EICMA 2025

Royal Enfield Bullet 650

Royal Enfield presented the new Bullet 650 at EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy, reviving the oldest name in the manufacturer's history and one of the most emblematic in world motorcycling. Continuously produced since 1932, the Bullet now reaches the highest displacement in its trajectory, combining traditional design and a philosophy of pure motorcycling with a modern 650cc twin-cylinder engine and a fully updated technical package.

With this new model, Royal Enfield expands the 650 Twin platform — already used in models such as the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, Super Meteor 650, and Shotgun 650 — and applies the combination to a motorcycle with a classic stance, resuming the company's most historic name.

The Bullet has always set its own pace and over the years has been a true pioneer that refused to follow conventions.

With innovations such as foot-operated gearshift controls and a 4-valve cylinder in the 500cc model, it set new benchmarks in its time, capable of reaching 145 km/h straight from the factory.

Its design incorporated a major innovation in 1948 with Royal Enfield's revolutionary swingarm rear suspension, first seen on the Bullet 350 Trials prototypes. After achieving victories in competitions, it was adopted on the street Bullets, making them the first full-production motorcycles in the world to include this innovation.

In the 1990s and 2000s, evolutions were introduced, such as the electric starter motor and a five-speed gearbox.

In 2010, it received the UCE engine, maintaining its benchmark characteristics: the dominant upright stance, the hand-painted Madras parallel lines, and an addictive sound. In 2023, adopting the refined 350cc J-platform, it advanced to a new generation without losing its essence.

Since 1932, the Bullet has been a symbol of resilience, evolving without losing its characteristic spirit. In 2025, the legend is fueled by the globally acclaimed 650cc parallel-twin engine, with more power and personality, writing a new chapter in the history of motorcycling.

For 93 years, the Bullet has personified genuine and uncomplicated motorcycling, uniting riders of different generations and continents. It has endured through the decades, wearing its history with pride. Born in the era of handcrafted designs, while the world around it changed, this motorcycle never forgot its roots.

Each new edition has preserved the essence of the original Bullet, its simplicity, timeless design, and enduring connection to the bike's rich legacy. After nine decades, the Bullet debuts a new image that honors its irreproachable British lineage and indomitable Indian spirit.

The Bullet has always ridden at its own pace. It is a true pioneer that refused to follow conventions. With innovations such as foot-operated gearshift controls and a 4-valve cylinder on the 500cc model, it set new benchmarks in its time, capable of reaching 145 km/h straight from the factory.

The design incorporated a major innovation in 1948 with Royal Enfield's revolutionary swingarm rear suspension, first seen on the Bullet 350 Trials prototypes. After achieving victories in competitions, it was adopted on the street Bullets, making them the first full-production motorcycles in the world to include this innovation.

After conquering England, it was when the Indian army sought a motorcycle to patrol its remote border of Kashmir and Rajasthan that the Bullet, with its flexible engine, proven trail resistance, and innovative suspension, along with simple and reliable mechanics, was the first choice.

This decision marked a turning point, giving rise to a story that would link Bullet to the true Indian spirit. Over the decades, it has become much more than a motorcycle: a true cult.

In 2025, the Bullet writes a new chapter, becoming the most powerful yet with the adoption of the acclaimed 650cc parallel twin-cylinder engine, now capable of delivering a more dynamic and determined ride than ever before. To match the increased engine power, the frame has been reinforced with a tubular steel beam.

The unique teardrop-shaped fuel tank, with its venerable wing-shaped insignia, and the concave LED headlight with "tiger-eye" position lights, first seen on Royal Enfield motorcycles in 1954, attest to its lineage.

At the heart of the new Bullet is the acclaimed 648 cc parallel twin-cylinder engine, with air and oil cooling and double overhead camshaft (SOHC). According to official data, it delivers 34.6 kW (47 hp) at 7,250 rpm and 5.3 kgfm of torque at 5,650 rpm, operating with a 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch that smooths downshifts and prevents rear wheel lock-up.

The assembly has been calibrated to offer a linear, quiet and smooth-response ride — characteristics that Royal Enfield calls "serene and engaging character", ideal for relaxed trips and urban journeys with plenty of torque at low revs. Something very similar to the Classic 650's design, but not as forward as the Shotgun, nor as rearward as the Super Meteor, which share the same chassis and engine.

The chain final drive and the dual stainless steel exhaust, with polished finish and traditional tips, preserve the deep and distinctive sound that has accompanied the Bullet for nine decades.

The Bullet 650's twin-cylinder engine delivers smooth power and effortless acceleration, ideal for relaxed or more spirited riding, while the 6-speed gearbox and slipper-assist clutch contribute to an easy and enjoyable ride.

The Showa suspension absorbs imperfections with serenity, aided by 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels respectively.

The instrument panel combines analog charm and modern functionality, with a digital LCD display for fuel level, gear indicator, and maintenance reminders.

Beneath its characteristic signature lies the latest precision engineering; smoother, more powerful, and built for today's riders. The Bullet 650 will be available in European and North American markets in early 2026.

by Autonews