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    Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Limited Edition – First Look Walkaround

    New Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor Limited EditionBoth 650cc Twins from Royal Enfield were given a mild makeover earlier this year which included new colour schemes and subtle cosmetic updates
    Not only in India but Royal Enfield 650cc Twins have gained a cult status in several overseas markets as well. In November last year, we had reported that the iconic motorcycle brand had launched limited edition models of Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in Italy in association with its sole distributor partner Valentino Motor Company (VMC).
    The special models were introduced to mark the company’s five years of association with VMC. Six new colour options for Interceptor and four paint schemes for Continental GT were introduced in this limited edition model. In addition to this, there are other aesthetic variations in comparison to the standard model.
    Cosmetic Upgrades
    A unit of this special edition model of Interceptor was recently caught on camera. The bike was wrapped in an elegant Green and Black dual-tone colour scheme which shone brightly under the sun.
    The other five paint schemes on offer in the limited edition Interceptor include Matte Black; Matte Bronze and Black; Matte Military Green and Black; Matte Gray and Black; and Gray and Black. Besides the unique colour schemes, the motorcycles adopt a darker theme with more premium equipment.
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    For instance, all mechanical components have been blacked out including engine casing, exhaust pipe and muffler, handlebars, indicators, brake levers, gear shift pedal and headlight and taillight bezels, wrapped in a matte black scheme. All components lose out their signature chrome embellishments in order to make way for a darker tone.
    Additional Accessories on offer
    Apart from the various colouring on the motorcycle, it also comes with additional fitments such as touring bar-end rearview mirrors, a tall fly screen, fork gaiters in front suspension, aluminum engine bumpers, throttle body covers, engine crash guard, crossbar covers and matte black intake cover kit. The brake calipers dipped in red colour further add a nice sporty contrast to the bike’s overall retro appeal.
    Among other exclusive accessories, VMC is also offering Öhlins shock absorbers, Andreani Group branded fork cartridges and exhausts from Zard in these limited edition models. One can opt for Öhlins shock absorbers with multi-adjustable front cartridges from Andreani at an additional cost of 1,000 euros (INR 87k). On the other hand, the slip-on exhausts from Zard can be availed at an extra 600 euros (INR 52k).
    Engine Specs
    The special edition Interceptor 650 has been priced at 8,200 euros (INR 7.1 lakh) while the Continental GT has been priced at 8,500 euros (INR 7.36 lakh). No changes have been to their engine specifications and both motorcycles share the same heart. Both are powered by a 649cc parallel-twin motor which kicks out 47 bhp at 7250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5250 rpm. This unit is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch for quick and smooth shifting. More

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    Royal Enfield Scram Motorcycle Name Registered – New 650cc Scrambler?

    Royal Enfield Sultan by Neev Motorcycles. Image for reference.
    Success of 650 twins has given Royal Enfield confidence to test new products in this space
    The 650 twins will soon have more members in the family including a roadster and a cruiser. The latest trademark filing reveals that a 650cc scrambler could also be in the works. The name registered is Royal Enfield Scram, which hints towards a scrambler model. As of now, the status of the trademark registration shows up as ‘Formalities Chk Pass’.
    Royal Enfield 650cc scrambler design and features
    Test mules of Royal Enfield 650cc scrambler are yet to be sighted. To get an idea about its design, we can probably look at some of the modification projects done in the past. There are not one, but several such projects wherein Interceptor 650 has been modified into a scrambler.
    Most of these customizations and digital renderings have received rave reviews from enthusiasts. It may be among the reasons that may have motivated Royal Enfield to start work on the 650cc scrambler project.
    Here’s a good example that can provide clues about how Royal Enfield 650cc scrambler could look like. Some of the key features of 650cc scrambler could include round headlamp, minimal bodywork, higher ground clearance, upswept exhaust, spoke wheels, and dual purpose tyres.
    Royal Enfield registers new name – SCRAM
    Royal Enfield 650cc scrambler engine and specs
    To reduce development costs, all Royal Enfield 650cc motorcycles will be using the same platform as that of 650 twins. The platform has received wide appreciation for its superior handling and control. Powering 650cc scrambler will be the 648cc air/oil-cooled, parallel twin motor that is capable of generating 47 hp of max power at 7150 rpm and 52 Nm of max torque at 5250 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.
    The 650cc platform utilizes a tubular steel frame with bolted trussing. It has standard front forks and twin shocks at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 320mm disc at the front and 240mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard.
    As may be recalled, Royal Enfield has initiated a major product offensive. Around 28 new/next-gen products will be launched by 2027. The company currently leads in 350cc segment with more than ninety percent market share. New products will allow Royal Enfield to keep its portfolio refreshed at all times and keep rivals in check.
    The 650cc segment also has limited number of products. With the 650cc roadster, cruiser and scrambler, Royal Enfield can cement its position in this space. More

