The Royal Enfield Bear 650 has roared onto the scene, and it’s turning heads with its rugged charm, powerful engine, and smart features. Launched on November 5, 2024, this scrambler-style motorcycle is built on the Interceptor 650 platform but brings a fresh twist to the middleweight segment. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone eyeing a stylish upgrade, the Bear 650 promises a blend of retro vibes and modern tech that’s hard to ignore. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes this bike special, from its beefy engine to its cutting-edge features, and why it’s creating such a buzz among biking enthusiasts.
What Is the Royal Enfield Bear 650?
The Bear 650 is Royal Enfield’s latest addition to its 650cc lineup, designed as a scrambler that channels the spirit of the 1960s Big Bear Run in California. Inspired by Eddie Mulder, the youngest champion of that iconic desert race, this bike combines vintage aesthetics with contemporary performance. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a lifestyle statement for riders who crave adventure on and off the road.
Priced between ₹3.39 lakh and ₹3.59 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, the Bear 650 is available in five vibrant color options: Boardwalk White, Petrol Green, Wild Honey, Golden Shadow, and Two Four Nine. Each variant adds a unique flair, making it a head-turner whether you’re cruising city streets or tackling rugged trails.
Why Scramblers Are Making a Comeback
Scramblers, like the Bear 650, are enjoying a resurgence. Historically, they were stripped-down street bikes modified for off-road capability—lighter, tougher, and ready for anything. Today, they’re lifestyle accessories, blending retro cool with modern functionality. According to a 2024 report by BikeWale, the global scrambler market is growing at a CAGR of 5.8%, driven by demand for versatile bikes that handle both urban and off-road environments. The Bear 650 taps into this trend, offering a perfect mix of style and substance.
The Heart of the Beast: A Powerful 648cc Engine
At the core of the Bear 650 is Royal Enfield’s proven 648cc parallel-twin, air-oil-cooled engine. While it shares the same block as the Interceptor 650, the Bear gets a tuning tweak that boosts its torque to 56.5 Nm at 5,150 rpm—a 4.5 Nm increase over its sibling. The power output remains a solid 47 bhp at 7,150 rpm, paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox featuring a slip-and-assist clutch.
What’s New with the Engine?
The standout upgrade is the two-into-one exhaust system, replacing the Interceptor’s dual exhaust. This change not only enhances torque but also shaves 2 kg off the bike’s weight, bringing the kerb weight to 216 kg. Riders report a livelier feel, with the Bear 650 accelerating to triple-digit speeds with ease. As one rider shared on BikeDekho, “The new exhaust gives it a throatier growl, and you feel the extra punch when you twist the throttle.”
Real-World Performance
On a recent test ride in the USA, reviewers noted the Bear’s ability to tackle both winding backroads and hard-packed dirt with confidence. The engine’s linear power delivery makes it accessible for beginners yet thrilling for experienced riders. With a claimed mileage of 22–30 kmpl (depending on riding conditions), it’s also fuel-efficient for a 650cc machine, making it a practical choice for long rides.
Smart Features That Elevate the Ride
The Bear 650 isn’t just about raw power; it’s packed with smart features that enhance the riding experience. Royal Enfield has gone all-in on modern tech while keeping the bike’s retro soul intact.
All-LED Lighting
The Bear 650 is the first in Royal Enfield’s 650cc lineup to feature full LED lighting, including a circular headlamp, taillamp, and indicators. This upgrade improves visibility during nighttime rides and adds a premium touch. According to ZigWheels, the LED headlamp offers brighter illumination compared to the Interceptor’s halogen unit, making it safer for low-light conditions.
TFT Instrument Cluster
Borrowed from the Himalayan 450, the 4-inch circular TFT display is a game-changer. It supports Bluetooth connectivity, Google Maps navigation, and call/SMS alerts, all controllable via the left-hand switchgear. The Tripper Dash, powered by Google Maps, ensures you never lose your way, though you’ll need to keep your phone’s screen on for navigation, which may drain the battery. A USB Type-C charging port on the handlebar keeps your devices juiced up.
Switchable Dual-Channel ABS
Safety gets a boost with switchable dual-channel ABS, allowing riders to disable rear ABS for off-road fun. The braking setup includes a 320mm front disc and a 270mm rear disc, offering confident stopping power. Reviewers praise the ABS for its seamless operation, especially on loose surfaces.
Suspension and Handling: Built for Adventure
The Bear 650 is designed to handle diverse terrains, from smooth highways to broken trails. Its suspension and wheel setup set it apart from the Interceptor 650.
