🚨NEW 2025 ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC 650🚨 Is it really worthy of the CLASSIC Title?

[@OlllOHD]

An ideal classic will be the 500cc single with at least 30 hp. A 6th gear & under 200kgs.

[@Chris78pl]

I think a lot of people wish for that me included

[@johnrickards1908]

Absolutely achievable but, it remains a unicorn. Shame😢

[@neildransfield5966]

Absolutely either way, more than 30hp or less than 200kg but a single simplicity.

[@gaza1952]

EXACTLY!

[@alans.t.9691]

500 cc single enjoy the vibrations 😂

[@michaelabernathy7013]

Since I'm not a purist concerning the RE Classic, I find the new Classic 650 to be a gorgeous bike. I've seen and sat on the Shotgun and Super Meteor and prefer the new Classic 650's looks. If it rides as comfortably as the Meteor 350, I would be hard pressed to resist one in teal or black/chrome. Still think the Classic 350 Reborn is Royal Enfield's most attractive bike. Thank you for your objective opinion, Stuart. Much appreciated.

[@G.Trevize]

I'm not a purist, but they screwed up big time with this model, and I predict few sales.

[@ianfutcher1518]

Looks great to me and I predict that sales will fly with this

[@matthewbeesley5850]

@@G.Trevize At least it's going to sell better than the BMW R 18 Classic.

[@DrNioky]

As a former Classic 500 owner, I agree with you. It just looks "off". It's like a Shotgun cosplaying as a Classic. The 350 looks much better.

[@ruahinesrider]

Something looks out of kilta but can't place it.Maybe the rear fender be lower by ½ a inch to a inch or something.Time will tell when people start customizing it. Maybe a few tweaks it'll look better.

[@G.Trevize]

That's exactly what I thought when I saw it, I said to myself, this is not a Classic, it's a meteor that pretends to be a Classic, a disaster!

[@HouseholdDog]

The engine looks shoehorned in. It's also much more Harley looking to me.

[@michaeldegagne1347]

its does look off the angle of the 650 engine is leaning forward and all the lines in the bike are, the Bullet and Classic are more upright with the rider position also more upright...one could argue a more commanding stance....still it beautiful but it is a bit off.

[@javierdiaz7952]

I agree with you on the rear fender but I still want to buy that chrome black one. Love that style and it has a gear indicator now

[@littlerambo]

I think there's a big market in a classic 500 single but this 650 is gorgeous (and heavy). To me, it feels like a British harley more than anything

[@arsmale1]

Taking the positives from the release of the Classic 650 and The Bear, the Shotgun earlier in the year, the Guerilla and the Himalayan 450 it seems to me that Royal Enfield as a company are working incredibly hard to provide a range of motorcycles that are affordable, reliable and are consistently built. It really has filled a gap in the market. I bought a Shotgun 650 and have been very pleased with it (the rear shocks have bedded in after 1000 miles). It's a bike I want to ride. And I've put more miles on the Shotgun since July than I did on the previous bike in 2 years. As far as the larger capacity single is concerned, if BSA can produce the Gold Star then there is no technical reason why Royal Enfield couldn't do the same. Enjoy the bikes and thank RE and BSA for all their hard work in keeping these marques alive.

[@stevieneilson2451]

I would have preferred a 500 single in the 350 . That would have kept the history and DNA through the lineage 🙏

[@curthofmeister7249]

@@stevieneilson2451 I own a Meteor 350. Wonderful engine. Just bore/stroke it to 500cc.

[@billsmith3019]

Hey Royal Enfield. I'm an old man now 78 yrs. old and not interested in polishing bikes for hours, been there done that. So, I would like to have one in Signals grey or tan. I think it would be appropriate to leave a little dirt on it at all times, and that's right up my alley. I'm a USA fan Stuart...thanks for your input.

[@jameskeefe4797]

The promotional video with the drone shots looks brilliant! And the location of the Beamish Museum, harkens back to the era of the golden age of motorcycling. Nicely done! I personally love the variety of bikes Royal Enfield are coming out with. The bold and daring paint schemes and designs are really creative and fun! I can understand others not liking certain aspects of that, and it shows that they care about the brand. In the end it's the consumer who's spoilt for choice and can pick the motorcycle that appeals to them the most.

