Also Read: BS-VI Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs. BS-IV Royal Enfield Classic 350 - Old vs. New

Check out the ex-showroom Delhi prices below:

In terms of pricing, the Himalayan has got expensive by INR 5,860 to INR 6,778. The price increase for the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 ranges between INR 8,547 and INR 11,234.

Royal Enfield is yet to revise the product pages with information about the new BS-VI motorcycles. Thus, the differences in the power and torque figures of the BS-IV and BS-VI versions are yet to be officially revealed.

The Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 and the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 are not going to get any major changes with the BS-VI upgrade. The 650 twins will continue being sold in the same colour options as before. The Himalayan, too, will retain its design. However, the home-grown adventure tourer will now be available in three new colour options – Gravel Grey, Lake Blue and Rock Red. The BS-VI Royal Enfield Himalayan also packs a hazard light function that occupies the space on the right side of the switchgear.

Also Read: Next-gen Royal Enfield Classic with optional accessories spied

The BS-VI Royal Enfield Himalayan has already started reaching the dealerships, while the BS-VI Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 and the BS-VI Royal Enfield Continental GT are likely to arrive very soon.

Images for representation only

Also Read: Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 and Royal Enfield Bullet 500 discontinued in India

The BS-VI Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 was spotted recently, and as expected, it did not feature a significant visual upgrade over the old (BS-IV) motorcycle. The original model was launched just in 2018, and so, it is too early to expect a redesigned model just yet. Also, a design revision and a BS-VI upgrade both together would have pushed the prices even higher.

The Interceptor INT 650 will continue to use budget-friendly hardware such as halogen headlight, semi-digital instrument console, conventional telescopic front forks and twin-sided rear springs post the BS-VI upgrade. Anchoring hardware will include single discs on both wheels, while the safety net will comprise dual-channel ABS.

While the styling cues will not witness a substantial revision, we expect Royal Enfield to use the BS-VI transition as an opportunity to implement changes based on the customer feedback.

Mechanical specifications will include a 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil-cooled SOHC motor that will feature a larger catalytic converter, among other changes, to comply with the BS-VI emission norms. The twin-cylinder engine is tuned to deliver 47 BHP of power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,250 rpm in BS-IV guise. The BS-VI compliant version's maximum power and maximum torque won't be much lower, if at all. It will be linked to a six-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch function.

The BS-VI upgrade will come at a considerable price hike, probably of around INR 8,000-12,000. Check out the prices of the old (BS-IV) Royal Enfield 650 twins below:

Also Read: Colour-wise prices of BS-VI Royal Enfield Classic 350 revealed

In related news, Royal Enfield recently launched the BS-VI Classic 350. In addition to from the BS-VI Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650, the BS-VI Himalayan is also on the way.

*Ex-showroom Delhi

[Source: zigwheels.com]

Also Read: BS-VI Royal Enfield Classic 350 Gunmetal Grey arrives at the dealership

The updated models will not carry any substantial visual upgrades, although Royal Enfield may use the opportunity to implement changes based on the customer feedback.

Thus, styling cues will continue to pack the retro looks along with budget-friendly hardware such as halogen headlight and a semi-digital instrument console. The hardware specifications on the BS-VI bikes will include conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin-sided springs at the back to perform the shock absorption tasks. The braking department, which will be governed by a dual-channel ABS, will comprise single discs.

Engine specifications will continue to include the 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil-cooled SOHC motor. The twin-cylinder mill produced 47 BHP of max power at 7,250 rpm and a peak torque of 52 Nm at 5,250 rpm in BS-IV guise. The BS-VI upgrade may lead to a negligible drop in output. The motor will be linked to a six-speed gearbox that benefits from a slipper clutch with an assist feature.

It is safe to expect a price increase in the BS-VI transition, and we could witness an INR 8,000-12,000 hike over the BS-IV levels. Check out the current prices of the Royal Enfield 650 twins in the table below:

Also Read: Royal Enfield Sherpa trademark application filed in India

Before the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650, Royal Enfield will launch the Classic 350 in its BS-VI version, tomorrow (7 January 2020). The updated 350 cc motorcycle has started to reach the dealerships and its pre-bookings have commenced for a token amount of INR 10,000. It is expected to be INR 10,000-INR 15,000 pricier over the outgoing (BS-IV) model.

