As a RAM truck owner, I live the name Hemi! 🤩 I’ve never ridden a Royal Enfield but it is very reminiscent of the old standard bikes of the late 1970’s when I started riding. Take care, Sal!
Yeah, remember how they would say it in the Ram truck commercial? Lol. This was my first Royal Enfield ride. It looks exactly like how one would picture a retro standard bike.
Hey Sal, good video!! One month ago I purchased a 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350!! I was surprised how fun it is and the MPG's? Fantastic. smooth acceleration and fluid. The 650 Interceptor looks fantastic as well.
Thank you! Congratulations on your purchase! Question on the 350: does it also have that top heavy feel when standing still? What kind of MPGs does it get? Thanks, and ride safe.
@@mcSal Hi Sal..not really just a bit for a newbie perhaps I'm use to heavier machines so it seems like a feather to me. it gets about 65-70 MPG its still breaking in I've put 220 miles on it...It is a good machine to learn on but BUYER FYI its heavier then Rebel 300 and 500 and its a 350...the overall output and pull is similar to Rebel 300 ABS.
I have ridden all kinds of bikes for For fifty three years and I purchased a 2021 RE Interceptor. Please tell me why you want to call it a beginner's bike? I just love mine . Trouble free riding. Super value for the price.
Identifying the RE Int 650 as a beginner bike is not a negative. It speaks to the bike's ease of riding and not going to jump out from under the rider. Any level rider can ride this bike, from beginner up to expert. I would just throw the caution that the bike is top heavy when initially stood up, compared to other bikes. Ride safe!
@@randyolan1273 Yes, it would be a better beginner’s bike. But… The rider will outgrow the 350 very quickly here in the States and be trading it in for more power. The Int650 is new rider friendly and gives them enough power to grow into, which means they will most likely keep that bike for some time.
Great Vid Sal ! I’ve been looking at there for a while. RE is to come out with a Cruiser sometime in the early to late Spring and I’d really like to see what they look and feel like. Please keep up the Good Work! Cheers from Salem, Ohio.
Great Video! I’m 41 and ideally want a T100 for my first bike as the build finish is better than the Interceptor 650. Do you think a T100 will be ok for a first bike? I hope you agree as it’s what I would like, people seem to think it’s ok for first bike online but again your opinion would be good. Thanks
I think the Triumph T100 would be a great first bike. It has plenty of power to grow into. Just be careful on the throttle and let the clutch out slowly until you get used to it. The problem with less cc's is that you'll most likely want more power within a year. The T100 is a solid, very well made and good all-around street bike you can keep for a long time and not get tired of it. And, there is the iconic legacy of the Triumphs and Bonnevilles one can forever brag about.
@@mcSal Appreciate your time and detailed reply 👌🏻 I would like the Bonneville as I believe I may regret the interceptor in time. The triumph is more of a financial commitment especially for a would be new rider. Thanks again Sal
Hi Haven’t seen too much from you of late. Recently passed my full bike test here in the UK at the young age of 61. Bought a Vulcan S and it looks awesome with a black tank but with blue storm clouds. Takes a bit of getting used to with the forward pegs as they are not not too prevalent here. I find ibuprofen helps😂 also got an SV650 which is also a great bike. Interceptor was on the list but I did find it a bit tall and top heavy. The drive to my house is on a decline with an adverse camber so tall bikes not an option. The Vulcan scores heavily on that front. Regards Den
Congratulations! Not only for passing the full bike test, but on your Vulcan S! It's a great bike, and beautiful to look at, as well! I found the forward pegs a challenge to get used to, also. Every time I see a Vulcan S it grabs my attention. I don't know the Suzuki SV650.What do you like best about your SV650?
@@mcSal Hi. SV650 is a good all rounder. V twin which a nice sound. Also comfortable. Fast enough at 71bhp but not too rapid. They tend not to be the fashionable choice but every review you see is good. Regards
Thank you! For me, definitely the Street Twin. The ST is just a delightful bike in all ways! Much more power, quicker power delivery, better ergonomics, much better sound, and excels in maneuvering. The Royal Enfield is a really good budget bike with better mileage. Shorter people will not fit well on the RE. Almost all heights seem to fit well on the ST due to its slightly rear pegs, which is comfortable for shorter or taller people.
