The Royal Enfield 650 twins are among the most highly anticipated new bike launches of 2018 in India. Royal Enfield has announced that both the motorcycles will be launched on November 14 in our market. The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650 were first launched in the USA market at $5,799 (Rs 4.23 lakh) and $5,999 (Rs 4.37 lakh) respectively in September. As for the pricing in India, the company has been tight-lipped, but we believe both the bikes will be priced under Rs 3 lakh (ex-showroom). In fact, few dealerships across the country have already started accepting bookings for the new Royal Enfield 650 twins.
The Interceptor 650 is a touring-focused retro roadster with an upright riding stance. The Continental GT 650 carries forward the design language of the now-discontinued Continental GT 535, and is a more urban-focused cafe racer. While both the motorcycles are completely different cosmetically, they have similar cycle parts and powerplant.
Power comes from a 648cc, air-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected parallel-twin motor that produces 47hp at 7,100rpm and 52Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. The engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-assist clutch. The 650 twins are equipped with a conventional telescopic fork and gas-charged twin rear shock absorbers. Braking hardware consists of a 320mm single disc up front, and a 240mm disc at the rear with standard dual-channel ABS.
Also see:
2018 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 review, test ride