it a dependable companion for any journey.

Community and Culture: A Shared Passion

Owning a Royal Enfield is about more than just the bike; it’s about being part of a community. The Royal Enfield community is a vibrant and passionate group of riders who share a common love for the brand and its motorcycles. This sense of camaraderie and shared passion is one of the most rewarding aspects of owning a Classic 350.

Royal Enfield organizes various events, rides, and meetups, bringing together riders from different walks of life. These gatherings provide opportunities to share stories, exchange tips, and embark on adventures together. The sense of belonging and the shared experiences make owning a Classic 350 a truly enriching experience.

Customization Potential: Make It Your Own

The Classic 350’s design lends itself beautifully to customization. Royal Enfield offers a wide range of genuine accessories, allowing riders to personalize their bikes to reflect their unique style. Whether it’s adding luggage racks, changing the exhaust, or fitting custom seats, the options are plentiful.

The bike’s classic design also makes it a popular choice for custom builders and enthusiasts who enjoy modifying their motorcycles. From cafe racers to bobbers, the Classic 350 serves as an excellent canvas for creative expression. This customization potential adds to the bike’s appeal, allowing each owner to make their Classic 350 truly one-of-a-kind.

Why It Wins Hearts: The Intangible Charm

The Classic 350 might not be the fastest or the most technologically advanced motorcycle, but it has an intangible charm that resonates with riders. It’s a bike that appeals to emotions, evoking feelings of nostalgia, adventure, and freedom. The joy of riding a Classic 350 goes beyond numbers and specifications; it’s about the experience and the connection between the rider and the machine.

The Classic 350’s ability to win hearts can be attributed to several factors:

Timeless Design: The classic styling and retro charm make it a bike that appeals to the senses. It looks as good as it feels to ride.

Comfort and Ride Quality: The bike offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, making it suitable for both short trips and long journeys.

Community and Culture: Owning a Classic 350 means becoming part of a passionate community of like-minded enthusiasts who share a love for motorcycling.

Customization Potential: The ability to personalize and modify the bike to reflect individual style adds to its appeal and makes it a cherished possession.

Conclusion: A Winner at Heart

The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a symbol of heritage, craftsmanship, and the pure joy of riding. While it may not win every race or top every performance chart, it wins the hearts of those who appreciate the finer aspects of motorcycling. Its timeless design, comfortable ride, and the sense of community it fosters make it a beloved choice among riders.

In a world where technology and performance often take precedence, the Classic 350 reminds us of the simple pleasures of motorcycling. It’s a bike that celebrates the journey, the experiences, and the emotions that come with it. For those who value the heart and soul of a motorcycle, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is a clear winner.

What about the Classic 350 excites you the most? Feel free to share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have!

Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650: Why does it even exist?

 

The Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 is a fascinating addition to the 650cc lineup, and it raises the question: why does it even exist? Let's delve into the reasons behind its creation and what sets it apart from its sibling, the Interceptor 650.

A Nod to Scrambling Heritage

The Bear 650 draws inspiration from the rugged world of scramblers and off-road riding. Named after Eddie Mulder, the youngest champion to conquer the challenging Big Bear run in the California desert in 1960, the Bear 650 is designed to handle light off-road adventures. This heritage is evident in its design and features, which are tailored for a more adventurous riding experience.

 

Distinctive Design and Aesthetics

The Bear 650 stands out with its scrambler-style design. It features a two-into-one exhaust system, which not only gives it a unique look but also increases torque to 56.5 Nm at 5,150 rpm, compared to the Interceptor's 52 Nm. The bike comes in five vivid paint schemes Boardwalk White, Petrol Green, Wild Honey, Golden Shadow, and Two Four Nine, adding to its eye-catching appeal.

Enhanced Suspension and Handling

One of the key differences between the Bear 650 and the Interceptor 650 is the suspension setup. The Bear 650 is equipped with Showa USD forks and twin shock absorbers, providing 130mm of travel at the front and 115mm at the rear. This setup offers better handling and comfort, especially on rough terrains. The increased suspension travel and spoked 19/17-inch wheels with MRF Nylorex tires enhance its off-road capabilities.

 

Advanced Features and Technology

The Bear 650 boasts a fully digital TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to cast Google Maps onto the screen. It also features all-LED lighting, including a circular headlight and taillight, and a USB Type-C charging port. These features make the Bear 650 not only more functional but also more convenient for long rides and navigation.

 

Improved Braking System

The Bear 650 comes with a 320mm front disc brake and a 270mm rear disc brake, both with dual-channel ABS that can be turned off at the rear. This setup provides better stopping power and control, which is crucial for off-road riding and varied terrain.

