The Bear 650: when Royal Enfield reinvents the scrambler

The Royal Enfield Bear 650 is a scrambler with a strong character, designed for those who want to enjoy instinctive riding without sacrificing reliability. Its name evokes ruggedness and boldness, and a glance at its specification sheet is all it takes to understand that it has all the makings of a formidable road (and off-road) companion. In this article, we're going to delve into the technical details, to find out what makes this 648 cm³ bike tick. And why are we telling you all about it? Because we'll soon be offering it for rental at Good Motors Agency!

A two-cylinder engine with a strong personality

Outstanding torque and flexibility

The heart of the Bear 650 is a 648 cm³ parallel-twin engine, renowned for its robustness and consistency. It develops 47 hp (34.9 kW) at 7,150 rpm, and maximum torque of 56.5 Nm at 5,150 rpm. In other words, both when starting off and when picking up the pace, the motorcycle displays appreciable vigor, especially at mid-range, where it offers lively acceleration.

To make this power available on a daily basis, Royal Enfield has taken great care with engine mapping and management. The 9.5:1 compression ratio is a testament to the engine's reliability. The result is that torque is available fairly early in the operating range, so you don't have to pull excessively on the gears to feel the thrust.

Masterful driving

Thanks to its 6 gears, the Bear 650 navigates smoothly between urban use and more muscular escapades. In town, the oil-immersed multi-plate clutch and electronic fuel injection ensure natural progressiveness. On the open road, the bike doesn't shy away from revs, revealing a distinctive sound that honors the scrambler spirit. An idle speed of 1,200 rpm (±100 rpm) ensures pleasant engine stability, even after hours of riding.

A chassis designed for strength and comfort

Tubular steel frame and balanced wheelbase

The Bear 650 rests on a tubular steel frame that serves as the backbone of the entire motorcycle. This architecture provides the rigidity needed to cope with road irregularities and off-road escapades. The 1,460 mm wheelbase has been designed to offer a good compromise between high-speed stability and agility in corners.

With an overall length of 2,216 mm and a width of 855 mm, the Bear 650 retains a size that's maneuverable enough to slalom around town or sneak along dirt roads. Its height of 1,160 mm remains within the norm for this type of scrambler, enabling the rider to maintain precise control, whether sitting or standing on the footrests.

Suspensions designed for versatility

The front features a 43 mm inverted fork with 130 mm of travel. This technical choice enhances steering precision and shock absorption. At the rear, a double shock absorber supports the chassis, ensuring comfort even on rough roads. What's more, the 184 mm ground clearance is a major advantage when venturing onto stony tracks without too much fear of rubbing.

A scrambler design that doesn't pretend

Raw allure with a neo-retro touch

The Bear 650's neo-retro styling takes its cue from the scrambler: mixed tread tires, raised exhaust, straight seat and spoked wheels. The compact muffler visually lightens the silhouette and accentuates the adventurer's ready-to-bounce side. Royal Enfield has deliberately opted for an assertive minimalism, to highlight the mechanics and recall the brand's vintage DNA.

Well-thought-out ergonomics

Aesthetics aside, ergonomics have not been overlooked. With a seat height of 830 mm, most bikers will be able to put their feet on the ground without difficulty, especially as the seat remains quite slim. The 13.7-liter fuel tank offers a decent capacity for daily commutes or small adventures. As for the curb weight of 214 kg, it remains well under control, especially for the scrambler segment, and is quickly forgotten on the road.

Braking and safety: the modern DNA of the Bear 650

The Bear 650 has not skimped on safety: it features a dual-channel ABS system, which controls braking on both the front and rear wheels. Interestingly, the ABS can be disconnected at the rear only, a feature much appreciated by off-road enthusiasts, who sometimes wish to let the rear wheel slide slightly on trails.

At the front, the single 320 mm disc is gripped by a dual-piston caliper, while at the rear, a 270 mm disc ensures reliable, progressive braking. This configuration guarantees a good feel at the lever, with enough bite to stop quickly in urban environments, without becoming too aggressive in off-road use.

Tires designed to get you off the beaten track

The Bear 650 is fitted with 19" front and 17" rear spoked rims, a classic compromise in the world of scramblers for precise handling and off-road capability. Tires from the MRF NYLOREX range (100/90-19 M/C 57H at the front and 140/80R17 M/C 69H at the rear) offer satisfactory grip on both dry and gravel roads.

Thanks to this choice of tires, the Bear 650 proves reassuring in most situations, from daily asphalt rides to dirt road escapades. Of course, changing to more off-road tires can be considered, especially if you plan to ride on more extreme terrain.

A modern electrical system for connected use

The Bear 650 doesn't shy away from modernity when it comes to electrics. Front and rear LED lighting (including license plate and turn signals) not only enhances night-time visibility, but also adds a typical scrambler lighting signature. Royal Enfield has also equipped the bike with a round 4-inch TFT screen, compatible with telephone connectivity and Google Maps navigation, so you can plan your routes or take calls without taking your hands off the handlebars. Finally, a USB 2.0 Type-C port (5 V / 2 A) lets you recharge your nomadic devices, ideal for keeping your smartphone in tip-top shape during extended outings. All in all, a coherent electrical and digital package that completes the riding experience of this resolutely up-to-the-minute scrambler.

Why fall for the Royal Enfield Bear 650?

Because it can do almost anything! Its lively, characterful twin-cylinder gives you a playful ride, while its sturdy tubular chassis and mixed suspension allow you to get off the beaten track. Add to this its eye-catching neo-retro scrambler styling and safety-calibrated braking, and you've got a bike that combines the useful with the pleasurable!

The Bear 650 embodies the successful marriage of tradition and modernity. Royal Enfield has capitalized on its historical experience while integrating technical solutions in tune with the times: disconnectable ABS, inverted fork, soft clutch, etc. In short, if you're looking for a motorcycle that can accompany you on both everyday and more adventurous trips, the Bear 650 could well be the ideal companion.

To find out for yourself, just take a quick look at our home page, or write to us right now at contact@goodmotors.fr, and we'll take care of the rest!

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