Not a disaster movie scenario and in fact quite the opposite. Royal Enfield showcased the new Super Meteor 650 at EICMA in November 2022, and now the pair of newcomers – Super Meteor 650 and the Super Meteor 650 Tourer – are making their way here, available in seven colours. Both are LAMS legal as well. They are due to go on sale in the coming months.
The Super Meteor 650 follows on from the single-cylinder 350cc Meteor variant that has proven so popular in Europe and elsewhere. The two new machines are centered around the 35kW/52Nm 648cc twin that powers the Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650.
The bikes combine simple controls and uncluttered instrumentation with relaxed rider ergonomics, calming stability on highways and riding pleasure on winding roads where they are said to change direction enthusiastically.
The Super Meteor twins draw on 1950s heritage, and retro styling harks back to the original Super Meteor. Underpinning the bike is a new frame and swingarm, crafted at the UK Technology Centre in conjunction with Harris Performance. The design goal was a low center of gravity for open road stability and easy manoeuvrability for a confidence-inspiring ride.
The new machines see Royal Enfield’s first use of upside-down forks, offering 120mm of stroke, while rear shocks feature five-step preload and 101mm of travel. Brakes use a single disc each end with twin-piston floating calipers. Kerb weight is a claimed 241kg.
A low stance and a narrow seat up front allow for a comfortable standover. The riding position features feet-forward foot controls and wide raised handlebars. A 16L tank gives extended cruising range. Wheels are 16 inches at the rear and 19 inches up front, and the tyres are both tubeless.
Instruments comprise an analogue speedo with an LCD display showing revs, gear indicator, fuel gauge, clock and trip meter. Other features include adjustable levers, RE’s Turn-By-Turn “Tripper” navigation pod that links to the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth, a USB socket under the left side panel, and an LED headlamp, a first for the company.
The Super Meteor 650 will be available in black, blue, grey and two shades of green while the Tourer, which adds a windscreen and dual seat with backrest, comes in red and blue hues. A wide range of accessories will be available.
Expect the cruiser to land here in the next couple of months. Pricing details have been announced recently, the pair kicking off at $12,490 with deliveries beginning in April.