@@MrMatiew48 I wanted to take the time to go out, sit on my Triumph Street Twin, and see where my legs actually fall with regard to the pegs. I have never noticed any issue with the foot pegs before. But when I actually went out, sat on the bike and paid attention, I noticed with feet down at a standstill, the ST's slightly rear foot pegs rub against the back of my leg calves. I'm 5'4" (162.6 cm) and it's very easy to adjust my legs so it's not a problem. Ninja is 5'1 1/2" (156 cm) and has no issues on the ST. I had more issues with the true mid pegs of the RE Interceptor because they were directly in the way of my legs when at a standstill. But again, it's easy enough to work around. I wouldn't let that interfere at all with your decision.
Great video! I have been looking at this bike but haven't pulled the trigger on it. You mentioned it is a good beginner bike and that is something I wonder about. I have been riding for a long time but not consistently lately. I have been thinking about giving up my HD Police Road King 2010 for a lighter bike like this. I do not want to become frustrated with the lack of horsepower although I am not a speed person but know that on California Highway's acceleration is necessary for one's own safety in my humble opinion. Do you have any thoughts about that? Would you give up a HD for that to make room in your garage? Would you buy the RE Thanks
No, I would not trade a 1745 cc HD Road King for a 648 cc RE Interceptor. After owning the 125 cc Honda Grom, Honda Rebel 500, Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, Triumph Street Twin 900, Honda Rebel 1100 Manual & DCT, Zero SR/S and 1890 cc Indian Chief Dark Horse, I surely would not do that trade. After riding the powerful Indian Chief Dark Horse, I realize a smaller, lighter bike would be more fun for certain types of rides. Why? Because they're more nimble and you get to play with all the gears. I have yet to hit 6th gear on my burly Indian Chief Dark Horse. It's at 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3rd gear, and in 4th gear at freeway speeds. I like to switch it to 5th gear on the freeway just to cruise at 3000 rpm's instead of 4000 rpms. I believe the heavy, powerful bikes handle the long rides on freeways and wind better than the smaller, lighter bikes. But the smaller, lighter bikes are more fun on quick rides and curvier roads. If the Road King is in good shape, I'd keep it for long rides, and get a 900 cc - 1200 cc bike for shorter fun rides. Have you ridden the 1133 cc Indian Scout? They make different Scouts with mid pegs for shorter legs to forward pegs for longer legs. I love my bikes and can't justify another one, but have never ridden a bike so quick, responsive and kick butt fun! You may want to look at the Indian Scout 1133 cc's, or one of the Triumphs 900-1200 cc's. I just don't think you would be happy trading out all that power for a 650 cc bike.
Why is it that most reviewers in the US have to call the intercept ‘a great beginner bike’. Those motorcycles were designed for twisty roads mainly, where you enjoy the torque down low, and after all it is still capable for highway! They are great all round bikes and I would rather call it keeper more then anything!
We call it a good beginner bike because it’s easy to ride and not going to jump out from under the rider or do the rider wrong. You are right. The Interceptor 650 is an enjoyable, solid and reliable all around ride that is also priced for good value.
That's a tough question that I've thought a lot about over time, but find it difficult to answer. I tend to buy my favorite bikes. The problem is that I keep finding more and more favorites, and I can't justify having them all! There doesn't seem to be a single perfect bike. Each bike has something special about it that I like, and something I would change. I'll be putting out an Indian video soon where I demo'd the Indian Chief Dark Horse, Indian Super Chief Limited and Indian Scout Bobber. Loved the rides!
That is cool - only justification you need is that they make you happy - unless they're hurting you somehow - otherwise you're living life - and I applaud you for doing so
As a RAM truck owner, I live the name Hemi! 🤩
I’ve never ridden a Royal Enfield but it is very reminiscent of the old standard bikes of the late 1970’s when I started riding.
Take care, Sal!
Yeah, remember how they would say it in the Ram truck commercial? Lol. This was my first Royal Enfield ride. It looks exactly like how one would picture a retro standard bike.
Hey Sal, good video!! One month ago I purchased a 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350!! I was surprised how fun it is and the MPG's? Fantastic. smooth acceleration and fluid. The 650 Interceptor looks fantastic as well.