*Ex-showroom Delhi

Also Read: Trademark application for Royal Enfield Hunter filed in India

As the engine of Royal Enfield’s 650 range already packs a fuel injection system, it will require very few changes to comply with the BS-VI emission norms, and a new catalytic converter will be one of them. The power and torque output should not change much in the latest form. The BS-IV compliant version of this 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil-cooled engine, SOHC mill produces 47 BHP of maximum power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,250 rpm.

The suspension setup will likely remain unchanged - conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin-sided springs at the back. The same should be the case for the braking setup - single discs on both wheels along with dual-channel ABS.

The prices could go up by anywhere between INR 8,000-12,000. Check out the current prices of the Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 and Royal Continental GT 650 below:

In other updates, Royal Enfield will reportedly launch the BS-VI compliant Classic 350 tomorrow (7 January 2020). Royal Enfield dealerships have commenced the booking process for the updated motorcycle for a token amount of INR 10,000.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Sherpa trademark application filed in India

The BS-VI compliant Royal Enfield Classic 350 is expected to be INR 10,000-15,000 costlier than the outgoing (BS-IV) version. Instead of a carburettor system, it will pack fuel injection tech to comply with the latest emission norms.

*Ex-showroom Delhi

[Image source: gaadiwaadi.com]

Also Read: Royal Enfield developing electric motorcycles

Royal Enfield's exports have grown 125% in the first eight months (April-November) of FY2019-20. The company has expanded its global presence to 600 stores over the last five years.

Regular followers would already know that Royal Enfield is working on an assembly plant in Thailand. A new report from The Economic Times suggests that the new facility in Southeast Asia is likely to commence operations in the next six months. The report further adds that the company is also exploring to install a facility in Latin America.

With the new overseas facilities, Royal Enfield aims to bring down the cost in countries where the import tariffs are high. This would result in lower price tags, which could further boost exports. The Indian two-wheeler brand is currently looking for partners.

Royal Enfield's newly appointed chief executive, Vinod Dasari, told The Economic Times that the company expects the international markets to account for 20% of total revenue. Below is what Dasari said:

We will continue to bring in many more products. But I want to have faster growth on solutions and I want to have faster growth internationally. So, we’re going to invest a lot in both these things.

In other updates, Royal Enfield is working on new generation products that are likely to arrive post the BS-VI upgrade (i.e. April 2020). While the company is yet to reveal a launch timeline, a recent report claimed that the new vehicles could arrive by mid-2020. The same report further added that the two-wheeler brand will update its 350 cc range to comply with the new norms. Meanwhile, the company could axe its 500 cc range as it is said to be ‘unviable for the domestic market’.

Also Read: BS-VI Royal Enfield Himalayan to feature switchable ABS

The new-generation bikes would use four platforms – P, J, Q and K. The J architecture will underpin the entry-level models like Classic, Thunderbird, Bullet and Himalayan. The P platform is reserved for middleweight motorcycles, while the Q and K architecture will be used for higher displacement models.

[Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com]

Also Read: Royal Enfield developing electric motorcycles

The front fascia, for example, drops the headlight assembly and blinkers. The front fender is also missing on the custom motorcycle. More changes come to the cockpit that drops the entire instrument console assembly and stock handlebar. Instead, the modified Continental GT 650 uses a wider handlebar and custom grips. Being a flat-track style motorcycle, the front braking setup has been removed.

The fuel tank retains the shape of the stock unit, although the filler cap has been shifted to the right side for a unique look. A rider-only saddle with a brown seat cover and ribbed pattern follows the tank, while a rear cowl sits at the back. ‘Zeus Customs’ branding is visible on the tank, while the ‘Continental GT’ tag occupies the space on the rear cowl. The dual-tone finish further enhances the visual appeal of the Continental GT. The wire-spoke wheels get a black finish, and they are wrapped in off-road spec tyres. Zeus Customs has also tweaked the sub-frame of the motorcycle.

The hardware specifications have undergone upgrades, and the modified Continental GT rides on new suspension setup. While the front continues to use conventional telescopic forks, the rear benefits from a mono-shock suspension. The front brake assembly, as mentioned before, has been removed. The rear continues to use a disc brake. All street-legal bits such as headlight, taillight, blinkers, rear-view mirrors and instrument console have been removed.

