Royal Enfield Bear 650 officially revealed, price announcement on 5th November
Royal Enfield has unveiled the latest addition to its 650cc lineup, the Bear 650. This scrambler, based on the popular Interceptor 650, is the fifth bike on Royal Enfield’s versatile 650cc platform. Designed for light off-road capability, the Bear 650 introduces several updates, including a new suspension setup, unique ergonomics and a reimagined exhaust system, which give it its own distinctive identity among the 650cc models.
Changes for Off-Road Comfort
Although the Bear 650 shares the same chassis as the Interceptor, it stands apart with its updated 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel sizes – tailored for scrambler-style riding. This setup, combined with a Showa USD fork and upgraded dual rear shock absorbers, offers improved suspension travel of 130 mm at the front and 115 mm at the rear, up from the Interceptor’s 110 mm/88 mm. This not only raises the seat height to 830 mm, the highest among Royal Enfield’s 650 lineup but also increases ground clearance to 184 mm.
The Bear 650 comes fitted with MRF Nylorex block-pattern tires on spoked wheels, optimised for mild off-road use, although these wheels do not feature a tubeless setup. Braking components are familiar yet slightly modified; the front disc remains a 320 mm unit, while the rear disc has been increased to 270 mm. It is equipped with dual-channel ABS, with the option to deactivate the rear ABS for enhanced control in off-road situations.
Engine Modifications for Added Torque
Powering the Bear 650 is Royal Enfield’s trusted 648cc parallel-twin engine, which delivers 47 HP at 7250 RPM, identical to the Interceptor. However, a notable change is in the exhaust system. The Bear opts for a two-into-one design, resulting in a single exhaust on the right side, replacing the dual exhaust setup seen on other 650cc models. This adjustment has increased the engine’s torque output from 52 Nm to 56.5 Nm at 5150 RPM, without affecting the power output.
Despite the lighter exhaust configuration, the Bear 650 weighs 216 kg, only slightly lighter than the Interceptor. The additional weight is due to reinforced chassis components to support light off-road riding, as well as the changes in suspension and wheel setup.
Scrambler-Inspired Design Elements
The Bear 650 introduces a fresh design inspired by classic scramblers. Its distinct styling includes a raised, slightly angled seat and competition number boards on the side panels, which enhance its rugged character. The bike also adopts familiar Royal Enfield design elements, such as round LED head and tail lamps, now complemented by new LED indicators.
In terms of instrumentation, the Bear moves away from the Interceptor’s dual-pod console in favor of a modern circular TFT display, borrowed from the Guerrilla and Himalayan. This new display supports Google Maps integration and can be controlled using upgraded switchgear, enhancing the Bear 650’s functionality for longer journeys.
Available Colours and Market Positioning
The Bear 650 will be offered in five distinct colour options, giving prospective buyers a range of choices. Positioned as a scrambler that blends daily usability with light off-road capabilities, the Bear 650 marks Royal Enfield’s continued expansion of its 650cc lineup, appealing to riders looking for both versatility and style in a mid-weight motorcycle.
