The Royal Enfield Scrambler 650 has been spotted testing recently and it appears to be in near-production form. The bike is expected to be unveiled towards the end of this year and here are the three key takeaways from the bike that was spotted.
New exhaust
The new Royal Enfield 650 is based on the Interceptor 650 platform. Which means it shares the same 648cc, parallel-twin engine. While the specifications are yet to be revealed, expect it to produce 47bhp and 52Nm. More importantly, it gets a new, two-into-one exhaust and that will have a significant bearing on the bike in the way it rides and sounds.
The exhaust system should be significantly lighter than the twin exhaust setup of the Interceptor 650. Besides the lighter weight, it will sound markedly different as well. Expect a deeper, and louder exhaust note which should go with the Scrambler application of the bike. Also, expect to see mapping changes given the new exhaust.
New hardware
While the frame of the Scrambler 650 appears to be derived from the Interceptor 650, it is suspended by new suspension. At the front, there is a USD fork that appears to have a decent amount of travel for a Scrambler. At the rear, there’s a pair of shock absorbers that should be preload adjustable.
As for the wheels, the bike has a 19-inch front and 17-inch wire-spoke wheel setup. These are shod with tube-type tyres from MRF that are branded Nylorex. Braking duties, meanwhile are taken care of by a disc brake at either end. The bike should get a switchable ABS as well, in keeping with the Scrambler application.
While we do not have the numbers yet, it looks like the Scrambler 650 has more ground clearance than the Interceptor 650. That should be of use while riding off-road.
Revised ergonomics
Royal Enfield also seems to have tweaked the ergonomics to enable the bike to be ridden like a Scrambler ought to. The footpegs are more forward set than the Interceptor 650, almost in a neutral position. The handlebar also appears to be within easy reach. That should translate into an upright riding position while seated. Whereas, while standing on the pegs, it should be easy to lock your knees on the fuel tank, which is important while riding on trails.