A pair of aftermarket exhaust pipes replace the stock units. Changes to engine specifications are not available. The stock motorcycle, for reference, uses a 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected motor that delivers 47 BHP of peak power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of max torque at 5,250 rpm.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Himalayan FT 411 unveiled at Rider Mania 2019

The flat-track-style Royal Enfield Continental GT is indeed appealing, although it wasn’t the most extremely modified Royal Enfield at the 2019 Thai Auto Expo. That honour goes to the Rock Rod by K-Speed – a Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 that’s transformed into a lowrider.

Also Read: Royal Enfield rolls out a minor upgrade for Interceptor INT 650 & Continental GT 650

So what can we expect to see at the motoring event?

2020 Royal Enfield Classic, Thunderbird and Bullet

For starters, the Royal Enfield will update its existing portfolio with Euro-V compliance. The 2020 models will feature the company’s new architecture. If you have been following this space for a while, you would know that Royal Enfield will introduce four new platforms – P, J, Q and K.

The J architecture will underpin the Classic, Thunderbird, Bullet, and Himalayan motorcycles. The Classic, Thunderbird and Bullet range will receive styling tweaks along with a few revisions to the cockpit that will include rotary-style switches, and a revised set up for the instrument console. The styling upgrade exercise will bring a few changes to the body panels and the tail section.

2020 Royal Enfield 650 range

Royal Enfield could introduce the updated versions of the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650. The Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 are underpinned by the P architecture.

A middleweight Royal Enfield Himalayan has been rumoured for quite some time, and we hope to hear some details about the motorcycle at the EICMA show. Do not expect to see a production-spec model any time soon, as Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director and CEO, Eicher Motors (parent company of Royal Enfield) had confirmed last that the company would not introduce more products on the 650 cc platform for two years (i.e. until 2021).

Higher displacement Royal Enfield models

The Q and K architecture would be reserved for higher displacement motorcycles that would compete against the likes of Harley-Davidson and Triumph Motorcycles. Royal Enfield had showcased the Concept KX at last year’s EICMA show, and we expect to hear some more details about that vehicle at the 2019 iteration of the motoring event. Unlike the concept motorcycle that was equipped with an 838 cc V-twin motor, the production-spec model could carry an even bigger engine.

Apart from the production-spec models, Royal Enfield could also display a few concept motorcycles at the 2019 EICMA show.

NOTE: Image in the post are for representation purpose only

Also Read: Royal Enfield rolls out a minor upgrade for Interceptor INT 650 & Continental GT 650

There are a total of 11 videos (as on 1 November 2019) on Royal Enfield’s YouTube channel. The list comprises:

• Spark Plug Cleaning, Adjusting and Replacing
• Throttle Cable Adjustment
• Trouble-Shooting: Starting Trouble
• Know Your Instrument Cluster
• Cleaning and Lubricating the Chain
• Front Wheel Removal
• Rear Wheel Removal
• Removing the Battery
• Clutch Cable Adjustment
• Headlamp, Tail Lamp and Trafficator Replacement
• Oil Level Inspection

The comprehensive DYI guide will help the owners diagnose the problem efficiently, and communicate the issue to the mechanic over the phone to get a solution. Owners can also address small problems themselves. The trouble-shooting guide, for example, explains how the owners can check the fuses, battery and the spark plug for an issue. The “Cleaning and Lubricating the Chain”, as the title suggests, gives is a guide to maintain the chain of the motorcycle. Visit Royal Enfield’s YouTube Channel for all the videos.

In more news, Royal Enfield rolled out minor updates for the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650. The motorcycles now get a clear lens for the headlight and reflectors on the front forks.

Royal Enfield is also working on its BS-VI compliant product portfolio that is expected to start arriving from early 2020. Several test mules of the BS-VI compliant models have revealed themselves in the past through spy photographs and videos. The test mules have revealed various updates such as new instrument console, updated switchgear and revised styling on the BS-VI compliant models. The switchgear, for example, will come in rotary style dials that will enhance the retro looks of the motorcycles.

