- Likely to be used for a future model that will feature the new 650cc parallel twin motor
- The name will also be used for parts and fittings which will include clothing
- The Meteor name might be used for the production version of the bobber-styled Concept KX
After the comeback of the Interceptor tag, Royal Enfield seems to be working on bringing back yet another name from its rich history of motorcycle models. This time around, the Chennai-based bike maker’s parent company Eicher Motors has applied to the European Trademark rights to gain permission for the name ‘Royal Enfield Meteor’. The suggested name will be used by the manufacturer as a title for a future model, parts, fitting and as well as clothing.
The application was filed toward the end of February, following which it was published on 3 April. Now, as per the rules, the company has to undergo a waiting period of three months (3 July) during which other firms may object if the name is likely to cause any confusion in relation to their products. Notably, there was no objection witnessed at the time of filing the application. Interestingly, in India, the company already gained rights to the name ‘Meteor’ back in 2002.
Currently there has been no confirmation on the type of motorcycle which thew bear Meteor moniker. However, the speculations suggest that it may feature the new 650 parallel twin motor that debuted with the introduction of the Interceptor 650 Twin and Continental GT 650 Twin. The 1953 original Meteor was a 700cc parallel twin motorcycle that was actually the predecessor to the Interceptor model introduced back then. The Meteor was a standard spec motorcycle that was positioned below the Interceptor. As to the current scenario, whether the same structure will be followed remains uncertain. Reports suggest that Royal Enfield could change that and christen its next bobber-styled motorcycle as the new Meteor. The company has already showcased the Concept KR motorcycle at the 2018 EICMA. While the motorcycle wasn’t intended for production soon, we believe there is a high possibility of Royal Enfield drawing upon the design of the Concept KX and plonking in the 650cc mill, thereby adding a bobber-styled product to its portfolio. If this turns out to be true, Royal Enfield will have yet another product that will take on Triumph’s product, this time being the Bonneville Bobber.
