I bought a 2020 Interceptor last year, love the simplicity of it. I came back to riding after a 26 year hiatus, so style wise, the RE twins are right up my alley. I live and ride in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and the bike thrives in the twisties. I installed a 16 tooth front sprocket for slightly taller gearing and improved fuel mileage. I'm hearing 3k miles and the bike has been trouble free and perfect for the kind of riding I like.
I live in the mountains of western Canada. I've still got the Sportster I got new in '06. She's now got ~75K miles on her. Last month I acquired a new GT-650 just as our fall monsoon arrived, so I've been closely tuned to our weather forecasts, desperately hoping for some dry roads. Meantime I'll be getting out when I can, and preparing for summer! : 0|
Here's hoping you have a handful of mild and dry days this winter. We've already had our first snow, but today will be in the 70's F and the foliage is at peak color. The Blue Ridge Parkway is calling me this afternoon!
I fell in love with that 270-deg aircooled twin when I test rode it, which sounded absolutely wikked with aftermarket pipes. This isn't a modern retro - it is a proper old-school bike, modernised only just enough to meet current safety & emission requirements.
Mate bought one absolutely loves it after saying it doesn't have enough power before he rode it, this is a guy with a Fireblade a Speed Triple and a Thurxton the Enfield is now his go to bike.
I don't have to imagine what she sounds like with aftermarket pipes. She sounds glorious! S&S slip-ons with the DNA air filter and BoosterPlug made an excellent bike even better.
Refreshing to see a brand like RE who keeps it simple, exiting and above all affordable motorcycling. Bikes that are not only being looked at and stored (to make money in the future) but used and loved for the reason the were build for. Good balanced review Mark, as per normal ;)
Love the bike, got a Mister Clean a few days ago. Time will tell, but I'm really enjoying this bike and can't wait to get past the break-in period so I can ride it to work as often as possible. It fits so well and the engine and gearbox are stellar.
Just purchased a 2019 1900 mile Mr Clean. Only had it a few days. The only machine to get me back riding after giving up in 2016. Loving the thing. Front forks are crude and poor but can be improved with spring and oil changes. Brakes are good. No complaints. Rear suspension is just right for my kind of riding. Mirrors are the best I've experienced on a bike in 38 years. Build quality is pleasing. Engine is an absolute gem. It's got loud unmarked pipes which look and sound wonderful. I've fitted a booster plug and deleted the airbox lid snorkel with an aftermarket one. Got a Stratos filter on it's way. It's got Pirelli Phantoms on it and although adequate I'll look for stickier rubber next time because with the amount of low miles I do longevity won't be a problem. I'd like to fit fork gaiters too. I love the looks of the bike and it's a head turner. Feels like a bigger motor than a 650 due to that midrange stomp.
If and when I can afford a 3rd bike it would be a hard choice between a genuine 60s Brit bike such as BSA, Triumph, RE, or modern low maintenance retro such as the Interceptor 650, great review as always thanks Mark.
Thanks for another great review. I have to say I'm being seriously tempted by the Interceptor. Currently riding a Burgman 400. My last 650 twin was the XS650 Custom, also a great bike for this type of riding.
G'day Paul, Great review,l brought a new 2021 Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor last November, with a few mods such as DNA filter kit, boost plug, Touring seat, and S&S exhaust system, it's is now the sweetest ride and fun machine l have ever had, in my stable is a 1957 500cc Matchless, 1966 650cc BSA Lightning, 1974 850cc Norton Commando, and l must say the Enfield is the best ride, cheers mate, Neil 🤠.
Just what you want for a memorable summer Sunday riding round the countryside. Spot of lunch and afternoon tea on the way. Perfect! I can just imagine dear old Henry Cole on one of these! Thanks for the review Mark - you can see why RE are right up there in the sales charts.
Great video Mark. Actually you’ve echoed all my thoughts exactly about my Mister Clean version. I’ve added the TEC Cannon slip ons recently which have completed the bike in my eyes. A wonderfully spirited motorcycle.👍🏍
Fantastic review I think this is the best review I've seen and been looking for a descent review the last fue hours thanks for the info brilliant. Thinking of buying one bigtime
Good review Mark. I like your channel. Noting some of the comments on the GT 650 I have a new Interceptor which I like a lot - in some ways I prefer it to my Bandit 1250. Mine is Euro 5 and seeing comments on fuelling I thought I might have had the same problem. However when I did the first service including the valve clearances I found no clearances at all! Once adjusted correctly the bike was fine with a lot more power, and hopfully has not suffered from the initial tight clearances. I find the CEAT tyres and handling really good although I have noticed sometimes a bit of a wobble on white lines. Perhaps not unusual on a lot of bikes? I have yet to ride the bike on wet roads. If my Interceptor was my only bike I think it would be ok despite the 47bhp.......
Your experience is a good argument for double-checking the bike prep! Notwithstanding you paid the dealer a setup fee, "Trust, but verify." Even if the dealer did a cracking good job, the valves may settle a bit into their seats during the break-in period, which is the rationale for doing the first clearance check after just a few hundred miles. Beyond that period the clearances should remain relatively stable. If a tight clearance prevents a valve from closing fully, the seating surfaces can burn and erode, with consequent leakage and loss of compression requiring a premature valve job.
Great reviews always mark im very close to buying one at my Royal Enfield dealer and only because off your reviews love this colour im 6,ft 1 would it suit me as i get leg cramps but love the v twin sound always did also is there a middle stand regards from martin in Ireland
Thanks Mark. Love the RE line up. I want one of each! Which would be better with a pillion? The Interceptor or the Continental? I imagine the Interceptor would be better because of the more upright position? But I heard the pillion footpegs are set rather far back but can be relocated with a kit? Any owner opinions?
I think that bike would be perfect for burbling around the countryside on a sunny day and looks to offer an awful lot of characterful fun for the money. If I was in the market for a retro you may well have persuaded me to go with a RE 650....For those who might be interested, you can hire these from Dorothy's Speed Shop in North Devon on a daily basis or as part of a guided tour. Thanks for the review.
