2024 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650

When Royal Enfield introduced the Continental GT 650 back in 2019, it showed that the terms “inexpensive,” “classic,” and “performance” could truly all be applied to the same bike. On paper the GT 650 certainly won’t impress spec sheet mavens; the then-new air/oil-cooled SOHC 648cc parallel-twin four-valve-per-cylinder engine with a 270-degree crankshaft (à la Triumph Bonneville and Yamaha MT-07) externally looks more retro than most other “classic” bikes, but inside there are plenty of modern updates, such as valve rocker arms that utilize rollers on the cam side and screw/locknut adjustable tappets on the valve side (for less friction and ease of maintenance), a power assist/slipper clutch, and a primary gear-driven clutch. Claimed power figures are modest, with 47 hp at 7,250 rpm and 38 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,250 rpm, but don’t let that deceive you; the 270-degree crank provides quick-revving torque that makes the engine surprisingly fun to use, whether it’s zipping you out of tight traffic spots or blasting down your favorite twisty road.

The steel double-downtube cradle frame made by renowned chassis builder Harris Performance (which is now owned by RE) may look old-tech as well, but its performance is anything but. Steering is delightfully light but neutral, with enough stability to keep things from ever feeling flighty or nervous; line changes midcorner are easily accomplished with little effort, yet the Continental GT holds its line without requiring any input from the rider.

Updates for 2024 consist of two new paint schemes with blacked-out engine and wheels, LED headlight, cast aluminum alloy wheels/tubeless tires on the Apex Gray and Slipstream Blue variants, new aluminum handlebar switch gear, new seats, adjustable front brake and clutch levers, and new Ceat tires.

The 2024 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is available in five paint styles. The Slipstream Blue and Apex Gray feature blacked-out engine and cast aluminum wheels and retail for $7,149; the Dux Deluxe sells for $6,649, and the Rocker Red and British Racing Green versions list at $6,349.