Latest news with #GT650
Mint
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Mint
Triumph Thruxton 400 vs Royal Enfield Continental GT 650: Full Specs and Feature Comparison
The café racer world has always been more about emotion than logic — these bikes are chosen with the heart, not just the head. In India, two machines are currently stirring up quite the buzz: the all-new Triumph Thruxton 400 and the iconic Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Both share that vintage-inspired DNA, yet their execution in performance, equipment, and value takes them down different paths. The Thruxton 400 hides a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine beneath its sculpted fuel tank, delivering 42 hp at 9,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm. It's paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield's Continental GT 650, on the other hand, is powered by a 648cc parallel-twin motor producing 47 hp at 7,250 rpm and a healthy 52 Nm at 5,650 rpm, also linked to a 6-speed transmission. While the GT 650 wins the numbers game on paper, the Thruxton's lighter construction promises quicker turn-ins and a more agile ride, especially through twisty roads. Triumph's offering weighs 183 kg, making it a significant 31 kg lighter than the Continental GT 650's 214 kg kerb weight. Seat height is nearly identical — 795 mm for the Thruxton and 793 mm for the GT — making both accessible to a wide range of riders. The Enfield provides 174 mm of ground clearance and a 12.5-litre fuel tank, while the Triumph offers slightly lower clearance at 158 mm but compensates with a larger 13-litre tank. The Thruxton 400 leans into a sportier setup, featuring USD forks at the front, a rear monoshock, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in 110/70 (front) and 150/60 (rear) tyres. The GT 650 stays faithful to old-school charm with telescopic front forks, twin rear shocks, and larger 18-inch wheels running 100/90 and 130/70 tyres front and rear, respectively. Braking sees the GT 650 fitted with 320 mm front and 240 mm rear discs, slightly bigger than the Thruxton's 300 mm and 230 mm discs. However, the Triumph's lighter build could offset this size difference in real-world stopping. Triumph has packed the Thruxton with modern touches — all-LED lighting, ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, USB charging port, and a slip-and-assist clutch. Its instrument console combines an analogue speedometer with a compact LCD display. In contrast, the Continental GT 650 keeps things minimalistic with twin analogue dials and ABS as its primary electronic aid, omitting advanced rider-assist systems. The Thruxton 400 comes in at approximately ₹ 2.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), while the Continental GT 650 starts around ₹ 3.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Chennai) — a difference of nearly ₹ 50,000.
Time Business News
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time Business News
The Continental GT 650 with A Royal Enfield Bike with Classic Charm and Modern Power in 2025
In the world of motorcycles, few brands evoke the kind of loyalty and admiration that Royal Enfield does. Known for its deep roots, vintage styling, and unmistakable road presence, Royal Enfield has always delivered motorcycles that feel more like experiences than machines. One of the most talked-about models in recent years is the Continental GT 650, a Royal Enfield bike that perfectly blends the spirit of classic motorcycling with modern engineering. The Continental GT 650 stands out not just because of its distinctive appearance, but also because of what it represents. It's a motorcycle that pays homage to the café racer culture of the 1960s—an era when motorcycling wasn't just about transport but about freedom, expression, and passion. With its sculpted tank, low-slung stance, and rear-set foot pegs, this bike captures the essence of those early café racers while offering the reliability and performance of a modern two-wheeler. A Design That Speaks to the Soul The first thing most people notice about the Continental GT 650 is its unmistakable design. This is a Royal Enfield bike that wears its heritage proudly. From the teardrop-shaped fuel tank to the clip-on handlebars and minimalist tail section, every element of the GT 650 speaks to its retro-inspired identity. Yet, despite its vintage appearance, the bike feels current and relevant—thanks to subtle modern touches and quality finishes. The motorcycle's design isn't just about looks. The seating position encourages a slightly leaned-forward stance, ideal for spirited riding. Whether parked on the roadside or seen zipping past on a twisty road, the GT 650 has a presence that turns heads. The Power Behind the Looks While the Continental GT 650 may look like a classic, it performs like a true modern machine. At the heart of this Royal Enfield bike is a 647.95 cc parallel-twin engine—the first of its kind from the brand in many decades. This engine is smooth, responsive, and more refined than many riders might expect. It produces 47.4 PS of power and 52.3 Nm of torque, which makes for an enjoyable riding experience, whether you're tackling city traffic or cruising on open highways. One