Royal Enfield has launched the much-awaited Interceptor INT 650 in the Indian market with prices starting at INR 2,50,000 (ex-showroom). The aggressive pricing puts the motorcycle close to the KTM 390 Duke that retails for INR 2.26 lakh (ex-showroom). These models cater to the different audience, but the bunch that is opting for the KTM roadster for touring purposes could be attracted to the Royal Enfield offering.
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The Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650's display and test ride units have already reached 120 showrooms, which will start taking bookings and sales tomorrow (15 November, 2018). Test rides are available at these showrooms today. Deliveries commence at the end of this month, but not in big volumes. Deliveries on a mass scale will start by January 2019.
The Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650 use the same twin cradle, tubular steel frame that was developed in conjunction with UK-based Harris Performance. Both motorcycles also use the same engine and hardware but are different in terms of styling. The Interceptor INT 650 is termed as a quintessential modern classic roadster and is aimed to deliver a laidback ride experience. The comfortable ergonomics are achieved through tall-set handlebar along with a low seat (804mm) height.
The Interceptor INT 650 will be available in six colour options – Mark Three, Glitter & Dust, Orange Crush, Ravishing Red, Silver Spectre and Baker Express.
Power comes from a newly developed 648cc, parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil cooled engine, SOHC engine that delivers a maximum power of 47 bhp at 7,250 rpm and peak torque of 52 Nm at 5,250 rpm. As much as 80 per cent of that peak torque is claimed to be available from just 2,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox, featuring a slipper clutch with an assist feature – a very first on a Royal Enfield.
Stopping power comes from twin-piston Bybre sourced callipers that grab a 320mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear. Bosch dual-channel ABS comes as standard. A 41mm conventional telescopic fork with 110 mm of travel performs suspension duties, while at the back there's a twin-shock, gas-charge unit with piggyback reservoirs and 5-stage pre-load adjustment.
The motorcycle can be further customised with a long list of accessories that Royal Enfield offers. The optional accessories available for the 650 Twins include:
- Swingarm bobbins
- Front disc reservoir cap
- Fork gaiter kit
- Engine sump guard
- Large engine guard
- Small engine guard
- Compact engine guard
- Saddle stay kit
- Bar end caps
Accessories specific for Interceptor INT 650 include:
- Touring mirror kit
- Bigger fly screen kit
- Touring handlebar kit
- Mirror extender kit
- Handlebar brace pad
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Check out the ex-showroom prices of the Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 below:
- Interceptor INT 650 Standard: INR 2,50,000
- Interceptor INT 650 Custom: INR 2,57,500
- Interceptor INT 650 Chrome: INR 2,70,000