The much awaited Royal Enfield 650 Twins were launched in the North American market on September 26, 2018. We have already done a detailed post on the Interceptor INT 650 today. In this post, we’ll cover all the details that you need to know about the Continental GT 650.
Also read: 7 lesser-known 'India-made' Royal Enfields - Fury 175 to Fantabulous scooter
Styling
Visually, the motorcycle draws cues from the original Continental GT 250 cafe racer - something that we've seen on the now discontinued Royal Enfield Continental GT single-cylinder. Thus, you can spot the round headlight at the front. The headlight features a chrome surround although, the housing, unlike the Interceptor INT 650, is black in colour. Behind the headlight is the instrument console that is a twin pod, retro-styled unit.
The twin-cradle, tubular steel frame, similar to the Interceptor INT 650, is developed in conjunction with the UK-based Harris Performance. The typical cafe racer traits include a clip-on style handlebar that provides a committed riding stance. The ergonomics is said to be ideal for twisting backroads while, at the same time, remain comfortable enough for city and highway riding. The seat height of 793mm is more accessible than its 650cc sibling. Despite the lower seat height, the ground clearance, at 174mm, is identical to the Interceptor.
The fuel tank gets a Royal Enfield sticker instead of a 3D logo while the knee recesses are more pronounced than the Interceptor INT 650. The Continental GT 650, too, features the 'Monza' fuel cap. The fuel capacity stands at 12.5-litre which is approximately 1.2 litres less than the Interceptor INT 650’s 13.7-litre tank. The motorcycle, without the fuel, tips the scale at 198 kg – 4 kg less than the Interceptor.
Behind the fuel tank is a rider only saddle. However, as seen on the fully accessorised version of the cafe racer, the pillion seat can be added as an option. The stock motorcycle features a cowl shape design behind the rider seat – another cafe racer trait. The tail light design is shared with the Interceptor INT 650, and the Continental GT 650, too, gets the retro styling at the rear. The twin-sided exhaust canisters get a chrome treatment.
The motorcycle rides on 18-inch, 36-spoke wheels are wrapped in Pirelli Phantom Sportcomp tyres in identical specifications as the Interceptor INT 650. At the front is a 100/90-18 unit while at the rear is a 130/70-18 rubber.
The cafe racer will be available in five colour options – Black Magic, Ventura Blue, Mister Clean, Dr. Mayhem and Ice Queen. The motorcycle can be purchased in Standard or Custom versions that offer a wide range of retro options ranging from special paint colours and pin stripes to retro-cool bar-end mirrors, optional fly screens and alternative finishes for items such as wheels, lights and suspension components.
The Continental GT 650 can be further customised with a suite of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories. The range of optional accessories include engine guards, lifting handle, pannier mounts, auxiliary electrical port, chrome and stainless steel silencer slip ons, acrylic fly screen, single and twin seat cowls, and soft canvas panniers.
Engine, Braking & Suspension
Mechanical specifications are identical to the Interceptor INT 650. Thus, the Continental GT 650, too, uses Royal Enfield’s brand new 648cc, parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil cooled engine, SOHC engine that delivers 47 bhp of power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,250 rpm. Of the 52 Nm of peak torque, 80 percent is available from as low as 2,500 rpm. The 270-degree firing order provides character to the exhaust note while the counterbalanced crankshaft aims to minimise the vibrations. The motor is also equipped with a Bosch fuel injection and engine management.
The six-speed gearbox benefits from slipper and assist clutch. The slipper clutch comes handy during aggressive downshifts while the assist feature ensures light lever feel.
A 320mm single disc at the front and a 240mm single disc at the rear provide the stopping power. The discs are grabbed by twin-piston Bybre (by Brembo) callipers while Bosch dual-channel ABS comes as standard.
Suspension setup, too, is shared with the Interceptor INT 650 and thus you’d find a 41mm conventional telescopic front fork with 110mm of travel. At the rear is a twin-shock, gas-charge unit with piggyback reservoirs and selectable 5-stage pre-load adjustments and 88mm of travel.
The Continental GT 650 was launched in the North American market at USD 5,799 (INR 4.21 lakh) for the Standard colourways. The Custom and Chrome colourways will be available at USD 6,249 (INR 4.53 lakh) and USD 6,749 (INR 4.89 lakh) respectively.
Also read: Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 to attempt speed record at Bonneville Salt Flats
The converted prices are for representation purpose only. The motorcycles will reportedly arrive in the INR 3 lakh (ex-showroom) price range. The 650 Twin, as told to IAB by Royal Enfield’s President, Rudratej Singh, will arrive in the Indian market by January 2019.