In terms of mechanicals, the complete BS-VI compliant product portfolio will benefit from the fuel injection system. Currently, the 350 range uses a carburettor system while the 500s and the 650s already use fuel-injected motors.

Also Read: Benelli Imperiale 400 vs. Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs. Jawa Classic - Spec Comparo

Royal Enfield has decided to stay away from Auto Expo 2020 in Delhi-NCR. However, the two-wheeler brand is expected to participate in the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy (5-10 November) where it will show new and updated products for 2020.

Also Read: Benelli Imperiale 400 vs. Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs. Jawa Classic - Spec Comparo

Do note that the Royal Enfield 650 Twins received a price hike in September this year, of up to INR 5,712. Check out the updated prices in the table below:

The clear lens headlight should offer better illumination at night, while the reflectors will improve the visibility of the motorcycles from the sides.

While the changes to the 650 Twins aren’t massive, bigger updates are lined up for the complete product range. For starters, the company is working on updating its portfolio to comply with the BS-VI norms. The updated models are expected to arrive in early 2020. Test mules of the BS-VI Royal Enfield products have shown themselves on several occasions through spy photographs and videos.

The 650 Twins are relatively newer models, and thus they may not receive a massive visual makeover in the BS-VI upgrade. The Classic series and the Thunderbird range, on the other hand, have been around for quite some time. Spy photographs have already revealed that the upcoming BS-VI Classic and Thunderbird motorcycles will receive a few styling tweaks, an updated instrument console and revised (rotary-style) switchgear. The updated motorcycles will be accompanied by new accessories and merchandise as optional extras.

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motors and Royal Enfield to skip Auto Expo 2020

Apart from updating its product range to comply with the new emission norms, Royal Enfield has also introduced the budget variant of the Classic series (single-channel ABS) to boost the sales. The company is expected to introduce a budget variant of the Thunderbird as well, although we are yet to hear an official announcement.

[Source: Gaadiwaadi.com]

*Ex-showroom Delhi

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 a.k.a. 'Nought Tea GT version 2.0' goes racing

The custom motorcycle features a minimalistic design, along with an updated hardware setup. The semi-fairing design, sans the headlight and other street-legal requirements, looks sporty. The number “30” is visible on the front fascia. The custom front fender matches the paint of the fairing. The cockpit comprises a revised setup that uses an even lower set handlebar for sportier ergonomics. A dual-tone fuel tank with pronounced recesses follows the cockpit. The rider-only setup along with a compact tail section enhances the café racer looks of the motorcycle.

The updated hardware setup comprises KYB inverted forks at the front and a Sachs mono-shock at the back. In comparison, the standard motorcycle features conventional telescopic front forks and twin-sided springs at the back. The improved braking department uses Brembo discs and Tokiko callipers. The front-wheel uses a dual-disc setup instead of a single disc on the standard Continental GT 650. The chrome plating, matte black and pearl copper colours give the motorcycle a unique look. A pair of custom exhausts are also visible on the motorcycle.

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield Himalayan gets Flat Tracker styling from Bulleteer Customs

Mechanical changes to the modified Continental GT 650 are not listed on the spec-sheet shared by Royal Enfield. For reference, the stock motorcycle draws 47 BHP at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm at 5,250 rpm from its 648 cc parallel twin-cylinder, air & oil-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected engine. The motorcycle uses a throttle from the Yamaha YZF-R6.

Check out the complete technical specification below:

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 gets a stealthy and a rugged look

Check out the new vs. old prices (both ex-showroom Mumbai) and the difference between them in the table below:

The changes in the ex-showroom tags range from INR 5,012 (for the Interceptor INT 650 Standard) to INR 5,712 (for the Continental GT 650 Chrome). Despite the price hike, the Royal Enfield 650 Twins remain the most affordable 650 cc motorcycles in the Indian market. Their closest rival (in terms of displacement) is the CFMoto 650NK, which retails at INR 3.99 lakh (ex-showroom India).

