The Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650 are the most affordable twin-cylinder motorcycles on sale, no doubt. But, Royal Enfield has now announced a marginal price hike on both models. The price of the Interceptor 650 has been bumped by INR 5400 while the Continental GT now asks for INR 5700 more. The new prices will come to effect with new stocks at dealerships or from September 2019. The increase in pricing also varies depending on the colour you choose for both models.
This is the first time the pricing is being revised for both these motorcycles in our market. Even with the price hike, both models remain the most accessible twin-cylinder motorcycles in India.
Both the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 share the same engine which is a 648cc, parallel-twin, single oHC, oil-cooled motor producing 47 BHP of peak power and 52 Nm of peak torque matched to a 6-speed gearbox. These are the only two models in the Royal Enfield showroom which also get a slipper assist clutch. Both bikes come with fuel-injection and ABS as standard.
The Interceptor 650 is a modern-classic motorcycle with a relaxed upright riding position. The Continental GT on the other hand is a more engaging motorcycle with a sporty cafe racer riding position. Both bikes feature the same mechanicals but are differentiated based on the handle bar and foot peg positioning.
There is no direct rival to the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in India. In terms of pricing, you can also buy the KTM 390 Duke, Honda CB300R, Benelli 302R while if you consider other modern classic motorcycles, one can consider the Benelli Leoncino 500, Ducati Scrambler, Triumph Bonneville and the Kawasaki W800. Both these Royal Enfield 650 twins are the most advanced motorcycles from the brand, yet, they do lack on a few features which would have made them perfect such as mileage meters in the speedo console, better quality control in a few areas and slightly lower kerb weight.