Pune ‘Interceptors’ take to the roads
May 05, 2019, Pune, Royal Enfields are distinctly identifiable by their classic-themed, bare design, the inimitable ‘thump’ of the engine, and most importantly by the camaraderie and the fierce uniqueness of its riding enthusiasts. Redefining this emotion of the riding community, owners of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 in Pune took to the city roads to demonstrate their love of riding and pride of ownership of India’s most celebrated mid-segment (250-750cc) motorcycle in 2018-19.
On a warm and sunny Sunday morning, more than 100 owners of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 gathered and rode to Lonavla to celebrate the Interceptor 650 winning the prestigious Indian Motorcycle of the Year Award (IMOTY) for 2019. The ride was flagged off by Mr. Shubhranshu Singh Global Head – Marketing, Royal Enfield. The Interceptor 650, Royal Enfield’s latest twin cylinder motorcycle was launched in November 2018 and was adjudged the winner of IMOTY in December 2018.
The IMOTY is the most coveted award for a two-wheeler manufacturer in India. Initiated in 2007, the award is given by a panel of leading motorcycle journalists and editors representing leading automotive publications in India. There is a tough selection and jury rounds where several parameters like price, fuel-efficiency, styling, comfort, safety, performance, practicality, technical innovation, value for money, and suitability for Indian riding conditions are particularly important factors while deciding on the winner. The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 was adjudged the best amongst various other Indian and global motorcycles for the year 2019. Launched in November 2018 across the world, The Interceptor INT 650 is available across dealerships in Pune, starting at Rs. 2,50,000 (ex-showroom) The motorcycle also comes with a 3-year warranty and Roadside Assistance service.
Speaking at the flag-off, Mr. Shubhranshu Singh Global Head – Marketing, Royal Enfield, said “The Indian Motorcycle of the Year Award to Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 reiterates the consumer response to the motorcycle and is a testament to the development and design efforts. Maharashtra is an important market for us and within that, Pune is crucial. It is heartening to see more than 100 Interceptor 650 riders today in Pune signifying a steadily growing community of Interceptor riders and early adoption of premium mid-sized motorcycles in this region. At the same time, we are also thrilled to note that we have sold more than a thousand 650 Twins in Maharashtra. Pune showcases love for our motorcycles and also for our kind of motorcycling experience that is pure and unadulterated.”
The thumping cavalcade of the Interceptor riders were flagged off from Koregaon Park at 7 AM. Once they reached Lonavala, the riders were greeted by two beautiful custom motorcycles – ‘Hooligan’ on the Interceptor 650 by Bulleteer Customs and the ‘Vigilante’ on the Continental GT 650 by Rajputana Customs. Both motorcycles were received well by the customers.
The Interceptor INT 650 is Royal Enfield’s highly capable handsome ‘roadster’ motorcycle with comfortable upright seating position. The motorcycle has been inspired by 1960’s Interceptor – that became very popular in the American markets. Like the original Interceptor of the 60’s, the new motorcycle is as highly versatile and capable in the city as it is on the highway. With its comfortable and commanding riding position, extremely nimble handling, exciting torquey engine character, the Interceptor 650 is both fun and practical on all types of terrain, from curving coastal roads to the urban jungle, for heading out of town two-up or for cruising down to the beach.