[@sd3457]

RE need a factory custom scheme. I'd pay extra and wait a good while to be able to choose a Classic 650, with a 350 Signals paint job, Bear suspension and 50/50 tyres. This is barely going to make it into showrooms before the end of the southern hemisphere summer, so I guess there's time to wait and see what Baak et al come up with.

[@arijitchief]

Bear suspension and 50/50 tyres is what I am thinking as well...and you can always wrap the tank/panels...the color choices are rather dismal, I agree

[@kruzerblade4740]

They did announce one for the 350, though it’s only for custom paint schemes and decals. Seems like getting them changed either at a known mechanic seems like the only choice.

[@veritasvincit2745]

850 big bore kit as standard too being as the factory are unlikely to make it.

[@Chris78pl]

Fingers crossed for aftermarket front and rear fender 😊

[@saikrishnathiwakarrk]

​ @veritasvincit2745 Heard from a guy working in Royal Enfield that the next engine is already in building and testing stages . It is most likely a 750 or a 850cc.

[@5150show]

Your observations are spot on , the 650 while looking pretty good, just doesn’t nail the design aesthetic that the 350 exudes

[@melfzs]

Yep the rear mudgaurd/wheel combination needs sorting out ,and the seat needs to be closer fitting like my 350 , not looking like a floating seat, and the paint job's other than the black chrome are too garish, that maroon and white look like a bloody ice cream wrapper somehow? They need more classic 350 paint jobs, but as has been said they can be resprayed or wrapped to personal choice . And due to the weight it isn't going to be as agile as my 350 , which I have 50/50 tyres on and enjoy woodland trails exploring during my road rides, It's ideal for it . Cheers Mel 🍻

[@Nifilheimur]

I for one LOVE the new Classic and will buy one next spring!

[@robbs808]

I love it, I agree the seat doesn’t quite look right and the back wheel looks tiny with the massive rear mudguard gap, but nothing that puts me off, as I said I love it and my desire for one is very high.

[@robertkemp9023]

Stuart, a well worthwhile video on aspects of the new Classic 650 not covered elsewhere. I agree with your comments on some of the styling of the new bike. However, well done Royal Enfield for the progression of new bikes. I am currently running in a Classic 350 which I am truly in love with, having previously had a new 2018 Classic 500, traded in for a new 2020 Interceptor 650, which I have just traded in for the Classic 350. I loved the 500, but was tempted by the modern engine and gearbox of the 650 twin. However a combination of less need for the higher power and lack of comfort of the Interceptor seat, plus watching yours and other videos on the Classic 350, lead me to test ride one. I was pretty well instantly hooked. Comfort, the sound of the single, but most of all the effortless and sure footed handling lead me to trade in the Interceptor a new 2024 Classic 350. Whilst I find the new 650 an interesting development, I am more than happy with the journey I have been on. Keep up the good work! 😊

[@willemsterk5048]

I quite agree with you concerning the front mudguard and saddle. I'd buy a classic 650 straight away off the shelve if it was a 350 classic with a 650 engine. Now I will wait until it's available with a luggage rack and/or a pillion seat. The 350 mudguard and a nicer saddle (with actually functioning springs!) would be very appreciated.

[@melvincain5012]

I hear you can specify a pillion when ordering it.

[@gaza1952]

Nah.........it's gotta be a single. 😮

[@Giorgos1984]

You are very right Stuart, your comments are all spot on. I'm not a motorcyclist, I just follow RE for the design language and the aesthetics... To me, the last faithful bullet, was the "classic 500" (with the kick-start, the wider handlebars, the square battery panel and the distinguished spring-saddle). Yes, the classic 350 reborn was a cute version of the bullet, yet.... This 650 version is far out!

[@paulmuench7830]

As always, thanks for your videos and insight. I’m keeping my Classic 350 and I’ll adjust my route so that she’s comfortable. 😊

[@stuartfillingham]

Thank You Paul!

[@ianleaver4967]

Absolutely love the look of this bike but, the weight would be an issue for me, being someone who can’t pull the skin of a rice pudding I would struggle moving it around.