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    Royal Enfield Godzilla By Neev Motorcycles – Based On Thunderbird

    Royal Enfield Godzilla by Neev Motorcycles
    Wheelbase of Thunderbird has been increased thanks to a longer custom-built swingarm and extra rake in the front suspension
    We already have covered scores of aftermarket modified Royal Enfield motorcycles in the past. We have also discussed why Royal Enfield bikes prove to be fan favourites in the aftermarket industry. So we are going to spare our readers the same old jargon but we have another piece of aftermarket work on a Royal Enfield model.
    This time a Thunderbird has been modified into a savage-looking machine which is reminiscent of the fictional superhero Batman’s ride famously known as Batpod. The motorcycle has been built by Neev Motorcycles which is famous for creating many such outrageous and exotic pieces of work on two-wheelers.
    Royal Enfield Godzilla by Neev Motorcycles
    Completely Revamped Design
    The Delhi-based aftermarket workshop has evidently spent a lot of man-hours and capital on building this motorcycle. Named Godzilla, it certainly looks like a being from another world. As seen in the images, an excess amount of mod jobs have been conducted on this Thunderbird to give it the badass appearance which it boasts. For starters, the most notable highlight is the custom fuel tank which wears the “Godzilla” moniker on its left side.
    The side view shows that the contour of the fuel tank resonates with the custom single-piece seat resembling the flow of a roller-coaster since it abruptly rises to meet the raised rear fender. The rear section gets a unique pointed tail which resembles a shark fin to some extent.
    Royal Enfield Godzilla by Neev Motorcycles
    At front, Neev Motorcycles have made use of a headlight and turn indicators from Bajaj Pulsar NS200. It surprisingly fits well and helps in giving the bike a mean and aggressive look.
    The frame has also been modified to place the seat even lower and attach an extended swingarm. Although Thunderbird is not a full-fledged cruiser, the front suspension has been provided with fork gaiters and additional rake angle to give this modified iteration a bobber look.
    As obvious with a bobber, it rides on very fat rear tyres with a ridiculously thick cross-section wrapped around thin spoked wheels. The front fender has been chopped short while the rear fender has been completely removed.
    Royal Enfield Godzilla by Neev Motorcycles
    Mechanical UpgradesRoyal Enfield
    Other styling highlights a custom-made straight line handlebar, a short exhaust pipe, forward-set footpegs, a rear tyre hugger housing the number plate holder and a belly pan underneath the engine. There have been few improvements made as far as mechanicals are concerned. For instance, it has been provided with a high-performance air filter which might help it rev higher. All changes incorporated for the new saddle needed a revamped rear suspension unit.
    Thunderbird was offered in two configurations- 350cc and 500cc and was discontinued last year. It has been replaced by Royal Enfield’s latest cruiser Meteor 350 which gets a brand new 350cc engine and a new dual-cradle frame. More

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    Royal Enfield Sales, Exports April 2021 – Classic, Bullet, Himalayan, 650 Twins

