The 2020 Royal Enfield INT650—also known as the Interceptor in foreign markets—is an unassuming, simple, fun roadster with a combination of classic authenticity and modern-day performance. But it deserves big, big attention, especially from less-experienced novice motorcyclists or those looking for a do-it-all machine that won’t break the bank.
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That’s because the INT650 offers a balance of approachability, style, and functionality in a stylish package for just $6,673.99 (as tested). Oh, and not to mention an unlimited-mileage, three-year warranty and roadside assistance that comes standard with purchase of this Enfield twin. Now that is a seriously impressive perk, regardless of riding experience or manufacturer. The INT650 is part of Royal Enfield’s push to re-energize the British-designed, Indian-built brand here in the United states, and its aggressive offerings represent confidence in the company’s products.
Powered by a 648cc, SOHC, air-/oil-cooled, eight-valve, parallel-twin engine that punches a modest 42.2 hp and 37.9 pound-feet of torque measured on our in-house Dynojet 250i dyno, the INT650 is a smooth-running and surprisingly wicked-fun motorcycle on the road. A 270-degree firing order results in a throaty rumble during low-end power delivery, while remaining almost vibration free throughout the rev range. It’s a seriously comfortable ride. Initial throttle response is crisp, yet mellow in delivery—a perfect match for less-experienced riders. But power is plentiful at nearly any rpm and rips with enough coaxing. The relatively flat torque curve means the Enfield has flexibility in gear selection of its slick-shifting and well-spaced six-speed gearbox.
And handling is delightful as well. The twin-cradle, tubular-steel frame built in collaboration with legendary UK chassis manufacturer Harris Performance offers neutral handling with light turn-in effort. It holds its line and pleasantly carves curves with confidence. The suspension offers a magic-carpet-like ride in terms of small-bump compliance, effortlessly gliding down the road, but light spring rates and internal damping settings struggle to provide big-hit support against unexpected large bumps.
The brakes also offer a great balance of performance and approachability. Braking power is plentiful enough to quickly bring the 470-pound INT650 to a halt in aggressive riding and panic situations, yet the initial bite is soft and progressive in a way that will instill confidence in newer riders, even if the lever lacks feel to understand just how much pressure is being applied at the caliper. And the Bosch ABS system offers relief just in case, but isn’t overly intrusive during hard brake application.
Part of what makes the INT650′s ride so pleasant is a well-balanced ergonomic triangle that offers comfort in almost every riding situation. The reach to the tubular, upright handlebar is relaxed and offers a great leverage point as is footpeg placement, while a relatively low 32.7-inch measured seat height and light clutch pull make navigating dense traffic a breeze. But being a standard roadster sans fairing means considerable windblast at highway speeds, which grows tiresome after more than a few miles. And while luxurious looking, the diamond-quilted seat is arguably too soft.
Regardless of the shortcomings that are few and far between, the 2020 Royal Enfield INT650 is an exceptional motorcycle. It is one that is absolutely worthy of attention from riders of all skill sets, as it just may be the rejuvenation the on-road market is looking for, all for an affordable price.
And for this racer boy, I genuinely enjoyed my time cruising on the simplistic, do-it-all roadster. Just a few more miles, please.
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Videography/edit: Bert Beltran
Photography: Bert Beltran
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