Royal Enfield Books

1965 Continental GT

I first rode a GT when I was editor of The Bullet-In magazine. I loved the riding position, the willingness of the engine and the lightness of handling. It seems as though a lot of GTs come onto the market frequently. This is probably because ageing riders come to find the wrist strain and backache caused by clip-ons too taxing. Despite their availability 1960's 250cc GTs often sell for very high prices.

I bought mine via online auction in 2004. It was first registered in early January 1965, just two months after the model's famous launch. I was lucky enough to be a member of the team put together by Allan Hitchcock that recreated that launch 40 years on, riding from Land's End to John O' Groats in under 22 hours.

My bike has a silver painted frame, correct for very early examples of the model. All parts appear genuine too, although I had to replace the rotten wiring loom when I took delivery of the bike.

The bike is a runner, but the clutch needs some attention as it slips terribly when I try to kick it over - a common fault I believe. However, because I'm having to concentrate so much on restoring my two Bullets work on the GT will have to wait until 2007.