The Royal Enfield Bear 650 has quickly established itself as a formidable machine for long-distance touring and adventure riding. Recent real-world testing during an epic Delhi-Kaza-Delhi round trip has revealed the true character of this motorcycle, showcasing its capability to “munch miles all day long” with remarkable consistency and reliability.
After completing 3,200 kilometers of diverse riding conditions, one enthusiastic owner has shared valuable insights about the Bear 650’s performance, fuel efficiency, and overall touring prowess across challenging Himalayan terrain.
Outstanding Long-Distance Performance
The Delhi-Kaza-Delhi journey represents one of India’s most demanding motorcycle routes, featuring high-altitude passes, varying weather conditions, and challenging terrain. Throughout this grueling test, the Bear 650 demonstrated exceptional endurance and reliability, never missing a beat despite the harsh conditions.
The motorcycle’s ability to maintain consistent performance across such diverse conditions speaks volumes about Royal Enfield’s engineering improvements and the robust nature of the 650cc parallel-twin platform. The Bear’s touring credentials shine particularly bright when subjected to real-world adventure riding scenarios.
The seamless mile-munching capability makes it an ideal companion for riders planning extensive touring adventures across India’s challenging landscapes, from plains to high-altitude mountain passes.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency Across Terrains
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Bear 650’s performance during the Delhi-Kaza expedition was its exceptional fuel efficiency. The motorcycle achieved an outstanding combined fuel economy of 27 kmpl when measured tank-to-tank across the entire journey.
Fuel Efficiency Breakdown:
- Combined (Delhi-Kaza-Delhi): 27 kmpl
- Hill Climbing Performance: Up to 33 kmpl
- Measurement Method: Tank-to-tank for accuracy
The ability to achieve 33 kmpl during hill climbing sections is particularly impressive, considering the demanding nature of high-altitude riding where engines typically consume more fuel due to reduced oxygen levels and increased workload.
This efficiency makes the Bear 650 not only environmentally responsible but also cost-effective for long-distance touring, reducing fuel stops and extending range significantly.
Suspension Tuning and Comfort Optimization
After extensive testing, the owner discovered optimal suspension settings that significantly enhance riding comfort. The rear shocks perform best when set to the middle preload setting, providing an ideal balance between comfort and control.
Suspension Setting Insights:
- Maximum Preload: Too bouncy, uncomfortable on small undulations
- Middle Setting: Optimal balance of comfort and back-friendliness
- Minimum Setting: Not tested extensively but likely too soft for loaded touring
The quest for better rear suspension continues, with the owner exploring aftermarket options. While YSS shocks are available for approximately ₹75,000 for a pair, the search for more affordable alternatives continues. Some riders have experimented with Pulsar 220 shocks, though their effectiveness remains unverified.
Performance Specifications and Real-World Data
| Specification | Performance Data |
|---|---|
| Total Distance Covered | 3,200+ km |
| Major Test Route | Delhi-Kaza-Delhi |
| Combined Fuel Efficiency | 27 kmpl |
| Hill Climbing Efficiency | Up to 33 kmpl |
| Optimal Rear Preload | Middle setting |
| Engine | 650cc Parallel-twin |
| Reliability | Excellent across all conditions |
| Comfort Level | High (with proper suspension tuning) |
Upcoming Performance Modifications
The owner has ordered an AEW decat pipe with performance cat and black end can, demonstrating confidence in the platform’s modification potential. This exhaust upgrade is expected to enhance the riding experience further by:
Expected Benefits:
- Improved exhaust note and sound character
- Potential performance gains through better breathing
- Enhanced aesthetic appeal with black finish
- Reduced weight compared to stock system
The choice of a performance cat shows environmental consciousness while pursuing performance improvements, maintaining emissions compliance while enhancing engine breathing.
Build Quality and Reliability Assessment
After 3,200 kilometers of mixed riding conditions, the Bear 650 has demonstrated exceptional build quality and reliability. The motorcycle has shown no signs of mechanical issues or concerning wear patterns, indicating robust engineering and quality manufacturing.
The parallel-twin engine’s proven reliability continues to shine in the Bear 650 application, handling everything from city commuting to high-altitude adventure riding without missing a beat. This reliability factor is crucial for adventure touring where mechanical failures can have serious consequences.
Adventure Touring Capabilities
The Kaza route tests every aspect of a motorcycle’s capability, from high-altitude performance to rough road handling. The Bear 650’s performance on this demanding route confirms its credentials as a serious adventure touring machine.
Key Strengths Observed:
- Consistent power delivery at altitude
- Excellent fuel range for remote areas
- Comfortable ergonomics for long rides
- Robust build quality for harsh conditions
- Effective suspension (when properly tuned)
Value Proposition and Market Position
At its current price point, the Bear 650 offers exceptional value for adventure touring enthusiasts. The combination of proven reliability, excellent fuel efficiency, and strong performance across diverse conditions makes it a compelling choice in the mid-capacity adventure segment.
The motorcycle successfully bridges the gap between affordable touring and premium adventure bikes, offering most of the capability at a fraction of the cost of international alternatives.
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Bear 650 has proven itself as a capable, reliable, and efficient adventure touring motorcycle through demanding real-world testing. The Delhi-Kaza-Delhi journey has validated its credentials as a serious mile-muncher that can handle India’s most challenging routes with confidence.
With proper suspension tuning and potential exhaust modifications, the Bear 650 emerges as an excellent choice for riders seeking affordable adventure touring capability without compromising on reliability or comfort.
FAQ
Q: What fuel efficiency can I expect from the Bear 650 on long tours?
A: Based on real-world testing, the Bear 650 achieves approximately 27 kmpl combined efficiency on long tours, with hill climbing sections delivering up to 33 kmpl, making it highly economical for adventure touring.
Q: What is the optimal suspension setting for touring comfort?
A: The middle preload setting for rear shocks provides the best balance of comfort and control. Maximum preload makes the bike too bouncy on small road undulations, while middle setting is more back-friendly for long rides.
Q: How reliable is the Bear 650 for high-altitude adventure riding?
A: The Bear 650 has proven extremely reliable, completing a demanding Delhi-Kaza-Delhi journey (3,200+ km) without any mechanical issues, demonstrating excellent build quality and consistent performance across diverse conditions.
Q: Are there affordable aftermarket suspension options available?
A: While YSS shocks cost around ₹75,000 for a pair, some riders experiment with Pulsar 220 shocks as alternatives. However, their effectiveness is unverified, and most owners wait for more affordable quality options to become available in the market.