[@Butlers_Bike_life]

As an owner of a Super Meteor 650 and a Classic 350, I definitely wouldn't part with them for the new Classic 650 but I would consider it as an additional bike. Of course RE have used the Shotgun and Super Meteor platform for the creation of this bike and I do like it very much. They need to release the same colours as the 350 not go for modern colour schemes it doesn't work. Concerned why they have released the promo videos etc without a pillion seat, It would look better with fitted. I think the seat will take your eye off the large gap between the rear mudguard and wheel, RE have got that wrong, its the first thing your eye's pick up on. Besides that it looks a good bike and if I could get one in gun metal grey even better. 👍 Just wish RE could up their game when it comes to parts supply before releasing more new bikes.

[@777ooreilly]

Spot on. I reckon once you add the pillion seat, back rest and maybe some luggage rails the bike will look a lot more balanced. Gonna be a black and chrome one for me.

[@georgiospapageorgiou]

as an owner of the classic350 dark gun metal grey, i agree and like to see dark color versions on 650.hello from Greece

[@Borntobemild2625]

Great review & as always bang on the button. For me, I will get the Teal colour 100% & feel I'm on the closest bike to what my grandad had back in the day. It will turn heads as I'm a bit of a tart & love interaction when people ask or look at the bike I'm on. Keep up the good work.

[@richardyardley5127]

I agree with pretty much all you said here Stu. I think it is a shame though too that RE didn't design a platform specifically for the new Classic/Bullet ranges. They did for both versions of the Himalayan, the Interceptor and even the short lived Cafe Racer 500. It all seems very much an afterthought with the new 350 and 650 by using 'generic' new frames. That saying, I do believe they've done a more 'honest' job with the 650 by working to incorporate the 'Classic' look within the Super Meteor frame instead of what they did with the All New 'Plastic' 350, where they just pasted on a kind of 3D photocopy of a Classic 500 onto a generic modern frame, using loads of plastic inner panels and gubbins to make the thing hang together.

[@axelromanpereira7350]

I had the same reaction regarding the mudguards and the side panels but after watching material and going past the initial shock, I actually started to love them.

[@hctim96]

Great still pictures of the older bikes with that slick "Ken Burns effect" , Bravo!! Neat vid, thanks

[@silverback3926]

Glad you finally took a look at this model. The sprung solo comfort is a must for me. Instrument cluster is just enough and doesn't distract from the look. I agree that it is a shotgun playing classic dress up. Personally i think weight is another critical factor in my decision making. That in mind it seems like the interceptor is still better bang for the buck. I will hold on to my classic 500 and add a decent used interceptor to the garage. The extra savings will allow for any changes i may want to make regarding comfort.

[@johnrocker2986]

For me it is yet another well placed machine and will sell with its looks and motorway ability, me I'd buy one if finance allows.

[@vincesacca5025]

I don't think they could build an unpopular bike. They're too smart. I like the bike. This company RE through their sales of hundreds of thousands of bikes, builds homes, feeds and raises families and makes affordable quality fun for people all over the world. They can listen to viewers and always improve from feedback. We all have our own perspective. Is the glass half full or half empty... I am waiting for them to build a 1,000cc twin to rival everyone. I think people will stand in line to buy it. Goodbye for now my friend.

[@peterharding1551]

I sort of don't get any of this. That's probably just my loss I do admit. Having been riding bikes since 1967 I owned 3 BSAs and a Matchless back then before buying a Honda 750 4 in the mid 70s. I've also owned Moto Guzzi, Laverda, several BMWs. I'm still riding but find I can have monster fun for very little. I'm currently on a 2001 Honda CBR 600. The first of the fuel injection ones. Cost me £1600 and I'll get at least that when I sell it. It's immaculate. Weighs much less than 200kgs. 110 bhp. Super comfortable. Low seat height. Good fuel economy. Reliable. Looks great as well. For me that's what motorcycling is about. I fully appreciate that I probably just don't get the point about these modern classics.