Thank you! Congratulations on your purchase! Question on the 350: does it also have that top heavy feel when standing still? What kind of MPGs does it get? Thanks, and ride safe.
@@mcSal Hi Sal..not really just a bit for a newbie perhaps I'm use to heavier machines so it seems like a feather to me. it gets about 65-70 MPG its still breaking in I've put 220 miles on it...It is a good machine to learn on but BUYER FYI its heavier then Rebel 300 and 500 and its a 350...the overall output and pull is similar to Rebel 300 ABS.
@@markchase7419 Good synopsis! Thank you!
I have ridden all kinds of bikes for For fifty three years and I purchased a 2021 RE Interceptor.
Please tell me why you want to call it a beginner's bike? I just love mine . Trouble free riding. Super value for the price.
Identifying the RE Int 650 as a beginner bike is not a negative. It speaks to the bike's ease of riding and not going to jump out from under the rider. Any level rider can ride this bike, from beginner up to expert. I would just throw the caution that the bike is top heavy when initially stood up, compared to other bikes. Ride safe!
@@mcSal Point taken . I agree with your logic. But would you agree that a less responsive bike like a 350 CC or less would be a better beginners bike.
@@randyolan1273 Yes, it would be a better beginner’s bike. But… The rider will outgrow the 350 very quickly here in the States and be trading it in for more power. The Int650 is new rider friendly and gives them enough power to grow into, which means they will most likely keep that bike for some time.
Yes, yes and YES - classical and stylish motorcycle with character! I LIKE IT!
Great Vid Sal ! I’ve been looking at there for a while. RE is to come out with a Cruiser sometime in the early to late Spring and I’d really like to see what they look and feel like. Please keep up the Good Work! Cheers from Salem, Ohio.
Thank you! They call the Interceptor and Continental cruisers, so I’d like to see if the new one actually ‘looks’ like a cruiser. Lol
Great Video! I’m 41 and ideally want a T100 for my first bike as the build finish is better than the Interceptor 650. Do you think a T100 will be ok for a first bike? I hope you agree as it’s what I would like, people seem to think it’s ok for first bike online but again your opinion would be good. Thanks
I think the Triumph T100 would be a great first bike. It has plenty of power to grow into. Just be careful on the throttle and let the clutch out slowly until you get used to it. The problem with less cc's is that you'll most likely want more power within a year. The T100 is a solid, very well made and good all-around street bike you can keep for a long time and not get tired of it. And, there is the iconic legacy of the Triumphs and Bonnevilles one can forever brag about.
@@mcSal Appreciate your time and detailed reply 👌🏻 I would like the Bonneville as I believe I may regret the interceptor in time. The triumph is more of a financial commitment especially for a would be new rider. Thanks again Sal
Hi
Haven’t seen too much from you of late. Recently passed my full bike test here in the UK at the young age of 61. Bought a Vulcan S and it looks awesome with a black tank but with blue storm clouds. Takes a bit of getting used to with the forward pegs as they are not not too prevalent here. I find ibuprofen helps😂 also got an SV650 which is also a great bike. Interceptor was on the list but I did find it a bit tall and top heavy. The drive to my house is on a decline with an adverse camber so tall bikes not an option. The Vulcan scores heavily on that front.
Regards
Den
Congratulations! Not only for passing the full bike test, but on your Vulcan S! It's a great bike, and beautiful to look at, as well! I found the forward pegs a challenge to get used to, also. Every time I see a Vulcan S it grabs my attention. I don't know the Suzuki SV650.What do you like best about your SV650?
@@mcSal Hi. SV650 is a good all rounder. V twin which a nice sound. Also comfortable. Fast enough at 71bhp but not too rapid. They tend not to be the fashionable choice but every review you see is good.
Regards
RE sells 1 million motorcycle every year......its known for quality, affordability and good gas mileage.
Thanks for your videos ! I'm french and hesitate betwin int650 and street twin , what do you prefer and why please ?
