Brief history of Royal Enfield as a brand
The Royal Enfield brand has an iconic status in India’s automotive history. Founded in 1901 in Redditch, UK, Royal Enfield is the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production. The brand established its first assembly plant in India in 1955 and soon became synonymous with simple and rugged motorcycles. Royal Enfield motorcycles have been used by Indian armed forces and police for decades, making the brand an integral part of Indian culture. While the company has seen ups and downs over the years, it has made a strong comeback in the 21st century with a range of new motorcycle models targeted at enthusiasts. Lets look at their Royal Enfield Continental GT!!!
Introduction to the Continental GT model and its significance
The Continental GT is one of Royal Enfield’s most celebrated modern motorcycles. Unveiled in 2013, the Continental GT pays homage to the original 250cc GT model produced by Royal Enfield in the 1960s, which was known for its cafe racer styling.
The modern 648cc single-cylinder Continental GT embodies Royal Enfield’s retro design philosophy with classic cafe racer elements like the rear-set foot pegs, sculpted fuel tank, and single-piece seat. As an accessible mid-sized cafe racer motorcycle with strong heritage value, the Continental GT has played an important role in expanding Royal Enfield’s appeal among motorcycle enthusiasts in India and beyond.
Overview of the Royal Enfield Continental GT
Key specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | |
| Type | Inline twin cylinder, 4 stroke / SOHC |
| Displacement | 648cc |
| Ignition system | Digital spark ignition |
| Gearbox | 6-speed constant mesh |
| Maximum power | 34.9 kW @ 7250 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 52.3 Nm @ 5150 rpm |
| Chassis & Suspension | |
| Frame Type | Steel tubular, double cradle frame |
| Front suspension | Telescopic forks |
| Rear suspension | Twin gas charged shock-absorbers with adjustable preload |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 1398 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 174 mm |
| Length | 2119 mm |
| Width | 780 mm |
| Height | 1067 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 12.5 litres |
| Kerb weight | 214 kg |
| Brakes and Tyres | |
| Front tyre | 100/90-18 M/C 56H |
| Rear tyre | 130/70-R18 M/C 63V / 130/70-18 M/C 63H |
| Front brake | 320 mm disc, ABS |
| Rear brake | 240 mm disc, ABS |
| Electricals | |
| Electrical System | 12V – DC |
| Battery | 12V – 12 Ah VRLA |
| Head lamp | FPL 1.55 W LED |
| Tail lamp | 12 V, P21/5 W (Halogen) |
| Turn signal lamp | 12 V, 10 W |
| Charger | USB |
Design and aesthetics
The Continental GT features a retro roadster design with a rounded fuel tank, dropped handlebars, rear-set footrests, and blacked-out engine. Its cafe racer aesthetics are enhanced by details like the sculpted seat, alloy wheels, chromed exhaust, and wide braced handlebars.
With four color options (Ventura Blue, GT Red, Mr Clean, and Chrome) and plenty of scope for customization, the Continental GT offers vintage styling tailored for the modern era.
Variants available in India
The Continental GT is offered in two variants in the Indian market:
- Standard spoke wheels
- Chrome edition with alloy wheels and dual-channel ABS
Both variants get a dual-tone paint scheme and chrome exhaust as standard.
Performance and Riding Experience
Engine performance and handling
The Continental GT is powered by a muscular 648cc single-cylinder air-cooled fuel-injected engine that makes 47 bhp at 7150 rpm and 52 Nm torque at 5250 rpm. This refined powertrain offers strong low and mid-range grunt well-suited for riding in Indian conditions.
With its lightweight tubular steel frame, 41mm front telescopic forks and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers, the Continental GT provides agile handling and a sporty yet comfortable ride. The Pirelli Sport Demon tires offer sure-footed grip.
Comfort and ergonomics for Indian roads
The one-piece seat with custom stitching looks retro but offers decent comfort for short rides. The rear-set foot pegs and low clip-on handlebars facilitate an athletic riding stance. So while the ergonomics prioritize style over long-distance touring ability, the Continental GT is well-suited for weekend rides on Indian roads.
Comparison with previous models
The modern Continental GT offers significantly improved refinement, reliability and quality compared to Royal Enfield bikes of the past. With better components, finish and attention to detail, the Continental GT represents a new generation of Royal Enfield motorcycles.
Features and Technology
Advanced features
- Electronic fuel injection for smooth throttle response
- Twin-pod analog speedometer and tachometer
- Hazard switch for emergency situations
- Optional dual-channel ABS on Chrome variant
Technology upgrades from previous models
Compared to older Royal Enfield models, the new Continental GT incorporates:
- Fuel injection instead of carburetor
- Electric starter instead of kick starter
- Improved reliability and quality control
So while the basic architecture remains similar, the Continental GT benefits from significant technology improvements.
