2,000 km with my RE Bear 650: 3 modifications I have done

If you’re considering swapping four wheels for two or just want a bike that doubles as a magic carpet for adventures, I can’t recommend the Bear 650 enough.

BHPian paragp2006 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

A couple of weeks ago, our garage welcomed a new family member—the mighty Bear 650—and oh boy, what a whirlwind romance it has been! In just a few weeks, this beast has devoured 2000 kilometers, carrying not just me but also my wife, who has become my permanent co-pilot in this newfound biking adventure.

Let me tell you, I’ve read some chatter about the suspension being stiff. Honestly, I wouldn’t know. Why? Because from the moment the Bear 650 roared to life, I’ve never ridden solo! Every mile we’ve clocked has been with both of us aboard, soaking up the roads and life together. For two-up touring, this bike is the Goldilocks of its kind—just right in performance, comfort, and, importantly, budget.

Here’s the twist: we were die-hard car road-trippers until recently. What changed? My wife’s determination to squeeze the most out of life before we hit the big 4-0. “Why stay boxed in when we can feel the wind, the sun, and the open road?” she said. And, well, how could I argue with that logic? Now, our car quietly sulks in the driveway as we hit the highways on two wheels, chasing sunsets and adventures.

Of course, I couldn’t leave the Bear 650 in its stock avatar. Some tinkering was inevitable. So far, I’ve added:

• A Meteor 350 windscreen to keep the wind at bay,
• RE fog lamps to light up our nocturnal escapades,
• And Himalayan 450 knuckle guards for those rugged terrains.

But wait, there’s more! I’m eagerly awaiting delivery of Zana quick-release saddle mounts, saddle bags, and tail mounts. They’re expected this week, and I’m like a kid waiting for Christmas morning!

Now here’s a confession: in all our riding excitement, we’ve barely paused to take pictures. Can you believe we have just one photo of the Bear 650? That’s how much fun we’ve been having! I promise, though, if time and the road gods allow, I’ll sit down to share a full travelogue of our escapades soon.

Until then, here’s our one and only snapshot of the Bear. It might not capture all the memories, but it’s a start.

So, fellow riders and road warriors, if you’re considering swapping four wheels for two or just want a bike that doubles as a magic carpet for adventures, I can’t recommend the Bear 650 enough. And if you’ve already joined the Bear tribe, drop a comment below and share your mods and stories. Let’s keep the wheels turning and the adventures rolling!

Ride safe, ride happy.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.