The brand's new scrambler stands out for its aesthetics and accessibility, but during testing, it showed its negative sides in terms of performance.
Royal Enfield has launched the Bear 650 in the Brazilian market, a scrambler model that has been around for a little over a year abroad. During the debut, in Florianópolis (SC), we tested this “reinterpretation” of the consecrated Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, which turns into a stylish motorcycle, with a very competitive price and with positive and negative points during driving.
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Over just over 135 km, we drove with the Royal Enfield team, varying between urban perimeters, dirt roads, avenues and sunny and rainy conditions.
Right at the exit, it is clear that the model does not demonstrate its full weight to the rider. Despite the 214 kg, the compact dimensions – 2,216 mm long, 855 mm wide and 1,160 mm high – contribute to a lightweight driving impression. The wheelbase of 1,460 mm helps balance stability and agility, while the 184 mm of ground clearance reinforces the versatile proposal of the set. The seat height, 830 mm, favors the support of at least one of the feet on the floor for riders of average height.
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 is also comfortable, both in the seat and in the suspensions. The inverted front, with 130 mm of travel, absorbs irregularities well, and the rear, with double springs and 115 mm of travel, although a little hard, does not leave anything to be desired.
Negative point for the levers and grips, which follow the same as other models of the brand, being very large and hard. In a short time of travel, they are already annoying. Fit is key for a minimally comfortable ride.
The well-known 648 cm³ twin-cylinder engine, which delivers 47 hp at 7,250 rpm and 5,76 kgfm of torque at 5,150 rpm, adjusted to favor more torque, fulfills the expected. It provides excellent output, being suitable for starts and overtaking.
Although it does not have a high-performance proposal at high speeds, it is on the highway that the model is most pleasant to drive. Long straights match the style of this scrambler. However, be careful when venturing too far into the curves. Weight, aerodynamic proposal and the mixed tire make this “bear” harder to lean. Only at low speeds is agility more present.
When it comes to off-road, the model surprises. Even though it was not made to face the biggest challenges off the asphalt, on light terrain it runs without problems.
However, it is a fact that Royal sinned in the design that, according to the brand, should provide standing riding. When trying to stand fully upright, the arms are very close to the legs, and the calves touch fairings near the chassis. The best way to drive, in addition to sitting, is in an “attack position”, similar to that adopted by rally drivers.
Between qualities and pending issues, the Royal Enfield Bear 650 will certainly captivate the public that appreciates beautiful and stylish motorcycles — not least because its precursor, the Interceptor, is very beloved (and many agreed that the “bear” surpasses its predecessor). The price, which varies between R$ 33.990 and R$ 34.990, will be one of the main attractions. However, if the driver’s goal is performance, it is better to look for another model.
