Bear necessities! Royal Enfield launch stripped back 650 scrambler inspired by Californian desert racing

Royal Enfield have lifted the lid on a new Bear 650 scrambler, featuring the familiar air/oil-cooled 648cc parallel twin engine found in the rest of their 650 range making it a total of five models currently, the Interceptor, Continental GT, Super Meteor and the Shotgun. Rumour has it we may see more.

Power sits at a claimed 47.6bhp at 7150rpm – meaning it can be ridden on an A2 licence – with 41.7lb.ft of torque also arriving at 5150rpm.

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Torque is increased over existing twins thanks to the inclusion of a two-into one exhaust system, rather than the usual dual exit design. The compact silencer is also said to reduce weight, coming in at an overall 216kg with 90% of its 13.7-litre fuel tank.

Based on the Interceptor 650 launched back in 2018, the motor is housed in a stronger tubular steel double cradle frame, with 19in front and 17in rear spoked wheels.

Suspension comes courtesy of upside-down Showa big piston forks with 130mm of travel, plus a pair of Showa shocks with 115mm of movement.

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Ground clearance sits at 184mm, with the bike running on chunky dual-purpose tyres to tackle an occasional light fire road. You’ll find a single disc brake at either end, with a 320mm rotor up front, and a 270mm design at the rear.

Once you’re off the beaten track, the rear ABS can also be deactivated for greater control.

Away from the brakes, the Bear gets Enfield’s full colour TFT ‘Tripper’ dash, which works with the left switchgear to provide your vital information, satellite navigation, mobile connectivity, and more. You get Google Maps integration, and a USB-C charging port, with full LED lighting boosting rider visibility.

But why the Bear? The name is said to be inspired by off-road racer, Eddie Mulder’s win at the 1960 Big Bear Run in the Mojave Desert.