[@felipedourado5721]

I do understand all the appeal of the term 'Classic' linked to a Royal-Enfield that has such silhouette and I do understand that when the Classic 500 was discontinued RE really need to fill that gap as fast and precisely as they could. But for a brand so conected to its own heritage, legacy, History and everything else that shines a light to its past and to the past of motorcycling as a whole there is something regarding to the marketing of this beautiful newcomer that puzzles my mind. And that is: RE never did (to my knowledge at least) any conection of this bike to the important Twin 500 of 1948, the very first bike to RE (and to everybody else) to have a proper swingarm and a pair of shock absorbers to realy smooth the things out to the riders. The present bike is a twin and has the same kind of rear suspension! For me it is more linked to that bike of yore than to the Classic/Bullet 500. Sure for the brand and for general public imagination a Classic/Bullet 500 is more, lets say, typical to RE but the Twin 500 of 1948 deseved at least one single mention. If not from RE themselves, at least by one of the "specialized" journalists that covered the launch of the modern Classic 650. I do agree that the front mudguard is too angular but I also think it is something that some aftermarket maker can fix and, to be honest, I think that living with the machine in just few months or even weeks I'd get used to it. Best regards from Brazil, Stu. Peace. ✌🛣🏍

[@josephmannion1976]

I agree with the looks being not quite right, but I still love it, And I think again you're right about a pillion pad improving the look. Also again, you're right about the colour schemes though I'm sure they're bringing more out over the coming year. I can't wait to see one in person, and im torn between this and the goldstar black edition.

[@bikernate8902]

Another great production. Thank you. I agree the rear mudguard could be improved. I think it is the best looking twin from RE at the moment. I do love my Interceptor, but I had to add metal fenders and clean it up a bit. BAAK is a great source. My Classic 350 is by far my favorite. And in my humble opinion... the best looking bike currently manufactured. It just feels and looks right in nearly every regard.

[@twowheelsoneleg5672]

Personally the Interceptor 650 and the Classic 350 are the best looking models in the RE range however choice is good/horses for courses etc etc. BMW/Harley/Indian/Ducati manage a whole host of models based around the same/simular engines/frames so what not Royal Enfield. It wouldn't be my choice but I'm glad it's in the range

[@russomauricio]

Hey You... I was trying to understand the lack of a Classic video sooner... Now it's clear... Spams all over the world... I fully agree with the painting options, apart from the one that recreates the Classic 500 nostalgia, the others are targeting a buyer that I don't know... Modern Classic maybe... They are doing the same with the Classic 350... In the near future we will see If there's a market for a Classic style with a modern painting...

[@robertlindstrom540]

I like the looks of this one. Classic style with modern tech, what´s not to like? Small differences compared to times past but the earlier models would also have evolved as better technology has made it possible. And I think that RE is why smaller cc motorcycles now appear in almost all major players lineup. RE has re-introduced the joy back into motorcycling, their bikes are for the rider to control the machine instead of too big and fast bikes that would kill most of us normal riders without computers and electronics controlling everything. And riding a motorcycle should be fun, and not a constant battle for survival. I think that they nailed it, again.

[@colinmartin2921]

The Japanese use Harley as their inspiration for their custom bikes, but RE use their own classic Bullet as theirs. Mind you, the Japanese are wising up and grabbing a slice of RE action, just look at the new (to Europe) 350 Honda, a RE Hunter clone.

[@LeoStarrenburg]

I understand Honda built a factory in India to produce their CB350 H'ness, big compliment to Royal Enfield's classic 350 !

[@johnsonya3401]

I'll be ordering a Black Chrome version of this bike as soon as it's available in Australia. This is exactly what retro lovers need. Can't wait! We have a few bikes but I'll probably need to sell the 2022 Interceptor to make way for this one.

[@ravipunyamurtula4771]

I agree 100% with you regarding the mudguards and side panels. My fears around the rear mudguard when I saw some of the early spy images got confirmed 😢 I think the Super Meteor frame didn’t allow the usual Classic design of the side panels But a fantastic informative video as usual!

[@Raider_MXD]

I like the looks of the Classic 650 a lot and in terms of colors my favorite is teal followed by red-white.

