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Hod-rod fans, rejoice—Harley-Davidson has something tasty with its 2024 CVO
Road Glide ST bagger. Based on the recently released
We'll see you in the next episode. Whoo!
Suzuki Motor comes out swinging in the new year with its
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Royal Enfield sets its sights on the affordable middleweight cruiser segment in the US and it's doing it with the 2024 Shotgun 650 ($6,899). Occupying an important space that is currently devoid of competition from American motorcycle manufacturers like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle, the Shotgun 650 takes a page out of the Honda playbook in the awesome Rebel 500, with a twist. Engineered in England and manufactured at its Indian factory, the Shotgun 650 proves Royal Enfield's rapidly improving streetbike engineering. Here are the top five features of Royal Enfield's cruiser.
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Triumph Motorcycles' Scrambler has been a staple product in its US lineup for decades due to its classic British looks and the punchy character of its parallel-twin engine. And after its last major overhaul for the 2019 model year (read the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC And XE First Ride Review) it receives another small batch of updates for 2024. We've reported on this model in detail during the 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE Review but for riders looking for the TL;DR (too long, didn't read) version, here are our five favorite features:
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After a head-to-toe "reimagining" for its foundational Chief series back in 2022, it was only a matter of time before Indian took on the task of addressing its Scout line, which at the 10-year mark was showing its age, but at the same time figured as a crucial component in the Minnesota brand's portfolio. For one, the Scout is Indian's top-selling platform and a staple in the lineup, so revamping it would be a monumental undertaking. To its credit, Indian went all in, starting with a new steel frame that followed the design language of previous Scouts while still allowing for customization. Other design priorities included a low seat height as well as an updated technology package to give riders new options. And then there's the headline news: the larger, all-new liquid-cooled 1,250cc V-twin engine with more torque and horsepower than the outgoing 1,133cc mill—though it does retain the same 60-degree angle between the jugs.
The entire process has yielded five new Scouts for model year 2025: the Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Scout Classic, Super Scout, and 101 Scout. The bikes have the same frame and are powered by that same engine, though the 101 Scout offers the most capability of the bunch, with adjustable piggyback rear shocks, inverted adjustable front fork, and dual disc Brembo brakes. Each model is available in three trim levels with varying price points and different levels of tech.
Engine and Frame
Ola Stenegärd, director of product design for Indian Motorcycle, summed up the Scout redesign like this: "It was imperative to keep it clean, follow the iconic lines of Scout, and create a package that offered seamless customization." That meant moving to a new steel tube frame with a redesigned aluminum center piece, as well as an all-new rear subframe (shared by all models) that would easily accommodate any add-ons in the lineup (Indian has launched over 100 accessories for the Scout family, including everything from storage to style to ergonomics).
Next up was the redesigned 1,250cc liquid-cooled engine, called the SpeedPlus 1250. The slimmed-down 60-degree V-twin has a larger bore and higher compression ratio than its predecessor and is aided by electronic fuel injection and a six-speed transmission and, according to Indian, is rated for up to 111 hp and north of 82 lb.-ft. of torque, though that power reading is just for the 101 Scout; all the other models are good for 105 hp, thanks to different ECU tuning (all output the same peak torque however). Still, we're told that owners will be able to reflash the ECU on those other bikes to obtain the same 111 hp. There was no word, however, on whether we'd see a smaller engine option on the new bikes; in the past, the Scout family offered both 999cc and 1,133cc configurations, which appealed to new riders and those looking for lower-cost options.
As with previous Scouts, the new bikes offer one of the industry's lowest seat heights, but now ABS is across the entire lineup and there's the option for traction control with up to three ride modes on select models, along with the addition of a TFT display. Ben Lindaman, product director for Indian Motorcycle, said, "After conducting tons of research, rider insights drove our developments that prioritized the Scout's iconic styling, its class-leading performance, and new rider-centric technology."
Related: Indian Motorcycle 2024 Scout Line First Look
Trim and Tech Options
That explains why the Scout family is available in three technology-based trims. Standard trim is the most basic level, while Limited trim takes it up a notch with rider-centric technology. At the top of the line, Limited +Tech trim delivers the most ride-enhancing technology.
Three models bring the lower-priced Standard trim: the Scout Classic, Scout Bobber, and Sport Scout. Each comes standard with ABS, LED lighting, and an analog gauge with new fuel level and fuel economy readouts.
Limited trim adds premium badging as well as traction control, cruise control, a USB charger, and three selectable ride modes: Sport, Standard, and Tour. The Scout Classic Limited, Scout Bobber Limited, and Sport Scout Limited showcase the Limited trim.
