The roar of a Royal Enfield is unmistakable—a sound that stirs the soul of every motorcycle enthusiast. On March 27, 2025, Royal Enfield added a new chapter to its legendary Classic series with the launch of the Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin in India. Unveiled at EICMA 2024 and showcased at Motoverse 2024 in Goa, this retro-styled cruiser has been one of the most anticipated bikes in the 650cc segment. With a starting price of ₹3.37 lakh (ex-showroom, Chennai), the Classic 650 combines timeless design with modern performance, making it a dream ride for purists and new riders alike.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the price, features, specs, and everything else you need to know about the Royal Enfield Classic 650. Whether you’re a die-hard Royal Enfield fan or someone exploring the cruiser market, this article will guide you through why this bike is creating such a buzz. Let’s hit the road!
Why the Royal Enfield Classic 650 Matters
Royal Enfield has a cult following in India, and the Classic series is at the heart of its legacy. The Classic 350, launched in 2009, revolutionized the brand, becoming the highest-selling model in the 300-500cc modern-classic segment. However, fans of the now-discontinued Classic 500 have long craved a more powerful successor. Enter the Classic 650—a bike that blends the iconic retro charm of the Classic 350 with the punchy performance of Royal Enfield’s 650cc platform.
Imagine cruising down a coastal highway, the wind in your hair, and the throaty rumble of a 647.95cc engine beneath you. That’s the experience the Classic 650 promises. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a lifestyle statement for those who value heritage, craftsmanship, and effortless power.
Price of the Royal Enfield Classic 650 in India
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 is available in three variants, each with distinct color options and pricing. Here’s the breakdown (ex-showroom, Chennai):
- Hotrod Variant: ₹3,36,612 (Vallam Red, Bruntingthorpe Blue)
- Classic Variant: ₹3,41,037 (Teal)
- Chrome Variant: ₹3,49,891 (Black Chrome)
On-road prices, including RTO and insurance, range from approximately ₹3.86 lakh to ₹4.00 lakh in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Compared to its siblings like the Shotgun 650 (starting at ₹3.59 lakh) and Super Meteor 650 (starting at ₹3.68 lakh), the Classic 650 is competitively priced, undercutting both models while offering a premium retro experience.
For context, a friend of mine, Arjun, recently upgraded from a Classic 350 to the Classic 650. He shared, “The price felt steep at first, but the moment I took it for a test ride, I knew it was worth every rupee. It’s like the Classic 350 grew muscles!” This sentiment echoes across Royal Enfield forums, where riders appreciate the value-for-money proposition.
Key Features of the Royal Enfield Classic 650
The Classic 650 is a perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology. Here are the standout features that make it a head-turner:
Retro-Inspired Design
The Classic 650 borrows heavily from the Classic 350, with a round LED headlamp flanked by pilot lamps, a teardrop-shaped 14.7-liter fuel tank, and twin pea-shooter exhausts finished in chrome. The bike’s muscular stance, wider rear fender, and wire-spoked wheels (19-inch front, 18-inch rear) scream old-school charm. The Vallam Red variant, with its creamy white dual-tone and cursive Royal Enfield moniker, is particularly eye-catching.
Powerful 647.95cc Engine
At the heart of the Classic 650 is a 647.95cc, air/oil-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing 46.3 bhp at 7,250 rpm and 52.3 Nm of torque at 5,650 rpm. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch, it delivers smooth, linear power ideal for city commuting and highway cruising. The engine is the same as in the Interceptor 650 and Shotgun 650, known for its refinement and low-end torque.
Advanced Suspension and Braking
The bike features a 43mm Showa telescopic front fork with 120mm of travel and twin rear shock absorbers with 90mm of travel. While the suspension is on the stiffer side, it ensures stability on highways and corners. Braking is handled by a 320mm front disc and a 300mm rear disc, both with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety.
Modern Tech Touches
Royal Enfield has kept the Classic 650 simple yet functional. It includes:
- A semi-digital instrument cluster with fuel level, gear position, and trip information.
- A Tripper navigation pod for turn-by-turn navigation (standard across all variants).
- A_ANGLE USB Type-C charging port for on-the-go connectivity.
- Full LED lighting for better visibility and a premium look.
- Adjustable clutch and brake levers for rider comfort.
Comfortable Ergonomics
With an 800mm seat height and upright riding posture, the Classic 650 is accessible to most Indian riders, including shorter ones. However, at 243kg (kerb weight), it’s the heaviest Royal Enfield yet, which might feel daunting in traffic. The removable pillion seat, a nod to the Classic 500, adds versatility for solo riders.