[@Bando909]

I'd agree Stu with the Super meteor dressed up as a classic. I think people would have paid a little more money for the die hard authentic look. Could have spun it as a "specialty model" just as the Japanese brands do it with their naked and retro lookalikes. The modern retros always cost more due to the different parts and R&D put into it. Great video as always

[@saltzen961]

The Black and Chrome is gorgeous , but you're right , it needs a long seat or a pillion .

[@Focal_Paradox]

It may not be quite what the Classic 500 was, but it sure looks like the Classic 650 I would buy. Royal Enfield are making usable, good looking bikes for a more modern (and faster) world.

[@michaelwhite8031]

I'm with you on some of the design elements.

[@nandisharamesh3226]

Totally agree with you Stu. I was too disappointed with the mudguard and side panels. I was expecting more of the classic reborn.

[@kendag2823]

Yip agree 100%, that seat would look better quilted/cross stitched etc etc 😉

[@anotherbloodytruckie455]

I like it. Don't know if I'd trade me 500 for one, would depend on a test ride. If the rear mudguard was closer to the tyre and had a sprung seat it would be pretty much spot on. I'll give Hitchcocks 6 months for a sprung seat!

[@kokopeds8588]

exactly my observation. rear mudguard is too far from tyre

[@curthofmeister7249]

Stu, I agree with your opinion on the colorways. The ones on the Classic 350 are better.

[@markhinde6187]

Nice post Stuart, I am looking forward to a review when you get your hands on one

I think it's a blast, just looks great as far as I am concerned. Was going to upgrade my Meteor for a Super Meteor but it just doesn't do the job for the pillion with dreadful comfort, then the Shotgun came along and it's just a great machine to throw around the bends. And my heart now goes with this new '' classic '' that gives me the best of both worlds. The handling of the Shotgun with the looks of the Classic. Just perfect!

[@brannonjmarshall]

US-based classic 350 owner here. The main aesthetic "off-put" of the 650 for me is look of the exhaust line. Instead of a straight shot back (like the 350), the 650 rises a bit and gives the whole thing a bit of an odd angle. The 350 still takes the cake in the beauty category. My hunch: US riders will sacrifice the looks of the 350 in favor of the power available in the 650. I suppose time will tell ;-)

[@mattdog1982]

RE hippo. A nice looking bike, but 243kg? I’m guessing RE will be aiming this bike at an older crowd. The older crowd struggled with the weight of the interceptor and many were traded in for the lighter 350 models. A rare RE miss for me.

[@LeoStarrenburg]

Same here, I'll wait till I'm able to 'feel' the 650 at a dealer here in The Netherlands, which will be summer 2025 I think. I'm very happy with my 2022 classic 350 and avoid the motorway where and when ever possible, my Tomtom is set to 'skip motorways' as a standard. I'm nearing 70 but stil able to shunt the 350 around the garage etc. easily, something I''ll have to wait and see happening with the 650. I can see that double the power is a real plus for those that want to mix with modern motorway traffic but that advantage doesn't count with me. But as I said, let's have a look and ride first.

[@michaelpratt5160]

I currently own a Super Meteor, I really love and wanted the Bullet but, as you mentioned in your video, since I’m in the US the 350 really has difficulty keeping up with and passing in highway traffic. I would really love to see the 650 version of the Bullet, if they do come out with one and it is close enough to the 350 Bullet I would definitely consider trading the Super Meteor for one and if not I might just get the Bullet 350 for local riding, that is one beautiful machine! Great video as usual, keep it up!!!

[@NoelRoots-t1u]

I would agree with you on the seat and would actually like to see a one piece double or a similar set up to the classic 350 as for the burgundy and white variant i love that but for different reasons i looks like a more modern retro machine and nothing like a bullet apart from the head light and fork guards

[@TheVintageNews]

thanks, like my 350 bronze chrome, it is bad when you run out of legs, but thats about 10% of driving, i just sit upright and cruise 50-60, perfect

[@triumphthunderbird1]

Black & chrome variant is a cracking looking bike! The RE range is now full of desirable machines.

[@jeffreyhurst9552]

Beautiful cinematography.

[@Kris_where_are_you]

Most awaited youtuber review for RE 650 classic ❤ Stuart

[@astro61362]

I think these motorcycles are breathtakingly beautiful.

