NEW DELHI: The Royal Enfield Bear 650 may not be the most practical motorcycle in the company’s 650cc line-up, but its rugged styling, engaging engine and distinctive scrambler character make it appealing to enthusiasts. After nearly three months of daily riding, an NDTV Auto long-term review highlights both the motorcycle’s shortcomings and the qualities that make it difficult to ignore.

Inspired by desert racing, the Bear 650 is designed to deliver a rugged riding experience. In everyday Indian conditions, however, it is more likely to encounter potholes, traffic congestion and uneven roads than desert trails. The long-term test explores how well the motorcycle adapts to these realities.

Royal Enfield Bear 650: Engine and performance

The Bear 650 uses Royal Enfield’s familiar 648cc parallel-twin engine, also found in models such as the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650.

The engine produces 47 hp and 56.5 Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch. The established powertrain gives the motorcycle a familiar mechanical character, while its scrambler-inspired styling and chassis setup create a different riding experience from the road-focused models in the range.

The motorcycle has a seat height of 830 mm and ground clearance of 184 mm. The additional ground clearance can be useful on uneven roads, speed breakers and rough stretches where lower motorcycles may struggle.

Its retro design, wide handlebars and upright riding posture contribute to its distinctive road presence. The Bear 650 is intended to offer a blend of everyday usability and the freedom associated with exploring less-travelled routes.

Ride comfort and handling have limitations

The long-term review identifies weight and suspension stiffness as two of the motorcycle’s main drawbacks.

Weighing more than 210 kg, the Bear 650 can feel cumbersome during tight parking manoeuvres and low-speed U-turns. Although the weight is less noticeable once the motorcycle is moving, it can make routine city riding more demanding.

The suspension setup is another concern. According to the review, the firm suspension transmits a considerable amount of road imperfections to the rider, making broken roads less comfortable. This could be a drawback for buyers who regularly travel across uneven urban streets or undertake long commutes.

The wide handlebars and upright posture work reasonably well for shorter rides. However, the reviewer suggests that handlebar risers could improve the riding position and make longer journeys more comfortable.

These observations underline the difference between the Bear 650’s rugged appearance and its practical limitations. While the motorcycle can handle rougher surfaces than a conventional road-focused machine in some situations, it is not designed to replace a dedicated off-road motorcycle.

Features and technology

The Bear 650 comes with a circular TFT display featuring Google Maps navigation, along with riding modes and connectivity features.

The navigation system is particularly useful for urban riding, helping riders follow routes without relying solely on a separate device. At the same time, the motorcycle retains a largely mechanical riding experience, which may appeal to riders who prefer a traditional twin-cylinder engine over a heavily electronics-driven package.

Its combination of modern connectivity and retro styling gives it a distinctive identity within Royal Enfield’s middleweight range.

How does it compare with other Royal Enfield motorcycles?

The review notes that the Bear 650 occupies an unusual position within the brand’s portfolio because it does not specialise in one particular type of riding.

For riders prioritising long-distance comfort, the Classic 650 may be worth considering. Those seeking a motorcycle for more serious touring and off-road use may find the Himalayan 450 more suitable. The Interceptor 650 offers a more value-focused route to the same basic twin-cylinder engine, while the Shotgun 650 caters to buyers drawn to a different custom-inspired design.

With prices starting at approximately Rs 3.4 lakh (ex-showroom), the Bear 650 also costs more than the entry point to the Interceptor 650 range. Buyers therefore need to consider whether its distinctive design and scrambler character justify the additional expense.

Verdict: An emotional choice for enthusiasts

The long-term review concludes that the Bear 650 is not necessarily the most rational option in Royal Enfield’s 650cc line-up. Its weight, firm suspension and positioning between road-oriented and off-road motorcycles may make it less suitable for buyers focused exclusively on practicality.

However, the motorcycle’s appeal extends beyond specifications. Its styling, familiar twin-cylinder engine and encouragement to explore unfamiliar routes give it a personality that can matter as much to enthusiasts as outright comfort or value.

For prospective buyers, the key consideration is how they intend to use the motorcycle. Those seeking a comfortable daily commuter or a dedicated touring machine may prefer other options in the segment. Riders who value retro scrambler styling and an engaging riding experience may find the Bear 650’s distinctive character compelling despite its compromises.