Royal Enfield has a strong legacy in the Indian motorcycle market, and the launch of the Royal Enfield Classic 650 is set to take that legacy to the next level. While the Classic 350 has been a fan favorite for years, the Classic 650 promises a more powerful and refined riding experience.
But how do these two motorcycles compare? Is it worth upgrading to the Classic 650, or does the Classic 350 still offer the best value for money? Let’s break down the key differences in terms of design, engine, performance, features, and pricing.
1. Engine & Performance: The Biggest Upgrade
The most significant difference between the Classic 350 and the Classic 650 is the engine.
Classic 650: More Power, Better Refinement
🏍️ Engine: 648cc parallel-twin, air-oil cooled
🏍️ Power: ~47 bhp @ 7,250 rpm
🏍️ Torque: ~52 Nm @ 5,250 rpm
🏍️ Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
The Classic 650 features the same twin-cylinder engine as the Interceptor 650 and Super Meteor 650, delivering smooth power, higher top speed, and better highway cruising ability.
Classic 350: A Reliable Single-Cylinder Cruiser
🏍️ Engine: 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled
🏍️ Power: 20.2 bhp @ 6,100 rpm
🏍️ Torque: 27 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
🏍️ Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The Classic 350 is known for its strong low-end torque and comfortable city riding, but the Classic 650 takes performance to another level with its double-cylinder refinement and highway-ready power.
✔️ Verdict: If you want more power for highway touring, the Classic 650 is the better choice. For city rides and occasional trips, the Classic 350 is still a great option.
2. Design & Styling: Classic Looks with a Bigger Presence
Both motorcycles feature Royal Enfield’s timeless retro styling, but the Classic 650 is expected to be bigger and bolder.
Classic 650: A More Muscular Look
✔️ Larger fuel tank with chrome accents
✔️ Wider handlebars for relaxed touring
✔️ Twin exhaust pipes for a premium cruiser feel
✔️ Bigger proportions for a more imposing road presence
Classic 350: Compact & Traditional Appeal
✔️ Smaller fuel tank with classic pinstriping
✔️ Sleek exhaust with a familiar thump
✔️ Traditional spoke wheels and a lightweight feel
✔️ Verdict: If you prefer a lighter, city-friendly classic look, go for the Classic 350. If you want a more premium and muscular presence, the Classic 650 is worth considering.
3. Ride Comfort & Handling: Touring vs City Riding
Both bikes offer comfortable ergonomics, but the Classic 650 is more suited for long-distance touring.
Classic 650: Built for Highways
✔️ Relaxed, upright riding posture
✔️ Smoother ride quality due to twin-cylinder refinement
✔️ Better stability at high speeds
Classic 350: Easier for City Rides
✔️ More compact and lightweight for urban commuting
✔️ Easier maneuverability in traffic
✔️ More fuel-efficient for daily rides
✔️ Verdict: If you plan to ride mostly in city traffic, the Classic 350 is easier to handle. But if you love highway touring, the Classic 650 is a better choice.
4. Features & Technology: Modern vs Traditional
Both motorcycles offer a blend of classic styling with modern features, but the Classic 650 has a more advanced setup.
Classic 650: More Modern Touches
✔️ Semi-digital instrument cluster with trip meter & fuel gauge
✔️ Dual-channel ABS for enhanced braking safety
✔️ Tripper Navigation (Optional)
✔️ USB charging port for long rides
Classic 350: Simple & Minimalist
✔️ Analog speedometer with basic digital readout
✔️ ABS for safety
✔️ No navigation or advanced electronics
✔️ Verdict: If you want a more feature-packed motorcycle, the Classic 650 is the way to go. The Classic 350 keeps things simple and traditional.
5. Mileage & Fuel Efficiency: Which One is More Economical?
Classic 350 is the clear winner in terms of fuel efficiency, as it has a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine.
🔹 Classic 650 Mileage: 22-28 km/l
🔹 Classic 350 Mileage: 35-40 km/l
✔️ Verdict: If you’re looking for better mileage and lower fuel costs, the Classic 350 is a more economical choice.
6. Price Comparison: Budget-Friendly vs Premium Cruiser
💰 Classic 650 Expected Price: ₹3.20 – ₹3.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
💰 Classic 350 Price: ₹1.93 – ₹2.20 lakh (ex-showroom)
The Classic 650 costs almost double compared to the Classic 350, making the 350 a more affordable option. However, the Classic 650 offers a lot more in terms of power, comfort, and touring capabilities.
✔️ Verdict: If you have a budget under ₹2.5 lakh, go for the Classic 350. If you want a more powerful, premium experience, the Classic 650 is worth the extra price.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re confused between the Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Classic 350, here’s a quick recommendation:
Buy the Classic 650 if:
✅ You want more power for highway touring
✅ You prefer a twin-cylinder engine for better performance
✅ You need modern features like Tripper Navigation and USB charging
✅ You’re comfortable with a higher price tag
Buy the Classic 350 if:
✅ You want a budget-friendly, fuel-efficient bike
✅ You need a lightweight and easy-to-ride motorcycle for the city
✅ You love Royal Enfield’s classic design in a more compact form
✅ You don’t require a lot of modern features
Both motorcycles cater to different types of riders—the Classic 350 is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who love the traditional Royal Enfield experience, while the Classic 650 is a powerful upgrade for those looking for premium performance.
🚀 Which one would you choose? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