Thank you! For me, definitely the Street Twin. The ST is just a delightful bike in all ways! Much more power, quicker power delivery, better ergonomics, much better sound, and excels in maneuvering. The Royal Enfield is a really good budget bike with better mileage. Shorter people will not fit well on the RE. Almost all heights seem to fit well on the ST due to its slightly rear pegs, which is comfortable for shorter or taller people.
@@mcSal and you don't rub the foot pegs too much with the street twin ? Thank you
@@MrMatiew48 I wanted to take the time to go out, sit on my Triumph Street Twin, and see where my legs actually fall with regard to the pegs. I have never noticed any issue with the foot pegs before. But when I actually went out, sat on the bike and paid attention, I noticed with feet down at a standstill, the ST's slightly rear foot pegs rub against the back of my leg calves. I'm 5'4" (162.6 cm) and it's very easy to adjust my legs so it's not a problem. Ninja is 5'1 1/2" (156 cm) and has no issues on the ST. I had more issues with the true mid pegs of the RE Interceptor because they were directly in the way of my legs when at a standstill. But again, it's easy enough to work around. I wouldn't let that interfere at all with your decision.
Great video! I have been looking at this bike but haven't pulled the trigger on it. You mentioned it is a good beginner bike and that is something I wonder about. I have been riding for a long time but not consistently lately. I have been thinking about giving up my HD Police Road King 2010 for a lighter bike like this. I do not want to become frustrated with the lack of horsepower although I am not a speed person but know that on California Highway's acceleration is necessary for one's own safety in my humble opinion. Do you have any thoughts about that? Would you give up a HD for that to make room in your garage? Would you buy the RE Thanks
No, I would not trade a 1745 cc HD Road King for a 648 cc RE Interceptor. After owning the 125 cc Honda Grom, Honda Rebel 500, Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, Triumph Street Twin 900, Honda Rebel 1100 Manual & DCT, Zero SR/S and 1890 cc Indian Chief Dark Horse, I surely would not do that trade. After riding the powerful Indian Chief Dark Horse, I realize a smaller, lighter bike would be more fun for certain types of rides. Why? Because they're more nimble and you get to play with all the gears. I have yet to hit 6th gear on my burly Indian Chief Dark Horse. It's at 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3rd gear, and in 4th gear at freeway speeds. I like to switch it to 5th gear on the freeway just to cruise at 3000 rpm's instead of 4000 rpms. I believe the heavy, powerful bikes handle the long rides on freeways and wind better than the smaller, lighter bikes. But the smaller, lighter bikes are more fun on quick rides and curvier roads. If the Road King is in good shape, I'd keep it for long rides, and get a 900 cc - 1200 cc bike for shorter fun rides. Have you ridden the 1133 cc Indian Scout? They make different Scouts with mid pegs for shorter legs to forward pegs for longer legs. I love my bikes and can't justify another one, but have never ridden a bike so quick, responsive and kick butt fun! You may want to look at the Indian Scout 1133 cc's, or one of the Triumphs 900-1200 cc's. I just don't think you would be happy trading out all that power for a 650 cc bike.
@@mcSal This is an excellent point and analysis of this kind of situation. Thanks!
Why is it that most reviewers in the US have to call the intercept ‘a great beginner bike’. Those motorcycles were designed for twisty roads mainly, where you enjoy the torque down low, and after all it is still capable for highway! They are great all round bikes and I would rather call it keeper more then anything!
We call it a good beginner bike because it’s easy to ride and not going to jump out from under the rider or do the rider wrong. You are right. The Interceptor 650 is an enjoyable, solid and reliable all around ride that is also priced for good value.
This bike will sit at 70 mph and only 5.5K rpms all day , that's it's super power.
looks pretty nice for a 1500 dollar bike
Do you have a favorite bike? Or rate them?
That's a tough question that I've thought a lot about over time, but find it difficult to answer. I tend to buy my favorite bikes. The problem is that I keep finding more and more favorites, and I can't justify having them all! There doesn't seem to be a single perfect bike. Each bike has something special about it that I like, and something I would change. I'll be putting out an Indian video soon where I demo'd the Indian Chief Dark Horse, Indian Super Chief Limited and Indian Scout Bobber. Loved the rides!
That is cool - only justification you need is that they make you happy - unless they're hurting you somehow - otherwise you're living life - and I applaud you for doing so