 

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Bear 650 offers a redesigned, flatter seat and a higher seat height of 830mm, making it more comfortable for taller riders. The forward-set footpegs and higher handlebars contribute to a more relaxed riding posture, ideal for long rides and off-road adventures.

Why Does It Exist?

The Bear 650 exists to fill a niche in the Royal Enfield lineup for riders who seek a blend of classic design, modern technology, and off-road capability. It caters to those who want the versatility of a bike that can handle both city commuting and light off-road trails. By combining the best elements of the Interceptor 650 and the Shotgun 650, the Bear 650 offers a unique riding experience that appeals to a wide range of riders.

 

Conclusion

The Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 is more than just another bike in the 650cc lineup; it's a testament to Royal Enfield's commitment to innovation and versatility. With its scrambler heritage, enhanced features, and rugged design, the Bear 650 is a compelling choice for riders who want a bike that can handle diverse riding conditions. Whether exploring new trails or cruising through the city, the Bear 650 is built to provide an exhilarating and comfortable ride.

 

Please note that I have yet to test the bike. This is just my first opinion on what the Bear 650 should feel like based on its technical specifications and previous experience with Royal Enfield motorcycles.

Photo/s Courtesy: Royal Enfield.

Does ADV makes sense as a Daily Driver? ft. Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450

The Indian motorcycle market is diversifying rapidly. Young consumers are choosing ADVs over roadsters and commuters for their versatility and go-anywhere nature. However, the question that arises the most while purchasing one is whether an ADV makes sense as a Daily Driver?

While offroading and adventure touring have been gaining popularity lately, these trips don't last more than a month in a stretch. Besides those 30 days of joyriding, most ADVs spend time in cities. Are ADVs only meant to slog through hours of mindless traffic congestion and pothole-ridden roads throughout the year? Do their abilities become overkill when commuting?

The simple answer to that is yes. While some may argue about the situations where ADVs prove their superiority over other motorcycles. Situations such as a sudden pothole while going fast or need to go through flooded areas in monsoons. However, one has to remember that such situations are rare. Also, both commuters and roadsters are capable of tackling them, albiet with a bit more effort.

In my opinion, ADVs have been glorified more than needed in the past few years. Especially by people going on trips to Leh and Ladakh. Sure the convenience of higher ground clearance and bigger wheels come in handy, however, several people have done those trips even on scooters, cruisers, and low-capacity commuters.

Apart from capabilities, one has to pay a hefty premium to acquire an ADV in the first place. Further adding to the cost are the accessories such as a top box, saddle bags, sturdier crash guards, jerry can holders, and a few others, all of which can easily be fitted to a roadster as well. 

From my personal experience of riding with saddle bags on Dominar 400 (both in the city and on highway runs) felt more comfortable than being on a RE Himalayan 411 or KTM ADV range. I was able to tackle bad roads, no roads, loose surfaces, rocky patches, and even slush to a certain extent on the D400, never feeling nervous once. A few friends of mine did those kinds of rides on RE's Meteor and Classic 350s with all types of luggage onboard.

There is no doubt that the new Himalayan 450 is a gem of a machine, most buyers will not be able to do those offroad runs more often. While it may emerge as a status symbol, the majority of these riders will actually be better off with the new Guerrilla 450. Why you ask?

Firstly, with 17-inch wheels, the Guerrilla 450 will be much nimbler in traffic. Secondly, lower seat height will further aid riders with short stature. Also, with a much lighter kerb weight, the Guerrilla will be easier to move around than the Himalayan in crowded parking lots. The lower weight will also aid in better fuel efficiency. Also, with a starting price tag of around Rs. 2.9 lakh (on road, Thane), the Guerrilla is roughly Rs. 66,000 cheaper than the base Himalayan model (Rs. 3.56 lakh, on road, Thane).

For that amount, one can purchase a lot of accessories and still save enough money for fuel for a few months. Or better, even invest it wisely to gain good returns. Sure the Guerrilla may have a few shortcomings over the Himalayan. However, those can easily be overlooked, considering what the motorcycle brings to the table.

I don't expect everyone to have the same opinion as mine. However, I do advise one to find out their needs with the motorcycle rather than trying to follow the market trend. Also, make sure you take a test ride before going ahead with the purchase. As your opinion on a motorcycle's handling may differ from the automotive journalist you follow. It all boils down to your needs from the bike. If your criteria are fulfilled and the bike feels right when testing, then go for it.

On a personal note, I've been waiting for something like the Guerrilla 450 for a while now. Loved the Sherpa engine, but Himalayan was never going to be my choice. I'm more of a roadster/power cruiser kind of rider.