Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Comparison

A retro roadster or a laid back cruiser, here’s what we’d pick. 

• Both bikes are powered by the potent 650cc parallel-twin mill. 
• The Super Meteor weighs nearly 23kg more than the Interceptor 650.
• Prices for the Super Meteor, though, begin from Rs 3.54 lakh, a lot more than the Interceptor 650. 

Royal Enfield has set two major goals for itself: to attain a leading position in the middleweight motorcycle market worldwide and to revive enthusiasm for cruiser motorcycles in India and other parts of the globe. 

The Super Meteor 650 is a crucial milestone in achieving these objectives. Currently, the Interceptor 650 stands as the primary competitor to the Super Meteor 650. If you are considering purchasing a contemporary classic motorcycle with a parallel-twin engine, we aim to make the decision-making process easier for you.

Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Design & Features

The Super Meteor 650 shares a resemblance to its younger counterpart, the Meteor 350, but with a more muscular appearance. It features a wide and low-slung seat, offering a relaxed riding position ideal for long-distance journeys. The cruiser aesthetics are enhanced by its teardrop-shaped fuel tank, scooped seat, and robust fenders.

The instrument cluster of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is similar to that of the Meteor 350, combining analog and digital elements. It includes an analog speedometer, various telltale lights, and a digital inset displaying essential information such as fuel level, tripmeter, odometer, clock, gear position, and an Eco prompt. Notably, the instrumentation also incorporates a Tripper Navigation pod powered by Google Maps, enabling turn-by-turn navigation assistance.

The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is equipped with an LED headlight unit, along with traditional taillights and indicators. Its instrument console consists of a twin pod digital-analog setup, featuring an analog speedometer and tachometer, accompanied by a digital inset that displays crucial information such as fuel level, odometer and tripmeter readings, clock, gear position, and service reminder. 

Notably, the Interceptor 650 does not offer Tripper navigation as an option, unlike some other Royal Enfield models. However, the variant with alloy wheels comes with an LED headlight, rotary dials on the switchgear, and a USB port located under the left switchgear, allowing for convenient on-the-go charging.

Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Engine & Gearbox

The Super Meteor 650 utilizes the same 650cc engine that was initially introduced in the 650 twins. In terms of power and torque, it offers similar performance. This means that the power delivery is enjoyable, and there is an abundance of torque available. However, Royal Enfield has made some adjustments to the Super Meteor, including a larger airbox and a revised fuel map. 

As a result, although it may not feel as quick as the 650 twins such as the Interceptor or the Continental GT, the torque distribution allows you to stay in each gear for a longer duration. The perceived lack of quickness can also be attributed to the motorcycle's weight, which diminishes some of its agility and liveliness.

That said, the Interceptor 650 with its lesser weight and smaller body does feel a tad bit more flickable than the Super Meteor 650, especially when trying to corner the motorcycle. But where it loses ground is with the tyres, as they simply cannot keep up with the amount of torque the engine has on offer. 

Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Suspension, Brakes & Tyres

During our ride up Lavasa, the Super Meteor pleasantly surprised us with its enjoyable performance. The torquey engine provided a captivating experience, while the bike's maneuverability made changing direction effortless, enabling us to easily navigate around potholes or stray cattle with minor adjustments to the handlebars. 

The grip offered by the tires was satisfactory, and what truly instilled confidence was the bike's overall stability. Even when leaning into turns, the Super Meteor remained composed and never showed signs of strain, thanks in part to its 1500mm wheelbase.

The braking system of the Super Meteor proved to be strong and reliable. This 241-kilogram machine exhibited better stopping power compared to the Interceptor, which can be attributed to the inclusion of the USD fork. Additionally, the tires on the Super Meteor were noticeably superior, contributing to enhanced braking performance.

Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Dimensions

Upon glancing at the specification sheet, many may express concerns about the Super Meteor's 241kg kerb weight. Indeed, it is a substantial weight, and maneuvering the bike off the side stand or pushing it in parking lots may require some physical strength. However, there is a technique to effortlessly prop it up on the main stand, and it simply involves applying weight at the fulcrum, leveraging basic principles of physics.

Surprisingly, even executing U-turns does not demand the rider to excessively extend their arms, thanks to the bike's design. Furthermore, the low saddle height of the Super Meteor contributes to easier handling, aiding in performing such maneuvers comfortably.

Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: Price

The Super Meteor 650 is available in three variations and offers a range of color choices. The Astral variant is offered in Black, Blue, and Green and is priced at Rs 3,54,398. The Interstellar variant is available in Green and Grey and costs Rs 3,69,622. The premium Celestial variant, priced at Rs 3,84,845, is available in Red and Blue (prices mentioned are ex-showroom Delhi).

It is important to note that the Celestial variants come equipped with a touring windscreen and a deluxe touring seat with a pillion backrest.

On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is offered in seven variations primarily distinguished by color. The Cali Green and Canyon Red variants are priced at Rs 3,03,000. 

The Black Pearl and Sunset Strip colors are available for Rs 3,11,000, while the new Black Ray and Barcelona Blue variants with alloy wheels cost Rs 3,21,000. The top-of-the-line Mark 2 variant, featuring chrome accents, is priced at Rs 3,31,000 (prices mentioned are ex-showroom Delhi).

Verdict

Choosing the right motorcycle ultimately comes down to personal preference and finding one that aligns with your specific needs. It's not a "one-size-fits-all" situation, and it's essential to select a motorcycle that suits your purpose. With that said, both the Super Meteor and the Interceptor 650 are excellent choices, each with their own merits, and there are few options in the segment that come close to them.

In recent years, the cruiser segment has experienced a lack of significant developments, resulting in a somewhat stagnant market. However, Royal Enfield aims to change that with the Super Meteor. The very essence of a cruiser's appearance and feel can transport you to a state of tranquility, allowing you to momentarily let go of worries about what is or could have been. The enduring appeal of cruisers suggests that they are here to stay, and Royal Enfield shares this sentiment, as do we.