The new 650cc editions of the Royal Enfield Interceptor and the Continental GT have been unveiled in the international markets. The two-wheeler manufacturer has introduced Lightning and Thunder Editions for the Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650, respectively. At least for now, these two special-edition models will be available in the UK. We do not expect them to be offered in the Indian market. However, India could soon witness the launch of the 650 Twins with alloys. By and large, the Lightning and Thunder Editions are modified versions of the standard motorcycles with factory accessories. In 2021, Royal Enfield updated its 650cc twins with new colour schemes, but received no mechanical changes over the current model.
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The new Lightning and Thunder Editions come with key modifications that include a small fly screen, a touring seat with a ribbed pattern, touring ORVMs, an aluminium sump guard, a CNG oil filler cap, small engine guards, and soft panniers at the side. A host of common accessories gives the Interceptor 650 Lightning Edition a scrambler-like appearance. Whereas stock handlebar and footpegs lend the GT Thunder Edition a sportier look.
However, the 2023 Interceptor 650 Lightning Edition and the Continental GT Thunder Edition continue with the same mechanicals and features as their respective standard counterparts. Both bikes get the same 648cc parallel-twin power source that is good enough to produce 47bhp of power at 7,150rpm and 52Nm of torque at 5,250rpm. For transmission duties, the air/oil-cooled engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch.
As for the hardware, the new bikes have 18-inch spoke wheels. Up front, there are 41mm telescopic forks offering 110mm of travel, while at the rear, they get dual springs with 88mm of travel. Additionally, they also feature dual-channel ABS and disc brakes on both ends.
Overseas, the prices of the new Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Lightning Edition and the Continental GT Thunder Edition stand at around GBP 6,459 (Rs 6.42 lakh) and GBP 6,659 (Rs 6.62 lakh), respectively. All the aforementioned prices are ex-showroom.
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As of now, the Royal Enfield's 650 Twins lineup comprises the Interceptor 650, the Continental GT 650, and the Super Meteor 650.
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