The Chennai-based brand is suffering from slow sales performance as the company reported negative year-on-year sales performance for the ninth consecutive month in July. The month also marked the sixth consecutive double-digit decline in the year-on-year sales numbers. The exports, however, have been delivering positive performance since December last year. Check out the export performance below:

Royal Enfield plans to open its second assembly plant (first being in Thailand) outside of India. The facility will be installed in Brazil. The company is also testing the BS-VI variants of the 650 Twins. The performance details are scarce at the moment, although we do not expect to see a massive difference in the power and torque figures. The BS-IV range, for reference, draws 47 BHP of power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm from their 648 cc air & oil-cooled, parallel-twin cylinder, SOHC, fuel-injected motor.

Also Read: 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird X with updated console and switchgear spied

The launch of the BS-VI range may get delayed due to a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Flash Electronics. The New-Delhi based component manufacturer has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Royal Enfield in Wisconsin, USA.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet Trials Works Replica launched in Thailand

While Royal Enfield has delivered negative year-on-year sales performance for nine consecutive months, its exports have been gaining momentum since November last year. So no wonder why the company is giving more attention to international markets now. Currently, it has a local assembly plant in only one overseas market - Thailand.

"The Brazilian subsidiary has been one of the brand's biggest bets in recent years, so we are opening dealerships in new squares and looking into the possibility of starting a local CKD operation in the future," Claudio Giusti, Country Manager, Royal Enfield Brazil, said recently.

The launch timeline for the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 has been confirmed by Rod Copes, President, Royal Enfield Americas, the brand's new president in America confirmed the details. Copes said:

We are working very closely with our people in India to get everything ready. We plan for early next year.

The 650 Twins are designed as global products, and Royal Enfield has high hopes from the two models. The company hopes to sell 1 million of 650 Twins in the next 5 to 10 years.

The Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 share the underpinnings and draw 47 bhp at 7,100 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm from a newly developed 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, 8-valve motor with fuel injection. The bikes feature a six-speed gearbox with assist/slipper clutch – a first for Royal Enfield products.

The Royal Enfield 650 twins are priced affordably in the domestic market. The Interceptor INT 650's prices start at INR 2.50 lakh*, while the Continental GT 650 retails at INR 2.65 lakh* onwards. Next month, the prices will be hiked.

Also Read: 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird - IAB Rendering

Royal Enfield is testing the BS-VI compliant variants of the 650 Twins. A test mule of the Continental GT 650 was spotted somewhere near Tamil Nadu recently. However, the BS-VI range may get delayed due to a patent infringement lawsuit. New Delhi-based Flash Electronics has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against the Chennai based brand in a court of Wisconsin, USA.

[Source: g1.globo.com]

KTM Duke 390: India’s answer to performance motorcycling

Price: INR 2.7 lakh

The Austrian bike maker was a sinking ship before Bajaj brought a significant stake in the brand way back in 2007. Bajaj and KTM together managed to pull off the impossible by not only making the brand the powerhouse of Europe but the world over. In fact, the KTM Duke 390 has become a sort of a benchmark.

KTM’s small capacity street (Duke 125, Duke 200, Duke 250 and Duke 390) and track friendly (RC125, RC200, RC250, RC390) bikes are manufactured at Bajaj’s Chakan facility. The KTM Duke 390 is loved because it brings performance motorcycling to the masses. Powering the KTM Duke 390 is a 373.2 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected mill. The engine produces 43.5 PS of power and 37 Nm of torque. That’s a power-to-weight ratio of 267 PS/ton!

The KTM Duke 390’s features list is equally impressive. It includes ride-by-wire, LED headlamp, upside-down separate function fork, TFT instrumentation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Besides that, the powerplant is assisted by a slipper clutch. The KTM Duke 390 was initially a motorcycle exclusively made in India. However, to beat the growing demand the world over, KTM has started assembling the bike in several locations, including China and the Philippines.

In India, the KTM Duke 390 is priced at INR 2.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also Read: 5 KTM motorcycles we wish to see in India

Harley-Davidson Street 750: Baby Harley continues to charm the world

Price: INR 4.26 - 5.47 Lakh

Showcased first at EICMA 2013 and launched in 2014. This was after speculations first came up in US media in 2011 with the brand's India journey speculated since 2009. Now Harley outsourcing its manufacturing to India was a big deal back in 2014. In fact, an American motoring scribe went on to say, that this is the most important Harley-Davidson in living memory.

