Royal Enfield Classic 650 set to debut on March 27: Key expectations

Royal Enfield first unveiled the Classic 650 at EICMA 2024 in November last year. This much-anticipated motorcycle has been in development for a long time, with test mules spotted on various occasions over the past couple of years. Initially planned for launch by the end of 2024, the company postponed its release.

Now, the Chennai-based manufacturer has officially announced that the Classic 650 will hit the market on March 27, 2025. Once launched, it will become the sixth model in Royal Enfield’s 650cc lineup, joining the ranks of the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, Super Meteor 650, Shotgun 650, and Bear 650.

Royal Enfield Classic 650: Expected Design

Unofficial bookings for the Classic 650 have already begun at several dealerships across India. The motorcycle shares its mainframe with the Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650 while retaining the timeless aesthetics of the Classic 350, one of Royal Enfield’s most popular models.

The Classic 650 features a signature round LED headlight with ‘tiger lights’ or pilot lamps, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a vintage-style single-seat setup. However, an optional pillion seat is available for those who prefer a two-seater configuration. The motorcycle is powered by a parallel-twin engine and features twin exhausts similar to other 650cc models, with the exception of the Bear 650.

Royal Enfield Classic 650: Expected Features

Royal Enfield has equipped the Classic 650 with several modern features to enhance rider experience while maintaining its retro appeal.

• The motorcycle boasts all-LED lighting for improved visibility.

• A Type-C charging port is included to allow riders to charge their devices on the go.

• Adjustable brake and clutch levers offer better control and customization.

• The semi-analogue display, borrowed from the Classic 350, includes a speedometer, digital fuel gauge, gear indicator, odometer, and a clock.

Royal Enfield Classic 650: Expected Hardware

The Royal Enfield Classic 650 is built on a robust steel tubular spine frame, ensuring durability and stability. The suspension setup consists of:

• Front Suspension: 43mm telescopic forks with 120mm of wheel travel.

• Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorbers offering 90mm of wheel travel.

Additionally, the Classic 650 shares several components with the Shotgun 650 and Super Meteor 650 models. Braking duties are handled by:

• Front Brake: 320mm single disc.

• Rear Brake: 300mm single disc.

With an 800mm seat height, 154mm ground clearance, and a 14.8-litre fuel tank, the motorcycle is designed for comfort and practicality, making it suitable for both city rides and long-distance touring.

Royal Enfield Classic 650: Expected Powertrain

At the heart of the Classic 650 lies a 648cc parallel-twin, oil-cooled engine, a powertrain that has already proven its reliability across Royal Enfield’s 650cc lineup.

• The engine produces 46.4 bhp and 52.3 Nm of peak torque.

• It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and features a slip and assist clutch for smoother gear transitions and reduced clutch effort.

This powertrain configuration ensures a balance of power, efficiency, and refinement, making it an appealing choice for both new and experienced riders.

Conclusion

The Royal Enfield Classic 650 is set to bring together the best of both worlds—modern engineering and classic styling. With its retro-inspired design, feature-packed build, and reliable powertrain, the Classic 650 aims to be a strong contender in the mid-size cruiser segment. As Royal Enfield expands its 650cc lineup, this upcoming model is expected to attract both long-time enthusiasts and new riders seeking a blend of tradition and performance. The official launch on March 27, 2025, will reveal the final pricing and variant details, but as of now, the anticipation is at an all-time high.