Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 debuts in America
- The Super Meteor 650 is now available to riders in North America and Canada.
- It is powered by the same 648cc, parallel-twin engine as the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650.
- It comes with a standard Tripper Navigation system.
- It is priced very competitively, starting at USD 6,999.
Introduction
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 has made its long-awaited debut in North America and Canada, marking an exciting milestone for motorcycle enthusiasts in these regions. Originally showcased at the 2022 EICMA in Italy, this Indian-made motorcycle has finally arrived on American and Canadian shores, bringing with it the allure of classic design and robust performance. In this article, we’ll delve into the key details of the Super Meteor 650, including its specifications, variants, and pricing, giving you a comprehensive overview of what this motorcycle has to offer.
In the American markets, the Super Meteor 650 is available in three variants: Astral, Interstellar, and Celestial. The Astral and Interstellar versions are designed for solo riders and do not come with features like a backrest and tall windscreen, which are available in the Celestial variant.
Additionally, there are differences in colour options
- Super Meteor 650 Astral: Available in Green, Black, and Blue.
- Super Meteor 650 Interstellar: Available in Grey and Green.
- Super Meteor 650 Celestial: Features two-tone colours, Red and Blue, with cream as the secondary paint.
Parallel-twin engine
The Super Meteor 650 is equipped with a 648cc parallel-twin engine that produces 46.2bhp and 52Nm of torque. It comes with a six-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch. Notable features include LED headlamps, LED turn signals, and the Tripper Navigation system as standard. The motorcycle also features Showa upside-down forks.
In terms of pricing, the Super Meteor 650 starts at USD 6,999, which is approximately Rs 5.82 lakh, in the USA. The top-spec Interstellar variant is priced at USD 7,299, or about Rs 6.07 lakh.
Pros of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
- Comfortable riding position
- Smooth and powerful engine
- Competitive price
- Tripper Navigation system as standard
- Stylish design
Cons of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
- Heavyweight
- Stiff rear suspension
- Lack of some premium features, such as traction control and cornering ABS
Competitors
In the middleweight cruiser and retro motorcycle segment, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 will face competition from various other motorcycles with similar characteristics and price points. Some of its notable competitors in the North American and Canadian markets may include:
- Harley-Davidson Sportster:
Harley-Davidson offers a range of Sportster models known for their classic cruiser styling and V-twin engines. These bikes are iconic in the cruiser segment and cater to riders seeking a traditional American cruiser experience. - Triumph Bonneville:
The Triumph Bonneville series, including the T100 and T120 models, offers classic retro styling combined with modern technology. These British-made motorcycles are known for their performance and timeless design. - Honda Rebel 500:
The Honda Rebel 500 is a lightweight cruiser with a modern aesthetic and a competitive price point. It appeals to riders looking for a cruiser with approachable power and a comfortable riding position. - Yamaha Bolt:
The Yamaha Bolt is another cruiser option with a minimalist design and a 942cc V-twin engine. It’s designed for riders who appreciate simplicity and reliability in their motorcycles. - Kawasaki Vulcan S:
The Kawasaki Vulcan S is a versatile cruiser with adjustable ergonomics to suit a variety of riders. It offers a unique blend of style and performance for those seeking a different cruiser experience. - Suzuki Boulevard:
Suzuki offers several models in its Boulevard cruiser lineup, with various engine sizes and features. These bikes provide classic cruiser looks and a comfortable riding experience. - Moto Guzzi V7:
The Moto Guzzi V7 is an Italian-made retro cruiser with a distinctive transverse V-twin engine layout. It’s known for its unique character and style.
These are some of the competitors that the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 may encounter in the North American and Canadian markets. The choice between these motorcycles will largely depend on individual rider preferences, such as styling, performance, and brand loyalty.
Conclusion
With its classic styling, powerful 648cc parallel-twin engine, and a range of variants to cater to different riders’ preferences, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 has officially made its presence felt in North America and Canada. Whether you’re drawn to the Astral, Interstellar, or Celestial variant, the Super Meteor 650 promises an exciting riding experience.
With standard features like LED headlamps, Tripper Navigation, and Showa upside-down forks, it combines modern technology with timeless design. Priced competitively, this motorcycle opens up a new chapter for Royal Enfield enthusiasts in these regions, offering them a taste of Indian craftsmanship and performance. The Super Meteor 650 is set to make its mark on American and Canadian roads, paying homage to Royal Enfield’s rich heritage while embracing the future of motorcycling.