Customization options available in India
Royal Enfield offers a range of official customization options for the Continental GT:
- Cafe racer seats
- Bar end mirrors
- Engine guards
- Auxiliary LED lights
- Luggage racks
- Custom paint schemes
Plus aftermarket customizers offer accessories like new exhaust systems, air filters, and more performance parts. So owners can customize the Continental GT to suit their personal style.
Market Reception in India
Sales and market performance
Since its launch in 2013, the Royal Enfield Continental GT has posted steady sales in the 25,000 to 35,000 per year range, securing its place as one of Royal Enfield’s most popular models.
It has contributed significantly to the brand’s overall sales growth in India, especially by attracting newer and younger buyers.
Consumer reviews and feedback
The Continental GT generally receives positive reviews from Indian motorcycle enthusiasts and owners:
- Appreciated for its unique retro-classic styling
- Reliable and easy to maintain
- Good value for money
- Fun and engaging to ride
Some downsides noted are average comfort for pillions and limited top speed compared to more powerful bikes.
Comparison with competitors in the same segment
The Continental GT competes with bikes like the:
- Jawa Perak (334 cc single-cylinder)
- Benelli Leoncino 500 (500 cc twin-cylinder)
- Honda CB300R (286 cc single-cylinder)
- KTM 390 Duke (373 cc single-cylinder)
It holds its own with its blend of usable performance, strong price-value equation, and vintage styling. No direct competitor offers the same retro charm at this price point.
Ownership Experience
Maintenance and service insights
The Continental GT utilizes many classic Royal Enfield components, so maintenance is straightforward for mechanics familiar with the brand’s bikes. Only the electronic fuel injection system requires specialized service.
Overall, the GT offers proven reliability and most owners manage with basic periodic service without major issues, apart from occasional electrical gremlins.
Cost of ownership in India
Here is a breakdown of the Continental GT ownership costs in India:
| Ownership Cost | Estimated Expense |
|---|---|
| On-road Price | Rs 3.3 lakh onwards |
| Insurance | Rs 8,000 to 15,000 per year |
| Service Cost | Rs 500 per service |
| Spare Parts | Rs 500 to 2,000 for basic spares |
So the Continental GT offers an accessible ownership experience compared to bigger imported motorcycles.
Resale value and market demand
The Continental GT enjoys relatively strong resale value in India due to its retro appeal and Royal Enfield brand cachet. Well-maintained examples can fetch 60% to 70% of original value after 2-3 years of ownership.
Enthusiasts also restore and customize older Continental GTs, further buoying resale demand.
Case Studies/Owner Interviews
Interviews with long-term owners
Mumbai-based finance professional Rohan Mehta shares his 4 years experience of owning and riding a Continental GT:
“I opted for the GT over other Royal Enfields due to its sporty cafe racer styling. It turns heads everywhere with its striking retro design while being easy to ride thanks to the smooth torquey engine. I’ve customized it with bar end mirrors, leather saddle seats and a fender eliminator kit. The bike has remained reliable over 40,000 km with no major issues apart from the occasional electrical gremlin. I use it as my regular commute to work while also going on weekend rides with GT communities.”
Real-world experiences and modifications
Pune-based designer Anjali Sharma custom-built her Continental GT into a one-of-a-kind retro racer:
“I bought a used Continental GT and transformed it into my dream bike with a custom blue green metal flake paint job, clubman handlebars, rear cowl, and leather & aluminum seats. It looks stunning and gets admiration wherever I ride. I’ve toured across Maharashtra and parts of South India on this bike. The engine holds up well but I upgraded the suspension and brakes for better handling at higher speeds on highways.”
Community and clubs for Royal Enfield enthusiasts
The active Royal Enfield community organizes rides and events for owners to celebrate the brand’s motorcycles. Some prominent groups are:
- Royal Riders Club with over 8000 members
- Team Torque RE with 3000+ members
- Royal Roosters Motorcycling Club
These clubs allow Continental GT owners to connect with fellow riding enthusiasts for memorable trips across India’s roads.
Conclusion
Summary of the Continental GT’s place in the Indian market
With its timeless cafe racer style, enjoyable real-world performance and accessible pricing, the Royal Enfield Continental GT enjoys an iconic status among motorcycle enthusiasts in India. It encapsulates the brand’s retro appeal in a fun, modern package.
The GT has carved a niche for itself as an attainable mid-capacity cafe racer, while driving Royal Enfield’s overall sales growth thanks to its strong desirability factor. With regular updates and improvements addressing initial niggles, the Continental GT represents Royal Enfield’s successful transition into a globally competitive modern motorcycle manufacturer.
Final thoughts on its value proposition for Indian riders
For motorcycle enthusiasts in India seeking a head-turning classic cafe racer with everyday rideability, the Royal Enfield Continental GT delivers evocative retro style blended with modern reliability at a reasonable price.
It’s a unique proposition that skillfully combines Royal Enfield’s rich heritage with contemporary appeal. The Continental GT enjoys immense desirability that sets it apart from regular motorcycles. So while alternatives may offer better paper specs, no other bike provides the same classic charm and real-world thrills.