At the heart of Harley-Davidson Street 750 is powered by a 749 cc V-Twin Revolution X engine. Coupled to a 6-speed gearbox the engine produces 59 Nm of torque. Harley-Davidson Street 750 is manufactured at the company’s Haryana facility. The bike for the North American market though is made only in the US itself.

Apart from the Street 750, other Harley motorcycles made in India include Street 500 and Street Rod 750 in India. Both motorcycles are also exported to the world over after being manufactured in the country.

Harley-Davidson Street 750 is priced in India at INR 4.69 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also Read: Harley-Davidson to shut down its manufacturing plant in India next month - Report

Royal Enfield Continental GT 650: Indian take on retro café-racer love

Price: INR 2.91 -3.13 lakh

India’s answer to the world’s growing love for neo-retro motorcycling is the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. This modern take of a cultural icon pays glowing tribute to the original British café racing scene. Combining tradition with modernity, Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 bears a sculpted tank, eager attitude and a tucked-in riding position. All hallmarks of a traditional café racer. Just like the Continental GT 250 from the 60s.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is powered by a 648 cc parallel-twin, air-cooled mill assisted by an oil-cooler. Coupled to a 6-speed gearbox, the engine can produce 47.5 PS of power and 52 Nm of torque. However, this middleweight motorcycle is not at all about outright performance, but everyday usable power. In fact, 80% of maximum pulling power is available from as low as 2,500 rpm.

Besides that, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 gets features like a slipper clutch and Pirelli branded tyres. Also, the instrumentation console is a retro-styled twin-pod unit. Also, the café racer is also available in the form of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. Both these models are manufactured at the company’s Chennai based facility and sold in several international markets.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is pieced at INR 2.91 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also read - Online bookings for BS-VI Royal Enfield 650 Twins and Himalayan begin

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: India’s answer to sports motorcycling

Price: INR 1.29 - 1.34 lakh 

One of the motorcycles made in India is the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. Made on the lines of the Draken concept in TVS’ Chennai facility, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is the shining glory of accessible performance. This Indian-made motorcycle is a hit in the South East Asian market and has an aerodynamically chiselled body.

Features include all-digital instrumentation, race-tuned KYB monoshock and a slipper clutch. Besides that, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V gets optional Pirelli tyres. The new TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is available with a new LED headlamp. The powertrain is updated to meet the upcoming BS-VI emission norms. At the heart of the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is a 197.75 cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled, fuel-injected engine. Coupled to a 5-speed gearbox, the engine can produce 20.82 PS of power and 17.25 Nm of torque. The bike tips the scales at just 152 kg and is a charm to ride, be it on the road or at a race track. TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is priced at INR 1.29 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also Read: Top 5 upcoming TVS bikes and scooters in 2020-21

Yamaha FZ-S FI: Affordable Lord of the Streets

Price: INR 1.04 - 1.09 Lakh 

One of India’s most favourite 150 cc motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ-S FI is a major crowd puller in several Asian markets. In its third generation, the Yamaha FZ-S FI continues with its muscular design language and naked streetfighter looks. FZ-S FI has even won the top slot in JD Power in Initial Quality Survey 2019 (India).

The last name in the list of motorcycles made in India is Yamaha FZ-S FI. The bike is powered by a 149 cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, 2-valve, SOHC mill. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox the engine produces 12.4 PS of power and 13.6 Nm of torque. Don’t let these numbers fool you though. In fact, the Yamaha FZ-S FI is a gem for everyday city-centric riding conditions. Features list includes reverse backlit instrumentation, LED headlamp and a fat 140-section rear tyre.

The Yamaha FZ-S FI is priced at INR 1.04 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also Read: New Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Bullet 350 ES launched in India

Check out the updated price list* (as claimed by source) in the table below:

The updated prices will be effective from September 1, 2019. Despite the price increase, the Royal Enfield 650 Twins will remain the most affordable 650 cc motorcycles in our market. The marginal revision of the ex-showroom tags should not affect the sales of the middleweight products from the Chennai-based manufacturer.

Designed as global products, the Royal Enfield 650 Twins have fueled the export growth for the two-wheeler brand to a certain extent. Apart from India, the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 are available in markets like Thailand, UK, Australia, USA, South Korea and New Zealand.

