I have been riding my gt535 since 2016. It is a machine you get attached to as days go by. I do have a Kawasaki, Yamaha and a Honda in my garage but honestly my gt receives the first born love. This machine was built with so much love and dedication by re which is very much visible each time you look at it, I am keeping it for life.
I am an old man, I've been riding bikes since 1961 and I remember the introduction of the original Continental GT. It was 250cc, the engine was quite a bit more powerful than contemporary 250's and the main feature was a seriously LOUD exhaust note (enough to satisfy any Harley owner!). They were very popular at the time and sold well.
I've got a 2015 Continental GT and a 2016 Thruxton 1200 and I love 'em both. Despite both being cafe racers they are totally different bikes. The Thruxton is twice the price and is a retro looking modern bike with loadsa power and torque so you whizz past those cars in a flash and can go at illegal speeds all day should you wish. The Enfield is an updated old engine in a modern frame that feels like a 60s bike - similar performance and feel to a 350 Velocette Viper. It is fine for B roads and most A roads but not fun on motorways. I call it my sheep in wolf's clothing. You have to plan those overtakes cos of limited power and it's happiest cruising at indicated 55-65 mph although its top speed is around 80-85 if you push it really hard. That said, I regularly use the Enfield on 150 mile return trips and last year rode 800 miles through France on it - so ok if you're in no hurry. As the MF's review says, now with ABS and you can have the side stand down without the engine cutting out which is perhaps the most annoying feature of the pre-ABS model. Mine has bar end mirrors which are OK. A good- looking value for money fun bike in my view but not everyone's cup of tea.
@@brandoncostner7437 I went up a tooth on the front sprocket of my bullet 500. It made it much more drivable in the city - about 10mph per gear longer -- and I can get to 85 (GPS). It cruises all day long at 70.
Just got myself a 2017 GT and I love it. After 30 years of Japanese inline 4s it is a refreshing change. I'm getting older and for sure this is a keeper. Thanks for the video
The Royal Enfield Continental GT does not have the same engine as the rest of the UK line up, the rest of the UK bikes from RE have 500cc engines.. The Continental GT has a 535cc engine with lightened flywheel and bigger throttle body. And obviously a different ECU mapping. Pioli suspension is Italian not Indian, as a manufacturer of suspension they have been around since the early 1900's. The frame on the Conti GT was designed and built originally in the UK by Harris Performance.
@@TheMissendenFlyer WOW!! Credibility NOT required? You got the engine capacity wrong. You've obviously not heard of Paioli suspension. Obviously TMF stands for Too Much Fluff (and not enough knowledge). I'll by-pass your posts from now on.
@@Ghostrider1251 If you stop watching his reviews because of a few missteps on this one bike, you'll be missing out on many great rides and interesting commentary.
A fair enough review of the Conti GT. i have a 2015 - great fun around town and for a local blatt. Suspension is a bit harsh, and, yeah, it vibrates! But for all that, it is a fun ride. Mine is black and get compliments from young and old.
"Paioli is an Italian motorcycle parts manufacturer. Its products include front- and rear-end suspension units, and small components such as petrol taps. The company began in 1911. Initially supplying the Italian motorcycle industry (Moto Morini, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, Cagiva, Laverda), the demand for its quality parts became international in the 1980s supplying Triumph Motorcycles at both Meriden and later Les Harris guise. Harris used Paioli front and rear suspension units for both his Triumph Bonneville T140s and Matchless G80motorcycle models."
Great review! I love these bikes, my daily runner is a 350cc Bullet. The GT possibility feels a little different to the Classic you reviewed as the Classic and Bullets have a 499cc power plant.
if you use the bar-end mirrors there will be zero vibration. I used them the after market ones provided by the company. it's a good bike I used to have one
Yes I am planning on riding the Himalayan ASAP unfortunately they are not yet shipping them to the UK (I understand those supplied in India have had a number of recalls)....
TheMissendenFlyer Stuff like faulty rocker shaft design, clutch assembly (twice), steering stem corrosion that would cause the bearings to gradually seize up, alternator failure, fuel tank inside coating chipping and a few instances of chassis breakage. Great design and ride dynamics but terrible quality. They probably use scrap metal to make their bikes. I wanted one but RE messed up. I don't want it with EFI. Carburettor any day for me!
I was at BMW yesterday and asked the same question - is going to be "a couple of months" before they are in the UK and available for me to ride....stay tuned!
