The café racer segment has always attracted motorcycle enthusiasts who love retro styling blended with sporty riding dynamics. In 2025, the entry of the Triumph Thruxton 400 into the Indian market has stirred up excitement, especially when compared to the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650, a café racer that’s already carved out a solid reputation.
the lightweight agility of the Thruxton 400 enough to challenge the twin-cylinder brute power of the GT 650? Let’s dive into a detailed, real-world comparison.
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1. Engine & Performance: Power vs Practicality
Triumph Thruxton 400
The Thruxton 400 borrows its powerplant from the Speed 400, but with some tuning changes to match its café racer DNA. The 398cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine produces around 41.4 bhp @ 9,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm of torque @ 7,500 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch and ride-by-wire, it feels sprightly, smooth, and ideal for both city rides and occasional highway sprints.
This bike isn’t about sheer power, but more about how it delivers what it has. The power curve is linear and responsive, with quick throttle reaction. Weighing in at just 183 kg, it offers excellent power-to-weight ratio, making it extremely nimble.
Royal Enfield Continental GT 650
The GT 650 plays in a different league altogether. With a 648cc parallel-twin engine, this café racer pumps out 47 bhp @ 7,250 rpm and 52.3 Nm @ 5,150 rpm. It’s not just about numbers—this engine is known for its buttery-smooth character, strong mid-range, and mellow exhaust note that riders love.
The torque delivery starts early and stays consistent, which makes it a perfect motorcycle for long-distance cruising. However, weighing around 214 kg, it does feel heavier, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Verdict:
- For new riders and daily urban usage, the Thruxton 400 offers agility and ease.
- For power lovers and highway riders, the GT 650 clearly outpaces with stronger low-end and mid-range torque.
2. Design & Styling: Retro Charisma on Both Ends
Thruxton 400
Triumph has nailed the café racer aesthetic with the Thruxton 400. With its clip-on handlebars, sculpted fuel tank, rear-set footpegs, sporty cowl, and signature half-fairing, it immediately draws the eye. It resembles the larger Thruxton 1200 in spirit but scaled down for affordability and accessibility.
The twin-pod analog-digital console, LED lighting, and high-quality paint finish (in traditional Triumph hues) reflect premium craftsmanship despite its price.
GT 650
GT 650 takes inspiration from the 1960s café racer movement. Long, low, and muscular, it oozes character. The wide fuel tank, minimalist tail section, clip-ons, and optional bar-end mirrors add a classic vibe. In its 2025 refresh, Royal Enfield added alloy wheels, LED lighting, and new color schemes.
The GT 650’s appearance feels more old-school than the Thruxton 400, and that’s exactly what loyal Enfield fans love about it.
Verdict:
- Thruxton 400 is more contemporary café racer with sporty lines.
- GT 650 stays authentic to retro roots with a beefier stance.
3. Ride Quality & Handling
Thruxton400
Thanks to its low kerb weight and shorter wheelbase, the Thruxton 400 offers razor-sharp handling. It’s ideal for tight city corners, backroad twisties, and enthusiastic weekend rides. Suspension is managed by a 43mm USD front fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear, offering a slightly firm but controlled ride.
At highway speeds, it’s stable but not as planted as heavier motorcycles. Wind resistance might affect comfort on long rides due to the smaller engine and lighter chassis.
GT 650
With its twin-cradle chassis and longer wheelbase, the GT 650 feels solid at higher speeds. The telescopic front fork and twin gas-charged shocks at the rear provide a mature ride quality. While cornering requires a bit more effort due to the weight, once leaned in, the bike holds its line beautifully.
For long-distance rides, the GT 650 is much more comfortable. Its engine hums along in higher gears without stress, while the added weight absorbs highway undulations better.
Verdict:
- Thruxton 400 is a better handler in cities and twisties.
- GT 650 shines in highway stability and overall ride maturity.
4. Features & Technology
Triumph400
Triumph offers premium features including:
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Switchable traction control
- Dual-channel ABS
- LED headlamp
- USB charging port
- Analog-digital instrument console
These features are more commonly found in higher segments, giving the Thruxton 400 an edge in tech.
