This Modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Looks Straight From the 1960s

Royal Enfield launched the first Continental GT in the 1960s with a 20bhp, 250cc single-cylinder engine, a stripped-down design, and an upright riding position to give it a cafe-racer-like appearance. The model was built in the factory in Redditch, UK. Inspired by this, Hardheads Motostudios – the Mexico-based shop specialising in custom fairings and seats and restoring classic bikes – has unveiled the modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650s. Dubbed the HH5 and HH6, the custom bikes capture the essence of the classically styled Continental GT while combining modern design elements. 

In terms of styling, the modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650s come with vintage racing-style fairings, similar to the ones found on the cafe racer bikes from the 1960s. Then, there is a pair of lowered clip-on handlebars, a new single-piece seat, a bumped-up tail, and an LED tail light, complete with a grey finish with vintage-style yellow ovals featuring each bike's number. The subframe has been shortened to match the length of the seat, while the passenger peg mounts and side panels have been removed. Other bits include a chromed fuel tank, trimmed front fenders, spoke wheels, Shinko tyres, as well as a two-into-one exhaust system from S&S Cycle. However, the HH5 gets black grips and a Motogadget speedometer, while the HH6 has leather-wrapped grips and the original dials. 

Modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650: Powertrain

Powering both motorcycles is a 648cc parallel-twin engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox. In stock form, the engine produces 47bhp of power at 7,150rpm and 52Nm of torque at 5,250rpm. We estimate these power and torque figures to rise, thanks to pod filters and a two-into-one exhaust. 

Upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Bikes

Royal Enfield is working toward expanding its 650cc platform that will underpin the upcoming Classic 650 and Scrambler 650 bikes. For that reason, the test mules of both bikes were spotted testing together on our roads. While the Royal Enfield Scrambler 650 is believed to be comparable to the Interceptor 650, the Classic 650 will most likely take design cues from the Classic 350. 

Like the other 650cc bikes, the new bikes will use the same 648cc parallel-twin motor capable of producing a maximum power output of 47bhp and a peak torque of 52Nm. The transmission will be handled by a 6-speed gearbox.