The iconic British bikes manufacturer, Royal Enfield might soon be launching the Continental GT 535 model in the Indian auto market as the bike was recently put on sale in United Kingdom. So much to the delight of bike enthusiasts in India, the bike might soon make its headway start in the country during the last quarter of 2013. The upcoming bike of the company is touted as the “fastest, lightest, most powerful Royal Enfield in production.”
As told by the company, Continental GT has been equipped with a 4-stoke 535 cc engine that generates 29.1 bhp, besides from reaching a peak torque of 44 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-Speed manual transmission that further gives power to its wheels. However, these figures sound unimpressive if one come across the fact that the 500 cc engine used by the company pumps out 27.2 bhp of power and 41.4 Nm of torque. The bike has a kerb weight of 184 kg, which is considerably higher than what was expected. Powered by the 535 cc engine, Continental GT has an ability to clock a maximum speed of 140 kmph.
As seen in the new Continental GT 535, it draws clues from the Cafe Racer design with classy bar handles. The bike rides on new Paioli rear shockers so as to offer smooth ride. The bike engine is mounted a new chassis frame that has been developed by Harris Engineering company based in United Kingdom. At the front of the Continental GT 535, the 41 mm discs present are borrowed from the Thunderbird model. Also, the new speed and tachometer instrument panel gives a modernised appearance to the bike. To ensure a suitable and sportier riding position, the bike is provided with rear set foot pegs and low clip on handlebars. The seat arrangement of Continental GT 535 can be changed to single or two-seater, depending on the needs. On the exterior front, the bike scores high on looks with its modernised appearance that goes in stark contrast to the 1965 GT250 model produced by Royal Enfield.
According to industry experts, design might work well in favour of Continental GT, but the engine, in particular needs overhauling. Royal Enfield Continental GT was unveiled by the company as a Cafe Racer concept during the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo. In European markets, the Cafe Racer type bikes are mainly renowned for their tuned engines that have a potential to reach high speeds. A distinctive feature of Cafe Racer bikes are their low slung handle bars and long fuel tanks, to give a better stability for rider while cruising on roads.
Talking about the price of Continental GT 535, the bike is available from 5200 Great Britain Pounds. For Indian market, Royal Enfield is expected to place the new model slightly above the price of Thunderbird 500. Therefore, the bike could be placed in between the Rs. 2.25 lakh and Rs. 2.75 lakh. As reports are suggesting, the upcoming bike from the kitty of Royal Enfield would be the costliest one to feature in India.
At present, the bike has been launched in United Kingdom and the company might soon be putting Continental GT 535 on sale in major international markets by October 2013. As far as Indian market is concerned, the bike will be available towards the end of 2013. Also, rumours are rife that the company has already started the production of Continental GT 535 model in its new factory at Oragadam, Chennai.