Vibration was common with old British twins as well. I owned a BSA A65 rocket in the sixties, and the chrome headlight rim used to come loose. Plus vibration through footrests.
Great review Sir. Look forward to seeing you with this one in the next episode of the Antiques Roadshow. Try not and look disappointed when they tell you it's value....
I really enjoy your royal enfield videos. They are informative and honest . I own 4 enfield bikes myself. Thanks for all you do for the brand , I wish I was still in England, I would let you test my 612cc tuned GT single. Regards. Steve.E.
It *_is_* a good looking bike, as you say. I’d suggest that the reason it feels better to ride than the Classic is because of the riding position. The ‘clip-on style’ handlebars together with the slightly raised and rear-set footpegs produce a natural riding posture. A forward lean puts weight on your wrists when stationary, but the weight is balanced by wind pressure at usual riding speed. The rear-set footpegs add to the forward lean which results in taking body-weight off the base of the rider’s spine.
Ian Fluker That and the chassis which is stiffer and has better weight distribution than the Classic which has a very flexible chassis with terrible suspension and an awful seat.
Nice little sunny day bike TMF, I would definitely have something like this in the garage for those quick blasts in the sunshine. Looks like it would be great fun around the B roads. Might be a nice little custom project for my retirement next year.
The main reason the engine feels nicer than the Classic is that the CGT has clearly had some running in and the engine has loosened up more. The CGT does have a Harris frame. The Paioli shocks are italian. The motor is not only 35cc bigger but has a larger inlet. Had the nearly-new Classic been run in it would have felt much the same. Antennae mirrors always vibrate on RE and bar ends are very much better, optional extras on the CGT
I am a Continental GT owner and no doubt it's fun to ride, loved your video throughout! Great content, i like your reviews alot! just concerned, which exhaust was that?
Hi another Great review I actually own a 2015 continental GT and a 2016 classic 500 the reason the Gt engine feels different it has a lighter flywheel mine has bar end mirrors fitted I think most owners fit them,my 500 classic returns 100mpg 😊👍
I wonder how the riding position feels compared to the '02 Buell Lightning. I had to trade my Buell off because I had shoulder surgery and I just couldn't enjoy it. Maybe this one wouldn't hurt me... Looks like a really good motorcycle.
I sincerely hope that this new range of Enfields are better built than my old 350 Bullet, which managed, between breakdowns, to perform like a 125 with a misfire! Biggest heap of shit I've ever owned.
TheMickvee royal Enfield don't use advanced techs used by other manufacturers. RE is for those who want to feel the old motorcycle...it's purposefully built like a 60's bike...if you're getting RE you should be able to fix those problems by yourself. if you can do that you can use that bike for couple decades with ease
After 40 odd years of owning dozens of different motorcycles, I'd prefer them to not break down at all! I am quite sure that I could fix any problems on a Royal Enfield, but that's not the point. It is 2017 and bikes conking out should be a thing of the past. The 350 Bullet which I owned was a nightmare.
TheMickvee I'm an Indian and the guy who replied to you is probably one of those half-wit Royal Enfield fanboys from my country who really love AND follow the saying "Empty Vessels Sound Much". They'll ride their 350CC Bullets, Classics and Electra all around, creating noise pollution and abusing modern motorcycle owners, saying "They lack the FEEEELLLL". Fuck this mofos. Royal Enfield today is bullshit but good news, I recently came across a news saying Royal Enfield has upped their R&D budget to 114 million dollars (approximately), so meh.
They'll need every one of those dollars if they are going to develop a bike for the 21st century. It will have to be liquid cooled, have more than one cylinder, and built to a high standard. Cornering the home market is all very well, but the export market is a whole different game. I wish them well!
It sounds great and looks sporty in a classical sort of way, much like the original 250. I'd definitely have one for the local roads and lanes for fun rides. Lovely. Great video and commentary, thanks!
The bike needs an immediate upgrade to allot bar end mirrors for anyone who buys these. The bar end ones are fantastic and have no vibration even at high speeds.
I have the bar end mirrors on my 2016 bike . they definitely vibrate! However , the rear view is so much better than the standard mirrors and you are always aware that something is behind you ,even if it`s a blur . I would recommend looking over your shoulder , no matter how good your mirrors are!!
