On October 22, we reported images of the new Interceptor INT 650 from a Royal Enfield dealer meet in India. The photographs revealed a test mule of the classic roadster on demo. An Autocar India report now claims that the Indian bookings for the Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650 have commenced ahead of its launch. Select dealerships have reportedly promised deliveries in mid-December and are accepting pre-launch bookings for a token amount of INR 5,000.
Also read: Royal Enfield Scrambler 650 Sport and Classic imagined - Rendering
As reported on October 13, the Royal Enfield 650 Twins will be launched in India on November 14, 2018. The motorcycles would be priced aggressively and are expected to arrive in the INR 2.50-3 lakh (ex-showroom) range.
Note that Royal Enfield has not confirmed either the launch date or the start of bookings, and has not provided guidance on the pricing strategy.
The new 650 Twins would be the most affordable 650cc motorcycles in the Indian market. The Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 are built around steel tubular double cradle chassis. Suspension duties are handled by 41 mm, conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear.
Propelling tasks would be performed by the all-new 648 cc, parallel-twin cylinder, SOHC, oil-cooled, 8-valve engine that delivers 47 bhp of maximum power at 7,100 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. The engine is mated to Royal Enfield’s first 6-speed gearbox and gets slip-assist clutch as standard.
Anchoring tasks are performed by 320 mm single disc at the front and a 240 mm single disc at the rear while the safety net of dual-channel ABS comes standard. Moreover, both motorcycles ride on 18-inch wire-spoke wheels that are wrapped in 100-section front and 130-section rear tube-type Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres.
While the underpinnings are identical, the motorcycles feature completely different styling and ergonomics. The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 gets a curvy fuel tank design, a single-piece handlebar, and a flat saddle. The ergonomics are upright and comfortable as compared to the cafe racer.
The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 gets clip-on handlebars that gives the motorcycle more committed riding stance that would be appreciated while canyon carving. The cafe racer comes with a rider-only saddle with a rear cowl. Buyers can opt for the optional saddle that can accommodate a passenger.
Also read: No regrets for missing out on Jawa & Yezdi brands, says Royal Enfield’ Siddhartha Lal
We should hear more details as we approach November.
[Source: AutocarIndia.com]
