When it comes to classic motorcycling heritage combined with modern engineering, few brands strike a balance like Royal Enfield. After the roaring success of the Meteor 350, motorcycling enthusiasts around the world have been buzzing with excitement about the potential arrival of a Meteor 650 — a bike that could redefine middleweight cruising for a new generation.
A Natural Evolution from the Meteor 350
The Meteor 350 earned praise for its comfortable cruising posture, refined engine, and affordable price point. It became a go-to option for both new and experienced riders who wanted a reliable cruiser without breaking the bank.
But as demand for more powerful yet accessible cruisers grew, the idea of a Meteor 650 started to take shape — building upon the same ethos but with more power, highway capability, and premium features.
Expected Design and Aesthetics
If Royal Enfield stays true to its design philosophy, the Meteor 650 is likely to borrow styling cues from its 350cc sibling — rounded fuel tank, teardrop LED headlamp, relaxed handlebar position, and a well-padded split seat. However, it will also carry a more muscular frame to accommodate the 650cc engine, beefier forks, and possibly chunkier tires to handle longer touring duties.
Think of it as a blend between the laid-back style of a cruiser and the practical functionality of a long-distance motorcycle.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Meteor 650 would likely be Royal Enfield’s proven 648cc parallel-twin engine, the same one that powers the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. With around 47 horsepower and 52 Nm of torque, this engine is praised for its smooth, linear power delivery and a unique throaty exhaust note that cruiser fans love.
Mated with a 6-speed gearbox and assisted by a slipper clutch, the Meteor 650 will be well-suited for relaxed highway cruising, long-distance travel, and even occasional city commuting.
Features and Tech
While Royal Enfield keeps things relatively minimal in terms of tech, the 650 cruiser is expected to come equipped with:
-
Tripper Navigation (turn-by-turn navigation powered by Google Maps)
-
Dual-channel ABS
-
LED lighting setup
-
USB charging port
-
Digital-analog instrument cluster
Cruiser fans might also hope for accessories like touring windscreens, saddlebags, backrests, and crash guards — something Royal Enfield is known for offering via its MiY (Make it Yours) customization program.
Ride Comfort and Ergonomics
One of the biggest attractions of the Meteor 650 will be its comfortable, upright riding posture. Mid-set footpegs, wide handlebars, and a low-slung seat height should provide a relaxed feel for both short rides and long journeys. With upgraded suspension, possibly Showa forks and adjustable rear shocks, it could become a formidable option for highway riders looking for more comfort and control.
Price and Competition
While there’s no official launch or pricing as of now, the Meteor 650 would likely be priced competitively in the global middleweight cruiser segment. Expect it to sit slightly above the Interceptor 650, possibly around the ₹3.8 – ₹4.2 lakh INR mark (or equivalent in other markets).
Its key competitors would include:
-
Honda Rebel 500
-
Kawasaki Vulcan S
-
Benelli 502C
However, with its heritage appeal and Royal Enfield’s expanding global network, the Meteor 650 could carve out a niche of its own.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Enfield Meteor 650, though not officially confirmed at the time of writing, represents a natural and exciting evolution for the brand. If and when it arrives, it has the potential to shake up the cruiser scene by offering style, power, and comfort in a package that remains accessible to a wide range of riders.
Enhancing Motorcycle Safety: The Essential Guide to Fog Lamps