Royal Enfield, a legendary motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy spanning over a century, is expanding its 650cc lineup with the Royal Enfield Bear 650. After the success of the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, and Super Meteor 650, the Bear 650 is expected to bring a fresh take on middleweight motorcycles, combining power, comfort, and rugged touring capabilities.
This in-depth review explores the Royal Enfield Bear 650’s design, engine, performance, comfort, features, and how it compares with other bikes in the same category.
Design and Styling
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 draws inspiration from modern retro design while adding rugged adventure-bike elements. It features:
- Chunky fuel tank with bold lines
- High-set handlebars for upright riding position
- Dual-purpose tires for both road and off-road usage
- Comfortable split seats for long touring sessions
With its tall stance and strong build, the Bear 650 looks ready for long-distance journeys. LED headlights, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and premium finishes make it both stylish and practical.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bear 650 is the 648cc parallel-twin engine—the same refined motor used in the Interceptor and Continental GT. It produces around 47 bhp at 7250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5250 rpm.
Key highlights:
- Smooth 6-speed gearbox with slip-and-assist clutch
- Linear power delivery suitable for city rides and highways
- Top speed estimated at 170+ km/h
- Excellent mid-range torque for effortless overtakes
This makes the Bear 650 versatile—comfortable for daily commuting while powerful enough for touring and occasional off-road use.
Ride and Handling
The Bear 650 is built with comfort and control in mind. Features include:
- Upright riding ergonomics with wide handlebars
- Telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear for stability
- Dual-channel ABS with disc brakes on both wheels for safety
- High ground clearance for rough terrains
On highways, it maintains stability at cruising speeds, while in cities, the engine remains tractable and easy to handle despite its weight.
Features and Technology
Royal Enfield has modernized the Bear 650 while keeping its retro appeal. Features include:
- Semi-digital instrument console (speedometer + trip info + fuel gauge)
- Tripper navigation pod with turn-by-turn navigation support
- LED lighting setup for improved visibility
- USB charging port for touring convenience
While not overloaded with electronics like some premium rivals, the Bear 650 keeps things simple yet functional.
Comfort and Touring Ability
Comfort is one of the strongest points of the Bear 650:
- Plush, wide seats support long-distance riding
- Upright ergonomics reduce fatigue on highways
- Large fuel tank (expected around 15–17 liters) for extended range
- Dual-purpose tires offer confidence on different terrains
Whether for weekend getaways or long road trips, the Bear 650 is designed to handle it all.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
The Royal Enfield 650cc engine is known for reliability and efficiency. The Bear 650 is expected to deliver around 22–25 km/l, depending on riding style and conditions.
Maintenance costs remain reasonable compared to international rivals, thanks to Royal Enfield’s wide service network. Spare parts and servicing are easily available, making it a practical choice for riders.
Safety
The bike includes:
- Dual-channel ABS
- Disc brakes on both wheels
- Sturdy chassis for stability
- High-visibility LED lights
While it may not feature advanced rider aids like traction control, the Bear 650 focuses on essentials that matter most to everyday riders.
Comparison with Rivals
The Bear 650 competes with motorcycles such as:
- Kawasaki Z650 RS
- Honda CB500X
- Benelli Leoncino 500
Compared to these, the Bear 650 stands out for:
- More affordable pricing
- Classic retro styling mixed with modern touring features
- Larger service network in emerging markets
However, rivals like Kawasaki may offer more advanced electronics, and Honda may provide better refinement at higher revs.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Refined and reliable 648cc parallel-twin engine | Slightly heavy for city traffic |
| Upright, comfortable riding ergonomics | Lacks advanced electronics (traction control, riding modes) |
| Retro-modern design with rugged appeal | Fuel efficiency lower than single-cylinder rivals |
| Affordable compared to international competition | Limited color options (expected) |
| Good touring ability with wide seats and large tank | |
| Wide Royal Enfield service network |
Who Should Buy the Royal Enfield Bear 650?
This bike is ideal for:
- Riders who want a powerful yet affordable middleweight motorcycle
- Touring enthusiasts who love long road trips
- City commuters looking for a comfortable daily machine with extra highway power
- Fans of Royal Enfield who want something bigger and more versatile than the Classic or Meteor series
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 is set to strengthen Royal Enfield’s position in the mid-size motorcycle segment. With its rugged design, refined 650cc engine, comfortable ergonomics, and value-for-money positioning, it’s a bike that blends tradition with modern touring needs.
For riders looking for a motorcycle that can handle both daily commutes and long adventures without breaking the bank, the Royal Enfield Bear 650 is an excellent choice.
Highlighted Specifications Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 648cc parallel-twin, 47 bhp, 52 Nm torque |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Top Speed | ~170 km/h |
| Brakes | Dual disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Suspension | Telescopic front, twin rear shocks |
| Tires | Dual-purpose, tubeless |
| Fuel Tank | ~15–17 liters |
| Mileage | 22–25 km/l (approx.) |
| Weight | ~200+ kg (expected) |
| Features | Semi-digital console, Tripper navigation, LED lights, USB charging |