Got 4 Royal Enfield bikes. Plus a Ducati Night Shift and a 1200 Harley Sportster. My brother has a GT Continental Mr Clean, and he shortened the frame by 2 Inches and cut and rewelded, and got other things off to lower the weight by 4 kg
I like the retro look of these bikes. They are the style of bike that was around when I was growing up. I was tempted to get the interceptor at one time. Great review as always. Your enthusiasm for all the bikes you test shows through whether budget or superbike they all get the same attention.
Great review. Just returned to bikes & bought a Bandit 1250 which is great but feels like I’m going to lose my licence! Think I might check out this and the Interceptor…
Nice review thanks Mark. Looks good but I think it would look so much nicer with a different seat. It appears to drop off towards the back but that might just just be an optical illusion. Sounds sweet and goes well by the look of it
Royal Enfield makes a seat towel for them that slides over the rear of the seat to give it that "Speed Racer" look, and it really finishes off the seat nicely.
@@pollackrocket thanks Kevin never heard of a seat " towel" Is that to wipe your face after a long ride hehe 😂😂 :) I know what you really mean Best regards mark
@@markpulling12 haha, darn autocorrect got me, and I was too lazy too proofread my post! At least it was a funny one lol, and I do live in Hawaii with my Continental GT, so a towel is definitely called for here n there after a nice warm rain 🤣 “Seat Cowel” for all of you that thought I was crazy to think a towel would finish off the look lol
Hi Mark I enjoy the scope and depth of your reviews. I know you've reviewed the '19 and '20 Ninja 650's and would like your thoughts on moving from a '17 Ninja 650 (KRT) to the Interceptor 650 which you recently reviewed. I'm in my 60's and looking for a slightly more relaxed ride. Love the Ninja though. Thanks.
Hi Geoff ....I'm 51 ...and would choose the interceptor over the ninja 650 now for sure ...I love it's relaxing riding style and the engine is fantastic with the 270 crank I'd say go for it :) Best regards mark
47bhp... I despatched on (rented!) Honda CX500s and later my own Kawasaki GT550...both are the same - ish weight as this RE and 50bhp and 58bhp (I looked them up). For London they never felt underpowered and quite capable of getting a ticket on motorways! The CX500 and GT550 totally ran out of steam over 80mph but both did continue to pull to 100 and 110 respectively. Both handled pretty badly and wobbled and bounced around like mad. So.. This RE should be good for 105- 110 mph and should out accelerate the majority of cars and be completely safe to overtake traffic on A and B roads - though some timing will be required. Apparently the GT has better handling than the Interceptor so its probably a bit of a weapon on the country lanes as the handling looks sorted. You can tune them but I don't see the point - its never going to make 100bhp without a Lot of money spent on it - probably £5000. Then you'll need better brakes probably... If you throw away the air filter like we would do on the courier bikes- you'll probably get an instant 5+% and it will feel crisper through the entire rev range ...but the engine will be Very tired after 60,000 miles - LOL.
Hi donal a couple of times approaching a stop going down the gears it felt like it nearly did ...the revs dropped to 500 for a second but no actual stalling Cheers mark
@@markpulling12 Interesting, I've a problem with my Euro 5 interceptor (same engine, etc, as you know). Local dealer confirmed that there was a fueling problem on some of the newer 650s.
@@DonalMorrissey oh ok maybe they will at some point issue a recall on them to update the ECU or something....I have noticed on lots of these euro 5 bikes ..the fueling can be a little fluffy at low rpms they make them very lean at low revs to comply with this Euro 5 stuff I'll keep a listen out for any info on this good luck mark
Hi Mark. I managed to whittle my first bike shortlist down to a suzuki SV650 or the Continental GT. Both on excellent offers in dealers at the moment. What do you think? Head says the Suzuki, heart says the RE
Hi Neil ...you will get equal enjoyment out of both the v twin Suzuki engine is magic like the 270 crank parallel twin of the RE Try and demo both if you can ....at a push id go for an interceptor over the continental and sv .....just love that engine Cheers mark
@@markpulling12 yeah being a new rider its not an option. Even the dealer was on the fence, he said if it was him he would go for the Conti, but the SV best for a beginner. What an amazing time to be buying a bike
Thank you sir. I am looking at an RE for a While. Something inexpensive and easy to work on. I am coming off of a Ducati Diavel and Victory Vision with cams and the full performance work. My previous bikes I sold after a relocation. I never made those bike justice. This is something I could have fun on. In TX they drive like maniacs and speed limit is considered a suggestion. How is the passing power? I see it can do 75/80 easily. Thanks again.
Hi Mark ! Have you tried the new T120 ? If you do, I am curious to see how you find it compared to the 2016-2022 model. Will probably upgrade mine next year, 2022 May. NZ
Much better front end feel than the interceptor for sure!. But leg position more cramped and no mainstand is a pain!. Better for motorway work and faster road work interceptor the better cruising
Mark, which one of the two RE twins (interceptor or continental gt) would you recommend for intercity rides (200-400 km rides)? Thank you for your review and for your answer (in advance :))
Hi definitely the interceptor with it's more upright riding position and straight bars ...they both ride the same ,as in superb ... lovely engine Regards mark
I own Interceptor 650 Mark Three 2020. For one season i ride 7500+km. Its comfortable for long rides, but I will change the seat for the next season. Original is to hard for 100+ km. So I find new premium touring seat( Continental Gt style) for my Interceptor.
hello Mark...which one is best for you ? kawasaki w800 or this royal Enfield continental gt 650?awesome video...thanks Mark greetings from Philippines.