Aha, a proper motorcycle, as in, one that doesn't sound like a sewing machine and doesn't boast eleventy-one times the computing power of a ZX Spectrum. Lovely machine ;)
TheMissendenFlyer I haven't ridden the KTM yet, so can only really use the 500 as a benchmark. I thought the 500 has about 50 bhp, but In fact it was only 29 bhp..
Hey ! I am riding on the Triumph Street cup bike but wish to buy this RE Continental GT for casual ride... Lovely, what's the aftermarket exhaust fitted on this bike please ? Thanks, Regards.
Another great review and great scenery. Quick question - what brand of gloves are you wearing in this video? I'm in the market for a new pair and I think I've seen those gloves in many of your other reviews.
Yesterday, I went to RE dealer in Bangkok and they didn't have them either. They did have an absolutely beautiful Classic 500-Chrome. I was so tempted, but I will wait for the Interceptor 650. They said it will be there at the end of the year. Cheerio!.....Sal : )
The engine is not the same as the classic. The Classic has a 499cc engine, the GT a 535cc. The GT is a little more powerful and has a little more torquey than the Classic, but the GT's engine is only around three years old. Brembo brake on the front only. Just spent a day doing 300 miles on mine, with breaks every couple of hours. I believe the Euro 4 has a twin spark head, but not certain. Looking at 85 mpg. I notice that the petrol cap is no longer a locking one. I look at it as a clasic bike with a few modern touches, such as the disc brakes, decent suspension and EFI. The price you quoted is cheap. £5100 is the price of last year's model, saving around £300 on the Euro 4 model's RRP. Had my Euro 3 model since April after a 20 odd year gap since riding a RE. Should have bought one years ago. Now thinking of adding a Classic 500 in lagoon blue.
I want one. Then again the more bike videos I watch the more bikes I want. Don't think I could have it as my only bike though (days of me owning more than one are gone :( ) as I would miss the top end and my VFR is probably still the ultimate do it all road bike. If I ever get the space to get another bike I think this could be top of the list though.
I pretty much like about any bike and the Enfields always look so cool, has the yesteryear look. I instantly saw the mirrors shaking even before you mentioned it. I figured, "those are gonna be useless" and you confirmed that. It would be fun to take it for a spin for an afternoon but probably never own one. And as usual, nicely done on the review TMF. Cheers! Allan
always a laugh when it comes to enfields. I just bought the Pegasus edition and I pick up a honda cb500x in roughly a week. one I should be able to ride many trouble free klm and the other - I get a chance to fix...lolbut the old enfield do have character and I will be keen to get my hands on the 650 interceptor I ordered when it arrives later this yearbut if you don't like tinkering with bikes.....stay away from these or the c5 or b5 or....lol
looking back at this video, there are a lot of parts that have ended up on the Conti/Intercepter 650. Nice review, its a quit interesting bike, but sounds totally eclipsed by the new 650 models!
It's not fast by any stretch of the imagination, you can hold 70mph but I wouldn't want to go much faster for longer - don't know what the actual top speed is...
Mohamed Essam well that depends on how big your testicles are. I mean you could do 95mph on it but that doesn't feel very safe. Also, redlining it can be a rather harrowing experience but if launched correctly it'll get to 60 in about 10 seconds.
Hi Thanks for the two RE reviews, I ride a 500 Bullet so was very interested in your comments which I agree with totally, I am hoping your friends in the Dealers shop get a new 650 twin Continental or Interceptor and lend it to you that would be VERY interesting. We will have to wait until later in 2018 for that! Could be your ideal bike? Classic looks with modern touches, I will wait with baited breath!!! Dave Northumbria.
Hi i am planning to buy a used continental gt 2016 and modify it as money is a problem, and i drive in indian roads, do you think i should choose new continental gt or buy older gt and just service it?
Interesting how the big manufacturers are having to ditch air cooled engines, but Enfield manage to keep chugging on with their antique engines and still pass the euro regs! All credit to them.
TheMissendenFlyer I guess most manufacturers focus more on performance. Emissions regs mean engines are running much leaner, and consequently much hotter, and they also rev very high and create more noise. A water jacket adds sound insulation as well as cooling. Enfield engines are very low performance and probably don't burn as much fuel so easier to stay within emissions targets. They also don't rev fast enough to make quite as much of a screaming noise as higher performance engines. Less HP and less power equals less noise and emissions?
Himalayan has been delayed getting into the UK - not sure when that one is going to happen.....and I don't have any access to Kawasaki's (but I'm working on it!)...
