India’s café racer segment is as much about style and emotion as it is about performance figures. Two motorcycles currently drawing the spotlight are the newly introduced Triumph Thruxton 400 and the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. While both embrace a retro-inspired design language, their approach to performance, equipment, and rider experience differs significantly. This in-depth comparison breaks down their specifications, features, and pricing to help potential buyers decide which bike fits their riding style.
Quick Specification Summary
Specification |
Triumph Thruxton 400 |
Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 |
|---|---|---|
Engine |
398cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder |
648cc air/oil-cooled parallel-twin |
Power / Torque |
42hp / 37.5Nm |
47hp / 52Nm |
Gearbox |
6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
6-speed |
Weight |
183kg |
214kg |
Seat Height |
795mm |
793mm |
Ground Clearance |
158mm |
174mm |
Wheels |
17-inch |
18-inch |
Suspension |
USD forks / monoshock |
Telescopic forks / twin shocks |
Brakes |
300mm front, 230mm rear, ABS |
320mm front, 240mm rear, ABS |
Fuel Tank |
13 litres |
12.5 litres |
Key Features |
Ride-by-wire, traction control, LED lights |
LED headlamp, retro design, ABS |
Price |
₹2.74 lakh |
₹3.25 lakh onwards |
Official Website |
1. Engine and Performance
Triumph Thruxton 400
The Thruxton 400 is powered by a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 42hp at 9,000rpm and 37.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. The motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and comes equipped with a slip-and-assist clutch for smoother gear changes. Ride-by-wire throttle technology also ensures crisp response and better control.
Royal Enfield Continental GT 650
The Continental GT 650 uses a 648cc, air/oil-cooled, parallel-twin engine delivering 47hp at 7,250rpm and 52Nm of torque at 5,650rpm. It also features a 6-speed transmission but without advanced aids like ride-by-wire or traction control. The twin-cylinder setup offers smoother power delivery and more torque at lower revs.
2. Weight, Dimensions, and Ergonomics
-
Thruxton 400: Kerb weight of 183kg, seat height of 795mm, 158mm ground clearance, and a 13-litre fuel tank.
-
GT 650: Kerb weight of around 214kg, seat height of 793mm, 174mm ground clearance, and a 12.5-litre tank.
Verdict
The Triumph’s lighter frame offers better agility and easier handling, while the Royal Enfield’s additional weight lends it more stability at higher speeds.
3. Chassis, Suspension, and Braking
Thruxton 400
Equipped with USD front forks, a rear monoshock, and 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tyres. Braking comes from a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, both supported by dual-channel ABS.
GT 650
Uses conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. It rolls on 18-inch wheels with 100/90 front and 130/70 rear tyres. Stopping power comes from a 320mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS.
4. Features and Technology
Thruxton 400 Highlights
-
Full LED lighting
-
Ride-by-wire throttle
-
Switchable traction control
-
USB charging port
-
Slip-and-assist clutch
-
Semi-digital instrument cluster (analogue speedometer + LCD display)
GT 650 Highlights
-
Twin-pod analogue console
-
LED headlamp
-
Dual-channel ABS
-
Retro-styled design
-
Minimal electronic rider aids
Verdict
The Thruxton 400 leans heavily towards modern convenience, while the GT 650 stays true to pure mechanical simplicity.
5. Pricing and Value
-
Thruxton 400: ₹2.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
-
Continental GT 650: ₹3.25 lakh onwards (ex-showroom, Chennai)
The Triumph undercuts the Royal Enfield by around ₹50,000 while offering more electronic features, but the GT 650 justifies its price with a larger twin-cylinder engine and premium appeal.
6. Conclusion
The Triumph Thruxton 400 is a compelling choice for riders seeking a lightweight, modern café racer with everyday usability and advanced features. In contrast, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 appeals to purists who want the charm of a twin-cylinder, a heavier and more planted feel, and a classic riding experience.
FAQs
1. Which bike is faster?
A. The GT 650 has a higher top speed due to its twin-cylinder engine, but the Thruxton 400’s lighter weight makes it quicker off the line in certain conditions.
2. Which offers better fuel efficiency?
A. The Thruxton 400 is likely to deliver better mileage thanks to its smaller displacement and lighter build.
3. Which bike is better for city riding?
A. The Thruxton 400’s lighter weight and compact size make it easier to handle in urban environments.
4. Which bike offers more modern features?
A. The Thruxton 400 includes ride-by-wire, traction control, and LED lighting, which the GT 650 lacks.
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