Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 have emerged as popular options in both domestic and international markets
Royal Enfield 650 Twins have registered consistent numbers every month. However, February 2021 seems to be an exception, as YoY domestic sales have declined by a staggering -86.35%. As compared to 2,080 units sold in February last year, sales are down to just 284 units in February 2021.
650 Twins facelift launch soon
The drop in sales in February is likely due to the upcoming launch of facelift editions of 650 twins. A similar phenomenon can also be seen in case of top selling Classic 350, wherein sales have declined by -13.75%. As compared to 41,766 units sold in February last year, sales are down to 36,025 units in February 2021. Next-gen Classic 350 is also expected to be launched soon.
Of these, it is the 650 Twins which are expected to be launched first. This will be a minor facelift, which will come with new colour options, tubeless tyres, alloys, tripper navigation, etc. It is likely that the new 650 Twins are launched this month. Classic 350 new gen is expected to be launched next month, in April 2021.
650 Twins facelift key updates
Updates on 650 twins facelift versions will be largely cosmetic in nature. It could be something similar to the updates introduced with 2021 Himalayan that was launched earlier this year in February. As may be recalled, 2021 Himalayan has new colour options, some mild visual improvements, tan coloured seat, and Tripper navigation.
Talking about 650 twins facelift, the motorcycles could get new colour options similar to the ones available in Italian market. Leaked images had revealed seven new colour options for Interceptor. Out of these, colour options of Baker Express, Glitter and Dust and Orange Crush are already available with the existing variant.
For Continental GT, five colour options were revealed – GT Red, British Racing Team, Cookies and Cream, Venture Black and Blue and Mister Clean. The last one is already available with existing Continental GT.
It is possible that Royal Enfield may introduce some minor visual updates for 650 twins. Some features may also be updated based on consumer feedback. In terms of functionality, 650 twins facelift versions are expected to be equipped with Tripper navigation system.
Tripper navigation was first introduced with Meteor 350 and recently with updated Himalayan. It’s quite useful, as it does away with the need to use the smartphone screen to access turn-by-turn navigation. Tripper is expected to be standard equipment on most of the upcoming new / updated Royal Enfield motorcycles.
650 Twins engine specs
650 twins facelift will continue using the same engine as earlier. The 648cc air-cooled parallel-twin motor is capable of delivering 47 bhp of max power at 7150 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5250 rpm. This is mated to a 6-speed gearbox, integrated with slipper clutch.
With the updates, one can expect a slight bump in prices of 650 twins facelift versions. Existing Interceptor 650 is available from Rs 2.54 lakh to Rs 2.91 lakh whereas Continental GT is priced in the range of Rs 2.69 lakh – Rs 3.07 lakh.
