Royal Enfield Super Meteor: A Blend of Vintage Charm and Power

Posted On 17 Aug 2023

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This entry is part 43 of 44 in the series AusMotorcyclist Issue#1

When picturing the quintessential motorcycle, one might imagine a bike that’s not only visually appealing but has the rugged allure reminiscent of an old vinyl record. Enter the Super Meteor from Royal Enfield.

The new Super Meteor is like a blend of old-school charm and modern flair, a bike that’s visually captivating, reminding you of a dad bod—handsome in its unique ruggedness. It melds style with sufficient power that ensures heads will turn and hearts will race.

Vintage Charm Meets Rebel Spirit

Ross describes this new bike as one that seamlessly fuses vintage allure with a rebel spirit. And true to his words, the Super Meteor from Royal Enfield did leave an indelible grin on many a face.

Royal Enfield’s 650cc engine has finally found its way into a new machine, and the first impression? It does not disappoint. It still possesses the air and oil-cooled, single overhead cam, 648 CC parallel twin-cylinder engine that the brand is known for. This engine assures ample power and torque. While there are similarities with models like the Interceptor and the Continental GT, especially with the engine output, the Super Meteor sets itself apart with its new frame and swing arm.

Crafted in the UK, at the Royal Enfield Technology Center in conjunction with Harris Performance, this bike’s engine has become a stressed member of the frame, ensuring stability even at high speeds. This could easily be considered the best chassis on any Royal Enfield to date. Notably, the suspension, being the first-ever Royal Enfield with Showa suspension, adds to the bike’s stability.

Tech-wise, the Super Meteor doesn’t overdo it. It stays true to Royal Enfield’s ethos of keeping things basic, maintaining the bike’s intrinsic charm. However, it comes equipped with essentials like ABS, LED headlight and tail light, a retro-inspired digital-analog instrument panel, and even a Tripper navigation pod.

Pricing and Availability

The Super Meteor is now available in Australia with an introductory price starting at $10,640. The various versions available, including the Super Meteor 650 Tourer, offer different colour and feature choices, ensuring there’s something for every motorcycle enthusiast.

Aesthetics and Ride Comfort

When it comes to style, Royal Enfield never disappoints. The Super Meteor boasts a classic design with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank and an iconic loop rear frame, nodding to its lineage and heritage. The bike’s aesthetics, coupled with its teardrop tank, curved headers, chrome accents, and blacked-out engine parts, are visually appealing.

Furthermore, rider ergonomics have been kept at the forefront. The bike provides a comfortable seat and a rider position that ensures smooth rides and easy turns.

Critiques and Improvements

However, no bike is without its flaws. The Super Meteor’s screen, for instance, tends to direct airflow directly at the rider’s helmet, causing increased wind noise at highway speeds. Additionally, the lack of a heel-toe shifter, commonly found in cruisers, and the tricky side stand design are points where the bike could improve.

Conclusion

The Super Meteor stands out as a rock star in the Royal Enfield lineup. Drawing a parallel with popular music, if brands like Indian and Harley Davidson were likened to Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton respectively, then Royal Enfield’s Super Meteor would surely find its unique tune in the world of cruiser motorcycles. With its perfect mix of vintage charm, power, and modern tech, the Super Meteor promises to be a favourite among enthusiasts.

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