The Royal Enfield 650 Twins do not have a direct threat in our market. Their only closest rival in terms of displacement is the CFMoto 650NK that retails at INR 3.99 lakh*.

In terms of mechanical specifications, both motorcycles use the company’s newly developed 648 cc air & oil-cooled, parallel-twin, SOHC engine with a fuel injection system that churns out 47 BHP of power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm. The motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox, a very first on a Royal Enfield, along with slipper/assist clutch.

The budget-conscious hardware includes halogen headlight, twin-dial semi-digital instrument console, conventional front forks and twin-sided rear springs. The braking setup does not skimp on safety, though, and the Royal Enfield 650 Twins feature a dual-channel ABS.

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield called Dharma is a definite head-turner

In other updates, Royal Enfield is testing the BS-VI compliant versions of the 650 Twins. A test mule of the upcoming BS-VI Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 was recently spied somewhere near Tamil Nadu. We expect to see the updated Royal Enfield range with BS-VI compliant engines by early next year.

[Source: Gaadiwaadi.com]

*Ex-showroom Delhi

The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Endurance racer render gets a semi-fairing which extends from the windshield to the radiator extensions. Besides that, the small front fender has been replaced with a bigger, more aerodynamic unit. Also, the café racer styled seat has been changed for a high set pillion unit with a racing cowl.

An under-engine cowl is also seen on the rendered motorcycle, and so is an upswept exhaust unit positioned near the pillion footrest. Also, notice the Union Jack and Indian tricolour on the fuel tank highlighting Royal Enfield’s British heritage along with present Indian patronage. The rider footrest of the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is slightly more rear set than the royal Enfield Interceptor 650. However, the Endurance racer concept has it even more rear set, like on a proper racing machine.

The designer has replaced the spoked rims with alloy wheels. Also, the Pirelli Phantom Sportcomp tyres seen in the stock Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 have been exchanged with slicks by Michelin. Besides that, the 320 mm front disc has been replaced with twin discs (possibly of a larger size) with radially mounted callipers. That too sourced from Brembo! The suspension system in the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Endurance racer render includes upside-down fork up front and a monoshock in the rear. Also, the swingarm is a new die-cast unit.

Also Read: 5 retro styled Royal Enfield competitors we want in India

Powering the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is a 648 cc parallel-twin, air-cooled mill assisted by an oil-cooler Coupled to a 6-speed gearbox, the engine can produce 47.5 PS of power and 52 Nm of torque. The heavy kerb weight of 198 kg of the stock motorcycle, though, is a small limiting factor.

The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 in stock form has a starting price tag of INR 2.65 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Testing of its BS-VI compliant version has commenced. However, there is still some time before the BS-VI version is launched.

[Image Credit: Motosketches]

Also Read: 5 upcoming Royal Enfield motorcycles to be launched in the mid-term

Also Read: New Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Bullet 350 ES launched in India

The prices for the Interceptor INT 650 currently begin at INR 2.50 lakh* while the Continental GT 650 is available from INR 2.65 lakh*. Post the increase, the Interceptor INT 650 and the Continental GT 650 will retail at approximately INR 2.60 lakh* and INR 2.75 lakh* respectively. Despite the increase, the Royal Enfield 650 Twins will continue to be the most affordable 650 cc motorcycles in our market. Check out the variant-wise list and the expected ex-showroom prices (post-revision) below:

Do note that another report from May this year claimed that Royal Enfield will increase the prices of the 650 Twins by INR 20,000. However, that increase never happened, and the 650 Twins continued to retail at the launch prices. The Royal Enfield 650 Twins do not have a direct threat in our market, and the closest rival (in terms of displacement only) retails at INR 3.99 lakh* (CFMoto 650NK).

Royal Enfield is suffering from negative sales in the domestic market, but its exports continue to deliver positive performance. The company’s exports have been performing well since November last year, which incidentally is the same period when Royal Enfield launched the 650 Twins. Designed as global products, the 650 Twins are available in markets like Thailand, Indonesia, USA, UK, Australia and New Zealand among others.

