Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 5500km Long-Term Review: A Difficult Goodbye

Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when you are bidding farewell to something as striking as the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. In the past few months, the GT 650 has been a constant presence in my life, gracing my garage with its timeless elegance. 

Every ride has been a reminder of the beauty of falling in love, and with each passing day, my admiration for this café racer has only grown stronger. 

A Love Affair with Retro Charm

From its retro-inspired design to its powerful twin-cylinder engine, the Continental GT 650 exudes an irresistible charm that never fails to turn heads. Whether navigating through busy city streets or cruising along the highway, this bike commands attention with its classic aesthetics and smooth performance. You are bound to feel like a rockstar when cruising on this bike. 

Riding the GT 650 feels like a dream, with its effortless acceleration and responsive handling. Despite its weight and slightly awkward riding posture, manoeuvring through city traffic is not that difficult, thanks to its impressive power delivery. Even at faster speeds, there’s always enough thrust for quick overtakes, thanks to the torquey heart.

Embracing Imperfections

Like any love story, the GT 650 is not without its flaws. The air-/oil-cooled engine can generate some heat during extended rides, and its hefty weight can be felt at slower speeds. Additionally, the riding posture is the biggest chink in the bike’s armour. To me, it was really difficult to find a comfy position and maintain it. Lastly, while the analogue console looks pretty cool and appealing, the inaccurate fuel gauge can cause frustration and give you low fuel scares very often.

However, these minor drawbacks pale in comparison to the sheer joy of riding this magnificent machine. Its character and charm overshadow any imperfections, making it a beloved companion for enthusiasts and riders alike.

A Bittersweet Farewell

As I bid farewell to the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650, I can't help but reflect on the memories we've shared. While it may not be the perfect bike, its unique charm and timeless appeal make it a standout choice in the Indian market. Especially when you consider the fact that it is the only proper factory-built cafe racer in the country, and is pretty affordable for what is essentially a twin-cylinder 650cc bike.

To my fellow riders and enthusiasts, I leave you with a question: Does the Continental GT 650 evoke the same emotions in you? If not, then which motorcycle makes you feel this way?