    Image – Royal EnfieldWith lockdown restrictions, Royal Enfield sales and exports have turned negative in April
    A total of 48,789 units were sold in the domestic market in April, which is MoM de-growth of -19.76%. Sales during March were higher at 60,807 units. Only Bullet and 650 Twins have positive MoM growth in April.
    The situation is similar in exports, wherein MoM growth is down by -23.38%. A total of 4,509 units were exported in April, as compared to 5,885 units in March. The ones with positive growth are Meteor, Classic and Electra.
    Royal Enfield domestic sales April 2021
    Classic 350 continues to be the top selling product for the company with sales of 23,298 units in April. MoM growth is down by -26.49%, as compared to 31,694 units sold in March. Classic 350 share in sales is at 47.75%. Next is Bullet 350 with sales of 9,908 units in April. MoM sales have registered growth of 2.22%, as compared to 9,693 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 20.31%.
    At number three is Meteor 350 with sales of 7,844 units in April. MoM sales are down by -25.97%, as compared to 10,596 units sold in March. Meteor 350 share in sales is at 16.08%. Next in the list is Electra 350 with sales of 3,631 units in April. MoM sales are down by -26.11%, as compared to 4,914 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 7.44%.
    Royal Enfield sales and exports – April 2021
    Himalayan is at number five with sales of 2,815 units in April. Negative MoM growth for Himalayan is relatively less at just -2.86%. Sales during March were at 2,898 units. Himalayan share in sales is 5.77%. 650 Twins appear to be unaffected by on-going challenges, as MoM sales have zoomed by 27.77%. Sales are up from 1,012 units in March to 1,293 units in April. Share in sales is at 2.65%.
    Royal Enfield exports April 2021
    Himalayan has emerged as the bestseller in overseas markets in April. A total of 1,398 units were exported, which is MoM de-growth of -24.72%. Exports in March were at 1,857 units. Himalayan share in exports is at 31.00%. At number two is Meteor 350 with exports of 1,143 units in April. MoM growth is 28.43%, as compared to 890 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 25.35%.
    650 Twins are placed at third spot with exports of 1,046 units in April. MoM growth is down by -40.70%, as compared to 1,764 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 23.20%. Next is Classic 350 with exports of 724 units in April. MoM growth is up by 6.63%, as compared to 679 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 16.06%.
    At number five is Classic 500 with exports of 185 units. MoM growth is down by -73.23%, as compared to 691 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 4.10%. Next is Electra 350 with 13 units exported in April. MoM growth is up by 333.33%, as compared to 3 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 0.29%. More

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    Royal Enfield Recalls 2.36 Lakh Motorcycles – Meteor, Bullet, Classic

    Image for reference. Credit – stayaliveRoyal Enfield through a media release assured that it is committed to swiftly implement the recall action
    Royal Enfield has issued a recall of its motorcycles due to a manufacturing defect found in one of the parts used across some of its models. This recall is said to affect as many as 236,966 units of specific models including Meteor 350, Classic 350 and Bullet 350.
    Defect Identified
    In a mail released by the Chennai-based bikemaker, it states that the defect is in the ignition coil that can cause misfiring and reduced vehicle performance. In some exceptional cases, it can even cause an electric short circuit. The defect was uncovered during routine internal testing.
    The company has further stated that has been clearly identified and is limited to only specific batches of material sourced from an external supplier. The recall is set to affect motorcycles manufactured between December 2020 and April 2021.
    Meteor models affected and set to be recalled have been manufactured between the above-mentioned period. While Bullet and Classic models affected have been manufactured and sold between January and April 2021.
    New Royal Enfield Classic
    Recall Process
    Royal Enfield estimates that less than 10 percent of these bikes recalled will require replacement of the suspected part. The motorcycles will undergo inspection and if required, replacement of the said defective part and no extra cost will be charged on the customers.
    Although the iconic brand hasn’t revealed a specific start date for the recall activity, the service teams, and/or local dealerships will begin reaching out to consumers whose motorcycle Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) number falls within the manufacturing period mentioned above.
    Customers can also reach out to their local Royal Enfield Workshops proactively from their end or call Royal Enfield on 1800-210-007 to verify. This recall action will be applicable to Meteor. Classic and Bullet models sold not just in India but in other countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand as well. The company has reiterated that it has very stringent sourcing protocols and that all its motorcycles are rigorously tested to global validation standards of quality and durability.
    Classic, Bullet, Meteor Specs
    While Classic and Bullet share the same older generation underpinnings and 350cc motor, Meteor 350 is based on the new generation architecture and engine. Classic 350 and Bullet 350 are powered by a 346cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which produces 19.2 bhp and 28 N of peak torque.
    Whereas, the latest cruiser from Royal Enfield is powered by a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke motor which kicks out 20.2 bhp of power and 27 Nm of peak torque. All three motorcycles are offered with a five-speed gearbox. More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Custom Black With Stripes From 650 GT

