Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

OVERVIEW & PRICE

Performance and engine

At the heart of the Super Meteor 650 lies a robust 648cc parallel-twin, air/oil-cooled engine, shared with its siblings, the INT 650 and Continental GT 650. However, this powerplant has been specifically tuned for the cruiser format, delivering a unique riding experience.

1. Maximum Power Output: 34.6 kW (47PS) @ 7,250 rpm
2. Peak Torque: 52.3 Nm @ 5,650 rpm
3. Engine Type: 4-stroke, SOHC
4. Cooling System: Air and oil-cooled
5. Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
6. Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh gearbox with chain final drive

The engine’s configuration and tuning result in a smooth power delivery with strong low-end acceleration, making it well-suited for city commuting and highway cruising. The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 boasts an impressive top speed range of 160 to 170 km/h. This performance comfortably fits the expectations for a mid-size cruiser, offering enough speed for confident highway riding while maintaining the relaxed cruiser ethos.

The 6-speed gearbox contributes to the bike’s acceleration capabilities, allowing for seamless gear transitions and optimal power delivery across various speed ranges. This transmission setup enhances the bike’s acceleration and ability to maintain high speeds comfortably during long-distance rides.

Mileage and efficiency

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 offers competitive fuel efficiency, a key factor for both daily commuters and long-distance riders, providing reassurance about the value of your investment:

1. ARAI Certified Mileage: The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has rigorously tested and certified the Super Meteor 650 with an average mileage of 23.7 kmpl, providing a reliable benchmark for fuel efficiency.
2. Real-World Performance: Owners and experts report real-world mileage figures of approximately 23 kmpl, closely aligning with the ARAI certification.
3. City vs Highway Mileage: In urban environments, the Super Meteor 650 delivers between 20-23 kmpl, while highway riding can improve efficiency to 23-26 kmpl.
4. Range: With its 15.7-litre fuel tank, riders can expect a range of 372-392 km on a full tank, depending on riding conditions and habits.

The Super Meteor 650’s fuel efficiency is competitive, outperforming 15% of other cruisers in the segment. This balance of performance and economy instils confidence in your purchase decision, making it an attractive option for Indian riders looking for a versatile cruiser.

Features and technologies

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 comes equipped with a range of features that enhance its appeal in the Indian market:

1. Instrument Cluster: A Digi-analogue instrument panel combines a classic analogue speedometer with a digital LCD screen, providing comprehensive ride information.
2. Lighting: LED headlamp and taillight improve visibility and reduce power consumption.
3. Navigation: The Tripper Navigation System, a first for Royal Enfield, offers turn-by-turn navigation via a smartphone app, enhancing the touring experience by providing clear and precise directions.
4. Comfort: A low-slung, wide seat with a height of 29 inches ensures a comfortable riding position, ideal for long journeys.
5. Suspension: The 43mm upside-down forks at the front and twin preload-adjustable shocks at the rear provide excellent ride quality across various terrains.
6. Safety: Dual-channel ABS with Brembo ByBre brake discs on both wheels ensures superior braking performance.
7. Connectivity: A standard USB port is conveniently located for charging devices, ensuring you can keep your electronic devices powered up during your rides.

Handling

The Super Meteor 650 is built on a hybrid backbone frame designed by Harris Performance, contributing to its excellent stability and balance. This chassis design, combined with the 43mm Showa big piston upside-down fork (a first for Royal Enfield), provides a stable and comfortable ride. The motorcycle features a sophisticated suspension setup, including twin preload-adjustable rear shocks and a non-adjustable front fork. The rear shocks offer four inches of travel, while the front forks provide 4.7 inches, effectively handling bumps and rough roads.

Some users have noted that the rear suspension is initially stiff but softens over time, which can be adjusted by setting the preload. Despite its substantial weight of 241 kg, the Super Meteor 650 is surprisingly nimble and well-balanced. Its low centre of gravity aids in manoeuvrability, especially at low speeds, making it easily handle corners. The neutral steering and flawless EFI fueling further enhance its handling characteristics.

The braking system comprises Brembo ByBre brake discs, with a single 320mm rotor in the front and a 300mm unit at the rear. These brakes provide linear and ample stopping power. However, some reviewers have noted a lack of feel, requiring a firm grip on the levers for effective braking. The inclusion of dual-channel ABS enhances safety during sudden stops.

Comfort and ergonomics

The motorcycle comes with a two-piece seat, which has received mixed reviews. While the stock seat is generally considered uncomfortable for long rides, prompting some owners to customize it, there is an option for a touring seat that is reportedly more comfortable but comes at a higher cost. The bike’s ergonomics are designed to offer a comfortable riding position, suitable for city traffic and highway cruising. The handlebars and footpeg positions are set to provide a relaxed posture, typical of cruiser motorcycles.

However, the bike is described as being slightly top-heavy, which might require some adjustment for riders when stopping. The clutch is noted to be on the heavier side, which can be challenging in heavy traffic conditions. The bike features a slipper clutch, but an assist feature is not mentioned, which helps reduce clutch effort. Despite minor issues, the Super Meteor 650 is praised for its engine refinement and power delivery, contributing to a pleasant riding experience. The bike is particularly well-suited for highway riding, where it truly shines.

Build Quality and materials

Royal Enfield has paid meticulous attention to the build quality of the Super Meteor 650, reflecting its commitment to durability and craftsmanship. The motorcycle features an all-new steel spine frame, developed in collaboration with Harris Performance, designed for optimal balance and stability. The 648cc engine is adorned with new case covers and cylinder head dressings, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The use of a 43mm inverted Showa Big Piston Fork marks a first for Royal Enfield, complemented by twin Showa shocks at the rear. The brakes feature components from Brembo’s Indian subsidiary, ByBre, ensuring high-quality stopping power. Forged aluminium wheels are fitted with specially developed CEAT Zoom Cruz tubeless tyres. The extensive use of metal switchgear and panels throughout the bike underscores Royal Enfield’s focus on quality and premium feel.

Styling

The motorcycle combines classic aesthetics with modern elements, staying true to Royal Enfield’s tradition of maintaining a retro look while incorporating contemporary features. The bobber style influences the design, which is evident in its minimalist and clean lines. The low-slung profile gives it a robust and muscular appearance. High-quality materials such as chrome and carbon fibre finishes add a touch of modernity and elegance. The chrome elements provide a classic yet premium look, particularly on the handlebars and other parts.

The Super Meteor 650 showcases meticulous attention to detail, featuring a sculpted fuel tank, a classic round headlamp, and a sleek tail section. These elements contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the motorcycle, making it stand out in the mid-sized cruiser segment. Despite its classic look, the bike has modern features such as LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and advanced suspension systems. These features ensure the bike meets contemporary standards while maintaining its retro charm.

All Colors Options and Variants

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 has three distinct variants, each catering to different rider preferences and styles.

Astral Variant

1. Astral Black
2. Astral Blue
3. Astral Green

Interstellar

1. Interstellar Grey
2. Interstellar Green

Celestial

1. Celestial Red
2. Celestial Blue

Value for Money

In India, the motorcycle is priced between ₹ 3,63,900 (ex-showroom). While it is the most expensive model in Royal Enfield’s 650cc lineup, the price reflects its premium features. Compared to competitors like the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Benelli 502C, the Super Meteor 650 offers significant value for money. It provides a premium riding experience with features typically found in more expensive motorcycles at a more accessible price point. The combination of its cruiser styling, robust build, and advanced features like the USD fork and LED lighting make it a strong contender in its segment, justifying its price point.