2022 RE Interceptor 650: Updates We’d Like To See

The 2022 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 was recently spotted testing and it sported one major change: a rerouted single-unit exhaust system. But apart from the new exhaust layout, the Interceptor has plenty of scope to improve if it has to become an even more wholesome offering than it is now. Here are the updates we expect Royal Enfield to implement in the 2022 iteration:

A Better Seat!

The first pain (in the bum) point definitely has to be the bench seat. The stock seat is a little too soft, and this is evident particularly on longer rides. Royal Enfield’s accessory touring seat solves the issue, but only to a certain extent. We hope Royal Enfield adds better cushioning that offers better comfort both for commuting and long distance riding in the upcoming iteration.

Firmer Suspension:

The suspension on the current-gen Interceptor 650 is on the softer side. The front telescopic fork isn’t as firm or as consistent as the Royal Enfield Classic 350. Likewise, the rear twin gas-charged shock absorbers also feel a little too soft, and this results in bounciness in city speeds or while going over sharp bumps. That said, the ride quality at the rear does improve at high speeds. Royal Enfield should tune the front and rear suspension’s internals so that they are not only consistent but also improve the motorcycle’s handling, while being comfortable enough for bad roads.

A More Feature-packed Console:

At the moment, the twin pod instrument cluster with a digital inset only shows the speed, rpm, fuel level, trip meter and odometer reading for that old-school, minimalistic vibe. However, it doesn’t hurt to add useful features without compromising on the bike’s character. A larger digital inset containing a clock, real-time and average fuel efficiency readout, and perhaps a gear position indicator would be a welcome addition. Apart from this, Royal Enfield should also offer the Tripper Navigation pod at least as an option in the 2022 model.

Alloy Wheels:

The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is meant to be a retro-styled roadster, so the spoke wheels are bang on point. However, the tubed tyres that go with spoke wheels cannot handle punctures as effectively as tubeless ones on alloy wheels. Hence, it would do well for Royal Enfield to offer a set of alloy wheels as an option. In fact, the company has already done it with the Royal Enfield Classic 350.

If Royal Enfield implements all these changes, expect the 2022 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 to cost around Rs 15,000- Rs 17,000 more than the current-gen model, which starts from Rs 2,81,518 (ex-showroom Delhi). Lastly, even after the premium in the 2022 iteration, it will still be the most affordable twin-cylinder 650cc bike in India.

Images used are for representation.