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350Royal Enfield is also preparing a cruiser in the 650cc twin-cylinder platform which is expected to make its debut by the end of this year
    Royal Enfield is basking on its newly launched cruiser Meteor 350 which has turned out to be a raging success all over India. Meteor 350 was officially launched in India in November last year and has since seen an overwhelming response as far as bookings are concerned.
    The new cruiser is offered in three trims- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova while each of them come with their individual colour options. Each shade on offer in Meteor does appeal to the bike’s retro-style theme however, we believe a black colour option would have provided much more oomph and class to the motorcycle.
    Custom Paint Job
    We are proved right when we see a Meteor 350 wrapped in a custom glossy black paint scheme. Images are credited to the Instagram profile of Arjun BK @_bee___kay_ and the bike looks exquisite in this shade.
    The paint job has been carried out on the base Fireball trim of Meteor which already comes with a blacked-out theme. This includes components such as engine casing, exhaust pipe, footpegs, handlebar, side body panels, alloy wheels and grab rails are dipped in black colour.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    This dark theme complements the custom black paint while two silver stripes stickering on the fuel tank adds a nice sporty contrast to the overall look. If you notice carefully, the stripes on the fuel tank are inspired from Continental GT 650.
    The retro theme with styling elements such as a round headlamp, turn indicators and taillamp, a circumferential LED DRL on the headlamp, a wide handlebar, and circular instrument dials amplify the appeal of this custom black colour. The glossiness further adds glaze and premiumness to the cruiser.
    This custom colour scheme has been inspired by a Black Magic paint option previously offered in Continental GT 650. The twin-cylinder cafe racer along with its twin, Interceptor 650, recently underwent a cosmetic overhaul which saw the addition of new colour options. On seeing this, maybe Royal Enfield could extend this colour scheme to other models in its official lineup.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Mechanical Specs
    Meteor 350 is powered by an all-new 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke motor which cranks out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This unit is mated to a new 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle is underpinned by a new J1D architecture which comprises a double-cradle frame suspended on telescopic forks at front and twin-sided shock absorbers at rear. Braking hardware consists of single discs on both wheels while safety net is provided by dual-channel ABS.
    The cruiser motorcycle has been serving as a replacement for Thunderbird 350 and is currently priced between Rs 1.80 lakh and Rs. 1.95 lakh (ex-showroom). While there are no direct rivals of Meteor 350 in this segment, it competes against the likes of Honda H’ness CB 350, Jawa Forty-Two, and Benelli Imperiale 400. More

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    Royal Enfield FY 2021 Sales Breakup – Classic 350 Leads With 3.6 Lakh

