Royal Enfield has always been synonymous with classic motorcycles that combine rugged charm with a sense of adventure. With the launch of the Super Meteor 650, the brand has stepped into the cruiser segment with a big statement. The Super Meteor 650 is the latest in the company’s growing 650cc lineup, and it’s a motorcycle that offers a perfect blend of modern performance, comfort, and classic cruiser aesthetics. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating through city streets, the Super Meteor promises a premium experience with the signature Royal Enfield style.
In this review, we’ll take a detailed look at what makes the Super Meteor 650 a standout contender in the cruiser market, covering its design, performance, handling, comfort, and overall riding experience.
Introduction: Royal Enfield’s Bold Step into the Cruiser Market
The Super Meteor 650 marks a significant milestone for Royal Enfield, as it’s their first serious foray into the full-sized cruiser category. Built on the same platform as the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650, the Super Meteor 650 brings more than just a bigger, more relaxed design; it combines the legendary performance of the 650cc parallel-twin engine with cruiser-specific features like a low seat height, relaxed ergonomics, and more comfortable ride quality.
This cruiser is aimed at those who want a smooth, laid-back riding experience without compromising on performance or reliability. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser rider or an experienced enthusiast looking for something that can handle both city roads and long-distance touring, the Super Meteor 650 is designed to deliver an exceptional experience.
Design and Build Quality: Retro-Inspired with a Modern Twist
The design of the Super Meteor 650 pays homage to the classic cruiser styles of the past while integrating modern elements for better ergonomics and functionality. The bike is built around a large, bold frame with sleek, rounded lines. The standout feature is the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, which is a staple of cruiser designs. With its chromed details, polished engine covers, and minimalistic bodywork, the Super Meteor retains the timeless aesthetic that Royal Enfield fans cherish.
The low-slung stance and wide handlebars provide a relaxed riding position that’s perfect for long-distance cruising. The motorcycle also comes with a generous amount of chrome detailing, from the exhaust system to the engine covers, giving it a classic yet polished look. The 2024 model comes in several attractive color options, including Astral Black, Astral Blue, and Celestial Red, each giving the bike a rich, luxurious appearance.
In terms of build quality, the Super Meteor 650 is a solidly constructed motorcycle. The frame is made from high-quality steel, and the components are designed to last. The fit and finish of the bodywork are excellent, and the bike has a premium feel that matches its price tag. The attention to detail in the design and execution is evident in the smooth paint job, the neatness of the welds, and the overall fitment of parts.
Engine and Performance: Effortless Power with a Throaty Growl
At the heart of the Super Meteor 650 is the same 648cc parallel-twin engine found in the Interceptor and Continental GT 650. This engine is renowned for its smooth power delivery, strong mid-range torque, and that signature Royal Enfield “thump.” It produces 47 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5,650 rpm, which is ample power for a cruiser of this class. The Super Meteor 650 delivers a relaxed, yet satisfying ride with plenty of power for overtaking, cruising at highway speeds, or even tackling some winding mountain roads.
The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the gear shifts are smooth, with the bike effortlessly moving through the gears. The clutch feels light and progressive, making it easy to engage at lower speeds or during city commuting. The engine is also incredibly smooth, with minimal vibration at cruising speeds. The signature “thump” from the exhaust, however, remains, adding to the bike’s character and giving it that classic Royal Enfield vibe.
One of the Super Meteor’s best qualities is its ability to pull effortlessly from low RPMs, making it ideal for relaxed cruising and low-speed maneuvering. Whether you’re on the highway or taking a leisurely ride through the city, the Super Meteor offers consistent power delivery with a strong focus on comfort and ease of use. The engine’s torque curve provides a seamless experience without the need for constant shifting, ensuring a stress-free ride.
Suspension and Handling: Smooth Ride for Long Journeys
Cruisers are designed for comfort, and the Super Meteor 650 does not disappoint in this regard. The bike comes with a 43mm telescopic front fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear with 5-step preload adjustability. The suspension setup is tuned to provide a plush ride over a variety of surfaces, from smooth highways to uneven city streets and light gravel roads. The long-travel suspension ensures that riders feel minimal discomfort, even when tackling rougher patches of road.