Hi khris ....I like the w800 ...funny enough I may be riding that one soon ....it's alot more money than the royal enfield ...think I'd go for the Re Best regards mark
The RE website lists quite a lot of dealers in the USA, the search option on the RE website is a little temperamental sometimes. Great review Mark, lover these bikes, and your reviews of course 😀👍
Yes Mark got a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 great ride done just under 5000 kilometres got it new awesome sound handles well had it for 7 months now thanks for the review on the Interceptor one reason I got it thanks Mark from Rockingham Western Australia
I've had my eye on Royal Enfield for years, ever since seeing one of the ones that had been liveried and equipped as a British military courier's motorcycle, complete with panniers, crash bars, and an Olive Drab paint scheme, but it was rather small for a fellow who's 5'-10" and nearly 100 kg. I'd bee saddened to hear the less than charitable remarks about the brakes on some of their smaller offerings, which OUGHT to be something that could be remedied without going WAY-above some reasonable price, but THIS bike AND the Interceptor ought to sell like-mad. I prefer the look of the Continental, especially with the single seat. I am ALSO glad that it's seat-height is low-enough to be used be people of modest stature. The new BOSS at RE has hit-upon the right idea, in having a well-balanced, British engine design, and the HARRIS-designed frame, which makes an enormous difference. Lastly, RE really IS trying to cast their net widely, insofar as dealerships, which will doubtless help them, as well. Thank you for the excellent presentation.
I'm waiting to see what their bigger, new cruiser bike will be like. Some say it uses the same engine as this and some say it's over 800cc. Hoping for the bigger engine!
The engine is a thing of beauty. Clearly a very reliable engine as well as merely looking good. So why would I not buy one? Either this or the Interceptor. On paper, a low-tech traditionally styled bike should be what I want. Style-wise, I think I prefer the Interceptor and its higher and wider bars suit me more - I don't like clip-ons - but both bikes look really good. So, what's the problem, then? For one thing, I don't like spoked wheels, especially the sort that don't take tubeless tyres. The rear section is too narrow at 130 section - 150 would look better to me, and it wouldn't slow the handling down. And to be honest there isn't much else I can point to that I don't like, apart from the weight for a 650. Maybe it is just one of those bikes, like a lot of Triumphs, I wouldn't buy with no real reason. Another excellent review, Mark.
the lack of tubeless is actually bewildering for a 2021 bike. also as for reliability, my 2021 gt650 completely died after a few days of ownership. had to get a whole replacement bike lol.
You fold the foot peg pull down the side stand and then push the foot peg back in position. After a few days it becomes so natural you dont even think about it
While I like the RE 650 range, less than 3.5" of rear suspension travel is insufficient. This is a deal breaker as most roads in my area require another 1-1.5" of travel to safely negotiate. Unfortunate, as the bike certainly looks the part, maintenance is accessible and pricing is right.
@@neosmith166 I did take it for a test ride, that's how I determined how little suspension was available. Once you set the sag correctly, there's not enough left. If it wasn't for this, I'd own one as I liked it.
@@lorimcquinn3966 surely you already new this, if you had done your research. alot of people upgrade the suspension front and rear , yet a pair of dampers stopped you buying one 🤔
@@JIMWSMITH Yes, I was aware of the limited travel both front and rear although decided to wait till I road tested the bike before making a decision about purchasing. While the price of quality suspension components is nothing to sneeze about, it places the bike into another category altogether.The limited travel remains and you can only do so much with so little regardless of the quality or money spent.
I have a 2021 RE Himalayan and a 2021 Suzuki SV650 in my garage (sold my 2018 BMW R1200GS 'Rallye' and spent the money on 2 bikes) , wanting to put a deposit down in a couple of weeks on a 3rd and last bike in my stable for an Interceptor or Continental, does the Continental have roughly the same riding position as the SV? at 55 yrs old the SV is fine, but don't want anything that puts a lot of weight on the wrists like a sports bike does, as i have owned a lot of them from 1989 until i hit my late 40's lol 😁 the first bike i go to is the Himmy i use it daily for commuting/loading up to go camping/touring and was ignoring the SV even tho it is a beautiful bike to ride , so the wife uses the SV650 , she loves it and even pays the service costs..result!👍 so she can have the SV.. I just need a 650 Royal Enfield, loving the brand and quality 😍 due to full UK covid lockdown 2021, i bought the Himalayan without test riding or seeing one in the flesh...best gut instinct on a bike after watching youtube reviews i ever made...love it! lifetime keeper, just like the 650 will be if i can decide which one to buy 🤣
Hi David ....no definitely get the interceptor if I were you...the continental has a sporty lean forward position wheras the interceptor is more like your sv Cheers mark
I took your advice Mark and picked my new interceptor 1st march 2022 after buying it start of Feb, but waited for the new '22' reg,, what a beautiful bike to ride, even running it in is so much fun (up to 4000rpm with gentle acceleration, it still hit 60 mph keeping it below 4000) handles like a dream, it's very comfortable, the motor and standard exhausts sound brill!, but got a set of maxtourque UK made cans already waiting to fit after first service next week, might just fit them for the 120 mile round trip to the dealer before the first service 👍 thx again Mark for your advice 😁
@@davidireland6952 thanks David great choice....I must get an interceptor one-day....that engine is just fantastic you don't have to rev it at all to make decent power :)
This is a lovely bike for sure. I just wish they got rid of the A2 tag as it’s sort of discriminatory for bikes I feel. It tags them as low powered learner machines but if this was a BSA from yesteryear it would be a very sort after classic with no A2 tag.
What did you think of the Ceat tires? We have a Continental GT with the Pirrelli Phantoms and a Interceptor with the Ceat tires and the GT in the wet has a lot less grip that the Interceptor.. The tread depth on the phantoms is a LOT less that all the other tires on the other bikes we have. Actually on a friends bike he has Made in China Phantoms on his and his tread depth is on par with our other bikes.
Ceat tires are perfect all weather tires. Especially the one conti GT comes with. Pirelli is stickier but not up to mark in wet condition to handle a 200+kg machine
@@Krishnendu792 the tread depth is noticeably shallower on the Phantoms... But the Chinese version of the same tire is deeper I believe the German version is deeper too.
