Technicolor Conti: Top Gear’s Custom Royal Enfield GT 650

A British Icon Steps into Two Wheels

The Royal Enfield GT 650 already stands out as a stylish and capable retro-inspired sport-tourer, beloved for its smooth parallel-twin engine and agile handling. Yet, when the team at Top Gear Bali got their hands on one, they saw potential to push the bike’s personality further. Their result isn’t just a simple modification — it’s a bespoke custom cruiser with thoughtful design choices and eye-catching details that elevate the platform to a new level.

A New Direction for the GT 650

Top Gear Bali approached this project with a clear vision: build a cruiser-style Royal Enfield GT 650 that blends relaxed ergonomics with timeless custom styling. Rather than fully reimagining the bike, they respected the GT 650’s core strengths — its reliable engine, accessible performance, and classic silhouette — while making targeted upgrades that enhance its road presence and comfort.

The goal was to produce a bike that looks at home rolling through city streets or cruising coastal roads, without sacrificing everyday usability.

A Shift in Stance and Ergonomics

One of the most noticeable changes in this custom build is the rider’s posture. Top Gear Bali altered the GT 650’s ergonomics to achieve a more cruiser-friendly stance. The handlebars were replaced with wider, lower bars that encourage a relaxed upper body position, while foot peg placement was adjusted for comfort and control during long rides.

These changes transform the ride experience. Instead of the sportier lean found on the stock model, this build invites riders to stretch their legs and enjoy a more laid-back cruising rhythm.

Custom Bodywork and Details

Top Gear Bali invested significant effort into refining the bike’s aesthetic. The fuel tank and side panels received bespoke treatment, with smooth lines and carefully selected paintwork that amplifies the bike’s visual appeal. Subtle accents and contrasting finishes help draw attention to the GT 650’s muscular silhouette without overwhelming its original character.

Another key detail is the seat design. Custom upholstery provides better comfort and complements the bike’s overall theme. Meanwhile, components such as fenders, grips, and lighting elements were chosen or fabricated to maintain coherence across the build.

Performance and Practical Enhancements

While this build focuses heavily on style and ergonomics, Top Gear Bali didn’t ignore performance. Suspension tuning and component upgrades help ensure the bike rides as well as it looks. Whether navigating winding corners or cruising straightaways, this custom GT 650 feels planted and balanced.

Moreover, the stock 648 cc parallel-twin engine remains untouched, preserving its smooth torque delivery and ease of use. By keeping the heart of the bike intact, this build maintains the GT 650’s dependable performance while enhancing its character through customisations around the chassis and rider interface.

A Custom with Distinct Personality

This Royal Enfield GT 650 custom by Top Gear Bali proves that subtle, well-considered modifications can significantly change a motorcycle’s presence and usability. Instead of dramatic overhauls, this build emphasises ergonomic comfort, thoughtful detailing, and a cohesive visual identity.

Whether viewed as a cruiser for coastal highways or a standout in a custom motorcycle collection, this GT 650 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a talented workshop respects the strengths of a platform while boldly extending its design language.

Photo: BBC Top Gear /https://www.topgear.com/long-term-car-reviews/royal-enfield/continental-gt-650/report-1

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