Royal Enfield fans have been eagerly awaiting the launch of the Classic 650 in India, and while it was originally scheduled for January 2025, there’s been a slight change in plans. According to our sources from dealerships, the much-anticipated launch has been delayed, with the price announcement now expected to take place closer to the end of February or early March.
What’s Behind the Royal Enfield Classic 650 India Launch Delay?
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 made its debut at the EICMA show in Milan last November, generating quite a buzz in the biking community. The initial plan was to unveil it in India at the Motoverse event in Goa. However, it seems Royal Enfield had other priorities, as they chose to let the new Classic 350 steal the spotlight at the event instead. As a result, the launch of the Classic 650 had to be postponed.
Pricing and Positioning in the Lineup
In terms of pricing, the Classic 650 is expected to be priced between ₹3.40 – ₹3.50 lakh (ex-showroom), which places it strategically between the Super Meteor 650 and the Shotgun 650 in Royal Enfield’s portfolio. This makes the Classic 650 an appealing option for those who want the charm of the 650cc twin-cylinder engine without the heft of the larger 650cc offerings in the range.
A Closer Look at the Classic 650
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 shares a similar chassis with the Super Meteor 650 and the Shotgun 650, although there are subtle differences in terms of geometry and kerb weight. At 243kg, the Classic 650 is only 2kg heavier than the Super Meteor 650, making it a bit of a robust contender in terms of handling and weight.
Under the hood, the Classic 650 is powered by the same 648cc parallel-twin engine that powers the Super Meteor 650 and the Shotgun 650. This engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch and delivers a healthy 46.3bhp and 52.3Nm of torque. Whether you’re cruising on highways or tackling city streets, this bike promises a balance of power and comfort.
Customization Options
The Classic 650 is delivered with a single seat, but for those who prefer riding with a pillion, there’s a simple fix. A bolt-on sub-frame, identical to the Shotgun, can be installed, allowing for the addition of a pillion seat. This gives riders the flexibility to customize the bike to their liking, making it an ideal choice for long-distance rides and city commuting alike.
Dealers Start Accepting Unofficial Bookings
Even though the official launch is a couple of months away, select dealers have already started accepting unofficial bookings for the Royal Enfield Classic 650. This shows just how much demand there is for the bike, and how eager Indian riders are to get their hands on this stunning new addition to the Royal Enfield family.
The Final Word
With its timeless design, powerful engine, and Royal Enfield’s reliable build quality, the Classic 650 is set to be a hit among motorcycle enthusiasts in India. Although the delay is disappointing, it’s clear that the company wants to ensure a perfect launch, and we’re sure it will be worth the wait.
So, if you’re among those who’ve been waiting to rev up your engines with the Classic 650, hang tight! The official price announcement and more details will be revealed soon, and we’ll be right here to keep you updated.