I don’t know RE,never seen one in Holland.The bike looks ok,and I believe its ok to (for the money).But come on,go for a bike with some appearance .I am not spoiled,I ride on Moto Guzzi’s from the 90’s.The guy from the test is acting that it is a masterpiece and the best bike ever made by humans 😋
Maybe I have been to sceptical about this video.I understand that the British still have something with RE.But I can not get used to that today a British motorcycle brand build there bikes in Thailand but we can’t see that in the price here.Italian brands are actually Chinese now and it all comes from China.But the prices are much lower about quality? I hope the people are all happy with there bikes.Tomorrow its Saturday I am going to visit a RE bikeshop.
Agree a very nice looking bike indeed. Didn't notice a gear indicator on the clocks though which is sort of a given these days on pretty much all bikes now.
@@nigelprentice2084 unfortunately not Nigel ...the interceptor does though ...maybe it's because it's a little sportier ...you may be able to fit one though if it's the same frame etc cheers mark
I bought a 2020 Interceptor last year, love the simplicity of it. I came back to riding after a 26 year hiatus, so style wise, the RE twins are right up my alley. I live and ride in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and the bike thrives in the twisties. I installed a 16 tooth front sprocket for slightly taller gearing and improved fuel mileage. I'm hearing 3k miles and the bike has been trouble free and perfect for the kind of riding I like.
Thanks for the comment Jon
Glad it's all going well
Regards mark
Great review Mark, on point with every aspect of why I love the 650's. Cheers from across the pond.
@@jonyoung6253 thanks Jon my pleasure regards mark
I live in the mountains of western Canada. I've still got the Sportster I got new in '06. She's now got ~75K miles on her. Last month I acquired a new GT-650 just as
our fall monsoon arrived, so I've been closely tuned to our weather forecasts,
desperately hoping for some dry roads. Meantime I'll be getting out when I can, and preparing for summer! : 0|
Here's hoping you have a handful of mild and dry days this winter. We've already had our first snow, but today will be in the 70's F and the foliage is at peak color. The Blue Ridge Parkway is calling me this afternoon!
I fell in love with that 270-deg aircooled twin when I test rode it, which sounded absolutely wikked with aftermarket pipes. This isn't a modern retro - it is a proper old-school bike, modernised only just enough to meet current safety & emission requirements.
Mate bought one absolutely loves it after saying it doesn't have enough power before he rode it, this is a guy with a Fireblade a Speed Triple and a Thurxton the Enfield is now his go to bike.
Yes agreed....it's deceiving isn't it ... people may say only 47 hp but that drive between 3 4 5 k rpm is addictive :)
Cheers mark
I don't have to imagine what she sounds like with aftermarket pipes. She sounds glorious! S&S slip-ons with the DNA air filter and BoosterPlug made an excellent bike even better.
Great stuff jimmy I'd like to hear that :)
AEW's & Gursewak Exhaust are the best
Refreshing to see a brand like RE who keeps it simple, exiting and above all affordable motorcycling. Bikes that are not only being looked at and stored (to make money in the future) but used and loved for the reason the were build for. Good balanced review Mark, as per normal ;)
Thanks Pietro :)
Love the bike, got a Mister Clean a few days ago. Time will tell, but I'm really enjoying this bike and can't wait to get past the break-in period so I can ride it to work as often as possible. It fits so well and the engine and gearbox are stellar.
Thanks for the comment ☺️
What has the time told?
So what is your 2 year assessment? Any negatives for potential buyers?
Just purchased a 2019 1900 mile Mr Clean.
Only had it a few days.
The only machine to get me back riding after giving up in 2016.
Loving the thing.
Front forks are crude and poor but can be improved with spring and oil changes.
Brakes are good. No complaints.
Rear suspension is just right for my kind of riding.
Mirrors are the best I've experienced on a bike in 38 years.
Build quality is pleasing.
Engine is an absolute gem.
It's got loud unmarked pipes which look and sound wonderful.
I've fitted a booster plug and deleted the airbox lid snorkel with an aftermarket one.
Got a Stratos filter on it's way.
It's got Pirelli Phantoms on it and although adequate I'll look for stickier rubber next time because with the amount of low miles I do longevity won't be a problem.
I'd like to fit fork gaiters too.
I love the looks of the bike and it's a head turner.
Feels like a bigger motor than a 650 due to that midrange stomp.
Got one this time last year, loud pipes, sounds glorious, just love riding it.
Yes definitely that sound :)
Got one and I love it, a real peach of bike that can't get enough miles on!
Cheers Matthew :)
If and when I can afford a 3rd bike it would be a hard choice between a genuine 60s Brit bike such as BSA, Triumph, RE, or modern low maintenance retro such as the Interceptor 650, great review as always thanks Mark.
No probs Dave
My pleasure
Great review Mark. Have it on my birthday list and i will go all around Europe on it. Cheers and Thank You .
No probs Colin ...these are lovely to ride :)
Thanks for another great review. I have to say I'm being seriously tempted by the Interceptor. Currently riding a Burgman 400. My last 650 twin was the XS650 Custom, also a great bike for this type of riding.
Yes peter ...royal enfield are great bikes cheers mark
Nice review Mark. I ordered the same model and color yesterday. Love from India🇮🇳
Hi Rajesh great choice
Love to RE and India ! :)
G'day Paul, Great review,l brought a new 2021 Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor last November, with a few mods such as DNA filter kit, boost plug, Touring seat, and S&S exhaust system, it's is now the sweetest ride and fun machine l have ever had, in my stable is a 1957 500cc Matchless, 1966 650cc BSA Lightning, 1974 850cc Norton Commando, and l must say the Enfield is the best ride, cheers mate, Neil 🤠.
Thanks Neil sounds great 👍
Btw it's mark 😁 :)
@@markpulling12 You don't like Paul? Haha
Just goes to show mark u dont have to spend thousands and thousands to get a great bike,and that engine sounds gorgeous.
Thanks James ...yes it's a great bike ...I didn't want to take it back :)
Regards mark
So, Mark, this isn't a bad pick for a new rider right?
@@bfpskater honestly, if you want a super heavy and slow bike as your first bike, then go for it.
