The name ‘Meteor’ has been trademarked by iconic motorcycle maker, Royal Enfield, at the European Patent Office. Well, the name has a bit of history associated with it and isn’t completely new for the brand. Royal Enfield used to sell a bike called the Meteor back in the 50’s in the US. Six years later, the Meteor was replaced by the Super Meteor, which eventually made way for the Interceptor 650 back in 1962.
Going by the turn of events in the past, we believe the Meteor moniker might be given to a more affordable version of the Interceptor 650. In doing so, Royal Enfield would be able to maintain the premium quotient of the Interceptor while offering a higher value proposition - something along the lines of a Bullet 650. And considering the inevitable price hike of the Interceptor in the future, the Meteor might become the entry-level 650cc motorcycle for Royal Enfield.
In order to make it affordable, Royal Enfield might adapt a properly retro design language for the Meteor. In which case, expect the Meteor to have a classic design language, simpler single-pod console, relatively less fancy colours, locally-sourced tyres with steel spoke wheels and perhaps even fewer chrome elements. In fact, Royal Enfield might detune the motor a bit too for an even more relaxed nature to go with its retro styling. This would also help in improving the fuel efficiency.
The trademark was filed in February this year and was published in April. Interestingly, it is classified under both Class 12 and Class 25. These two classes comprise of both motorcycle (and related parts) and (riding) gear. This suggests that apart from launching the new variant, Royal Enfield could also introduce a range of riding gear.
Expect Royal Enfield to unveil the motorcycle at this year’s EICMA show, followed by the launch of the production version the following year. If the Meteor is indeed a more affordable proposition, Royal Enfield might price it at about Rs 2.3 lakh (ex-showroom).
(Source: ZigWheels.com)
