Royal Enfield Continental GT launched in India

The Royal Enfield Continental GT created quite a buzz when it was first showcased at the Auto Expo in 2012. Ever since, enthusiasts have been awaiting its launch eagerly. The wait has finally come to an end, as the Chennai-based company has launched the bike at an event in Goa, at a price of Rs. 2,05,026 on-road Delhi and Rs. 2,14,043 on-road Mumbai.

With its round headlamp, clip-on handlebars, bright paintwork and racing-style humped single seat, the Continental GT looks like a stylish British café racer, straight out of the 1960s. Those looking to take a pillion can choose an optional dual seat. The bike is available in two colours, red and yellow. Bar-end rear view mirrors are not a part of standard equipment.

Power comes from a 535 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, producing 29.1 bhp and 44 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bike features an electric as well as kick starter and the gearshift is located on the left of the engine.

The Continental GT uses a chassis, engineered by Harris Performance of UK. While the front suspension is a 41 mm fork, the bike uses twin gas-charged Paioli shocks at the rear. Royal Enfield has provided single disc brakes on both wheels.

Different from traditional Enfields, the Continental GT certainly looks like the most exciting product to have rolled out of the Chennai factory in a long time.