    Image – Pokhara Sasto KarobarRoyal Enfield Classic 350 was the best-selling model in the company portfolio for FY21
    In FY21, Royal Enfield sales stood at 5,72,438 units, a de-growth of 83,213 units as compared to sales of 6,09,931 units in the same period of the previous year. A major part of these sales came from the Classic 350 which despite suffering a de-growth of 9.29 percent, noted sales of 3,61,140 as against sales of 3,98,144 units in FY20.
    Classic 350 Leads
    Royal Enfield has recently hiked prices from April 2021 and the Classic 350, another highly popular model has received a price hike of around Rs.10,000. The Meteor 350, launched late last year, now comes in priced higher by Rs.6,000.
    RE Bullet 350 also suffered de-growth of 25.04 percent in the past financial year. Total sales which had stood at 1,30,752 units in FY20 dipped to 98,008 units in FY21. Royal Enfield Bullet 350, which is the cheapest offering in the company lineup gets a price hike in the range of Rs.7,000 to Rs.13,000 depending on the variant.
    At No.3 was the RE Bullet Electra Twinspark which along with the RE Meteor 350 were the only two motorcycles to post positive growth. Bullet sales surged 11.05 percent to a total of 50,579 units in FY21, up from 45,545 units sold in FY20 while Meteor 350 sales stood at 39,893 units.
    Royal Enfield Sales FY 2021
    The company has been noting a steady rise in demand for the Meteor 350 ever since it was launched in November 2020. Sales thus far include 7,031 units of November, 8,569 units of December, 5,073 units of January, 8,624 units of February and 10,596 units of March 2021.
    RE Himalayan and 650 Twins
    Two other motorcycles from Royal Enfield that scored among the best sellers are the Himalayan and 650 Twins. However, both these models suffered de-growth. Himalayan sales dipped 11.37 percent from 15,302 units sold in FY20 to 13,562 units sold in FY21 while sales of the 650 Twins dipped 49.20 percent from 0,188 unit sold in FY20 to 10,256 units sold in FY21.
    Royal Enfield has discontinued models such as the Thunderbird 500, Bullet 500, Classic 500 and Thunderbird 350. Royal Enfield, which currently commands a 95 percent market share in the 350cc segment, is working on the new Hunter 350 and the motorcycle has been spied on test drawing attention to some features.
    The Hunter 350 will be based on the J platform of the Meteor 350 with which it will share its 349cc engine as well. It will receive sporty styling with an analogue instrument console and a circular analogue speedometer and like other updated RE models could also get Tripper Navigation. Once launched, the RE Hunter 350 will compete with the Honda CB350RS and the soon to be launched Jawa / Yezdi scrambler. More

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    Royal Enfield Sultan 650 By Neev Motorcycles – Looks Ready To Rule The Streets

    Royal Enfield 650 Sultan By Neev MotorcyclesInterested folks can contact the bike modifier to bring this concept to life
    Royal Enfield 650 twins are among the most preferred motorbikes for customization projects. They are relatively affordable, easier to tweak and can support a wide variety of aftermarket components.
    The latest mod job is actually a paper based concept that is yet to be built. However, considering the absolute stunner revealed in the images, it would be safe to assume that orders for this mean machine will flow in pretty fast.
    Royal Enfield Sultan 650 By Neev Motorcycles
    Interceptor 650 ‘Sultan concept’ design
    Created by customization shop Neev Motorcycles, the Sultan concept appears to have a dark, brooding character. It looks deadly, merciless and unforgiving. The concept has a sharp design and utilizes a dual tone colour theme of black and dark grey.
    Some of the key features include round headlamp with colour LED lights, clip-on handle bars, LED tail light and turn signals, bar end rear view mirrors, side mounted instrument cluster, leather seat, and upswept exhaust.
    Royal Enfield Sultan 650 By Neev Motorcycles
    Interceptor 650 Sultan specs
    As compared to stock 41 mm front fork, modified Interceptor 650 Sultan concept utilizes USD forks. However, the stock twin coil-over shocks at the rear have been retained. The concept utilizes R17 alloy wheels with wheel cover at both front and rear, shod with tubeless tyres.
    Royal Enfield Sultan 650 By Neev Motorcycles
    A number of accessories and parts have been hand built such as the fenders, side panels, fuel tank detailing, two-in-one flow exhaust with protective covers, wheel covers, frame alterations, number plate assembly and instrument cluster repositioning. Components made in machine shop include sump guard / bash plate, disc brake fittings, axles, and spacers. Aftermarket components include exhaust muffler, exhaust silencer, and grips.
    This project achieves a high level of finish, made possible with powder coating, anodizing, zinc plating, chrome plating, and polishing. The paint job is also entirely new.
    Royal Enfield Sultan 650 By Neev Motorcycles
    While the Sultan concept looks absolutely stunning, it is unlikely to come cheap. A number of customized and aftermarket components will have to be used, which is bound to increase the overall cost of this customization project. One also has to ascertain if this modification project would be approved by RTO. If not, the Sultan will only work as a collector’s item for enthusiasts.
    Practicality is another thing that needs to be considered for such extensive customization projects. How the modified motorcycle will perform in the real world would be difficult to judge just by looking at the pictures.
    However, if we were to assess this project solely for its design and styling, it easily qualifies as one of the best we have ever come across. It’s one of those amazing ideas that deserves to be born. More