of the most praised aspects of this engine is its linear power delivery. It doesn't surprise you with sudden bursts; instead, it builds power steadily, giving the rider full control at every twist of the throttle. The sound of the twin-cylinder engine, especially with the stock exhausts, is deep and satisfying, adding to the overall joy of riding. Real-World Performance and Handling The Continental GT 650 is not just a looker—it rides well, too. Its weight of 214 kg gives it a grounded, stable feel, especially at higher speeds. While it's not the lightest motorcycle around, it doesn't feel sluggish or hard to manage. In fact, many riders find that the weight helps in maintaining balance and control, especially during longer rides or on uneven roads. When it comes to braking, the GT 650 is equipped with double disc brakes—providing reliable stopping power when you need it most. This setup, combined with its well-balanced chassis and suspension, ensures that the ride feels secure and composed, even when pushed harder around corners or on varying road surfaces. Fuel Efficiency That Matches Everyday Needs Performance is one thing, but practicality also matters—especially for those using their motorcycle daily or for longer trips. The Continental GT 650 delivers a mileage of around 27 kmpl, depending on riding habits and conditions. While that might not match smaller commuter bikes, it's respectable for a twin-cylinder motorcycle of this size and power. What's important to note is that the fuel efficiency doesn't take away from the experience. Riders who choose this Royal Enfield bike do so not just for mileage, but for the complete package—style, performance, and connection to the road. That said, the GT 650 still manages to be relatively economical, especially for a bike that sits comfortably in the middleweight category. Everyday Use and Comfort Many riders wonder if the Continental GT 650 is suitable for daily use. The answer depends on individual needs, but in general, the bike performs well in urban and highway settings alike. The clutch is smooth and manageable, and the gearbox shifts cleanly. For city commuting, the bike handles stop-and-go traffic with ease, although its café racer ergonomics may not appeal to every rider for daily short rides. The slightly forward-leaning posture is perfect for spirited rides but may require some getting used to for first-time users. For weekend rides, long-distance travel, and spirited cornering, however, the GT 650 really shines. It's a Royal Enfield bike built not just for appearances, but for people who love riding. With a bit of seat time, most riders grow to appreciate the unique feel it offers on the road. Build Quality and Finish Royal Enfield has significantly improved the build quality of its motorcycles in recent years, and the GT 650 is proof of that progress. From the paint finish to the fit and finish of parts, this bike feels well-made. The switches, the speedometer console, and even the tank badge all reflect attention to detail. The result is a motorcycle that doesn't just perform well but also feels premium in hand and on the road. The GT 650 is also designed to be easy to maintain and modify. Many owners enjoy customizing their bikes, adding their own personality through accessories, exhausts, or even small changes in styling. Royal Enfield has supported this with a wide range of official accessories, allowing each GT 650 to reflect its rider's taste. The Spirit of Café Racing, Reimagined The Continental GT 650 is more than just a motorcycle. It's a nod to a time when bikes were simpler, but full of soul. Riders used to strip down their motorcycles for speed and style, creating what became known as café racers. These bikes were about individuality, speed, and enjoying the road. The GT 650 keeps that spirit alive while giving you the safety and reliability of modern design. This Royal Enfield bike brings that café racer attitude into today's world. It encourages riders to slow down and enjoy the experience—something that's increasingly rare in today's fast-paced life. It's not just about getting from one place to another; it's about the journey, the feel of the engine, and the sound of the road under your wheels. The Verdict: A Well-Balanced, Timeless Machine If you're someone who values character, charm, and a solid riding experience, the Continental GT 650 is a motorcycle worth considering. It captures everything that riders have loved about Royal Enfield for generations, while also stepping forward into a more refined and modern era. Its performance is more than enough for most riders, and the 27 kmpl mileage makes it practical for regular use. The design speaks volumes, and the ride quality leaves you wanting more. Whether you're new to the world of Royal Enfield or a long-time fan, the GT 650 offers a compelling mix of nostalgia and capability. This Royal Enfield bike doesn't try to be everything to everyone—but for those who appreciate its unique blend of style and performance, it may just be the perfect match. With the GT 650, you don't just ride—you become part of a legacy, a culture, and a way of life that values the joy of motorcycling above all else. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
