The power cruiser segment in India is heating up as Harley-Davidson’s Low Rider S takes on Royal Enfield’s Super Meteor 650. While both are designed to deliver relaxed cruising with a punch of torque, the price gap between them has riders questioning whether the Harley justifies its premium price tag in the Indian market.
Let’s take a closer look at how these two heavyweight cruisers compare.
Design and Road Presence – Classic vs Muscular
The Harley-Davidson Low Rider S is unmistakably bold with its West Coast styling, dark finishes, and signature wide handlebar. It has a low-slung, aggressive stance that screams performance. The build quality, attention to detail, and premium components clearly set it apart in the looks department.
On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 leans towards retro charm. Its chrome accents, large fuel tank, and teardrop-shaped design reflect Royal Enfield’s classic cruiser DNA. While it doesn’t look as aggressive as the Harley, it definitely holds its own with elegance.
Both motorcycles have strong road presence, but Harley’s styling is more performance-focused while the Super Meteor leans towards nostalgia.
Engine and Performance – Muscle vs Practicality
The Low Rider S is powered by the 1,923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine, producing a massive 103 HP and 168 Nm of torque. It’s one of the most powerful cruisers in Harley’s lineup and delivers raw, unapologetic performance ideal for highway stretches and torque-hungry riders.
In contrast, the Super Meteor 650 features a 648cc parallel-twin engine with 47 HP and 52 Nm of torque. While not in the same league as Harley’s brute power, the RE motor is refined, smooth, and perfectly suitable for Indian conditions.
There’s no doubt the Low Rider S dominates in performance, but the Super Meteor 650 offers a more relaxed and manageable experience at less than half the price.
Features and Tech – Modern vs Minimalist
The Harley Low Rider S comes with dual disc front brakes, ABS, LED lighting, and a digital speedometer integrated into the handlebar clamp. However, it lacks modern features like riding modes or a large TFT screen.
The Super Meteor 650, though more affordable, includes tripper navigation, LED headlamp, digital-analog instrument console, and upside-down forks – a first for a Royal Enfield. It brings decent modern features into the mix, offering great value.
In terms of tech, the Super Meteor 650 punches above its weight, while the Harley stays true to its raw cruiser character.
Ride Quality and Comfort – Touring vs Street
Harley’s Low Rider S is stiffly sprung for sportier riding, which might not appeal to all Indian riders, especially on uneven city roads. Its seat height is higher (710 mm), and its aggressive footpeg position could feel tiring over long rides.
In comparison, the Super Meteor 650 has a comfort-focused riding posture, lower seat height (740 mm), and well-cushioned seat, making it more touring-friendly. For long-distance riders prioritizing comfort, the Super Meteor might edge ahead.
Price Comparison – The Big Question
Here’s where it all comes down:
- Harley-Davidson Low Rider S (CBU import): Approx. ₹20.49 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650: Starts from ₹3.63 lakh (ex-showroom)
The Harley is nearly six times more expensive than the Super Meteor. While it offers significantly more power and premium appeal, the massive price gap raises questions about value in a price-sensitive Indian market.
Final Thoughts – Which One Makes More Sense?
If you’re seeking unfiltered American muscle, raw torque, and a legendary badge, the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S delivers that thrill – but at a steep price. It’s built for enthusiasts who value performance over practicality.
However, if you want a capable, comfortable cruiser with retro flair, suitable for Indian roads and wallets, the Super Meteor 650 is a compelling package that balances style, performance, and affordability.
Also Read:- Harley-Davidson X 350 vs Yamaha R15M – Premium Badge vs Proven Performer
Conclusion
While the Low Rider S is a beast on the road, the Super Meteor 650 makes a solid case for itself as the smarter choice for most Indian buyers.
