Royal Enfield has just unveiled the highly anticipated Bear 650 Scrambler, their latest 650cc motorcycle, ahead of its global debut at EICMA 2024. This exciting new model is based on the same platform as the popular Interceptor 650, but with several key upgrades that make it a standout scrambler. Let’s take a closer look at what this new bike brings to the table in terms of design, features, and engine specs.
Key Highlights:
- Launch Date: November 5, 2024 (EICMA)
- Engine: 649cc, 46 BHP, 56.5 Nm torque
- Suspension: Showa USD front fork, dual rear shock absorbers
- Brakes: 320 mm front, 270 mm rear, dual-channel ABS
- Weight: 216 kg
- Ground Clearance: 184 mm
- Features: Full-LED setup, round TFT digital console with Google Maps
Chassis and Hardware:
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 shares its chassis with the Interceptor 650, but it has been fine-tuned to offer better off-road capability. It comes with a Showa USD front fork and dual-shock absorbers at the rear, offering increased suspension travel of 130 mm at the front and 115 mm at the rear. This gives the bike better handling on rough terrains.
The Bear 650 features a staggered wheel setup with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, compared to the 18-inch wheels on the Interceptor. The scrambler rolls on spoked wheels wrapped in MRF Nylorex block-pattern tires, though tubeless tires are not an option. The ground clearance has been raised to 184 mm, making it more capable on off-road trails.
Design: Classic Scrambler Aesthetic
In terms of design, the Bear 650 stays true to the classic scrambler look. It has a circular LED headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a single-piece seat set at 830 mm. The bike also features a single upswept exhaust instead of the dual exhaust system seen on other 650cc models from Royal Enfield. Weighing in at 216 kg, it is slightly lighter than the Interceptor 650, which tips the scales at 218 kg.
Engine Specs
Under the hood, the Bear 650 is powered by the tried-and-tested 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 46 BHP at 7,250 rpm. However, what sets it apart is its torque performance. The Bear 650 delivers 56.5 Nm of peak torque at 5,150 rpm, which is the highest torque figure among all of Royal Enfield’s 650cc models. This is thanks in part to its new two-into-one exhaust system, which replaces the traditional dual exhaust found on the Interceptor.
Brakes
Braking is handled by a 320 mm disc at the front and a 270 mm disc at the rear, providing excellent stopping power. The bike also comes equipped with switchable dual-channel ABS, allowing the rider to disable the ABS on the rear wheel for more controlled off-road riding.
Features
The Bear 650 doesn’t just rely on its rugged looks; it also comes packed with modern features. It includes a full-LED lighting system, including headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators. The bike is also equipped with a round TFT digital instrument console, which is similar to the ones found on Royal Enfield’s Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450 models. This console offers integrated Google Maps navigation and music controls, enhancing the bike’s tech appeal.
Expected Launch and Price
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 will be officially launched on November 5, 2024, at the EICMA in Italy. The pricing and variant details will be announced at the event. It is expected to hit the Indian market at Motoverse 2024 in Goa, starting from November 22, with bookings likely to open around the same time.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 promises to be an exciting addition to the brand’s 650cc lineup. With its robust design, enhanced suspension, and powerful torque, this scrambler is set to appeal to both off-road enthusiasts and city riders alike. Stay tuned for more updates on pricing and availability as we approach the official launch.