[@furiousjammin1985]

I think they've took too many cues from the Triumph Bonneville Bobber 1200. The seat and "lines" look very similar.

[@YiddoHuayi]

I was SO looking forward to this bike given how much fun and joy I have with my 350 signals. Will still look to test ride one but my first impression is one of being slightly underwhelmed and the colours are really not doing anything for me.

[@AS-vb2ci]

I agree and what really annoyes me, is the fact that Classic 650 is just another Super Meteor with slighly modified clothes. How about a real Classic with 500 or 650 single engine?

[@alans.t.9691]

Most of the negative comments are coming from old folks, especially regarding weight and lack of "classic" look. Not hating, it's just interesting.. I think most young people (including me) think it's an absolute banger! Guess RE was trying to appeal to young people? Maybe! Greetings from Mexico we love RE! 🇲🇽🇮🇳

[@Disposalist]

For me it doesn't really look like a classic as much as the 350 does. The body is more cruiser-ish, which is natural given the basis on Shotgun/Super Meteor. That said it looks lovely - I just prefer the 350 shape, which is very classic. The engine is also a little 'modern' feeling to me (I've test ridden the Super Meteor). It lacks character and needs to rev and move up the gears a bit much. Again, it's lovely - I just prefer the 350 single, which is very classic. So, all-in-all, it's a great looking bike and no doubt runs lovely, but I have to be a little disappointed, because a larger engine classic (or bullet) is a great idea, but I would have preferred a 500 or 650 single in a frame similar to the 350. In summary: I saw these before I ordered a Bullet 350 ;^)

[@chrisbittlestone9264]

That’s a lovely looking bike, Stu, especially the black/chrome option. Shame it’s not green/chrome though.

[@summo1942]

Absolutely! I love my green chrome Classic 500, but I rarely see any others around. I suspect they didn't sell too well, as RE have never gone with that combo since.

[@dozerblade]

I think it looks great and I hope it sells really well, so that the price of the secondhand Super Meteor comes down and I can get one in the Spring.

[@David-uu3wq]

Yes, a valid point on the saddle and mudguards. I am not too keen on the colour schemes either. BSA 650 highland green, with clear indicators, bar end mirrors, and a double seat. That'll do nicely 👌

[@jameslast3192]

Great review. I completely agree about the shape of the rear mud guard. It just looks off or wrong.

[@basedury]

You're right, there's just something about the seat and rear fender that just don't look right to me. However, I didn't like how the Classic 350 looked when it came to the States until I saw one at a dealership. But the 650 definitely needs a different seat.

[@JustBrian1892]

As a big tall guy I’m hoping this may feel bigger than my interceptor. It’s not the same as the 350 but I love the looks and glad they try something different, sometimes the purist in us can taint our views. Just enjoy it for what it is…if people want authentic, stick to an old one. Its a new bike, just another option

[@USMCCGAGNG]

I've been waiting for this one. I love the twin motor in the Classic frame. More Colors!

[@bobbralee1019]

This is the first RE which I have thought I could see me buying that

[@SlackZach]

I wonder if they’ll want to attempt a Bullet-ized version. I’d love a plain black and gold colorway sans chrome

[@mikaelpettersson2389]

Don't worry, I saw them liveat the EICMA, and the look fantastic! However, I find the chrome version not as pleasing to the eye as the other two. I would probably go for the turquoise. The 350 classic is still prettier, somehow, but the 650, with a pillion seat, would be my choice since I absolutely want to be able to travel steadily at 120km/h and go up 25% slopes!

[@dr.chrismort8448]

Lovely looking machine. They’ve certainly nailed the power plant

[@richieclean]

If this is basically the same bike as a Shotgun but wearing a 50's frock instead of a modern tracksuit I think I'm sold.

[@schnuffelhase1968]

The black/chrome one looks really sweet to me 🤩

[@marcomalo02]

From Kentucky USA...Currently down in the twisties for a few days, riding the roads of North Georgia, Western North Carolina, and East Tennessee. Come and join us, Stuart. Another great video BTW.