@@notstevelam Thats the best to learn actually.
@@bfpskater Take a test ride. It works well as my first bike. All the best mate.
Just what you want for a memorable summer Sunday riding round the countryside. Spot of lunch and afternoon tea on the way. Perfect! I can just imagine dear old Henry Cole on one of these! Thanks for the review Mark - you can see why RE are right up there in the sales charts.
Thanks Phil I'd like to ride with ol Henry arround his part of the world on one of these :)
@@markpulling12 I saw him out on a vintage Ducati near Wantage a couple of weeks ago when I was on my Interceptor.
Great video Mark. Actually you’ve echoed all my thoughts exactly about my Mister Clean version. I’ve added the TEC Cannon slip ons recently which have completed the bike in my eyes. A wonderfully spirited motorcycle.👍🏍
Thanks bet those exhausts sound great 👍
Fantastic review I think this is the best review I've seen and been looking for a descent review the last fue hours thanks for the info brilliant. Thinking of buying one bigtime
Ok Paul glad it was helpful for you 😊 best wishes mark
I bought a Royal Enfield GT650 in Rocker Red. I think that it is beautiful.
Good review Mark. I like your channel. Noting some of the comments on the GT 650 I have a new Interceptor which I like a lot - in some ways I prefer it to my Bandit 1250. Mine is Euro 5 and seeing comments on fuelling I thought I might have had the same problem. However when I did the first service including the valve clearances I found no clearances at all! Once adjusted correctly the bike was fine with a lot more power, and hopfully has not suffered from the initial tight clearances. I find the CEAT tyres and handling really good although I have noticed sometimes a bit of a wobble on white lines. Perhaps not unusual on a lot of bikes? I have yet to ride the bike on wet roads. If my Interceptor was my only bike I think it would be ok despite the 47bhp.......
Thanks mervyn....interesting re the tight valves that explains some issues then with poor low rpm running that you sometimes can get
best regards mark
I'm on a 2022 GT in the PNW of the USA and we're known for our wet conditions... as long as you ride smart, the tires hold the wet roads just fine
Your experience is a good argument for double-checking the bike prep! Notwithstanding you paid the dealer a setup fee, "Trust, but verify." Even if the dealer did a cracking good job, the valves may settle a bit into their seats during the break-in period, which is the rationale for doing the first clearance check after just a few hundred miles. Beyond that period the clearances should remain relatively stable. If a tight clearance prevents a valve from closing fully, the seating surfaces can burn and erode, with consequent leakage and loss of compression requiring a premature valve job.
Hi I have a mk1 1200 Bandit. Im giving a lot of thought to the 650 . Interesting that you dont miss the power that much. Im hoping I wont lol
Great reviews always mark im very close to buying one at my Royal Enfield dealer and only because off your reviews love this colour im 6,ft 1 would it suit me as i get leg cramps but love the v twin sound always did also is there a middle stand regards from martin in Ireland
great review Mark. I have an Interceptor. Had it for about a year and a half and have completed 20K km on it. I love the bike.
Thanks Ed just rode the meteor today
Brilliant !!!!
I absolutely Love this video!!👍👍👍👍👍
Many thanks Luis
Thanks Mark. Love the RE line up. I want one of each! Which would be better with a pillion? The Interceptor or the Continental? I imagine the Interceptor would be better because of the more upright position? But I heard the pillion footpegs are set rather far back but can be relocated with a kit? Any owner opinions?
Hi Scott I'd go for the interceptor myself I prefer it's more upright riding position :)
@@markpulling12 Thank you 😁
I think that bike would be perfect for burbling around the countryside on a sunny day and looks to offer an awful lot of characterful fun for the money. If I was in the market for a retro you may well have persuaded me to go with a RE 650....For those who might be interested, you can hire these from Dorothy's Speed Shop in North Devon on a daily basis or as part of a guided tour. Thanks for the review.
Thanks Quentin for the info :)
Cheers mark
Good review like always Mark, honest and short.
Thanks Jay my pleasure 🙂
Your reviews are so good I watch all the way even on bikes I would probably never buy. Sub'd!
3:15 rear wheel is also 18 inch says right there on the tire
Well spotted 👍
8:18 Scared the crap out of me.
Would love one of these as a second bike. I would swap out the mirrors and that would be about it. Sweet little bike.
Thanks ...yes I thought he was pulling out ....new pants please !!
Regards mark
@mark pulling You're a better man than me cos I would have given him an earfull. 😂
Glad I`m not the only one then. Just hate it when that happens but it went without comment. I think it was at least worthy of a `sh*t` if not a fu*k`
Yeah, some bars ends would look nice on the GT. I'm happy with the standards on my Interceptor as they fit the styling of the bike
Another belter from RE Mark. They do sound grrreat!!
Thanks Howard !!
Got 4 Royal Enfield bikes. Plus a Ducati Night Shift and a 1200 Harley Sportster. My brother has a GT Continental Mr Clean, and he shortened the frame by 2 Inches and cut and rewelded, and got other things off to lower the weight by 4 kg
I like the retro look of these bikes. They are the style of bike that was around when I was growing up. I was tempted to get the interceptor at one time. Great review as always. Your enthusiasm for all the bikes you test shows through whether budget or superbike they all get the same attention.
Thanks John....I really enjoyed this one .. nice weather for it ,,!!
I saw in the RE shop here in Brazil, beautifullllll !!!
Great review. Thank you. And the purr of that beautiful engine!
Great review. Just returned to bikes & bought a Bandit 1250 which is great but feels like I’m going to lose my licence! Think I might check out this and the Interceptor…
Thanks John yes these are great bikes with superb Engines
Cheers mark
Nice review thanks Mark. Looks good but I think it would look so much nicer with a different seat. It appears to drop off towards the back but that might just just be an optical illusion. Sounds sweet and goes well by the look of it
Thanks Dave yes it goes well for it's power . ... great bikes ...seat was quite comfortable ;)
Royal Enfield makes a seat towel for them that slides over the rear of the seat to give it that "Speed Racer" look, and it really finishes off the seat nicely.
