Royal Enfield to unveil Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650 today: Details

The 650cc twins from Royal Enfield will be launched just a day before the relaunch of Jawa motorcycles, making for an exciting week for retro-classic enthusiasts

Royal Enfield is finally going to launch the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in India on November 14, 2018, putting an end to a year-long wait. Originally showcased at EICMA 2017, the bikes will start a new chapter for Indian automobile manufacturers who have had an excellent ride on the retro wave in India and abroad. The bikes are expected to be retailed under a price point of Rs 300,000 (ex-showroom Delhi) and mark the company's entry into the middleweight motorcycle segment.

While the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 comes in a classic roadster theme, the Continental GT 650 has a cafe racer styling. Developed by Harris Performance, the RE subsidiary in UK, the retro design is built on an all-new frame that is optimised to offer better handling and comfort. The power in both the bikes is derived from a 649cc, twin-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that delivers an output of 47 bhp at 7250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5250 rpm. The engine is matted to a 6-speed gearbox that comes with a slipper clutch and has a top speed of over 160 kmph. 

The suspension duties are taken care of by front telescopic forks and twin spring gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear. In terms of braking, both bikes come with 320mm front disc and 240mm rear disc brakes coupled with a dual-channel ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) that comes as a standard in both the motorcycles for added safety.

While we have to wait for the India launch for more details about the bikes, bookings of the Royal Enfield 650 twins have already started at some of the company dealerships across India. The Harley Davidson Street 750 will be the nearest rival of the bikes in India as well as outside. Pegged at a tentative price point of Rs 280,000-300,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), pricing will be a key factor for the success of these mid-weight classics.