Judging by the nicely coloured up header and the straight thru mega phone exhaust this bikes got a few miles under the belt, that's why it feels much better than the Classic. Under 2000 km they have no where reached their potential. On the 350 that exhaust is worth an extra gear on most hills, if only I could stop it blowing the fibre glass out every few weeks ;-)
Well I don't think it's really a fair comparison...the bikes are of a similar style (i.e. cafe racer) but that's pretty much where the similarity ends, you have to consider the RE for what it is....
So what do you want? Excellence or affordability? As an old 'Triumph' guy, I'd rather buy a Moto Guzzi V7 before I'd spend a similar amount on a new Triumph, but the reality of the situation is that I'd far sooner be able to afford 5 grand for the Continental GT before I could swing the deal for a European bike. I don't care HOW good the new Triumph is, 11 grand is just not on, mate. There isn't a bike in the world worth that.
indeed , I get a new T120 and it's heavy, awkwardly and also hot like hell, fan is always on even if you stay at 70 km/h in sixth gear, burning your legs every 2 minutes. I will change it soon with a V7 for sure, or why not, for a Continental GT! (after a test ride, of course) Ok, I know they are completely different bikes, but lately I rode few km per year and so also a single piston with this character could do the deal.
Not really in the same league to be fair, the Street cup feels thoroughly modern and refined, the Continental feels properly "old school" and anything but...but many would say there-in lies it's charm...thanks for watching - TMF
thanks for your presentation! like the looks, but with 29 bhp in todays traffic you are always full throttle would prefer a in-line- two with 50+ bhp. oops, triumphs street twin comin round the corner....
Nice review. Ginormous fun with a straight pipe exhaust and in India's mad traffic. Rides much easier than my 75' Model B Yezdi. :D I like the bike in Yellow though.
This is the second one and I'm sure there'll be more - I love the character of these machines and their British Heritage (I know we have not a lot to do with them these days of course)....
TheMissendenFlyer so why doesn't Britain produce any classic feeling motorcycles anymore. Triumph isn't classic anymore, I've rode my mate's t100, feels very modern in terms of its riding dynamics.
I passed my test on the original GT in 1966 this little bike went quicker than the modern GT, I bought one far prefer my Classic 500. My GT is very hard to start when cold, the Classic very easy to start. By the way I live in The Philippines now a great country to use a bike all year around
TheMissendenFlyer Thanks for the reply, Love the style of the bike and that it’s A2 compatible, but go on a lot of duel carriage ways and after years on a 125 maxing out at 70 it would be nice to have a little more juice!
Don't own one, have never ridden one. Have ridden several hundred thousand miles on a variety of bikes in my work and personal life, mostly BMW's...I know these are underpowered and perhaps a bit overpriced in the U.S...having said that, I am seriously considering finding a modern used one. The reliability issues seem to be more a product of old tech/vibration/hand assembled fit and finish that require regular and mindful attention . Modern motorcycles are wondrous machines that generally require only gasoline,oil and minor periodic maintenance and Service. The R.E. ownership experience appears to be more akin to owning my 1971 Norton than my modern BMW. Weekly if not daily visual inspection,tightening and adjusting are required to keep one from slowly deteriorating into a rattling can of uselessness. Definitely not a ride it and park it and ride it some more machine. Stone axe simple throwbacks to yesteryear with a few modern touches thrown in. Not for everyone's tastes,circumstances or abilities.
Yes 100% agree, these bikes aren't in the same league as "modern" bikes (I know these technically are modern)...but if you go in with your eyes open, I reckon one of these would be a lot of fun to own....
I rode a Continental and found it very disappointing it even broke down on the test ride. For the money the SWM Gran Milano is a much better bike. Same price with better brakes and suspension. Sounds great and doesn’t suffer from such bad vibrations as the RE.
Yes I must admit the Continental GT didn't really do it for me either - of the three RE's I've ridden it's my least favourite - looking forward to trying the Interceptor though, that looks like a potentially lovely bike...just hope the ride quality is on par with other manufacturers....
This is the kind of bike you ride to work when you live above the bookstore you own. I rode a bullet a few years ago and I think the engine only caught up to the gear change after I let go of the clutch lever. My dad owned an Enfield when I was a youngster some 45 years ago and it almost led to a die-vorce (death or divorce ) between my folks. Please understand, I'm not trying to dis the bike but it is what it is, it's a café, no not a racer, that part they're still working on. I suppose in the times we're living in and the choices available to us, this beautiful but dated technologically disadvantaged 'motorcycle ' unfortunately trails the wish list by only a few days. It does look fashionably dated though and in all honesty anything 2-wheels still grabs my attention. I just don't want to plan an overtake 15 minutes in advance in today's traffic. Thanks for showing us this masterpiece, she's beautiful.
