The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and the upcoming Triumph Thruxton 400 are two iconic cafe racers set to make waves in the sub-650cc segment in India. Although riders have been attracted to the Continental GT 650, the Thruxton 400 looks to provide a strong alternative with a distinct personality of its own. Let's compare these two bikes to help you decide whether to buy the GT 650 now or hold out for the Thruxton 400.
Why Buy the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Now?
With the introduction of the cafe racer genre to India by its predecessor, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 has a rich history. With its 648cc parallel-twin engine, which offers smooth acceleration and quick handling, the GT 650 continues this tradition. Its attractiveness is increased by its classic styling which includes a sculpted fuel tank, twin-pod instrument dashboard, and round headlight. The bike comes in a range of striking color options and offers a comfortable riding experience on open highways. The GT 650 is still a popular cafe racer despite having a curb weight of 214 kg and a few cooling issues especially for those wanting to acquire a piece of automotive history. The ex-showroom pricing range for the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is Rs 3.19 Lakh to Rs 3.45 Lakh.
Why Hold Out for the Triumph Thruxton 400?
The Triumph Thruxton 400, based on the Speed 400 platform, is expected to offer a lighter and more affordable alternative to the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. With an expected price tag of around Rs 2.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Thruxton 400 will be powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 40PS and 37.5Nm. It will provide an exciting cafe racer feel with its bullet fairing, clip-on handlebars, and more aggressive riding stance. Expected to deliver Triumph's legendary fit and finish quality, the Thruxton 400 is an appealing option for riders looking for a combination of style and performance.
The decision between buying the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 now or holding out for the Triumph Thruxton 400 depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value owning a bike with a proven track record and are eager to experience the GT 650's charm, buying now might be the best choice. However, if you are looking for a lighter, more affordable cafe racer with an iconic badge and are willing to wait, the Triumph Thruxton 400 could be the ideal option for you.