In our industry, the Royal Enfield brand has a significant cult following. The brand is able to appeal to younger audiences even as it retains its heritage and retro character in modern bikes. The firm introduced its first twin-cylinder 650cc motorbikes a few years ago, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650. They were met with enthusiasm, and the models continue to occupy a respectable place in the mid-capacity motorcycle market. Both of these models are available in other countries, and the company has recently revealed their 2023 editions in Europe.
The 2023 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and 2023 Interceptor 650 will also be available on our lands in the near future. The bikes have broken covers and received major upgrades. Along with fresh colour patterns, the Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650 now have alloy rims, LED headlamps, and a USB charger. The new switchgear, taken from the recently released Super Meteor 650, gives a young vibe along with vintage character.
To add to the young appearance, components such as the engine, chassis, and others are blacked out. In terms of colour choices, the Interceptor 650 now comes in Black Ray and Barcelona Blue, whereas the Continental GT 650 now happens to come in Slipstream Blue and Apex Grey. The most significant change, however, is the inclusion of alloy wheels, which will now be equipped with tubeless tyres.
In addition, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Lightning Edition and Continental GT 650 Thunder Edition have also been introduced in the United Kingdom. These versions come standard with saddlebags and a windscreen.
In terms of mechanical specs, the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT650 continue to use the existing parallel twin engine with a 270-degree crank. It has a displacement of 648 cubic centimeters and produces a peak power output of 47 bhp at 7,150 RPM and a maximum torque of 52 Nm at 5,250 RPM. The transmission in this case is a 6-speed unit. The 650 twins have 41 mm adjustable shocks up front with 110 mm travel and twin shock absorbers in the back with 88 millimeters of travel.
Talking of the seat height, it stands at 804 mm with a ground clearance of 174 mm. The 650 twins get a 13 liter fuel tank, and adding to their high speed stability is a 1,400 mm long wheelbase. Stopping power on these motorcycles comes from a 320 mm on the front wheel and a 240 mm disc around the rear. Well, these come equipped with ABS.