Yes I think you've got it right there Jacob, you don't buy one of these if you need a day to day work horse (at least not in the UK)....you do buy one if you want something to admire and take out on a Sunday afternoon pootle around the back lanes...
Back then premium parts like brembo, pirelli and paioli made the bike expensive. If the price was kept little bit lower or on par with classic 500 this bike wouldn't have flopped.
I have been riding my gt535 since 2016. It is a machine you get attached to as days go by. I do have a Kawasaki, Yamaha and a Honda in my garage but honestly my gt receives the first born love. This machine was built with so much love and dedication by re which is very much visible each time you look at it, I am keeping it for life.
I am an old man, I've been riding bikes since 1961 and I remember the introduction of the original Continental GT. It was 250cc, the engine was quite a bit more powerful than contemporary 250's and the main feature was a seriously LOUD exhaust note (enough to satisfy any Harley owner!). They were very popular at the time and sold well.
How times have changed eh?
Tim Hammond often referred to as Royal Oilfield due to the leaks.
That's true! Rust was seldom a problem with them.
I've got a 2015 Continental GT and a 2016 Thruxton 1200 and I love 'em both. Despite both being cafe racers they are totally different bikes. The Thruxton is twice the price and is a retro looking modern bike with loadsa power and torque so you whizz past those cars in a flash and can go at illegal speeds all day should you wish.
The Enfield is an updated old engine in a modern frame that feels like a 60s bike - similar performance and feel to a 350 Velocette Viper. It is fine for B roads and most A roads but not fun on motorways. I call it my sheep in wolf's clothing. You have to plan those overtakes cos of limited power and it's happiest cruising at indicated 55-65 mph although its top speed is around 80-85 if you push it really hard.
That said, I regularly use the Enfield on 150 mile return trips and last year rode 800 miles through France on it - so ok if you're in no hurry. As the MF's review says, now with ABS and you can have the side stand down without the engine cutting out which is perhaps the most annoying feature of the pre-ABS model. Mine has bar end mirrors which are OK. A good- looking value for money fun bike in my view but not everyone's cup of tea.
+mitch1346 Great feedback, thanks for that Mitch - all the best - TMF
I have a 2014 and I can't get mine up passed 75 mph no matter how hard i push it
@Warren552011 I've gotten up to 90 going down hill
@@brandoncostner7437 I went up a tooth on the front sprocket of my bullet 500. It made it much more drivable in the city - about 10mph per gear longer -- and I can get to 85 (GPS). It cruises all day long at 70.
Just got myself a 2017 GT and I love it. After 30 years of Japanese inline 4s it is a refreshing change. I'm getting older and for sure this is a keeper. Thanks for the video
The Royal Enfield Continental GT does not have the same engine as the rest of the UK line up, the rest of the UK bikes from RE have 500cc engines.. The Continental GT has a 535cc engine with lightened flywheel and bigger throttle body. And obviously a different ECU mapping. Pioli suspension is Italian not Indian, as a manufacturer of suspension they have been around since the early 1900's. The frame on the Conti GT was designed and built originally in the UK by Harris Performance.
Cheers...
@@TheMissendenFlyer WOW!! Credibility NOT required? You got the engine capacity wrong. You've obviously not heard of Paioli suspension. Obviously TMF stands for Too Much Fluff (and not enough knowledge). I'll by-pass your posts from now on.
N. Wayne McGregor lighten up, Francis.
Yeah that guy is taking casual reviews to seriously.
@@Ghostrider1251 If you stop watching his reviews because of a few missteps on this one bike, you'll be missing out on many great rides and interesting commentary.
This bike has a special charm to it
I agree, I like it...
A fair enough review of the Conti GT. i have a 2015 - great fun around town and for a local blatt. Suspension is a bit harsh, and, yeah, it vibrates! But for all that, it is a fun ride. Mine is black and get compliments from young and old.
Exactly! If it puts a smile on your face then in my book it's a good bike...
@7:39 Paioli is an Italian brand :)
I enjoyed the review!