@@pollackrocket thanks Kevin never heard of a seat " towel"
Is that to wipe your face after a long ride hehe 😂😂 :)
I know what you really mean
Best regards mark
@@markpulling12 haha, darn autocorrect got me, and I was too lazy too proofread my post! At least it was a funny one lol, and I do live in Hawaii with my Continental GT, so a towel is definitely called for here n there after a nice warm rain 🤣
“Seat Cowel” for all of you that thought I was crazy to think a towel would finish off the look lol
Thanks MP. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails.
Great ride-You have some nice roads.Took me back to riding in Suffolk in the glory days of the 80's
Thanks yes I'm from Poole but the new forest is nice :)
Regards mark
Still riding in Suffolk. Started in the 80s
@@davidforsdike4343 Just nostalgic for the open roads back then and when 75bhp was more than ample
Hi Mark I enjoy the scope and depth of your reviews. I know you've reviewed the '19 and '20 Ninja 650's and would like your thoughts on moving from a '17 Ninja 650 (KRT) to the Interceptor 650 which you recently reviewed. I'm in my 60's and looking for a slightly more relaxed ride. Love the Ninja though. Thanks.
Hi Geoff ....I'm 51 ...and would choose the interceptor over the ninja 650 now for sure ...I love it's relaxing riding style and the engine is fantastic with the 270 crank
I'd say go for it :)
Best regards mark
This video, got me in the mood to try one…I think I’ll do it. Thanks for the ride test view ✌️✌️😎
Thanks very much
They are great bikes RE a simple riding pleasure. Are you going to review the meteor ???
Yes Steve 100% meteor ... should have one on demo soon :)
Doing my a2 later on this year and this bike seems perfect for me
47bhp...
I despatched on (rented!) Honda CX500s and later my own Kawasaki GT550...both are the same - ish weight as this RE and 50bhp and 58bhp (I looked them up). For London they never felt underpowered and quite capable of getting a ticket on motorways!
The CX500 and GT550 totally ran out of steam over 80mph but both did continue to pull to 100 and 110 respectively.
Both handled pretty badly and wobbled and bounced around like mad.
So..
This RE should be good for 105- 110 mph and should out accelerate the majority of cars and be completely safe to overtake traffic on A and B roads - though some timing will be required.
Apparently the GT has better handling than the Interceptor so its probably a bit of a weapon on the country lanes as the handling looks sorted.
You can tune them but I don't see the point - its never going to make 100bhp without a Lot of money spent on it - probably £5000.
Then you'll need better brakes probably...
If you throw away the air filter like we would do on the courier bikes- you'll probably get an instant 5+% and it will feel crisper through the entire rev range ...but the engine will be Very tired after 60,000 miles - LOL.
Thanks for the comment...yes it has plenty of overtaking power very safe
Cheers mark
As always a great review Mark. I really like the idea of one of these but only as a second bike.
Yes as a second bike for country road pottering great 👍
Another great review thank you Mark!. P. S really like the combat /camo trousers where are they from??
Just generic ones from ebay a few years ago :)
Thank you for this great video🤗beautiful bike🔥🔥🔥
Thanks 😊 my pleasure
Great video Mark. A very nice looking bike too 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Luke :)
Hello Mark fantastic video as Im 5,6 can you reduce the rear dampers by two inches to help me with reaching the ground please ?
great vid,the times testers say look i can touch the floor but fail to say how tall they are, good work o and tank size and mpg as well, many thanks..
Thanks Brian I always try and get as much info in as I can :)
Cheers mark
Great review 😁 Did you notice any problems with the engine stalling at slow speeds?
Hi donal a couple of times approaching a stop going down the gears it felt like it nearly did ...the revs dropped to 500 for a second but no actual stalling
Cheers mark
@@markpulling12 Interesting, I've a problem with my Euro 5 interceptor (same engine, etc, as you know). Local dealer confirmed that there was a fueling problem on some of the newer 650s.
@@DonalMorrissey oh ok maybe they will at some point issue a recall on them to update the ECU or something....I have noticed on lots of these euro 5 bikes ..the fueling can be a little fluffy at low rpms they make them very lean at low revs to comply with this Euro 5 stuff
I'll keep a listen out for any info on this good luck mark
J’ai exactement la même moto ❤ je l’aime tellement, elle est parfaite.
Mark, Very well explained! Thanks
Hi Mark. I managed to whittle my first bike shortlist down to a suzuki SV650 or the Continental GT. Both on excellent offers in dealers at the moment. What do you think?
Head says the Suzuki, heart says the RE
Hi Neil ...you will get equal enjoyment out of both the v twin Suzuki engine is magic like the 270 crank parallel twin of the RE
Try and demo both if you can ....at a push id go for an interceptor over the continental and sv .....just love that engine
Cheers mark
@@markpulling12 yeah being a new rider its not an option. Even the dealer was on the fence, he said if it was him he would go for the Conti, but the SV best for a beginner. What an amazing time to be buying a bike
@@markpulling12 decision made. I ordered a motoguzzi v7 special!
Thank you sir. I am looking at an RE for a While. Something inexpensive and easy to work on. I am coming off of a Ducati Diavel and Victory Vision with cams and the full performance work.
My previous bikes I sold after a relocation. I never made those bike justice. This is something I could have fun on.
In TX they drive like maniacs and speed limit is considered a suggestion.
How is the passing power? I see it can do 75/80 easily. Thanks again.
Hi Pedro ...it has good passing power from 60/70 mph upwards ...not super fast but a very enjoyable ride best regards mark
I test rode a '21 GT today and I loved it.
Yes ...they are Fabolous ... lovely engine
Cheers mark
Lol dude, I was just getting into this wheeler and you post something just 2 hours ago!
Lol ...that's good !!
@@markpulling12 so this is a viable choice for a new rider / 1st bike?
Hi Mark ! Have you tried the new T120 ? If you do, I am curious to see how you find it compared to the 2016-2022 model.
