Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Sets New Speed Record as High-Speed Dragster

Transforming the Interceptor 650

The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, originally designed for everyday riding, has undergone significant modifications to become a high-speed dragster. This transformation allowed it to shatter a four-year-old speed record, achieving an impressive top speed of 132.050 MPH, which is equivalent to 212.514 Km/h.

Rider Charlie Hallam showcased the bike's capabilities by reaching a speed of approximately 121.782 MPH on his first day of competition. As the event progressed, he continued to enhance his performance. Notably, this bike was developed during Royal Enfield's Busted Knuckles build-off in 2019, undergoing extensive alterations to reach such remarkable speeds.

Modifications Made to Achieve High Speed

One of the initial modifications made by Mid Life Cycles was the installation of a balanced crankshaft paired with lighter, polished peened rods. To comply with competition regulations, the bike retained its stock pistons, but the compression ratio was elevated to 11:1, necessitating the use of 98 RON fuel. Additionally, the gearbox was extensively modified to minimize friction.

The combustion chamber and ports were also significantly modified, featuring a 1.5mm oversized inlet while maintaining standard exhaust sizing. The valves were upgraded with a competition profile 1286 racing camshaft, enhancing engine performance.

Further modifications included lengthening the custom swingarm by up to 130MM, equipping the bike with Ohlins stock suspension, and installing lightweight alloy wheels to reduce unsprung mass. Custom front and rear sprockets were added, along with clip-on handlebars to help the rider achieve a more aerodynamic posture.