Aha, certainly sounds Italian now you mention it - thanks for watching...TMF
Would have taken a second to look it up, would it not?
"Paioli is an Italian motorcycle parts manufacturer. Its products include front- and rear-end suspension units, and small components such as petrol taps. The company began in 1911. Initially supplying the Italian motorcycle industry (Moto Morini, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, Cagiva, Laverda), the demand for its quality parts became international in the 1980s supplying Triumph Motorcycles at both Meriden and later Les Harris guise. Harris used Paioli front and rear suspension units for both his Triumph Bonneville T140s and Matchless G80motorcycle models."
At the end of the day, it'll put a smile on your face
Great review! I love these bikes, my daily runner is a 350cc Bullet. The GT possibility feels a little different to the Classic you reviewed as the Classic and Bullets have a 499cc power plant.
Could be that, whole bike just felt a little more refined....if you can use that word in the context of Royal Enfields!!!
The Gt is a bigger engine than the others not much but it makes a difference its a 535
The 535 has a lighter flywheel which is what gives it the more refined feeling I’m sure
I only watch the videos to see where the Missenden flyer will lose his way next. Priceless 😊
Happens quite a lot I'm afraid...
if you use the bar-end mirrors there will be zero vibration. I used them the after market ones provided by the company. it's a good bike I used to have one
Yes a few people have said that - cheers!
I Rode a Bullet 350 and Himalayan on my trip to India ,both great bikes you should definitely check out the Himalayan I was pretty impressed with it
Yes I am planning on riding the Himalayan ASAP unfortunately they are not yet shipping them to the UK (I understand those supplied in India have had a number of recalls)....
not available in the UK unfortunately.
morzee1 ye but at 400cc its just not enough power for long distance touring (himalayan)
TheMissendenFlyer Stuff like faulty rocker shaft design, clutch assembly (twice), steering stem corrosion that would cause the bearings to gradually seize up, alternator failure, fuel tank inside coating chipping and a few instances of chassis breakage. Great design and ride dynamics but terrible quality. They probably use scrap metal to make their bikes. I wanted one but RE messed up. I don't want it with EFI. Carburettor any day for me!
vopzi look Yes, until they can launch the BSIV EFI version.
Great review! Just bought one of these as a second toy. Still awaiting my first ride after being delivered, yesterday.
Congratulations!
An excellent review of another great Royal Enfield bike. I loved the look, as well as the sound it makes. Cheers! :-)
Yes I think it appeals to those of us that remember this sort of thing from our youth (not saying you do if you were born in 1971).....
I may not be adding it to my virtual garage but its looks bring back memories. I love it. I think it looks great. Thanks for giving it the once-over.
No worries, I enjoyed riding it!
Beautiful review. Cheers from India. Not sure if you get it in the UK but urge you to check out the Enfield Himalayan and the Thunderbird as well.
Thank you Manu - we don't have the Himalayan yet, but as soon as we do I intend to ride it! Stay tuned....
nice, but couldn't they have used chromed rear shocks? the gold looks wrong.
when are you going to review the BMW G 310 GS mate? love the way you review the bikes I watch each and every video of yours keep making them 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I was at BMW yesterday and asked the same question - is going to be "a couple of months" before they are in the UK and available for me to ride....stay tuned!
Vibration was common with old British twins as well. I owned a BSA A65 rocket in the sixties, and the chrome headlight rim used to come loose. Plus vibration through footrests.
All adds to the bikes "character" I guess!
TheMissendenFlyer Character haha. I like how you use that word.
Great review Sir. Look forward to seeing you with this one in the next episode of the Antiques Roadshow. Try not and look disappointed when they tell you it's value....
He he....thanks for watching Gary...
I really enjoy your royal enfield videos. They are informative and honest . I own 4 enfield bikes myself. Thanks for all you do for the brand , I wish I was still in England, I would let you test my 612cc tuned GT single. Regards. Steve.E.
It *_is_* a good looking bike, as you say. I’d suggest that the reason it feels better to ride than the Classic is because of the riding position. The ‘clip-on style’ handlebars together with the slightly raised and rear-set footpegs produce a natural riding posture. A forward lean puts weight on your wrists when stationary, but the weight is balanced by wind pressure at usual riding speed. The rear-set footpegs add to the forward lean which results in taking body-weight off the base of the rider’s spine.