Will probably upgrade mine next year, 2022 May.
NZ
Hi John no I must get hold of one of those :)
@@markpulling12 Hi Mark ! I meant to say 2016-2020.
booked mine on 18/06/2021 and tentatively delivery date on my booking form is 16/09/2021. And I am sensing it might take even longer .
Hope you get it asap
Best regards mark
Great review another excellent bargain bike mark 👍👍
Thanks Pete ...yes this ones great
Much better front end feel than the interceptor for sure!. But leg position more cramped and no mainstand is a pain!. Better for motorway work and faster road work interceptor the better cruising
Excellent Mark,thank you!
Nice review Mark, great looking machine with an exhaust sound to match. Cheers & safe riding, Ronny.
Thanks Ronnie :)
Mark, which one of the two RE twins (interceptor or continental gt) would you recommend for intercity rides (200-400 km rides)? Thank you for your review and for your answer (in advance :))
Hi definitely the interceptor with it's more upright riding position and straight bars ...they both ride the same ,as in superb ... lovely engine
Regards mark
I own Interceptor 650 Mark Three 2020.
For one season i ride 7500+km.
Its comfortable for long rides, but I will change the seat for the next season. Original is to hard for 100+ km. So I find new premium touring seat( Continental Gt style) for my Interceptor.
Yes I have a RE interceptor glitter and dust
CEAT tyres? Didn't this come with Pirellis originally? A stealth downgrade maybe?
hello Mark...which one is best for you ? kawasaki w800 or this royal Enfield continental gt 650?awesome video...thanks Mark greetings from Philippines.
Hi khris ....I like the w800 ...funny enough I may be riding that one soon ....it's alot more money than the royal enfield ...think I'd go for the Re
Best regards mark
@@markpulling12 thanks mark appreciate it 🙏
@@markpulling12 hi mark ...could you please make a review on pan America 1250 adventure bike ? !thanks mark 👍
Very good honest review. No dealers in U.S.?
Ahh that's a shame ... thought there would be
Regards mark
The RE website lists quite a lot of dealers in the USA, the search option on the RE website is a little temperamental sometimes. Great review Mark, lover these bikes, and your reviews of course 😀👍
@@mikehurley5052 ahh great thanks Mike !
@@mikehurley5052 not in sw Florida
@@chrisdagnall8666 thanks for the update Chris :)
Yes Mark got a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 great ride done just under 5000 kilometres got it new awesome sound handles well had it for 7 months now thanks for the review on the Interceptor one reason I got it thanks Mark from Rockingham Western Australia
Thanks Andrew my pleasure 😊
Great video! Very cool motorcycle and excellent value!
Thanks Pete
Good review,
Nice ride.
I've had my eye on Royal Enfield for years, ever since seeing one of the ones that had been liveried and equipped as a British military courier's motorcycle, complete with panniers, crash bars, and an Olive Drab paint scheme, but it was rather small for a fellow who's 5'-10" and nearly 100 kg. I'd bee saddened to hear the less than charitable remarks about the brakes on some of their smaller offerings, which OUGHT to be something that could be remedied without going WAY-above some reasonable price, but THIS bike AND the Interceptor ought to sell like-mad. I prefer the look of the Continental, especially with the single seat. I am ALSO glad that it's seat-height is low-enough to be used be people of modest stature. The new BOSS at RE has hit-upon the right idea, in having a well-balanced, British engine design, and the HARRIS-designed frame, which makes an enormous difference. Lastly, RE really IS trying to cast their net widely, insofar as dealerships, which will doubtless help them, as well. Thank you for the excellent presentation.
Thanks for the great comment John
Best wishes mark
I'm waiting to see what their bigger, new cruiser bike will be like. Some say it uses the same engine as this and some say it's over 800cc. Hoping for the bigger engine!
That would be great 🙂👍
No bigger engines for now. However, you could always get an S&S 865cc big bore kit and then tune it to make around 75-90hp.
The engine is a thing of beauty. Clearly a very reliable engine as well as merely looking good. So why would I not buy one? Either this or the Interceptor. On paper, a low-tech traditionally styled bike should be what I want. Style-wise, I think I prefer the Interceptor and its higher and wider bars suit me more - I don't like clip-ons - but both bikes look really good. So, what's the problem, then? For one thing, I don't like spoked wheels, especially the sort that don't take tubeless tyres. The rear section is too narrow at 130 section - 150 would look better to me, and it wouldn't slow the handling down. And to be honest there isn't much else I can point to that I don't like, apart from the weight for a 650. Maybe it is just one of those bikes, like a lot of Triumphs, I wouldn't buy with no real reason.
Another excellent review, Mark.
Thanks nik :)
the lack of tubeless is actually bewildering for a 2021 bike. also as for reliability, my 2021 gt650 completely died after a few days of ownership. had to get a whole replacement bike lol.
You fold the foot peg pull down the side stand and then push the foot peg back in position. After a few days it becomes so natural you dont even think about it
Yes thanks ...I kind of guessed you'd get used to it after a while :)
Best regards mark
Great bike! Love my Interceptor.
Thanks Andy ....I agree these are great bikes cheers mark
Can any owners tell me if the Euro 5 model has low-speed fuelling issues? I don't want a bike that runs poorly at low revs.
While I like the RE 650 range, less than 3.5" of rear suspension travel is insufficient. This is a deal breaker as most roads in my area require another 1-1.5" of travel to safely negotiate. Unfortunate, as the bike certainly looks the part, maintenance is accessible and pricing is right.
Thanks for the comment lori
Take it for a test ride and see instead of just looking at the numbers.
@@neosmith166 I did take it for a test ride, that's how I determined how little suspension was available. Once you set the sag correctly, there's not enough left. If it wasn't for this, I'd own one as I liked it.
@@lorimcquinn3966 surely you already new this, if you had done your research. alot of people upgrade the suspension front and rear , yet a pair of dampers stopped you buying one 🤔
@@JIMWSMITH Yes, I was aware of the limited travel both front and rear although decided to wait till I road tested the bike before making a decision about purchasing. While the price of quality suspension components is nothing to sneeze about, it places the bike into another category altogether.The limited travel remains and you can only do so much with so little regardless of the quality or money spent.