[@andyberhaahn]

Unfortunately have to agree with you on the seat and rear end mismatch. I really wanted to love it but it doesn't look right to me, that plus the 243kg weight means I'll be looking elsewhere for a bigger bike, guess I'll keep my classic signals 350 for some time now

[@wavehuntersjapan]

Interesting one. Jury still out on this one. Would I exchange for my 350 ? …………no. Not “classic” looking enough for me but I am sure it will bring great pleasure to many.

[@nathanfisher7264]

I do think that the 350 had a slight edge in terms of looks, but as someone who occasionally wants to venture further afield on US highways I'd gladly make that trade. Mind you I prefer the backroads, but sometimes you want a bit more shove still. I partially agree about the colors. The black and chrome is easily the best looking but I like the burgundy/cream as well, particularly with the nice script logo. As a guitar player the Teal screams "surf green" ala old Fender guitars from the later 60's, so I'm kind of partial to that one as well. The only one that really falls flat for me is the blue. But I think it would have been better overall if they had just carried over the colorways from the 350. I particularly love the brown/chrome and the green/chrome and wish that those were options. Agreed about the seat. Not sure what to add. The fenders? Sort of. They could be larger and more rounded. But not bad by any stretch compared with anything else on the market that it's going to compete with. I think the led lighting is a little more of a gaffe. The marker lights on the back look tiny compared to a vintage bike. This is overall a huge win for me though. I've ridden the Classic 350, an Interceptor and a Super Meteor. The little 350 is amazingly good, but at 285 pounds and six feet tall it's just small for me. By the time I loaded camping gear and myself on it you'd never even see the bike. I wanted to love the Interceptor. It was a lot of fun but ultimately not comfortable for me. The Super Meteor surprised me. I'm not a cruiser guy, but it was so refined and comfortable that it almost won me over. The engine is everything I could want. The one issue for me is the forward pegs. I just can't get past that. But I'd this Classic 650 rides at all like the Super Meteor it may very well be my perfect motorcycle. The rider triangle looks perfect in all of the videos, and I'm sure there will be aftermarket seating options.

[@BlackdogADV]

I’m 75, maybe when I get much older I might like the classic but for now I’ll take the Bear. I can’t imagine a younger person buying a classic.

[@ostevoostevo1592]

Very nice photography Stuart.

[@AliasMrHackenbacker]

I find myself totally agreeing with your summary. To my eyes it's a Shotgun in new dress. I think I would still pick the BSA over the classic 650. The new Bear 650 on the other hand at first glance looks more interesting.

[@martynayling1028]

So close but……not quite right. Now the new Bear 650 appears every inch a 70’s scrambler. I await your review of that one.

[@russburton6897]

It looks like exactly what it is - a re-hashed Super Meteor/Shotgun. Seems to me that they'd have been better using the Continental as the basis for this? I'm only going on looks though - perhaps the riding position is the real reason.

[@grenmartens7420]

Spot on. It’s a Shotgun with shiny bits. Will probably sell shed loads but won’t temp me away from my Classic 350J. This frame is just wrong in Classic guise and if RE does give us a Bullet version next year, I doubt it will look any better tbh. Missed opportunity in my opinion but then I wanted a Classic 500J so I’m probably not being 100% unbiased!

[@zteburner5882]

6:20 The Kawasaki W800 and it's air cooled twin would like to challenge that statement.

[@stevewalker2047]

Good morning Stu. Good little video. I’m not sure on the either. I’ll reserve judgement until I actually see one in the flesh. I’ve not watched any other reviews of the bike purposely as I wanted to see your unbiased view first. The black and chrome model looks more authentic. The other colour schemes make it look like a 70 year old wearing teenagers clothes.

[@ThePenitentOne]

I can't pinpoint what it is, but something definitely doesn't look right with the Classic 650 model, idk if it's the out of proportion rear wheel with the rear fender or what, it looks like as if you could fit a much bigger wheel back there

[@Sr.D]

Thanks for the video! I have mixed feelings about the new Royal Enfield Classic 650. I’m not entirely sure about its aesthetic proportions, especially the design of the front and rear fenders. Overall, the bike seems to stray quite a bit from the look of the Classic 350, which I think had a more cohesive vintage style. I’ll hold off on any deeper comments until I get a chance to see it in person.

