KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Both motorcycles are based on the 650 platform and feature the same sub-frame.
- The Super Meteor's seat height is 60mm lower than that of the Classic 650.
- The Classic 650 is the heaviest motorcycle in the lineup yet.
- The Super Meteor 650 is the flagship RE motorcycle.
The Royal Enfield Classic 650 is finally here, and it presents an interesting case for itself. Not only does it expand the bikemaker's 650 lineup, but it also comes across as a worthy upgrade option for those who seek the qualities of the Classic 350 in a bigger, better package.
However, for someone who can spend upto Rs 4 lakh on a motorcycle, the flagship Super Meteor 650 will also certainly be on their list. Here, we shall attempt to understand which one of the two bikes makes more sense. However, before going further, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
Also read: Royal Enfield Classic 650 Launched, Prices Start From Rs 3.37 Lakh
Royal Enfield Classic 650 Vs Super Meteor 650; Details
Design
The Classic 650 and the Super Meteor 650 are both good-looking motorcycles. However, the winner of this particular parameter will depend on the kind of motorcycle you lean towards more strongly. The Classic 650 comes with a properly retro, British classic vibe, it retains the teardrop tank, and the round packing oodles of chrome, and it also comes with spoke rims. There are four paint schemes on offer; Vallam Red, Bruntingthorpe Blue, Teal, and Black Chrome.
On the other hand, the Super Meteor takes on a more modern approach. While it still comes with a typical laidback cruiser body, a lot of the mechanical components are blacked-out, and unlike the Classic 650, the Super Meteor 650 comes with alloy rims, giving it a neo-retro look. There are seven colour schemes to choose from; Astral Black, Astral Green, Astral Blue, Interstellar Grey, Interstellar Green, Celestial Blue, and Celestial Red.
The Classic 650 comes with a properly retro vibe, which may appeal more to purists, while the Super Meteor 650 follows a more modern, neo-retro approach.
Ergonomics
The Super Meteor 650 is a proper laidback cruiser with its forward-set footpegs, the low seat height of 740mm, and the typical cruiser-style handlebars. This position may be quite enjoyable out on the highway and at empty roads. However, the same riding stance will not be ideal for city conditions. The low seating height will also make the Super Meteor fairly accessible for shorter riders. However, the kerb weight of 241kg makes things difficult when you have to move the bike around in the parking lot.
In comparison, the Classic 650 will be far more ideal for daily city conditions, with the centre-set footpegs and the conventional handlebar, which will give the rider a more upright stance. Out on the highway, the Classic 650 may not possess the same laid-back stance of the Super Meteor, but it should still be fairly comfortable.
However, irrespective of the ergonomics, there is one thing that will be common to both motorcycles, which we shall get to in a bit.
Also read: Hero Xpulse 421 Rendered Imagined Based On Design Patent
Powertrain And Hardware
Both motorcycles are powered by the same 648cc, parallel-twin engine, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The output figures stand at 46.3bhp at 7250rpm and 52.3Nm of torque at 5650rpm. This is a proven powertrain that we have experienced on the Interceptor, Continental GT, and on the Shotgun as well.
The widespread torque and precise fueling benefits the Super Meteor 650 very well, giving it a lot of grunt. It never feels like it is running out of breath on the highway, and acceleration off the line is also very impressive. The same kind of performance can also be expected on the Classic 650.
In terms of hardware, both motorcycles are built on the steel tubular spine frame, and they also share the same sub-frame, which also results in both bikes carrying a similar stance from the rear. Both bikes also get the same twin shock absorbers at the rear with 90mm of travel. However, things are different at the front; while the Super Meteor 650 gets 43mm USD forks at the front, the Classic 650 makes do with conventional telescopic forks. The Super Meteor 650 is known to have a stiff ride quality, and it remains to be seen how the Classic 650 performs on that front.
For braking, both bikes make use of a 320mm disc at the front witha a dual-piston floating calliper, along with a 300mm rear disc, also with a dual-piston floating calliper.
Also read: CF Moto 450MT to Be Launched By the End of this Year: All We Know So Far!
Features
Both bikes are similarly equipped in terms of features. There are not a lot of frills on offer, but there is just about enough. Both bikes come equipped with dual-channel ABS, and other things include a semi-digital instrument cluster, a navigation tripper pod, a slip-and-assist clutch, and a USB port. The Classic 650 additionally comes with a removable rear seat, while the Super Meteor 650 gets a Touring seat as an option.
Verdict
If you ride out on highways fairly often, the Super Meteor 650 might make more sense, considering the relaxed riding position it offers. However, the same will end up becoming a bane when in city conditions, as the bike isn't exactly lightweight. The Classic 650 undercuts the Super Meteor 650 by a good margin, offers the same performance, features, and its more conventional upright riding position will make it better suited for a wider range of applications.
