There are bikes that look good, and then there are bikes that make you stop and stare. The Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin easily falls into the second category. It’s the kind of motorcycle that doesn’t just sit pretty – it demands attention. With a design that blends the timeless charm of the Classic 350 and the boldness of the Shotgun 650, this big boy looks every bit the part of a modern retro icon. And in the chrome version that we got the bike in, it is even more a stop and stare machine.
Riding Comfort & Dynamics
Comfort is where this bike really shines. The seat is wide, well-padded, and paired with an upright riding posture that screams all-day comfort. Taller riders (5’10 and above) who have to sit back a bit, might miss the sweet spot of this seat though. The handlebar is wide, the pegs are mid-set, and the ride feel? Pretty plush – especially when compared to the Shotgun or Super Meteor.
The 43mm Showa forks and twin rear shocks offer decent travel (120mm front, 90mm rear), and on Indian roads, that counts for a lot. The Classic 650 absorbs bumps much better, though it’s still on the firmer side overall.
Handling is surprisingly agile for a bike this size. The 19/18-inch spoke wheels and grippy tyres give you confidence in all riding conditions. It feels planted and reassuring around fast winding roads as well. The brakes (320mm front / 300mm rear) do their job quite well, and surprisingly the feel and performance of the rear brake feels quite good, unlike most motorcycles out there.
Built Like a Tank
Weighing in at 243kg, this is the heaviest modern-day RE. And you will feel every kilo if you end up pushing it in parking or hoisting it onto the main stand. But once you’re moving, the weight impressively fades away. It’s easily manageable, even at lower speeds. It feels like it magically sheds 50 kgs when on the move.
The Classic 650 carries the same twin-cylinder engine as its 650 siblings – smooth, torquey, and beautifully refined. Whether you’re cruising through the city or stretching its legs on the highway, it delivers relaxed, confident performance. The 47PS/52Nm figures enables effortless cruising with a splash of attitude. Wish it had a distinct exhaust note like the Bear 650 though.
The Classic 650 loves to sit and sail at the 80-100 mark. Yes, it can go much faster easily, but the bike it self sort of calms you and makes you feel happy at those cruising speeds. Also you do feel some vibes creep in close to the 100 mark, especially below the seat, not annoying, but enough to deserve a mention.
Design That Turns Heads
Let’s be honest – this thing looks fantastic. You’ll instantly recognize it as a Classic, but it’s clearly a bigger, badder sibling. The chunky twin exhausts, fat engine block, and wider proportions set it apart. Chrome lovers, rejoice – there’s bling everywhere: switch cubes, wheel hubs, handlebar clamp, even the headlight casing.
The Classic 650 is available in four colourways – Bruntingthorpe Blue, Vallam Red, Teal Green, and Black Chrome. My pick? Teal Green all the way – it’s the only one with a colour-matched frame and stand. Fancy! Although the chrome version you see in the photos here is a close second.
That said, not everything’s perfect. The gap between the rear fender and tyre feels a bit awkward in some angles, and 650 trait continues with the foot peg placement, it will get your shin in those slow keep your foot down in traffic moments. The side stand too hides well, right beneath the left foot peg and takes a bit of a search to get down. But hey, no bike’s flawless.
Also, I feel this motorcycle does not need the tripper navigation pod. I think a slightly bigger meter console would have made things gel well with the overall classic design.
The Price Tag & Final Verdict
With prices starting at ₹3.37 lakh (ex-showroom), the Classic 650 Twin sits in the sweet spot – priced lower than its bigger 650 siblings but offering arguably the best combination of design, comfort, and character. I feel this is the best 650 variant yet, yes, and this is from a guy who has for all these years loved the Interceptor.
If you’re someone who loves retro motorcycles but wants a bit more power, presence, and premium feel than the Classic 350, this might just be the perfect upgrade. It’s not a speed demon. It’s not meant for hardcore all terrain touring. But for lazy Sunday rides, long highway cruises, or simply showing off at the café – the Classic 650 nails the brief.
So, is it the Classic 650 we always dreamed of? It comes awfully close – and definitely special enough to become a future classic.