[@ccooper8785]

I would have to try it first. While I REALLY want a longer+taller frame than that of the 350, I don't particularly want anything bigger than a 350cc engine. The 350 would be perfect for the backroads and that is all I intend to do nowadays. We are also in the strange position that we are getting more and more RE models but fewer and fewer dealers/service agents. This is a problem for me as 250 miles is too far to go with a sick bike.

[@wltrlg]

Agree with your comments, but still kinda like it, because it seems slightly larger and more comfortable for longer riders than the 350...

[@rbattson7171]

Yeah, looks like the love child of the meteor and the shotgun. I like the look of the shotgun, this new 650 classic hasn't convinced, too much space showing on that rear mudguard. The 350 bullet looks more vintage. Still, plenty of choice on offer. thanks for the video.

[@hubdormans5709]

243kg is heavy but i guess that the gravitycenter is low(heavy exhaust system) and instantly when the weels are rolling it handles quit easy. I own a Classic500 and a Bonnie 790 but i think the 650 classic is a very good compromise between backlane and motorwayuse. I love the old British style from the Classic and maybee in the future a Bullet 650.

[@huertazamoranojorge7942]

I agree with you, mate. The color range and shape of the mudguard do not match a RE Classic. It’s a shame.

[@steveowens398]

You may have been running late on this one, but your review is the only one I watched all the way through. I sort of like the look, but I prefer Royal Enfields from ten or more years ago.

[@ChancellorBeeHaw]

i really agree about the styling, the back half of the motorcycle almost doesnt match the front. just an element of that classic DNA definitely not quite there when compared to the classic 350. Dont get me wrong though, the classic 650 looks absolutely gorgeous. However, I think a lot of people agree they could just take all the classic 350 paint schemes, and use them for the 650, and we would be just as happy. (they’ve nailed every paint scheme / style for the classic 350)

[@robbikebob]

The black and chrome one looks great, but without much effort it could have looked far better. Put this next to a 350 classic and the 350 shames it! Also, I hope it's got different rear shocks to the shotgun, as I test rode a shotgun, just yesterday, for 100 miles, and an otherwise fantastic bike was ruined by the hard rear end. A couple times I had to stop and get my breath because I'd been smacked so hard in the kidneys!

[@MrRiverso1]

I agree with your comparison to the shotgun , I also think , like you it would aesthetically look better with the pillion seat option.

[@briansmith611]

RE has hit the market running with the 650 engine and the J engine. NOW I'd LOVE to see them build a 1000.... 1200. I'd buy it!!

[@davidwebster7179]

Lovely bike, but agreed…some of the paint schemes don’t work, the saddle and the front mudguard too, but I agree that a pillion pad will maybe help visually. That said, I may buy one.

[@thumb-ugly7518]

I think these would be fun. I'd want to bring the foot controls forward at least 4 inches or so. Keeping my knees bent too far for too long makes for short rides.

[@Cj-nu7nx]

Great comments on this vid! I think I see a lot more of the Shotgun in this model yet still see a little (but less Super Meteor) In reference to your comment to Australia in the market in your video. Interestingly, I live in 1 of the larger big 3 citys in Australia and rarely see a Royal Enfield on the road. 🤔 I meet 1 or 2 rarely on rides. Practically never! My work mates say they have never heard of Royal Enfield until that see my SM 650 and young riders also look blank. (?) Mind you on YT I see Royal Enfield dealerships in Europe that look more highly committed to the brand than I have experienced here in Australia creating a proper Royal Enfield experience with pride on the showroom floor and with branding etc. In Royal Enfield showrooms in my city, no such experience. Sadly it seems I have known more about the range in product knowledge than the dealer. Almost like, it's on the floor and they will sell one because they have stock. But no passion for Royal Enfield. Just my thoughts. However, as a modern classic, like other Royal Enfields in my country I really hope it takes off and raises popularity to the brand! After 12months of ownership riding as a daily commuter and explorer I cannot fault the Super Meteor 650. Still not convinced I would trade for the Classic 650... Looking for a reason though...