I have a 2021 RE Himalayan and a 2021 Suzuki SV650 in my garage (sold my 2018 BMW R1200GS 'Rallye' and spent the money on 2 bikes) , wanting to put a deposit down in a couple of weeks on a 3rd and last bike in my stable for an Interceptor or Continental, does the Continental have roughly the same riding position as the SV? at 55 yrs old the SV is fine, but don't want anything that puts a lot of weight on the wrists like a sports bike does, as i have owned a lot of them from 1989 until i hit my late 40's lol 😁
the first bike i go to is the Himmy i use it daily for commuting/loading up to go camping/touring and was ignoring the SV even tho it is a beautiful bike to ride , so the wife uses the SV650 , she loves it and even pays the service costs..result!👍 so she can have the SV.. I just need a 650 Royal Enfield, loving the brand and quality 😍
due to full UK covid lockdown 2021, i bought the Himalayan without test riding or seeing one in the flesh...best gut instinct on a bike after watching youtube reviews i ever made...love it! lifetime keeper, just like the 650 will be if i can decide which one to buy 🤣
Hi David ....no definitely get the interceptor if I were you...the continental has a sporty lean forward position wheras the interceptor is more like your sv
Cheers mark
@@markpulling12 thanks 👍😁
I took your advice Mark and picked my new interceptor 1st march 2022 after buying it start of Feb, but waited for the new '22' reg,, what a beautiful bike to ride, even running it in is so much fun (up to 4000rpm with gentle acceleration, it still hit 60 mph keeping it below 4000) handles like a dream, it's very comfortable, the motor and standard exhausts sound brill!, but got a set of maxtourque UK made cans already waiting to fit after first service next week, might just fit them for the 120 mile round trip to the dealer before the first service 👍
thx again Mark for your advice 😁
@@davidireland6952 thanks David great choice....I must get an interceptor one-day....that engine is just fantastic you don't have to rev it at all to make decent power :)
Top review
Was this a low seat Model 790mm? RE spec sheet states 820mm ?
Hi no it was all standard:)
Mine is coming September 1st same colour 😊
Great choice Richard :)
@@markpulling12 I am in Devon so looking forward to rides around me and over dartmoor 👍
@@richardelworthy1866 just the bike for those roads Richard ! :)
Am I correct in assuming that these are tubes tyres?
Yes David they will have tubes in them
Thanks Mark👍🏻
Thanks again for watching
My pleasure
This is a lovely bike for sure. I just wish they got rid of the A2 tag as it’s sort of discriminatory for bikes I feel. It tags them as low powered learner machines but if this was a BSA from yesteryear it would be a very sort after classic with no A2 tag.
Definitely this would have been considered a high powered big engine :)
Regards mark
The BSA 650 single cylinder has been spotted doing rounds of testing. Most likely will be launched by the end of the year or early next year.
Legend
👍
Can you do a video on KTM 390 Adventure? I understand these sorts of requests are not easy to fulfill but it would be highly appreciated. 👍
Hi yes I like the 390 adventure ..I'll see if I can get hold of one
Best regards Mark
And no 'Tripper', neatly tween big dials - surprising!
Yes I'm surprised they could of easily added that in ....shame
Regards mark
Mate you really got shafted with the tyres, I got mine with pirelli's
Haha good news !.
Cheers mark
The side stand is too short. That's why it's heavy trying to straighten up.....Sal : )
Oh ok sal that's why it feels heavy off the stand then cheers mark
💖💖👏🏼👏🏼
❤️
New boots?
Yes Simone sidi mag :)
I have the older Sidi Brevettato. Really nice boots.
What did you think of the Ceat tires? We have a Continental GT with the Pirrelli Phantoms and a Interceptor with the Ceat tires and the GT in the wet has a lot less grip that the Interceptor..
The tread depth on the phantoms is a LOT less that all the other tires on the other bikes we have. Actually on a friends bike he has Made in China Phantoms on his and his tread depth is on par with our other bikes.
Hi it was a warm day and the ceat tyres felt great ...I've never tried them before but I'm impressed :)
Best regards mark
@@markpulling12 we have 2000k on ours no signs of wear.
@@PubRunner that's amazing
Ceat tires are perfect all weather tires. Especially the one conti GT comes with. Pirelli is stickier but not up to mark in wet condition to handle a 200+kg machine
@@Krishnendu792 the tread depth is noticeably shallower on the Phantoms... But the Chinese version of the same tire is deeper I believe the German version is deeper too.
I don’t know RE,never seen one in Holland.The bike looks ok,and I believe its ok to (for the money).But come on,go for a bike with some appearance .I am not spoiled,I ride on Moto Guzzi’s from the 90’s.The guy from the test is acting that it is a masterpiece and the best bike ever made by humans 😋
Maybe I have been to sceptical about this video.I understand that the British still have something with RE.But I can not get used to that today a British motorcycle brand build there bikes in Thailand but we can’t see that in the price here.Italian brands are actually Chinese now and it all comes from China.But the prices are much lower about quality? I hope the people are all happy with there bikes.Tomorrow its Saturday I am going to visit a RE bikeshop.
Sorry Mark, too much distortion for 2021...
Agree a very nice looking bike indeed. Didn't notice a gear indicator on the clocks though which is sort of a given these days on pretty much all bikes now.
Yes Alex ....I really missed not having a gear indicator !
Regards mark
@@markpulling12 Has it got a centre stand?
@@nigelprentice2084 unfortunately not Nigel ...the interceptor does though ...maybe it's because it's a little sportier ...you may be able to fit one though if it's the same frame etc cheers mark
Dare I say we’ll see a meteor vid soon?
100 % Johnathan ....Poole moto have them on order :)
Cheers mark
You're more one with the GT than the INT. More in the bike than upon the bike.
Zemh -r