Royal Enfield enthusiasts, we’ve got some news that might have you holding onto your helmets a bit longer. The much-anticipated launch of the Royal Enfield Classic 650 in India, originally slated for January 2025, has hit a slight delay. According to reliable sources from select dealerships, the launch is now expected to happen towards the end of February or early March.

But don’t let that dampen your spirits! Some dealers have already begun unofficially accepting bookings, giving early birds a chance to secure their spot in the queue for this new beauty.

Unveiling of the Royal Enfield Classic 650

The Royal Enfield Classic 650 first made its debut at the prestigious EICMA show in Milan last November. The bike caught the eye of many, sparking a wave of excitement among motorcycle aficionados. Following its grand unveiling, there were high hopes that it would soon make its Indian debut at the Motoverse event in Goa. However, Royal Enfield had other plans, choosing instead to keep the focus on the Goan Classic 350 during the event.

The Classic 650: Slotting into the RE Family

Once launched, the Classic 650 will find its place in Royal Enfield’s lineup just below the Super Meteor 650 and close to the Shotgun 650. Priced around ₹3.40 – ₹3.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the Classic 650 promises to offer a blend of classic charm and modern engineering at a competitive price point.

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

The Classic 650 isn’t just about good looks; it’s built to perform. Sharing its chassis with the Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650, the Classic 650 boasts subtle differences in geometry and kerb weight, tipping the scales at 243 kg, just 2 kg heavier than the Super Meteor 650.

At its heart lies a 648cc parallel-twin engine, a tried-and-tested powerplant that also powers other 650cc Royal Enfield models. With a six-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, this engine churns out 46.3 bhp and 52.3 Nm of torque, ensuring a ride that’s both powerful and smooth.

Customization: Tailoring Your Ride

From the factory, the Classic 650 comes with a single seat, staying true to its name. However, if you prefer to share your rides, you can easily add a pillion seat using the bolt-on sub-frame, similar to the setup on the Shotgun 650. This flexibility makes the Classic 650 a versatile choice for solo riders and duo adventurers alike.

Conclusion: Worth the Wait?

While the delay in the launch might be a minor setback, the Royal Enfield Classic 650 promises to be worth the wait. With its combination of heritage styling, robust performance, and thoughtful design, it’s poised to be a favorite among Royal Enfield fans and new riders alike.

So, if you’ve been eyeing the Classic 650, keep an ear to the ground for the official price announcement in the coming months. Until then, you might want to consider making that early booking to ensure you’re among the first to experience this new icon on wheels.