In terms of handling, the Super Meteor 650 offers impressive stability, especially at high speeds. The bike’s low center of gravity and relaxed riding position make it easy to manage in both tight city traffic and on the open road. While the Super Meteor isn’t as agile as a sportbike, it’s certainly more maneuverable than many other cruisers in its class. The wide handlebars offer excellent leverage for steering, and the bike feels stable and well-balanced throughout the ride.
While the 2024 model is built for cruising, the Super Meteor is still capable of handling the occasional twisty road or fast cornering. The 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels provide good stability, while the Michelin Road 5 tires offer strong grip in both dry and wet conditions. The bike’s handling feels confident and secure, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely ride or picking up the pace.
Braking and Safety: Strong Stopping Power
The Super Meteor 650 comes equipped with a 320mm disc brake at the front and a 300mm disc brake at the rear. Both are paired with dual-channel ABS, which is a welcome feature for enhanced safety, particularly when riding in challenging conditions. The brakes offer solid stopping power with a smooth and progressive feel at the lever. The braking system is well-tuned for a cruiser, providing adequate stopping force without being overly aggressive.
The dual-channel ABS ensures that the bike remains stable and in control, even in slippery conditions or during hard braking. Whether you’re riding on wet roads or gravel, the ABS system helps prevent wheel lockup and allows for controlled stops.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Designed for Long Rides
Comfort is at the forefront of the Super Meteor 650’s design. The bike features a wide, well-padded seat that provides ample support for both the rider and the passenger, making long rides much more comfortable. The seat height is 740mm, which is relatively low, allowing riders of various heights to plant their feet firmly on the ground. The riding position is relaxed, with slightly forward-set footpegs and wide handlebars that encourage a laid-back posture.
Royal Enfield has also made sure that the ergonomics of the Super Meteor are suited to long-distance touring. The spacious saddle, coupled with the relaxed position, ensures that riders don’t experience discomfort after hours in the saddle. The bike’s soft suspension further enhances ride comfort, especially on longer journeys or during extended highway cruising.
Technology and Instrumentation: Classic with Modern Features
The Super Meteor 650’s instrument cluster is a blend of classic design with modern functionality. The analog speedometer and tachometer are flanked by a small digital display that shows essential data, including fuel efficiency, gear position, trip meter, and odometer readings. The display is simple and easy to read, with a clean layout that’s true to the bike’s retro charm.
Additionally, the Super Meteor 650 is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones with the bike for features like navigation prompts, call alerts, and music control. This modern addition gives the bike a touch of contemporary functionality, while still maintaining the classic, analog charm that defines Royal Enfield.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Cruiser
Pros:
• Smooth, Throaty Engine: The 648cc parallel-twin engine delivers power effortlessly, with a classic “thump.”
• Comfortable for Long Rides: Relaxed ergonomics and plush suspension make it ideal for cruising.
• Modern Features: Bluetooth connectivity, dual-channel ABS, and a simple yet functional instrument cluster.
• Timeless Design: Classic cruiser aesthetics with modern finishes and build quality.
• Stable Handling: Provides confidence-inspiring stability at all speeds.
Cons:
• Limited High-Speed Performance: The Super Meteor 650 is designed for cruising, not for aggressive riding or top-end performance.
• Rear Tire Size: Some riders may find the 16-inch rear tire a bit limiting for off-road excursions or more aggressive cornering.
Conclusion: The Super Meteor 650 – A Cruiser for the Modern Rider
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is a bold and capable cruiser that combines the best of classic design with modern performance and technology. It’s the ideal bike for riders seeking a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable ride on both short trips and long journeys. With its relaxed ergonomics, powerful 650cc engine, and timeless styling, the Super Meteor 650 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enter the cruiser segment without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser rider or someone looking for a motorcycle that effortlessly blends retro appeal with modern features, the Super Meteor 650 is a compelling option. It’s a bike that delivers on all fronts, offering both comfort and performance in a sleek, stylish package.
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