Ian Fluker t
Yeah maybe....thanks for watching and for stopping by....TMF
Ian Fluker That and the chassis which is stiffer and has better weight distribution than the Classic which has a very flexible chassis with terrible suspension and an awful seat.
Nice little sunny day bike TMF, I would definitely have something like this in the garage for those quick blasts in the sunshine. Looks like it would be great fun around the B roads. Might be a nice little custom project for my retirement next year.
Yes 100% agreed, buying an old second hand one and taking it to bits to clean up and rebuild would be great fun (now there's an idea!)....
Mmmmm....I feel a possible TMF vs Subscriber build off coming on! ;-)
I'd definitely lose that one :0)
The main reason the engine feels nicer than the Classic is that the CGT has clearly had some running in and the engine has loosened up more. The CGT does have a Harris frame. The Paioli shocks are italian. The motor is not only 35cc bigger but has a larger inlet.
Had the nearly-new Classic been run in it would have felt much the same.
Antennae mirrors always vibrate on RE and bar ends are very much better, optional extras on the CGT
Cheers Jeff - thanks for watching - TMF
That straight thru mega phone exhaust helps no end as well. I have the exact same part on my 350, it's worth an extra gear on most hills.
I am a Continental GT owner and no doubt it's fun to ride, loved your video throughout! Great content, i like your reviews alot! just concerned, which exhaust was that?
It was an aftermarket one I believe - a "dealer special"....
Okay! Thanks for responding mate!
keep it up with the good work :D
I'm loving all your reviews!! One day I'll have a garage like yours
Thank you David....
Hi another Great review I actually own a 2015 continental GT and a 2016 classic 500 the reason the Gt engine feels different it has a lighter flywheel mine has bar end mirrors fitted I think most owners fit them,my 500 classic returns 100mpg 😊👍
Aha. that may well be it, the whole ride just felt better, like RE have taken the opportunity to "up their game".....
I wonder how the riding position feels compared to the '02 Buell Lightning. I had to trade my Buell off because I had shoulder surgery and I just couldn't enjoy it. Maybe this one wouldn't hurt me... Looks like a really good motorcycle.
good review, i have a 2013 model,which i have improved and pleased with .oh and by the way paioli are Italian.
Yes so I understand - a few people mentioned that - thanks for watching! - TMF
I have 2015 GT 535 . What you think about this beast and hows it performance.
@@gautamsaharan2397 and we meet again
Will you be reviewing the new Moto Guzzi V7 III? That's my favourite retro bike, that and the T100. Love the sound of the RE.
I'd love too - sadly I don't have a Guzzi dealer nearby...
sigh! :(
I sincerely hope that this new range of Enfields are better built than my old 350 Bullet, which managed, between breakdowns, to perform like a 125 with a misfire! Biggest heap of shit I've ever owned.
Fair enough....
TheMickvee royal Enfield don't use advanced techs used by other manufacturers. RE is for those who want to feel the old motorcycle...it's purposefully built like a 60's bike...if you're getting RE you should be able to fix those problems by yourself. if you can do that you can use that bike for couple decades with ease
After 40 odd years of owning dozens of different motorcycles, I'd prefer them to not break down at all! I am quite sure that I could fix any problems on a Royal Enfield, but that's not the point. It is 2017 and bikes conking out should be a thing of the past. The 350 Bullet which I owned was a nightmare.
TheMickvee I'm an Indian and the guy who replied to you is probably one of those half-wit Royal Enfield fanboys from my country who really love AND follow the saying "Empty Vessels Sound Much". They'll ride their 350CC Bullets, Classics and Electra all around, creating noise pollution and abusing modern motorcycle owners, saying "They lack the FEEEELLLL". Fuck this mofos. Royal Enfield today is bullshit but good news, I recently came across a news saying Royal Enfield has upped their R&D budget to 114 million dollars (approximately), so meh.
They'll need every one of those dollars if they are going to develop a bike for the 21st century. It will have to be liquid cooled, have more than one cylinder, and built to a high standard. Cornering the home market is all very well, but the export market is a whole different game. I wish them well!
It sounds great and looks sporty in a classical sort of way, much like the original 250. I'd definitely have one for the local roads and lanes for fun rides. Lovely. Great video and commentary, thanks!
My pleasure - thanks for watching!
The bike needs an immediate upgrade to allot bar end mirrors for anyone who buys these. The bar end ones are fantastic and have no vibration even at high speeds.
+Mallik Kovuri Sounds like a very worthwhile upgrade!
