The Royal Enfield Bear 650 has just been revealed as a scrambler variant of the popular Interceptor 650, bringing fresh changes to Royal Enfield’s established 650cc lineup. This scrambler-inspired model is built to cater to riders seeking adventure-oriented aesthetics combined with on- and off-road capabilities.
Key Engine and Performance Specifications
The Bear 650 continues with the familiar 648cc air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine, a hallmark of Royal Enfield’s 650 range. With this configuration, the engine generates around 47 horsepower, while torque output is slightly increased from the Interceptor’s 52 Nm to 56.5 Nm at 5,150 rpm, thanks to the new two-into-one exhaust system. This change not only differentiates the Bear’s design but also enhances its off-road potential by keeping the exhaust raised and reducing overall weight slightly.
Suspension and Wheel Upgrades for Off-Road Capability
The Bear 650 stands out with its specialized suspension setup. The front end now sports a Showa upside-down (USD) fork, similar to what’s seen on the Shotgun but with tailored internals, providing 130mm of travel—up from the Interceptor’s 110mm. At the rear, the dual shock absorbers have been re-engineered to offer 115mm of travel, ensuring better stability on rough terrains. The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are paired with MRF Nylorex block-pattern tires, enhancing grip and handling on mixed surfaces.
Design Elements with a Scrambler Twist
Royal Enfield has altered the Bear’s ergonomics to suit both street and light off-road conditions. The handlebar is wider than the Interceptor’s, allowing for a more controlled, upright stance, while the foot pegs have been repositioned to improve rider comfort. The seat height now reaches 830mm—the highest among Royal Enfield’s 650 models—adding to the scrambler’s elevated stance, complemented by a ground clearance of 184mm.
Safety and Braking Adjustments
For braking, the Bear 650 retains a 320mm front disc similar to the Interceptor, but the rear disc has been enlarged to 270mm for improved stopping power. Dual-channel ABS is standard, with the rear ABS deactivatable for off-road use, providing greater control on varied terrains. These features reflect the Bear’s off-road-oriented upgrades, aimed at delivering reliability and safety in unpredictable conditions.
Modern Styling Meets Classic Elements
Stylistically, the Bear 650 merges rugged scrambler vibes with refined detailing. The bike’s LED lighting system, including the headlamps, tail lamps, and new LED indicators, modernizes its aesthetic while maintaining the brand’s retro appeal. The Bear’s bodywork is minimalistic, with a side panel featuring competition-style number boards, adding to its rugged scrambler identity. Available in five color options, the Bear 650 also features a circular TFT display equipped with navigation.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Royal Enfield has set the Bear 650’s price range between INR 3,35,000 and INR 3,40,000, with deliveries expected from November 2024. This places it competitively within the adventure-touring and scrambler segments, a category that has seen growing interest in India.