The cream of the crop is the Limited +Tech trim which includes Indian's 4-inch round touchscreen display powered by Ride Command. Here you get a GPS system with turn-by-turn navigation and point-to-point route planning, as well as weather and traffic overlays, configurable gauges, ride stats, and more. Limited +Tech trim also offers a push-button, keyless ignition, and comes standard on 101 Scout and Super Scout models, but riders can level up when choosing the Scout Classic, Scout Bobber, and Sport Scout models too.
Indian Scout Bobber: $12,999–$15,699
Holding down the lowest price in the series is the Indian Scout Bobber, which also looks most like the previous-generation model, retaining the blacked-out components, chopped fenders, and chunky headlight nacelle of its predecessor. A solo bobber-style seat (the lowest here, at 26.2 inches), slammed 2-inch suspension, and beefy 16-inch cast wheels give it a low but imposing stance, while bar-end mirrors give the bike a clean look. Note the new single muffler configuration.
The base-model Bobber starts at $12,999 and is available in Black Metallic.
If you opt for the Limited trim, MSRP starts at $13,699, with colors including Black Metallic, Black Smoke, and Sunset Red Smoke.
The Scout Bobber Limited +Tech package starts at $14,699 and can be had in Black Metallic, Black Smoke, Sunset Red Smoke, Spirit Blue Metallic, or Nara Bronze Metallic.
Indian Sport Scout: $13,499–$15,699
The Sport Scout channels the look of the outgoing Scout Rogue, but switches it up with black 6-inch moto-style risers instead of mini-apes, with machined triple clamps and moto handlebars to give it a similar custom "club" look. The sport-style seat provides back support and comfort, while the quarter fairing gives the Sport Scout a distinctive look and even provides some wind protection. The 19-inch front wheel also sets the Sport Scout apart from its stablemates—both in style and handling.
The Sport Scout has a base MSRP of $13,499 and is available in Black Metallic.
With the Sport Scout Limited, you'll pay $14,199 while choosing from Black Metallic, Black Smoke, Storm Blue, or Nara Bronze Metallic.
The Sport Scout Limited +Tech option starts at $15,199 and comes in Black Metallic, Black Smoke, Storm Blue, or Nara Bronze Metallic Smoke.
Indian Scout Classic: $13,999–$16,699
The Scout Classic is what used to be called just the Scout, but with its chrome, classic flared fenders, and spoke wheels you can see why the new name works. A low 26.8-inch seat and relaxed ergonomics make for a familiar profile, with 16-inch wheels and a basic 41mm telescopic fork to shore up the ride. Like the other Scouts, it gets a 3.4-gallon fuel tank.
The Scout Classic has a starting MSRP of $13,999 and is available in Black Metallic.
Step up to the Scout Classic Limited, and you'll pay $14,699. It comes in Black Metallic and Silver Quartz Smoke ($500 more).
The loaded Scout Classic Limited +Tech starts at $15,699, with colors including Black Metallic, Silver Quartz Smoke, Ghost White Metallic, and Sunset Red Metallic.
Indian Super Scout: $16,499–$16,999
When the goal is to hit the open road, the Super Scout looks to be your middleweight Indian of choice. The Super comes ready for longer trips, with saddlebags, 16-inch spoke wheels, a windshield, and passenger pillion all standard. Indian didn't give us their capacity or material construction, but the saddlebags look like they can swallow most essentials for a weekend trip, and are easily accessed with a quick-pull tab. The (not-quite-touring height) quick-release windshield can be swapped out when you want a different look, and the 41mm fork delivers 4.7 inches of travel, while the dual outboard shocks give you its 3 inches of boing. Premium chrome finishes and fetching paint schemes give it a classic look.
The Super Scout Limited +Tech starts at $16,499, and is available in Black Metallic, Black Smoke with Graphics, and Maroon Metallic with Graphics.
Indian 101 Scout: $16,999
New to the series is the 101 Scout, purpose-built to be the highest-performing Scout in the lineup, and what Indian says is a homage to the original 101 Scout. The 101 comes with premium components, dedicated ECU tuning to unlock the most power from the SpeedPlus mill, and lots of high-end detailing. The good bits include a 43mm fully adjustable inverted front fork, adjustable piggyback rear shocks, and dual Brembo front discs with four-piston calipers working on the 19-inch front wheel.
A custom-stitched, gunfighter-style solo seat fits the performance vibe nicely, while stylish gloss black 6-inch moto-style risers with machined triple clamps and moto handlebars lurk under a stylish color-matched quarter fairing with a tinted visor. The 101 Scout also gets a blacked-out engine bay, exclusive badging, and unique paint.
The 101 Scout Limited +Tech starts at $16,999 and is available in Sunset Red Metallic with Graphics, or Ghost White Metallic with Graphics.
All bikes will start shipping to Indian dealers this May. More info can be found at indianmotorcycle.com.
Royal Enfield's Super Meteor 650 may be the most significant motorcycle to ever come out of India. Its classic styling, impressive performance, and excellent build quality exhibit where Royal Enfield has been, where it is, and where it's going. The Super Meteor's classic styling pays homage to the brand's original cruisers such as the 1952 Meteor and 1956 Super Meteor. Its 648cc parallel twin maintains the thumpy character that we have come to love in the INT650 and Continental GT 650. And the impressive fit and finish of the Super Meteor 650 represents a new standard for Royal Enfield.
2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Overview
The Super Meteor 650 is a retro-styled middleweight cruiser designed to be as accessible as it is functional, while delivering a relaxed stance. Starting MSRP is a class-best $6,999, but that's the only thing "cheap" about this cruiser. Everything else is top-notch. Designed around Royal Enfield's sweet parallel twin, the Super Meteor 650 slots nicely into the middleweight cruiser class, competing against models such as the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Honda Shadow line. And even if it's smaller in displacement and stature than the discontinued Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster, it is definitely a candidate for filling the void left by that American V-twin.
The SOHC fuel-injected engine has a 78.0 x 67.8mm bore and stroke and four valves per cylinder working with a 9.5:1 compression ratio. The engine produces a claimed 46.4 hp and 38.6 lb.-ft. of torque. For reference, we had the 2022 Royal Enfield INT650 on the Cycle World in-house Dynojet 250I dyno last year and recorded 40.9 hp at 6,800 rpm and 37.4 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,100 rpm at the wheel. The Super Meteor 650 has a different intake and exhaust system that results in slightly different power delivery, says R-E, but we expect similar results on our dyno.
The Super Meteor has an all-new chassis designed by famed British chassis specialists Harris Performance, owned by Royal Enfield since 2015. The tubular-steel frame helps achieve both a low center of gravity and a low seat height of 29.1 inches. Rake is 27.6 degrees, trail 4.7 inches, definite steps to the relaxed side from the Continental GT and INT 650′s 24.0/4.1 figures. The Super Meteor's wheelbase is 59.1 inches, 4 inches longer than that of the Conti/INT. This all helps set the tone for the stance of the bike, increases stability, while the wheelbase in particular makes more room for a passenger. (Read Technical Editor Kevin Cameron's story about wheelbase and chassis geometry here if you'd like to learn more.) Tires are 100/70-19 front, 150/80-16 rear, mounted to tubeless alloy rims.
A nonadjustable 43mm Showa Big Piston inverted fork (the first used by R-E) provides 4.7 inches of travel and twin shocks with five-step adjustable preload offer 4.0 inches of travel.
A set of tubeless alloy rims in conjunction with a centerstand are a testament to the Super Meteor's sincerity as a long-distance cruiser. And with the addition of a windscreen, deluxe touring seat, and pillion backrest for the Celestial variant ($7,499), the Super Meteor 650 is tailor-made for cruiser touring despite its middleweight displacement.
Available safety equipment includes non-switchable ABS. No other electronic intervention or ride modes are present, maintaining a classic experience that is felt throughout the entire motorcycle. A retro-themed instrument panel utilizes an analog speedometer with a digital information screen displaying a fuel gauge, gear position indicator, tripmeters, and a clock. The Super Meteor 650 also features Royal Enfield's Tripper turn-by-turn navigation pod. Riders can link to the navigation pod via Bluetooth through their smartphone. Further adding to the visceral feel of this Royal Enfield is a mechanical throttle cable that provides a solid, analog connection between rider and machine.
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is available in three variants: Astral ($6,999), Interstellar ($7,299), and Celestial ($7,499). The Astral model comes in three color options (green, black, and blue). The Interstellar features a two-tone paint scheme in two colors (green or gray), and the Super Meteor 650 Tourer is available in Celestial Red or Celestial Blue and features a windscreen, deluxe touring seat, and pillion backrest. Adding to the bike's iconic cruiser styling is the 4.2-gallon teardrop fuel tank with a metal gas cap. LED lighting, a first for Royal Enfield, is standard on all.
Royal Enfield has a gamut of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories for the Super Meteor 650 which include the windscreen, the deluxe touring seat, the pillion backrest, and a range of other accessories including engine guards, footpegs, mirrors, and LED turn indicators.
2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor Riding Impression
Swinging a leg over the middleweight cruiser for the first time, the quality of the Super Meteor 650 becomes abundantly clear. From the cockpit, the fit and finish of this Royal Enfield is reminiscent of Triumph's lauded detailing. The sparkle paint is deep, rich, and without blemishes. At the controls, the switch cubes are surrounded by plated aluminum and the levers are adjustable. Fire up the 648cc parallel twin and the rider is greeted with a soft rumble. The cable-actuated clutch has a great feel and a broad, easy-to-manage engagement range. Its pull is not overly strenuous but strong enough to deliver positive feedback.
The 650 twin generates plenty of usable torque down low—essential for a cruiser. And, because it's so readily available, riding a gear high is easy and you don't sacrifice much get-up-and-go. Rev the engine out for passing, and the Super Meteor continues to perform. Running the engine high into the rpm range does not generate any uncomfortable buzzing and the power continues to pull. At one point on the ride, the Super Meteor 650 was traveling north of 90 mph and it easily could have gone more.
As we made our way out of Dallas before entering the highway, the Super Meteor's ability to cruise through town in any gear is impressive. Pulling away from a stoplight, I could short-shift up to fourth gear and cruise effortlessly at speeds as low as 20 mph. Clicking through the gearbox, the shifts are quick and decisive whether the clutch is used or not.
Traversing through the urban sprawl of Dallas, the suspension provides a stable, precise ride. The nonadjustable suspension settings (preload adjustment on the twin shocks) are taut which allows the bike to maintain a neutral ride despite external forces being applied to the chassis. Grabbing a handful of gas or brake does not make the Super Meteor 650 wallow or seesaw. The 43mm Showa Big Piston Fork offers plenty of holdup when contacting uneven surfaces and provides ample bottoming resistance.
At the rear, the twin shocks are oversprung for a middleweight cruiser. Their stiff spring rate makes the shock ride up in the stroke despite being set on the lowest preload setting. Hitting unexpected bumps in the road can be jarring at the rear, popping my 125-pound frame out of the seat. Some may find this discomforting but I much prefer a bike to be too stiff than too soft.
Handling is relaxed and neutral, but if needing to make a quick maneuver, an aggressive input into the wide handlebar will quickly change the trajectory of the motorcycle. We did not find any twisty roads near Dallas, despite trying, but on freeway on-ramps, the Super Meteor 650 easily rolls onto the side of the tire and maintains its lean angle quite comfortably. Coming into corners, initiate the lean angle and maintain it with the throttle before mashing the gas and standing the bike up upon exit. If the roads stayed twisty, the Super Meteor would dance all day.
Traveling on straight roads, the Super Meteor 650′s open rider triangle is comfortable cruising for miles on end. Forward controls, a low seat, and a wide handlebar put the rider in a classic cruiser stance. Sit back, put your feet up, and let the time tick by; the only thing this cruiser needs for easier cross-country travel is cruise control.
The ByBre brake system utilizes a single 320mm front disc with a twin-piston floating caliper. A 300mm disc with a twin-piston floating caliper slows the rear wheel. Both brakes feature a dual channel ABS system. Throughout our ride, we did not encounter any hard braking zones. But when testing stopping performance in a straight line, the brakes will quickly shed speed and with a hard enough pull the ABS system will activate.
2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Conclusion
The Super Meteor 650 is a benchmark for Royal Enfield moving forward. In this new middleweight cruiser, Royal Enfield has delivered a level of quality we have not seen from it before. It's not just "good for a Royal Enfield." Starting at $6,999, this classic cruiser offers quality craftsmanship, a versatile engine, comfortable ergonomics, and a three-year unlimited-mile warranty with roadside assistance. Any rider entering the middleweight cruiser market must consider the Super Meteor 650.
2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Specs
MSRP: | $6,999–$7,499 |
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Engine: | SOHC, air/oil-cooled, 4-stroke parallel twin |
Displacement: | 648cc |
Bore x Stroke: | 78.0 x 67.8mm |
Compression Ratio: | 9.5:1 |
Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed constant mesh/chain |
Claimed Horsepower: | 46.39 hp @ 7,250 rpm |
Claimed Torque: | 38.57 lb.-ft. @ 5,650 rpm |
Fuel System: | Electronic fuel injection |
Clutch: | Wet, multiplate |
Frame: | Steel tubular spine |
Front Suspension: | 43mm inverted Showa Big Piston; 4.7 in. travel |
Rear Suspension: | Twin shocks, preload adjustable, 4.0 in. travel |
Front Brake: | 2-piston floating caliper, 320mm disc w/ ABS |
Rear Brake: | 2-piston floating caliper, 300mm disc w/ ABS |
Wheels, Front/Rear: | 19 in./16 in. |
Tires, Front/Rear: | 100/90-19 / 150/80-16 |
Wheelbase: | 59.0 in. |
Ground Clearance: | 5.3 in. |
Seat Height: | 29.1 in. |
Fuel Capacity: | 4.2 gal. |
Claimed Weight: | 531 lb. w/ 90% fuel & oil |
Contact: | royalenfield.com |
Gearbox
Helmet: Arai Regent-X
Jacket: Spidi Garage
Gloves: Spidi Garage
Pants: Spidi J-Tracker Denim Pants
Boots: Rev'It Grand Shoes
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