FRATERNAL VINS

Two 650s. Two very different propositions. One decision to make, and only one way to make it - by riding them back-to-back.

- DHRUV PALIWAL

The 650s have truly changed the game for Royal Enfield. In simple terms, they have made big motorcycles accessible to the average person with a penchant for motorcycling, and we couldn't be happier about it. The Interceptor 650 and Super Meteor 650 are, then, the perfect entry point into the world of big motorcycles. Now, before you ask why the Continental GT 650 isn't included here, let me just say that the Conti requires a much more committed rider and isn't everyone's cup of tea. The Interceptor and Super Meteor, on the other hand, allow any motorcyclist to hop on with a promise of a joyous ride.

WHY THESE TWO?

So, what makes these motorcycles special? Well, first and foremost, they are both Royal Enfields. And for most of us, the name is enough to evoke a sense of nostalgia. Riding an Enfield feels special, at least in India, for it evokes a sense of connection with our ancestors who once enjoyed a similar feeling of riding an Enfield - it's simply magical!

Now, historically, Enfields were never synonymous with reliability, but the introduction of the new 650s - all three of them - has changed that. They are superbly refined, have excellent build quality, and they run like a charm. Notably, the development of the 650s marked RE's foray into the twin-cylinder technology for the first time, along with a bunch of other firsts, and it pretty much got it right. Consequently, the Interceptor and the Super Meteor have achieved not only an immediate cult status but also established themselves as wonderful motorcycles that work flawlessly.