Both motorcycles share their underpinnings and engine specifications. The newly developed 648 cc air & oil-cooled, parallel-twin cylinder, SOHC motor with fuel injection technology develops 47 BHP of peak power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of maximum torque at 5,250 rpm.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet Trials Works Replica launched in Thailand

Royal Enfield has begun testing the BS-VI compliant 650 Twins. The BS-VI Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 was spied on test for the first time recently. The updated range is likely to arrive in early 2020.

[Source: gaadiwaadi.com]

*Ex-showroom Delhi

Also Read: BS-VI 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500X- IAB Rendering

The 2020 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 will be the same in terms of styling. However, the engine will have a few tweaks to comply with the BS-IV emission norms. The twin-exhausts on the test mule look crude, and we expect the production-ready model to pack the same clean and compact tip design as the old model.

The performance numbers are not likely to be very different from now. The BS-IV compliant 648 cc parallel-twin cylinder, air & oil-cooled, SOHC engine with fuel injection tech makes 47 BHP of peak power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of max torque at 5,250 rpm. The motor comes linked to a six-speed gearbox with an assist/slipper clutch mechanism. Regular readers would know that the BS-VI models require on-board diagnostic (OBD) system and oxygen sensor among other hardware.

Apart from upgrading the engine to comply with the new norms, Royal Enfield will iron out any issues reported by current owners. The previous sighting of the 2020 Royal Enfield Classic motorcycle’s revised switchgear revealed rotary-style dials. We expect to see a similar setup on the rest of Royal Enfield’s portfolio.

The budget-conscious hardware will retain halogen headlight and conventional lighting setup, a twin-pod instrument console with a semi-digital configuration, conventional front forks, twin-sided gas-charged rear springs and disc brakes on both wheels. The braking setup will be governed by a dual-channel ABS.

Royal Enfield’s export sales have improved since late last year, and the success could be partly attributed to the 650 Twins. The company will most likely introduce the BS-VI compliant models by early 2020 to ensure the clearance of BS-VI stock well before the 31 March 2020 deadline.

Also Read: Royal Enfield year-on-year domestic sales tumble for nine consecutive months

Royal Enfield is testing the BS-VI iteration of the Thunderbird as well. The company has promised more variants of its existing products in the future. Recently, it introduced the 2019 Bullet 350 range that benefits from new colour options and a more competitive price tag. The 2019 Bullet 350 is available at INR 1.12 lakh* while the Bullet 350 ES (Electric Start) retails at INR 1.26 lakh*. The 2019 range benefits from six colour options (3 each) as against a single paint in the previous version.

*Ex-showroom Delhi

[Source: Rushlane.com]

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor INT 650 gets scrambler treatment from Bulleteer Customs

The list begins with the FSK 145 fork spring kit that is designed for small sports and street bikes. The kit is also used on motorcycles like the Yamaha R25/R3, Kawasaki Ninja 250/300R, Honda CBR 250/300R, Honda CB650F and the Kawasaki ER6N. The kit comprises replacement top cap and higher performance rate springs that are claimed to deliver improved handling, cornering and braking.

The rear suspension setup can be upgraded with either the RE 911 or the RE 912 units from the STX 36 Twin family. The rear springs are available in the emulsion, piggyback or hose versions and are suitable for cruiser and cafe racer motorcycles. The setup can be specified with different damping adjustment options with or without length adjustment.

The complete suspension upgrade will cost you a massive amount of money. The front spring kit retails for approximately €245, which roughly translates to INR 18,967*. The rear setup will set you back by €970, which comes to about INR 75,094*. The total cost is INR 94,061 – and that figure excludes the shipping, import and installation charges if you plan to deliver it to India.

In another aftermarket modification, Royal Enfield owners can boost the performance of their motorcycles with the Powertronic ECU that is claimed to deliver 3.04 to 5.06 PS increased output than the stock motor. The peak torque is also boosted by 3 Nm, while the revised redline sits at 12,000 rpm (15,000 rpm for race setup).

Also Read: Spy video of 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird reveals revised ergonomics

For reference, the 650 Twins are propelled from a 648 cc fuel-injected, parallel twin-cylinder, air- and oil-cooled, SOHC engine that makes 47.65 PS of power at 7,250 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm in the factory setup.

*As per conversion rate on 20 July