Royal Enfield Interceptor 650-based Bagger Unveiled At Rider Mania 2019
Called Neelkantha, the custom motorcycle was created by Delhi-based TNT Motorcycles
Called Neelkantha, the custom motorcycle was created by Delhi-based TNT Motorcycles
- The project cost around Rs 16 lakh, excluding the cost of the donor motorcycle.
- It features adjustable pneumatic suspension on both ends.
- The powertrain is stock, but the exhaust system has been custom-made.
Royal Enfield has unveiled a radical custom motorcycle called the Neelkantha at the 2019 Rider Mania. This bagger was commissioned by the cult bike manufacturer and built by Delhi-based TNT Motorcycles.
The Neelkantha is based on a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and TNT Motorcycles took about 2.5 months to build this custom. The entire project cost around Rs 15 lakh to Rs 16 lakh over the price of the stock motorcycle. For reference, the Interceptor 650 starts from Rs 2,56,372 (ex-showroom Delhi).
TNT Motorcycles has made the entire bodywork out of sheet metal, and there are a number of elements that are made out of CNC machined aluminium too. The most interesting part of the bike is that it gets pneumatic suspension on both ends with girder fork made out of CNC machined aluminium up front. It uses an air compressor powered by a battery to actuate the suspension. There are separate controls to lift the front and the rear end but when lowering, both ends work together. TNT Motorcycles says the system can raise the ground clearance from three inches to seven inches.
Also Read: More Accessories For The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650 On Their Way
Interestingly, TNT Motorcycles has retained the 648cc parallel twin engine in its stock form. However, the exhaust system is custom-made. For reference, the stock motor pushes out 47.4PS and 52.3Nm. It works in conjunction with a 6-speed transmission with assist and slipper clutch.
The fork holds a large 23-inch custom alloy wheel whereas the rear comes with a 16-inch unit wrapped with a wide 150-section rubber. The motorcycle rides on Avon Cobra Chrome tyres on both ends. For aesthetics, TNT Motorcycles has done away with the front disc while the rear retains the stock 240mm disc with Bosch ABS. Also, the custom house has replaced the stock brake line with a wire which acts on the master cylinder for a cleaner look. The bike also comes with a custom centre stand which is extended/retracted via a lever next to the pillion footpeg on the right.
Up front, the stock headlamp has been replaced with an LED unit and the fairing houses a dual speaker system from Mivi. Despite the additional load on the battery (pneumatics and the speaker system), the brand has retained the stock 12Ah lead-acid unit. The rider footrests, pillion footpegs, handlebar grips are all made out of CNC aluminium. There are embossed aluminium panels on the saddlebags and on the sides of the fuel tank too. The custom seat is flanked by twin bagger-style panniers, each having a capacity of around 35 litres. The mod house has designed the exhaust in a way that it extends all the way through the panniers. Rounding off the design at the rear is a neat-looking custom tail lamp with the Royal Enfield logo etched onto the glass.
Overall, TNT Motorcycles has done a commendable job of converting a retro-modern roadster into a true-blue (pardon the pun) American style bagger.
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 User Reviews
Amazing bike, well maintained throughout regular service history. Powerful motorcycle, tested across many parts of the Himalayas. Best for single rider. Great for city, travel, off roading. The motorcycle is clean. Fitted with a custom seat for long comfort riding, especially for the pillion rider. Has custom footrests fitted for the pillion rider for extra comfort. Comes with larger/broader tyres that offer great control and stability along with aesthetics. Fitted with a leatherette tank cover for zip pouches to store belongings. Read More
I choose this bike because. It gives you good features in this range and it moves smoothly on highways as compare to city but it is comfortable in city also. If you are buying this for long drives then you should buy this. Smooth on highway as compare to city its feature are far better than any other bikes and handling is so smooth if you are beginer than you should buy this one it will give you comfort while riding the bike. You should have Muscle power to control this above 20 year old person should buy this because if customer weight is not much then he can't even move it while off. Because of its heavy weight u can see some problems but i can give you the gurantee this is worth it bike i have ever seen i have more than 11 bikes but this is my favourite one.Read More
2020 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin parallel engine, with safety mods. Great power and greater road presence. Mods include: 1. Twin Exhausts from BS 2. Improved seat. 3. Windshield with chrome mirrors. 4. Premium LED headlight with LED fog lights. 5. Engine crash guard with under-the-belly protector. 6. Back rest for pillion rider with carrier. 7. All LED turn indicator cum hazard light with multiple settings. 8. Metallic Phone holder with charging. 9. Leg rest for pillion riger. 10. LED Break light with blinkers.Read More
I chose this bike because of the Smooth ride, great pick up and effortless torque with its parallel twin engine. Also the safety on long distance rides with its anti breaking system (ABS). While it is little heavy for city traffic, but it is unbeatable for price and performance. I have bought the bike second-hand from another person. While he had clocked 15000 km on the odometer, I have already done 17000 within a year, with 3 cross-country and 1 coastal route ride covering the entire coastal belt. I am loving it, though sometimes the low mileage and frequent pit stops are annoying. I would recommend this bike to people who will use it for long-distance rides and not use it for going to office or riding in traffic. In city traffic a lighter 150cc is better. But on long distance rides, interceptor is smooth like a hot knife through a butter. Read More
I chose the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 because it offers the perfect balance between classic retro design and modern performance. The twin-cylinder engine, smooth power delivery. Best bike till the date I drove. The ride experience has been excellent. The engine is incredibly smooth, especially compared to single-cylinder bikes. It feels relaxed at city speeds and very confident on highways handling is safe due to damping. Yes, I recommend this bike because of best looks and little bit maintenance other wise best bike and the torque is greater. I am addicted to bike what a bike, Its feels relaxed at City and very comfortable on highway. Read More