NZ Autocar Bike of the Year 2023
Words NZ Autocar | Images Isaac Western
Royal Enfield recently took out the 2023 NZ Autocar BOTY award with its Super Meteor 650 cruiser. It’s a retro-original looker at a keen price, the learner-legal twin costing $12,490-$13,090, depending on colour. It edged out competition that included the Triumph Rocket III, H-D Breakout 117, Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello, and stablemate Hunter 350.
The SM 650 is a no-frills cruiser with ABS but no TC or engine modes. At its core is a 35kW/52Nm 650 parallel twin borrowed from the Continental. It has been fettled to deliver more low-rev grunt. Vibes are well controlled and fuel use is around 4L/100km. The six-speed transmission is lightweight, fluid in action, and clunk-free.
Its chassis and suspension are new, with USD forks, and there’s 120mm of travel so the ride is pretty decent. Handling is even better, confidence inspiring, and ground clearance is shockingly good for the genre. Brakes are best when used together which is typical of cruisers with their rearward weight bias.
The Super Meteor 650 covers all the bases, one of the reasons it scored so well, and also represents great value for money. If you plan on touring with it an accessory screen is also available.
