The Legend Evolves: Royal Enfield Bullet 650 (2026)
The Bullet 650 is not just a larger engine in an old frame; it is a blend of the iconic 1932 design with modern 650cc performance. It will sit alongside the Interceptor and the Classic 650 in Royal Enfield’s flagship portfolio.
1. Design & Styling: Keeping the DNA Intact
Royal Enfield has played it safe and soulful with the design. It carries the signature “Bullet” silhouette that has remained unchanged for nearly a century.
- The “Aerovisor”: The iconic chrome headlight nacelle remains, now housing a modern LED headlamp.
- Traditional Pinstripes: The fuel tank features the legendary hand-painted gold pinstripes.
- Classic Colors: Launched in two primary shades—Canon Black (the classic look) and Battleship Blue.
- Seating: It features a spacious, single-piece “bench” seat designed for upright, comfortable cruising.
2. Performance: The Heart of a Twin
At its core is the globally acclaimed 648cc parallel-twin engine, known for its smooth power delivery and a “thrumming” exhaust note.
- Engine: 648cc, Air/Oil-Cooled, Parallel-Twin.
- Power: $47\text{ PS}$ at $7250\text{ rpm}$.
- Torque: $52.3\text{ Nm}$ at $5650\text{ rpm}$.
- Gearbox: 6-speed constant mesh with an Assist and Slipper clutch.
3. Chassis & Hardware
While it looks old-school, the hardware is strictly modern.
- Suspension: 43mm Showa telescopic forks (front) and twin shock absorbers (rear).
- Brakes: 320mm front disc and a large 300mm rear disc (significantly better than the Interceptor’s 240mm rear).
- Safety: Dual-channel ABS comes as standard.
- Wheels: 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels with tubed tyres.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine Type | Parallel-Twin, 4-Stroke, SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 243 kg (Macho & Heavy) |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.8 Litres |
| Seat Height | 800 mm (Very Accessible) |
| Ground Clearance | 154 mm |
| Instrument Cluster | Digi-Analogue (Classic speedometer + LCD) |
4. Price and Launch Date
Royal Enfield is expected to position the Bullet 650 as a slightly more affordable alternative to the Classic 650.
- Expected Launch: January 2026 (India).
- Expected Price: ₹3.40 Lakh – ₹3.50 Lakh (Ex-showroom).
- Direct Competition: BSA Gold Star 650 and its own siblings, the Interceptor 650 and Classic 650.
The Bullet 650 is significantly heavier at 243kg. While it offers immense road presence, it is a bike built for steady highway cruising and “lordly” presence rather than flicking through tight city traffic.
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