The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 has been turning heads and sparking conversations among Indian motorcyclists since its arrival. But does this modern classic live up to the hype? To find out, we rode the bike, talked to owners, and explored online communities to get the real story.
The Continental GT 650 offers a sporty and engaging riding experience that’s sure to put a smile on your face. The clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs create a slightly forward-leaning riding posture, encouraging you to lean into corners.
Many owners highlight the bike’s stability, stating that there is “no high-speed wobble.”
Some riders reported wrist and back discomfort after extended periods of riding. It’s worth noting that the bike’s weight, around 200 kg, can be felt at slow speeds or when making U-turns. However, one rider said, “Once it gets going then it’s a lot easier to maneuver.”
The seat itself has also been a point of discussion, with some finding it a bit too firm. Thankfully, Royal Enfield offers a more comfortable touring seat as an optional accessory for those planning to spend more time in the saddle.
Updates on GT 650
Royal Enfield has updated the 2025 Continental GT 650 to keep it fresh and competitive.
- Alloy Wheels and Tubeless Tires: The latest version offers stylish alloy wheels with tubeless tires.
- LED Headlight: The classic round headlamp now features modern LED technology, providing brighter and more efficient illumination.
- Aluminum Switch Cubes: The switchgear has been upgraded with premium aluminum switch cubes.
- Adjustable Levers: Both the clutch and brake levers are now adjustable.
Performance
The Continental GT 650 is powered by a 648cc, air-cooled, parallel-twin engine delivering 47 horsepower and 52 Nm of torque. This engine is a significant upgrade from older GT models. The throttle response is crisp, and the engine pulls strongly from low revs.
While acceleration figures have slightly decreased compared to the initial launch (taking about half a second longer to reach 100 kmph), this is likely due to stricter emission norms and is hardly noticeable in everyday riding.
For those who crave even more performance, the Continental GT 650 has good potential for modifications and tuning, with some riders achieving speeds of 200 kmph with the right upgrades.
GT 650 Mileage
The Continental GT 650 delivers a respectable fuel economy of around 25 kmpl. With its 12.5-liter fuel tank, you can expect a decent range for your daily commutes and weekend rides. The reserve capacity is 2.5 liters, and the low fuel warning activates with 3.1 liters remaining in the tank.
Mileage in different riding conditions:
- City Traffic with Hard Acceleration: 14-16 kmpl
- City Traffic with Smooth Riding: 18-20 kmpl
- Highway Riding (6th Gear, Higher RPM): 18-22 kmpl
- Highway Riding (6th Gear, Maintaining 80 kmph): 28-31 kmpl
Continental GT 650 Price
It’s one of the most accessible twin-cylinder motorcycles, starting at ₹3,18,417 in India. Even with the recent price increase due to the addition of new features, it continues to be a strong value proposition.
State | On-Road Price |
---|---|
Maharashtra | ₹3,84,413 - 4,14,143 |
Tamil Nadu | ₹3,79,610 - 4,08,975 |
Uttar Pradesh | ₹3,73,648 - 4,05,260 |
Karnataka | ₹3,99,860 - 4,30,092 |
Gujarat | ₹3,80,734 - 4,09,316 |
Madhya Pradesh | ₹3,66,957 - 3,95,179 |
Andhra Pradesh | ₹3,79,468 - 4,08,830 |
West Bengal | ₹3,73,437 - 4,02,799 |
Rajasthan | ₹3,96,781 - 4,27,679 |
Telangana | ₹3,81,766 - 4,11,664 |
Please note: These prices are approximate and may vary depending on the specific city, dealer, and chosen variant.
Compared to its main competitor, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, the Continental GT 650 commands a slight premium due to its café racer styling and sportier ergonomics.
Common GT 650 Issues
Few owners have reported clutch slippage issues during aggressive riding, which may require adjusting the clutch cable or replacing the clutch plates. There have also been occasional fuel injector problems, causing engine performance inconsistencies, which might need cleaning or replacement.
The exhaust can rust in humid or coastal areas, but regular cleaning and anti-rust spray can help. The air-cooled engine can overheat in hot weather or heavy traffic.
Some riders find the 12.5-liter fuel tank small, limiting range. Additionally, the fuel gauge is often inaccurate, making it hard to estimate the remaining fuel.
FAQs
- Q: Is the Continental GT 650 suitable for long rides?
A: While the bike can handle long distances, the committed riding position may become uncomfortable for some riders after extended periods. Consider adding a windshield and adjusting the handlebar position for improved comfort on longer journeys.
- Q: How does the Continental GT 650 compare to the Interceptor 650?
A: The Continental GT 650 offers a sportier riding experience with its cafe racer ergonomics and slightly stiffer suspension. The Interceptor 650 is more suited for comfortable cruising and long-distance touring, with its upright riding position and relaxed handling.