GT 650
The Continental GT 650 comes with:
- Dual-channel ABS
- LED lighting (2025 update)
- Assist & slipper clutch
- Optional Tripper Navigation (on select models)
It keeps things basic and mechanical, staying true to its old-school DNA. However, it lacks modern electronics like ride modes or traction control.
Verdict:
- Thruxton 400 wins on technology and rider aids.
- GT 650 appeals to purists who prefer minimal intervention.
5. Price & Value for Money
- Triumph Thruxton 400 is priced at around ₹2.74 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 starts around ₹3.19 lakh and goes up to ₹3.49 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on variant.
In terms of pricing, the Thruxton 400 is significantly more affordable while still delivering premium styling, features, and performance.
The GT 650 demands a premium, but you get a twin-cylinder engine, stronger highway performance, and bigger road presence.
Verdict
- For budget-conscious enthusiasts, Thruxton 400 is the clear winner.
- For seasoned riders seeking a powerful café racer experience, GT 650 justifies the higher tag.
Comparison Table
|
Specification |
Triumph Thruxton 400 |
Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 |
|
Engine Type |
398cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
648cc, parallel-twin, air/oil-cooled, SOHC |
|
Power (HP) |
41.4 bhp @ 9,000 rpm |
47 bhp @ 7,250 rpm |
|
Torque |
37.5 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
52.3 Nm @ 5,150 rpm |
|
Gearbox |
6-speed, assist & slipper clutch |
6-speed, assist & slipper clutch |
|
Weight (Kerb) |
~183 kg |
~211–214 kg |
|
Fuel Tank Capacity |
13 liters |
12.5 liters |
|
Seat Height |
795 mm |
804 mm |
|
Frame |
Hybrid spine/perimeter frame |
Twin-downtube cradle frame |
|
Front Suspension |
43mm USD forks |
41mm telescopic forks |
|
Rear Suspension |
Monoshock with preload adjustability |
Twin gas-charged shock absorbers with adjustable preload |
|
Brakes (Front/Rear) |
300mm disc / 230mm disc, Dual-channel ABS |
320mm disc / 240mm disc, Dual-channel ABS |
|
Electronics |
Ride-by-wire, switchable traction control, ABS |
Dual-channel ABS, optional Tripper Navigation |
|
Instrumentation |
Analog-digital twin-pod display |
Analog twin-pod console (basic digital on newer models) |
|
Lighting |
All-LED (headlamp, indicators, tail) |
LED headlamp (2025 update), halogen indicators, LED tail |
|
Color Options |
- Carnival Red - Phantom Black - Racing Yellow |
- British Racing Green - Rocker Red - Dux Deluxe - Ventura Storm - Slipstream Blue - Apex Grey |
|
Top Speed (Estimated) |
160 km/h |
170-175 km/h |
|
Mileage (Real World) |
28-32 km/l |
22-26 km/l |
|
Ex-Showroom Price (India) |
2.74 lakh |
3.19 lakh 3.49 lakh |
|
On-Road Price (Approx.) |
3.15-3.30 lakh (depending on city) |
3.70 -4.00 lakh (depending on variant & city) |
|
USP |
Lightweight, agile, tech-loaded retro café racer |
Powerful twin-cylinder, authentic café racer vibe |
|
Ideal For |
Urban riding, new riders, weekend fun |
Touring, experienced riders, café-racer enthusiasts |
Which One Should You Buy?
The answer lies in what kind of rider you are:
- If you’re just stepping into the world of performance motorcycles, want a stylish bike for urban commutes and weekend joyrides, and don’t want to burn a hole in your pocket, the Triumph Thruxton 400 is a dream come true. It’s light, nimble, tech-loaded, and perfectly suited for modern Indian roads.
- But if you crave raw twin-cylinder performance, enjoy long-distance riding, and appreciate a more old-school riding experience with robust build quality, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 offers unmatched value in its segment.
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