Royal Enfield GT 650 2026 India Review
Discover the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 in India for 2026 – a cafe racer blending retro charm with modern power. Explore specs, price starting at ₹3.53 lakh, real-world mileage, safety, and competitors in this detailed review.
Introduction
Royal Enfield launches the Continental GT 650 as a timeless cafe racer that captures the spirit of 1960s British motorcycling. In 2026, this bike generates massive hype among Indian riders for its blend of heritage styling and punchy performance. Riders praise its agile handling and throaty exhaust note, making it a favorite for weekend rides and city sprints. With an update slated for later this year, the current model stands strong in the mid-size segment.
Key Highlights
- Powered by a 648cc parallel-twin engine delivering 47 PS and 52 Nm torque.
- Features cafe racer ergonomics with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs.
- Equipped with dual-channel ABS for confident braking.
- Offers a claimed mileage of 27 kmpl, ideal for daily use.
- Available in five vibrant colors with prices starting from ₹3.53 lakh ex-showroom.
Design & Exterior
Royal Enfield designs the Continental GT 650 with a classic cafe racer silhouette that turns heads on Indian roads. The sculpted fuel tank, hump-style seat, and blacked-out components give it a aggressive, retro look. LED headlamps provide bright illumination, while cast alloy wheels (on select variants) ensure a modern touch. The bike measures 2119 mm in length with a 1398 mm wheelbase, offering stability at high speeds. Ground clearance stands at 174 mm, suitable for urban potholes without scraping.
Interior & Features
The Continental GT 650 equips riders with practical features for everyday usability. Premium aluminum switchgear offers tactile feedback, and a USB charging port keeps devices powered during long rides. The instrument cluster combines analog speedometer and tachometer with a digital display for fuel, trip, and service info. Riders appreciate the comfortable seat for short trips, though the committed posture suits solo riding best.
Engine / Motor & Performance
Royal Enfield powers the Continental GT 650 with a 648cc air/oil-cooled parallel-twin engine. This unit produces 47 PS at 7150 rpm and 52 Nm at 5250 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a slipper clutch for smooth shifts. The bike accelerates briskly, reaching 0-100 kmph in under 7 seconds, and cruises comfortably at 120 kmph. Handling shines thanks to the Harris Performance frame and twin rear shocks, making cornering fun on twisty roads.
Mileage / Range (Real world focus)
The Continental GT 650 claims 27 kmpl, but real-world tests in India show 20-25 kmpl in mixed city and highway conditions. Aggressive riding drops it to 18 kmpl, while steady highway cruising can hit 30 kmpl. With a 12.5-liter fuel tank, expect a range of 250-300 km per fill-up, perfect for weekend getaways without frequent stops.
Safety Features
Safety takes priority with dual-channel ABS on 320 mm front and 240 mm rear disc brakes, ensuring stable stops in wet or emergency situations. The steel-braided brake lines enhance feel, and tubeless tires reduce puncture risks. The bike also includes a side stand engine cut-off for added security.
Variants & Colors
Royal Enfield offers the Continental GT 650 in five variants based on colors: Rocker Red, British Racing Green, Slipstream Blue, Apex Grey, and Mr Clean. Select variants feature blacked-out engines and alloy wheels for a stealthy vibe, while others sport chrome accents.
Price in India (Expected / Confirmed)
The Continental GT 650 prices start at ₹3,53,105 for base colors like Rocker Red and go up to ₹3,81,885 for the premium Mr Clean variant (ex-showroom, Chennai). On-road prices vary by state, adding ₹30,000-50,000 for taxes and insurance. No major price hikes in 2026 yet, but the upcoming update may bring a slight increase.
Launch Date & Booking Details
Royal Enfield already sells the Continental GT 650 across India, with an updated model expected in late 2026 featuring potential tech upgrades. Bookings open at authorized dealerships or via the Royal Enfield app with a token amount of ₹10,000. Test rides are available, and delivery waits 2-4 weeks depending on variant.
Competitors Comparison (table)
| Feature | Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 | Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 | Kawasaki Vulcan S | Honda CBR650R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 648cc parallel-twin | 648cc parallel-twin | 649cc parallel-twin | 649cc inline-four |
| Power | 47 PS | 47 PS | 61 PS | 95 PS |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 52 Nm | 63 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹3.53-3.82 lakh | ₹3.35-3.60 lakh | ₹7.10 lakh | ₹9.35 lakh |
| Mileage (claimed) | 27 kmpl | 25 kmpl | 20 kmpl | 20 kmpl |
| Key USP | Cafe racer style | Retro roadster | Cruiser comfort | Sporty performance |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Iconic retro design with modern reliability.
- Smooth engine performance for highways.
- Affordable in the 650cc segment.
- Strong after-sales network in India.
Cons:
- Heavy at 214 kg, tricky in traffic.
- Committed riding posture tires on long rides.
- Vibration at high revs.
- Limited pillion comfort.
Who Should Buy This Vehicle?
Enthusiasts who crave a cafe racer experience buy the Continental GT 650. It suits young professionals in cities like Mumbai or Bangalore for spirited weekend rides. Avoid it if you need a daily commuter with upright ergonomics or family-friendly seating.
Final Verdict
The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 delivers thrilling performance wrapped in classic style, making it a top pick for 2026 in India. Its balance of power, features, and price edges out rivals, though the upcoming update adds excitement. Score: 4.5/5 – a must-ride for retro fans.
FAQs
What is the price of Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 in India 2026?
The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 prices range from ₹3,53,105 to ₹3,81,885 ex-showroom in India as of 2026.
What is the mileage of Continental GT 650 in real-world conditions?
The Continental GT 650 offers 20-25 kmpl in real-world Indian riding, depending on traffic and style.
What are the color options for Continental GT 650?
Available colors include Rocker Red, British Racing Green, Slipstream Blue, Apex Grey, and Mr Clean.
Is the Continental GT 650 good for long rides?
Yes, it handles long rides well with smooth power, but the posture may fatigue riders over extended distances.
What safety features does the Continental GT 650 have?
It includes dual-channel ABS, disc brakes, and tubeless tires for enhanced safety on Indian roads.
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