A work colleague and I went along to Red Baron in Lower Hutt today to have a look at the 2 examples of the 650 that they have in at the moment. The Interceptor and GT they had in were both in fairly subdued colours which, to be frank, didn't help their case. I reckon the Burnt Orange colour scheme will make a difference.
On face value they look to be well executed bikes with a decent standard of finishing. The engine casings for example look to be good with no obvious cost cutting going on. However the seat units on both appeared to be quite flimsy and are evidence of where costs have been cut.
This is of course no great surprise - Indeed many people will replace the sets units anyway so I can see the logic. I was left with the impression that RE have spent the R+D money where it's most needed and the bits that aren't as flash will be ripe for personalisation.
Interestingly there was a 2016 Triumph Street Twin in the store too. It had low mileage on it (Less than 3000Km I think) and was in excellent condition. It was priced at $12500 I think and poses a difficult question of anyone contemplating paying the $10500 or so for a new Interceptor.
Personally on the evidence of what I saw I'd need a proper test ride on both before deciding but I guess that the very fact there's a choice to be made speaks volumes for the RE's cause. I'll be interested to see what the press here in NZ make of it.
Anyone on KB managed to ride one yet?
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