Upgraded Suspension
The bike features 43mm Showa upside-down (USD) forks with 130mm of travel at the front and twin shock absorbers with 115mm of travel at the rear. Compared to the Interceptor’s 110mm front and 88mm rear travel, this upgrade improves ride quality on rough roads. The increased suspension travel also raises the ground clearance to 184mm, making it ideal for light off-roading.
Scrambler-Ready Wheels and Tyres
The Bear 650 sports a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheel combo, fitted with MRF Nylorex block-pattern tyres. These dual-purpose tyres offer excellent grip on loose surfaces without compromising on-road performance. Note that tubeless tyres aren’t an option, which might be a minor drawback for some riders.
Ergonomics for Comfort
With a seat height of 830mm—the tallest in Royal Enfield’s 650 range—the Bear 650 offers an upright riding position. The wide handlebar and repositioned footpegs create an “elbows-up” stance, perfect for both relaxed cruising and aggressive off-road riding. Riders on BikeDekho rave about the single-piece quilted seat, which allows easy weight shifts on sandy or muddy terrain.
Design: Retro Meets Rugged
The Bear 650 nails the scrambler aesthetic with a minimalist yet muscular look. It borrows the Interceptor’s peanut-shaped fuel tank and round headlamp but adds unique touches like race-plate-style side panels, a short rear fender, and a number board for authentic scrambler appeal. The 13.7-litre fuel tank ensures decent range, while the compact 2-1 exhaust adds a rugged vibe.
Color Options That Pop
The five color variants are a highlight, with names inspired by the bike’s adventurous spirit. Wild Honey and Two Four Nine stand out for their bold, youthful appeal, while Boardwalk White offers a clean, classic look. According to Royal Enfield’s official site, the premium black finish on the engine and exhaust amplifies the scrambler attitude.
How Does It Compare to the Competition?
The Bear 650 has few direct rivals in the 650cc scrambler segment. The Moto Morini Seiemmezzo 6½ is a premium alternative but comes with a higher price tag. The Triumph Scrambler 400X, while cheaper, is in a lower displacement class. The BSA Goldstar 650, with its 652cc single-cylinder engine (45 bhp, 55 Nm), is a close competitor, but the Bear’s parallel-twin offers smoother power delivery.
A Financial Express comparison highlights the Bear’s edge in torque and modern features like the TFT display and switchable ABS, making it a more versatile choice for riders seeking both performance and tech.
Who Is the Bear 650 For?
This bike is perfect for riders upgrading from 200–350cc motorcycles or those who want a stylish, capable machine for both city commutes and weekend adventures. Its approachable power, comfortable ergonomics, and scrambler versatility make it ideal for a wide range of riders. However, the 216kg weight and 830mm seat height might be challenging for shorter or novice riders.
Real-Life Rider Feedback
A user on BikeDekho shared, “I rode my friend’s Bear 650, and the handling is spot-on. It feels heavy at first, but once you’re moving, it’s smooth and confident. Perfect for long journeys.” Another rider noted, “The styling is a conversation starter. Everywhere I park, people ask about it.”
Pricing and Availability
The Bear 650 starts at ₹3.39 lakh for the Broadwalk White variant and goes up to ₹3.59 lakh for the Two Four Nine (ex-showroom, Chennai). Deliveries have already begun in India, with bookings open at Royal Enfield dealerships. In the USA, it’s priced at $6,849, and in the UK, it starts at £6,749. For the latest pricing and customization options, check Royal Enfield’s official website.
Why the Bear 650 Stands Out
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 combines the best of both worlds: classic scrambler styling and modern technology. Its torquey engine, upgraded suspension, and smart features like the TFT display and switchable ABS make it a standout in the middleweight segment. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or exploring backroads, this bike delivers a thrilling yet practical ride.
Expert Insights
Motorcycle journalist Anuj Mishra from BikeWale calls the Bear 650 “the liveliest member of Royal Enfield’s 650cc family.” He praises its handling and torque boost, noting, “It’s the best road bike Royal Enfield has made in this segment.” This sentiment is echoed by riders who appreciate the bike’s balance of power and agility.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a ticket to adventure, wrapped in a retro package. With its powerful 648cc engine, smart features, and rugged design, it’s ready to conquer both urban jungles and off-road trails. If you’re in the market for a versatile, stylish scrambler that doesn’t break the bank, the Bear 650 deserves a test ride.
Ready to feel the thrill? Head to your nearest Royal Enfield dealership and experience the Bear 650 for yourself. Let us know in the comments what you think of this new scrambler or share your own riding stories!