With this update, both popular models will be made OBD-2 compliant and will feature tubeless cast alloy rims.
Just a few days ago, we reported that the Royal Enfield 650 twins were updated overseas and now we have learned that these updated models will be launched in India in just a few weeks’ time.
- Updated models to get alloy wheels, LED headlight, USB charger
- Will be OBD-2 compliant
Updated Royal Enfield 650 twins: what’s changed?
The big talking point of this update are the black alloy wheels with tubeless tyres which should answer the prayers of owners who have been clamoring for this feature since the bikes were launched. Tasks like patching a puncture or changing a tyre should now become easier thanks to the tubeless tyres. Currently, the cast alloy rims are only present on the blacked-out variants of both bikes but we expect this feature to trickle down to the rest of the colourways or at least be offered as an accessory.
Another crucial change is compliance with the more stringent OBD-2 norms which come into effect in just over a month’s time, on April 1, 2023. The Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 now get a new LED headlight (that appears to be the same unit as the Super Meteor 650), a USB charger and switchgear borrowed from newer RE models like the Hunter 350.
Along with the alloys, both bikes get two new colour options – Black Ray and Barcelona Blue on the Interceptor 650, Slipstream Blue and Apex Grey on the Continental GT 650. All body panels, engine components and exhaust pipes are finished in black on these new colourways.
Coming to the question of why the updated models went on sale in international markets first, it comes down to the fact that the company was waiting on approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards for the new components that have been added.
Updated Royal Enfield 650 twins: price, India launch timeline
The updated Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 are slated to be launched in India in mid-March and considering the numerous changes to the bikes, we expect the prices to go up to reflect that. Currently, the Interceptor 650 is priced between Rs 2.9 lakh and Rs 3.14 lakh, while the Continental GT 650 commands between Rs 3.05 lakh and Rs 3.31 lakh.
All prices mentioned are ex-showroom, Delhi.
Of the Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650, which one is your pick? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Interceptor 650 vs 390 Duke vs Ninja 300 comparison