The Royal Enfield Classic 650 has officially gone on sale in India, priced from Rs. 3.37 lakh (ex-showroom). It carries the familiar DNA of its 650cc siblings but stands out for one key reason—its timeless retro styling. With a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, curved fenders, and vintage aesthetics, it’s a rolling tribute to the past. The Black Chrome colour in particular turns heads, blending elegance with old-school charm. But retro isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a 650cc bike with a different vibe, here are some solid alternatives worth checking out.
Shotgun
The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 brings a whole new attitude to the 650 platform. It’s a Bobber-style bike that combines modern edge with classic roots. Design highlights include a compact tank, a unique cowl around the LED headlamp, and that cool floating rider seat. The blacked-out engine and alloy wheels add a tough contrast to the otherwise bright paint schemes.
Underneath the styling, the Shotgun shares the same 648cc, air-oil cooled parallel twin engine found in the Classic. Producing 47bhp and 52.3Nm of torque, it’s peppy and refined. The Shotgun is ideal for riders who want a more urban, bold look without losing the classic Royal Enfield character.
SuperMeteor
If laid-back cruising is your thing, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 delivers. It’s built for highway comfort with a low-slung profile, swept-back handlebars, and plush bucket seats. The engine, again the same 648cc twin, is tuned for smooth, long-distance performance. You’ll hear a lovely thrum from the twin exhausts that adds to the overall cruiser vibe.
However, there’s a trade-off. The Super Meteor’s limited rear suspension travel can feel stiff over poor roads. So while it shines on smooth tarmac, city potholes might give you a jolt. That said, the road presence and comfort on longer rides still make it a solid choice in the segment.
Goldstar
Looking beyond Royal Enfield’s garage, the BSA Goldstar 650 is a fresh yet classic competitor. This bike has serious retro appeal but does things differently. Power comes from a 652cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine—distinct from the Enfield twins. It’s paired with a five-speed gearbox and tuned for torque and character.
The Goldstar’s double-cradle chassis, telescopic front fork, and twin shock absorbers deliver sharp handling and a well-balanced ride. If you’re after a retro roadster that’s a little more nimble and unique, the BSA Goldstar might be the ticket. It looks the part and performs with flair, especially for riders who appreciate a more engaging single-cylinder thump.
Comparison Table
| Bike | Engine | Style | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic 650 | 648cc Twin | Retro | Teardrop tank, chrome touches |
| Shotgun 650 | 648cc Twin | Bobber | Floating seat, bold modern design |
| Super Meteor 650 | 648cc Twin | Cruiser | Low-slung, good for long-distance |
| BSA Goldstar 650 | 652cc Single | Roadster | Unique engine, strong mid-range torque |
Each of these bikes appeals to a different type of rider. Whether you want pure nostalgia, bold styling, laid-back cruising, or classic roadster charm, the 650cc segment in India has something for everyone. And with the Classic 650 now on sale, it only adds more flavour to an already diverse lineup.
FAQs
What is the price of the Classic 650?
The starting price is Rs. 3.37 lakh, ex-showroom.
Which engine powers the Classic 650?
It uses a 648cc, parallel-twin air-oil cooled engine.
Is the Shotgun 650 suitable for city rides?
Yes, its compact design makes it city-friendly.
Is the BSA Goldstar 650 liquid-cooled?
Yes, it has a 652cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine.
Which bike is best for highway touring?
The Super Meteor 650 suits highway rides best.
