Royal Enfield sets its sights on the electric motorbike with Flying Flea and goes electric

There are two novelties that attract attention on the stand of Royal Enfield, an Indian brand that has undergone remarkable development in recent years. The first is the larger version of one of the brand's iconic models, the Classic 350: it is now equipped with the Interceptor's 648 cc parallel twin and broadens its range of use. The twin-cylinder makes its debut on this model with a new tuning: it offers solid acceleration from low revs, remarkable throttle response and the traditionally docile and responsive attitude. The new Classic 650 uses the same frame as the Super Meteor and Shotgun 650. A double seat is standard and the passenger seat and luggage rack can be removed via a single, intuitive mechanism. With a chrome and clear polished aluminium finish applied to the front headlamp and indicators, the Classic 650 retains the characteristic British post-war styling, with a distinct visual harmony accentuated by flowing lines running from front to tail. The Classic 650 also features the distinctive teardrop tank, while the unmistakable Royal Enfield housing incorporates a new LED front headlamp and characteristic spotlights, a detail that has distinguished the brand's bikes since 1954. Showa front and rear suspension ensures ride quality and absorbs road imperfections well. Finally, the instrumentation includes a digital LCD display.

The Classic 650 will arrive, at around 7,000 euros, next February. The second Royal Enfield novelty is expected to arrive around the same time: the Bear 650, a scrambler with a 1960s design. It is based on the Interceptor 650 and is inspired by Eddie Mulder's historic victory in the 1960 Big Bear Run. The wheels are 19" at the front and 17" at the rear, combined with massive dual-purpose tyres. The scrambler-style saddle, raised rear fairing and a ground clearance of 184 mm make the Bear 650 a bike suitable for all types of terrain.Eicma 2024 was the occasion for Royal Enfield to present the new Flying Flea brand, under which it will produce electric models. The first prototypes are the classic-style Flying Flea C6 and the scrambler-style Flying Flea S6; the former will be available for retail in spring 2026.