Track-Tuned Conti: Brutal Custom Royal Enfield GT 650 Race Build

A Strong Foundation for Racing

Royal Enfield revealed its 650 twin concept in 2017. Shortly after, production models arrived two years later. During development, test rider Paul Young worked closely with Harris Performance to refine the chassis.

As a result, the finished platform surprised many riders. In practice, the 650 proved capable and well balanced. At the same time, its parallel-twin engine responded easily to upgrades. Importantly, it retained everyday reliability. Combined with aggressive pricing, the platform made clear sense for racing, even if that took time to appreciate.

Ormotors Royal Enfield Continental GT 865 custom motorcycle

Royal Enfield Embraces the Track

Royal Enfield did not stop at road bikes. Instead, the brand leaned into motorsport. First, it unveiled the track-focused Nought Tea GT 650. Then, it launched the GT Cup race series.

In this format, any rider with a 650 twin can compete. As a result, organisers now stage races at circuits worldwide. Over time, the platform has built a growing global racing community.


Racing Kits and Equal Competition

To enter the series, riders purchase a Continental GT 650 race kit. Specifically, the kit includes race bodywork, clip-ons, protection hardware, and Remus exhausts. Because every bike runs the same setup, rider skill alone decides the results.

Naturally, once racers experience this level of competition, they want more.

Enter Ormotors and Orion Porta

One builder pushed the concept even further. In Paris, Orion Porta founded Ormotors. Over more than 30 years, he has built custom motorcycles. Notably, much of his work focuses on Royal Enfields.

As his involvement deepened, Ormotors became an official Royal Enfield dealer. Because of that, seeing the team compete in the French GT Cup felt expected.

modified Continental GT 650 to 865 custom cafe racer

Beyond the Standard Race Build

However, one machine stood apart. Specifically, this 2020 Continental GT 650 went far beyond the standard race-kit formula.

“I bought the bike brand new in 2020 to customize it,” says Orion. Since then, it has gone through several transformations. According to him, the GT 650 invites change.

Even in stock form, the bike rides well. On track, it performs even better. Still, Orion wanted more performance.

modified Continental GT 650 to 865 custom cafe racer

The Ormotors Racing Super GT

As a result, Orion created the Ormotors Racing Continental Super GT. Visually, the bike looks sharp and focused. Mechanically, it delivers true racing intent.

Rather than chasing style, the build prioritises function. In this case, engineering comes first.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 865 racing build details

Bespoke Bodywork and Details

Several collaborators played key roles. Most notably, Thai designer Aekkarat Aittharit—also known as Max Fairing—created the retro front fairing. Importantly, he designed it specifically for the Continental GT 650.

Using custom brackets, the fairing mounts cleanly. As a result, it delivers a classic race silhouette with a precise fit.

Meanwhile, French workshop BAAK supplied the race-number side panels and slim fenders. At the rear, the seat and cowl remain stock GT 650 items. However, Orion reworked the saddle and trimmed it in Alcantara.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 865 racing build details

Sharper Proportions, Cleaner Lines

Even with the stock tail, the stance feels tighter. That change comes from removing excess subframe sections. Afterward, Orion welded in a new rear hoop that matches the cowl perfectly.

To finish, he relocated the license plate to a side mount. Consequently, the rear now looks cleaner and more race focused.

Royal Enfield Continental GT 865 racing build details

A Focused Cockpit

Orion applied the same thinking to the cockpit. First, he removed the bulky factory gauges. Then, he installed a single Daytona dial. Immediately, the front end appeared cleaner.

Next, black clip-on handlebars and Diablo rear-set footpegs replaced the stock controls. As a result, both ergonomics and track performance improved.

Modern Controls with Race Intent

To complete the setup, Orion chose premium components. For example, Beringer levers and push-button switchgear keep the cockpit minimal. Likewise, ODI Vans grips add comfort and control.

Instead of the standard ignition, a Motogadget key-fob system takes its place. Because the bike still sees street use, Orion hid small LED indicators neatly out of sight. In doing so, the Super GT keeps its clean racing lines without losing legality.

Photo: Ormotors/ https://www.instagram.com/ormotors/?hl=en

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