More Royal Enfield twins are on the way thanks to the addition of two new models, one of which was caught testing in spy photos, clearly showing that an upcoming retro model is nearly production ready.
The latest shots reveal a bike that’s based on the cruiser-style frame of the Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650 but with a more standard roadster riding position, lower-spec suspension and a styling that’s reminiscent of 1950s machines. It was seen on test in Spain, but similar bikes with subtle differences have also been spied in India, suggesting that Royal Enfield is simultaneously developing the new model in ‘Bullet 650’ and ‘Classic 650’ forms to reflect its existing single-cylinder, 350cc range.
This version is closer to the Bullet 350, with a thickly-padded, one-piece seat that provides a comfortable-looking perch, although the chrome hood over the headlight is more reminiscent of the Classic 350’s more overtly retro style. Prototypes spotted in India, meanwhile, have shared the same main components but used a two-piece seat with a much slimmer, removable pillion pad like the Classic 350’s.
Just as the Bullet 350 and Classic 350 are largely identical mechanically, the two 650 variants share a common chassis, engine, brakes and suspension, as well as the same teardrop-shaped fuel tank. While there’s no official technical information available yet, the engine appears to be the same 648cc twin used in the Shotgun, Super Meteor, Interceptor and Continental. All those bikes make 34.6kW (46hp) and 52.3Nm, so there’s little reason to believe the performance of the Classic and Bullet will differ.
Notable changes compared to the Shotgun and Super Meteor include the adoption of a right-way-up fork with old-fashioned-looking gaiters covering their stanchions, plus wire wheels and a longer front mudguard. The rear fender is similar to the Bullet 350’s, with a metal, tubular external section that acts as a mount for luggage, and a flat section above the rear wheel. The Classic 650 will get a curved version that follows the arc of the wheel rim. Both bikes have a circular tail lamp that’s faired into the rear bodywork rather than sitting proud of it like the Shotgun and Super Meteor design.
These new models are only part of the plan, though, as Royal Enfield has been spotted testing a scrambler variant on several occasions as well and filed trademark applications for the name ‘Bear 650’ to use on it. Lower down the range, the company’s new, liquid-cooled Himalayan 450 is expected to spin off a Scram 450 scrambler in the next few months, too.
WORDS: BEN PURVIS