I have the bar end mirrors on my 2016 bike . they definitely vibrate! However , the rear view is so much better than the standard mirrors and you are always aware that something is behind you ,even if it`s a blur . I would recommend looking over your shoulder , no matter how good your mirrors are!!
Aha, a proper motorcycle, as in, one that doesn't sound like a sewing machine and doesn't boast eleventy-one times the computing power of a ZX Spectrum. Lovely machine ;)
My fridge has eleventy-one times the computing power of a zx spectrum! :0)
Great review, it's funny how the Enfields feel more powerful than they actually are, as the power is right where you need it.
Thank you Phil....not sure I agree on that, a KTM Duke 390 has a considerably smaller engine but feels much more powerful!
TheMissendenFlyer I haven't ridden the KTM yet, so can only really use the 500 as a benchmark. I thought the 500 has about 50 bhp, but In fact it was only 29 bhp..
Great Review as always.
That Continental GT looks fantastic - maybe even better than my T100 !
Not sure I would go that far....
Was just referring to the retro styling. RE got it dead right.
My T100 is much better in all other departments :)
Nice! Can't believe you missed the chance to use the kick start! Nostalgia!
What makes you think I didn't? ;0)
Hey ! I am riding on the Triumph Street cup bike but wish to buy this RE Continental GT for casual ride... Lovely, what's the aftermarket exhaust fitted on this bike please ? Thanks, Regards.
I don't honestly know - sorry about that....
lovely machine. I think a 750 twin is coming out.
Yes I heard that two - look forward to trying that one out...thanks for watching - TMF
Another great review and great scenery. Quick question - what brand of gloves are you wearing in this video? I'm in the market for a new pair and I think I've seen those gloves in many of your other reviews.
+moondog33 These are Spidi H2out gloves....
TheMissendenFlyer thanks!!
awesome review mate!! I myself own a GT and it's a fun to ride motorcycles!! #love cafe racers
Good value for the money and very nice looking ...pity about the mirrors... Thanks again for an A1 review....
A friend of mine has one of these and needs to do some work on it. He'll let me know when and I'll have a little go on it if he lets me.
The 650s are out now. Hope you can review them! Thank you...Sal : )
Really? ...I'll get onto it....
Yes, there is a UA-cam video of the announcement of the new bikes. They came out in 2017.....Sal : )
....aah, they were announced then yes, I'm well aware of that, they aren't yet in dealers and have been delayed and delayed....
Yesterday, I went to RE dealer in Bangkok and they didn't have them either. They did have an absolutely beautiful Classic 500-Chrome. I was so tempted, but I will wait for the Interceptor 650. They said it will be there at the end of the year. Cheerio!.....Sal : )
I've heard that before!! Standby for a long weight (I've been waiting nearly 2 years to ride an Interceptor)
I've been waiting for a video on the continental. Good value bike, sounds incredible
Agreed 100%
The engine is not the same as the classic. The Classic has a 499cc engine, the GT a 535cc. The GT is a little more powerful and has a little more torquey than the Classic, but the GT's engine is only around three years old. Brembo brake on the front only. Just spent a day doing 300 miles on mine, with breaks every couple of hours. I believe the Euro 4 has a twin spark head, but not certain. Looking at 85 mpg. I notice that the petrol cap is no longer a locking one. I look at it as a clasic bike with a few modern touches, such as the disc brakes, decent suspension and EFI. The price you quoted is cheap. £5100 is the price of last year's model, saving around £300 on the Euro 4 model's RRP. Had my Euro 3 model since April after a 20 odd year gap since riding a RE. Should have bought one years ago. Now thinking of adding a Classic 500 in lagoon blue.
+PLAYING AROUND! Cheers!
Good Evening . . An articulate and real world review. Thank you. Sounds wonderful.
Cheers Paul - appreciate the kind comments - TMF
I want one. Then again the more bike videos I watch the more bikes I want. Don't think I could have it as my only bike though (days of me owning more than one are gone :( ) as I would miss the top end and my VFR is probably still the ultimate do it all road bike. If I ever get the space to get another bike I think this could be top of the list though.
Man i like your reviews...great to watch ,amazing job.
Thank you....
9:25 slightly right of the exhaust header on the front of the bike, is that a horn?
I thought it was a Tax disc at first and I was a bit confused.
Yep, it's the horn....
Another great review - thank you. One question; In the first 10 mins, you seemed to have your hands well spread on the grips. