With the launch of the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650, Royal Enfield is now planning to launch a 650cc cruiser motorcycle in the Indian market. The company has been working on a bobber-style cruiser bike for quite some time. The two-wheeler is likely to be based on the KX Bobber Concept that was showcased at EICMA 2018. Recently, a test mule of the upcoming RE devoid of camouflage was spotted doing test runs on the Perungalatur to Tambaram highway. However, the test mule looked almost production-ready.
From this spy shot, we can clearly see that Royal Enfield has stuck to the KX Bobber Concept design. The test vehicle in the images is seen as having a very low-slung body with forward set footpegs. It is also seen using a make-shift fuel tank. However, we can expect the production version to feature a new unit similar to the one present on the concept. The headlamp is a simple, round-shaped unit that gives a retro-look to the bike. The handle-bars are raised with an aim to provide a comfortable seating posture. It is also seen sporting a round-shaped tail-light along with round turn indicators at the bottom of the rear fender. The motorcycle gets alloy wheels along with a fat section tyre at the rear. As for the instrument console, the bike will get the same lopsided twin round pods as seen on the Meteor 350. The larger pod will be reserved for the speed, tachometer, and trip details. While the smaller one will feature the navigation system.
The KX Concept sported a bobber look with a single-piece saddle. However, the production version gets a more practical seat that can accommodate a pillion rider as well. Talking about the front suspension, the new Royal Enfield Cruiser features upside-down forks, which is a first for the motorcycle. While the KX Concept showcased an unconventional girder type front suspension. The rear suspension consist of twin-shock absorbers instead of mono-shock. Braking duties will be taken care of by disc brakes on both the ends along with dual-channel ABS as standard.
As for the final drive train system, the bike was speculated to use a belt-drive, similar to the one seen on Harley Davidson Motorcycles. However, from the video, we can clearly make out that the new Royal Enfield motorcycle will use a chain drive.
The New Royal Enfield Cruiser will be powered by a 650cc twin-cylinder engine that also powers the Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650. Furthermore, the bike is likely to be launched in India late next year. Currently, Royal Enfield is gearing up for the launch of the All New Meteor 350 next month.
Source: Rushlane
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