Performance and Riding Experience
The Classic 650 is designed for those who crave a laid-back yet powerful ride. Its 647.95cc engine offers strong low-end torque, making overtaking effortless in city traffic and on highways. The bike’s top speed is around 157-160 km/h, and it achieves an ARAI-claimed mileage of 21.45 kmpl (real-world figures may vary between 18-20 kmpl in city conditions).
During a recent test ride in Chennai, auto journalist Pranav Rawat noted, “The Classic 650 feels like a Classic 350 on steroids. It’s stable around corners, and the engine is buttery smooth, but the stiff suspension can be a bit jarring on India’s pothole-ridden roads.” This aligns with feedback from early riders who praise the bike’s commanding road presence but wish for a slightly softer rear suspension.
For long-distance touring, the Classic 650 shines. Its 14.7-liter fuel tank offers a range of around 300 km, perfect for weekend getaways. Picture yourself riding through the winding roads of the Western Ghats, the engine’s rumble echoing through the hills—that’s the Classic 650 experience.
Color Options and Variants
The Classic 650 is available in four stunning colors, each with a unique vibe:
- Vallam Red: A rich red with creamy white accents, ideal for those who love bold, classic looks.
- Bruntingthorpe Blue: A deep blue that exudes understated elegance.
- Teal: The most elegant option with a color-matched frame, reminiscent of vintage RE models.
- Black Chrome: A premium, sophisticated finish for riders who want a modern edge.
Each variant—Hotrod, Classic, and Chrome—caters to different rider preferences, with the Chrome variant being the top-spec model. The variety ensures there’s a Classic 650 for every personality.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
The Classic 650 competes in the premium 650cc cruiser segment, where it faces off against bikes like the BSA Gold Star 650, Kawasaki Vulcan S, and Triumph Bonneville T100. Here’s a quick comparison:
- BSA Gold Star 650: Priced similarly, it uses a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, offering a different riding character but less refinement than the Classic 650’s parallel-twin.
- Kawasaki Vulcan S: More expensive (around ₹7 lakh), it’s a modern cruiser with superior performance but lacks the retro charm.
- Triumph Bonneville T100: Priced at ₹9.7 lakh, it’s a premium option with unmatched refinement but out of reach for many Indian buyers.
The Classic 650 stands out for its blend of heritage styling, competitive pricing, and Royal Enfield’s extensive dealer network, making it a compelling choice for Indian riders.
Who Should Buy the Royal Enfield Classic 650?
The Classic 650 is perfect for:
- Classic 350 Owners: Riders looking to upgrade to a more powerful, premium cruiser without losing the retro vibe.
- Long-Distance Tourers: The comfortable ergonomics and torquey engine make it ideal for highway rides.
- Retro Enthusiasts: Those who love vintage aesthetics but want modern reliability.
- New Riders in the 650cc Segment: Its accessible seat height and smooth power delivery suit riders stepping up from smaller bikes.
However, if you prioritize agile handling or ride mostly in congested city traffic, the bike’s 243kg weight and stiff suspension might feel cumbersome. Shorter riders may also need to test the bike’s heft before committing.
Pros and Cons of the Royal Enfield Classic 650
Pros
- Iconic retro design that turns heads.
- Smooth, torquey 647.95cc engine.
- Competitive pricing compared to rivals.
- Modern features like LED lighting, Tripper navigation, and USB charging.
- Comfortable for long rides.
Cons
- Stiff rear suspension can be uncomfortable on rough roads.
- Heaviest Royal Enfield at 243kg, challenging in traffic.
- Lacks the signature “thump” of the Classic 350’s exhaust.
Why the Classic 650 Is a Game-Changer
Royal Enfield’s 650cc platform has already won hearts globally, with models like the Interceptor 650 and Super Meteor 650 gaining popularity in Europe, the UK, and North America. The Classic 650 strengthens this lineup by tapping into the emotional connect of the Classic brand. According to industry data, the 650cc segment in India grew by 12% in 2024, driven by demand for premium retro cruisers. The Classic 650 is poised to capture a significant share of this market, especially among younger riders seeking heritage and performance.
The bike also reflects Royal Enfield’s commitment to innovation. By offering finance and upgrade options for Classic 350 owners through its Reown program, the brand ensures a seamless transition to the 650cc segment. Bookings and test rides are now open across 230+ cities in India, with deliveries set to begin in April 2025.
Final Thoughts: Is the Classic 650 Worth It?
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a tribute to the brand’s 120-year legacy. Priced between ₹3.37 lakh and ₹3.50 lakh, it offers unmatched value in the 650cc cruiser segment. Its retro design, powerful engine, and modern features make it a versatile choice for cruising city streets or exploring open highways. While the stiff suspension and heavy weight are minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the bike’s overall appeal.