BSA Scrambler 650: 3 reasons to buy and 3 reasons to skip it

The BSA Scrambler 650 is the second model from the reborn BSA brand in India, built on the same platform as the Gold Star 650 but reworked to live up to its scrambler name. Here's what works in its favour and a few reasons it might not be for you.

Reasons to buy the BSA Scrambler 650

Torque-rich engine

The 652cc single-cylinder engine is the undisputed highlight of the Scrambler 650. It pulls with real gusto from as low as 3,000rpm, delivering the kind of effortless low- to mid-range shove that even Royal Enfield's 650 twin can't quite match. It's properly quick too. In our tests, we recorded a 6.3-second 0-100kph time, on par with the new 350cc KTM Duke. If you're someone who values torquey, characterful engines over outright refinement, nothing else made in India does it quite like this.

Genuine trail capability

With a 19-inch front wheel, decent ground clearance and an ergonomic setup that encourages exploring light trails, the Scrambler 650 isn't just a styling exercise. It's by no means a serious off-roader given its 138mm/127mm front and rear suspension travel, but within those limits, it's an engaging, confidence-inspiring companion on loose surfaces. You'll find its limits quickly, but as long as you don't push beyond them, it'll put a smile on your face.

Price gap to its main rival

At its price point, the Scrambler 650 undercuts the comparable Royal Enfield Bear 650 by as much as Rs 50,000. For a motorcycle with this kind of distinctive engine character and genuine off-road intent, that's a meaningful saving, and it strengthens the case for the BSA against its most direct rival in the segment.

Reasons to skip the BSA Scrambler 650

Vibrations at highway speeds

The engine is happiest when ridden at a sedate pace. While you can rev it out, doing so brings a fair amount of vibration into the equation, and the bike feels noticeably more stressed at sustained highway speeds than its competition. If long stints on the highway are a regular part of your riding, this is worth factoring in.

Finish levels could be better

Build quality and finish are reasonable in isolation, but the BSA doesn't quite match the material quality and attention to detail you'll find on comparable Royal Enfield products. For a motorcycle competing in this price bracket, that's a noticeable shortfall against the segment benchmark.

Cluttered front-end design

The front end is the weakest part of the Scrambler 650's design. A small headlamp sits above the number plate, which sits above a raised fender, which in turn sits above a conventional mudguard – and the combination feels too busy and visually cluttered. While the bike looks smart from several other angles, this is one area where the design doesn't quite come together.