BSA Scrambler 650 Pros & Cons Explained - Is It The Scrambler You Need?

BSA Motorcycle India launched its second model for the Indian market, the Scrambler 650, earlier this year. The Scrambler 650 is built on the same platform and is powered by the same engine as the Gold Star 650, but it features different styling, ergonomics, and a revised feature set. Priced from Rs 3.24 lakh (ex-showroom), it is one of the largest single-cylinder scrambler motorcycles in its price segment. I recently rode the BSA Scrambler 650, and in this review, I'll discuss what I liked and what could have been better.

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What I Like?

Retro Scrambler Styling

The design of the BSA Scrambler 650 is definitely a head-turner. It features a large rally-inspired front beak, chunky spoke wheels, a muscular fuel tank, a ribbed seat, and striking colour options. My favourite is the Victor Yellow, which gets a yellow and chrome finish on the fuel tank. The side profile features a 'Scrambler 65' nameplate on either side, while the raised rear section further enhances the motorcycle's overall appeal. However, the front end feels slightly busy, and the headlamp assembly appears a bit small considering the overall size of the motorcycle.

Strong Low and Mid-Range Performance

The biggest USP of the 652cc single-cylinder engine is its strong low-end performance. The engine is tuned to deliver excellent low- and mid-range torque, making it a delight in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It pulls cleanly in lower gears, allowing the motorcycle to crawl through traffic effortlessly. The power delivery remains smooth and tractable throughout the low- to mid-range, making city riding enjoyable. The gear ratios are well sorted, allowing the motorcycle to pull from as low as 20 km/h in third gear without feeling strained. The engine also responds well to throttle inputs, making it easy to manoeuvre and providing brisk acceleration whenever needed.

Decently Equipped for the Segment

The BSA Scrambler 650 comes equipped with a decent list of features for everyday riding. It gets all-LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, traction control, dual-channel ABS, Type-A and Type-C charging ports, a 12V charging socket that can also power a tyre inflator, a slip-and-assist clutch, and hazard lamps. While the feature list isn't class-leading, it offers everything most riders are likely to need.

Commanding and Comfortable Ride & Handling

The Scrambler 650 offers a commanding yet comfortable riding posture. The upright seating position keeps your back comfortable during long rides. However, taller riders may find the footpegs slightly high, which can become mildly uncomfortable over extended distances. The overall riding triangle is well balanced and inspires confidence. The generous ground clearance, longer suspension travel, and 19-inch front wheel also allow the motorcycle to tackle light off-road trails with ease.

What I Didn't Like?

Fit and Finish Not Up to the Mark

The overall fit and finish could have been better. Rivals like the Royal Enfield Interceptor offer superior paint quality and better attention to detail. This was also one of the shortcomings of the Gold Star 650, and unfortunately, it continues with the Scrambler 650. While some buyers may find the quality acceptable, I expected more considering the asking price. If someone is spending over Rs 3 lakh on a motorcycle, the quality should feel more premium. The Victor Yellow bike I rode had visible finish issues where the yellow paint met the chrome finish on the fuel tank, which immediately caught my attention.

Brand Recognition and Limited After-Sales Support

Although Classic Legends is working on expanding BSA's presence across India, its service network still lags behind established rivals like Royal Enfield. BSA is still a relatively new brand in the Indian market, and convincing buyers to trust a new premium motorcycle brand isn't easy. The long-term availability of spare parts and the quality of after-sales support remain questionable, and this could be a significant concern for prospective buyers.

Vibrations at High Speeds

The 652cc engine delivers impressive low- and mid-range performance, but it lacks refinement at higher speeds. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, the engine develops noticeable vibrations once you cross the 100 km/h mark. The vibrations seep in through the handlebars, footpegs, and seat, which affects overall comfort during highway cruising. At these speeds, you begin to wish the motorcycle had been equipped with a sixth gear.

Poor Visibility of the Instrument Cluster

The digital instrument cluster looks modern, but its visibility needs improvement. The layout is clean, although it can feel slightly cluttered due to the multiple tell-tale lights, fuel gauge, speedometer, and tachometer. Under bright sunlight or while wearing a tinted visor, the display becomes difficult to read. You often need to take your eyes off the road for longer than ideal to read the information. A brighter display or a better viewing angle would have improved readability in different riding conditions.