Royal Enfield Classic 650 is expected to be unveiled later this year before reaching markets like India in early 2025
Only last month, the clearest spy pictures of the production-spec Royal Enfield Classic 650 appeared on the interweb – leading us to believe that the roadster could make its global debut later this year before going on sale in markets like India in early 2025. It is too early to predict if it will make its local premiere at the MotoVerse event 2024 in Goa.
It must be noted that Royal Enfield is also working on a scrambler based on the 650 cc platform which has been in the business since 2018. The Chennai-based manufacturer has been strengthening its 650 cc flagship range consistently over the years and earlier this year, the Shotgun 650 was introduced joining the fray with GT, Int and Super Meteor 650.
The spy photos of the Royal Enfield Classic 650 suggest a retro-inspired design, standing in line with the styling seen on the Classic 350 while incorporating a few modern features. It is equipped with a circular LED headlamp encased in silver, accompanied by pilot lamps. Other lighting elements, such as the indicators, retain a halogen setup, contributing to the retro vibe, at least in the test mules.
The seating arrangement is a single-piece seat, offering a traditional look and likely focusing on comfort for the rider. As expected, the handlebar is positioned upright aiming to offer relaxed touring characteristics, compounded by the middle-set footpegs. It will feature the tried-and-tested 648 cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with 270-degree firing order.
It will develop a maximum power output of 47 PS and 52 Nm of peak torque and will be paired with a six-speed gearbox while a slipper/assist clutch will be a standard feature. The roadster will likely come with a subframe and pillion seat similar to the SG650 and the dual exhaust pipes won’t be as steeply positioned as in the Continental GT or Int.
The braking duties will be handled by front and rear disc brakes, assisted by a dual-channel ABS system and wire spoked wheels will further enhance its vintage appeal. Expect the starting price of the RE Classic 650 to be around Rs. 3.2 lakh (ex-showroom).