BSA Scrambler 650 vs Royal Enfield Bear 650: Competition Check

Classic Legends recently launched the new BSA Scrambler 650 in India with a starting price of Rs. 3.26 lakh, ex-showroom. The motorcycle goes head-on against the Royal Enfield Bear 650, and here’s a quick on-paper comparison of the two.

Features

The BSA is a simpler motorcycle in this regard. It gets switchable dual-channel ABS and an LCD instrument cluster with no Bluetooth connectivity. The lighting system is LED and there is a USB charger. Interestingly, the BSA Scrambler 650 gets traction control, which is missing on the Bear 650. The latter, however, features a much more sophisticated round TFT screen with smartphone connectivity and screen mirroring for navigation. It also gets USB charging port and switchable dual-channel ABS.

Engine

Powering the Bear is a 648cc, parallel-twin engine that produces 46.8bhp and 56.5Nm, which is marginally higher than the BSA. The latter runs on a 652cc, single-cylinder motor which makes 45.6bhp and 55Nm. The bigger difference is in terms of transmission system, as the Bear gets a six-speed gearbox while the BSA Scrambler 650 gets one cog less. A slipper clutch is available on both bikes.

Hardware and Dimensions

Both bikes ride on 19-17-inch wire spoke wheels with tube-type tyres. However, the Bear is suspended by more premium USD front forks while the BSA gets more traditional telescopic forks. At the rear, meanwhile, both bikes are suspended by dual springs. The chassis is a common tubular steel dual-cradle unit, while the braking setup is also the same, with almost identically sized discs at both ends.

Both bikes are quite heavy, with the BSA tipping the scales at 208kg, and the Bear being 8kg heavier. Ground clearance is also limited to 187mm (BSA) and 184mm (Bear). As for the seat height, the BSA is more accessible at 820mm, with the Bear offering a 10mm taller saddle.

Prices

The BSA Scrambler 650 is more affordable with a starting price of Rs. 3.26 lakh. Meanwhile, the Bear 659 is significantly more expensive as it starts from Rs. 3.75 lakh and goes up to Rs. 3.97 lakh, ex-showroom.