Naked Motorcycles
2012Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer
26 fields on record
The 2012 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer is a classic-styled motorcycle that appeals to riders seeking vintage character and authentic scrambler heritage. Powered by a 649cc Triumph twin-engine producing 47 horsepower, it combines period-correct styling with a robust chromoly frame and traditional Ceriani suspension. Best known for its homage to desert racing history and McQueen-inspired aesthetics.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Dry weight
- 135.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 47.0 HP (34.6 kW) @ 6700 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a tribute desert racer, it is intended for spirited off-road-style riding, collector display, and short characterful outings rather than daily transport.
- Built for
- It has the raw, torquey charm of a classic Triumph twin wrapped in a rugged desert-racer frame, prioritizing soul and heritage over outright performance.
- Not ideal for
- This is not the right bike for riders wanting long-distance touring comfort, modern braking confidence, or high-speed highway capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 47.0 HP (34.6 kW) @ 6700 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3481 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 71.0 x 82.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1450 mm
- Overall length
- 2000 mm
- Overall width
- 900 mm
- Overall height
- 1100 mm
- Dry weight
- 135.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 8.00 litres
- Seat height
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Mark III chrome moly, nickel plated, oil-bearing frame with oil filter included
- Front suspension
- Cerani fork
- Rear suspension
- BSA
- Front wheel travel
- 190 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 100 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front tyre
- 2.75-21
- Rear tyre
- 100/110-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Dry weight | 135 kg | 135 kg | 135 kg | 135 kg | 135 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 8 L | 8 L | 8 L | 8 L | 8 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer?
The 2012 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer have?
The 2012 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer has a Power of 47.0 HP (34.6 kW) @ 6700 RPM.
How many gears does the Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer have?
The 2012 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
How much does the Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer weigh?
The 2012 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer has a Dry weight of 135.0 kg (297.6 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.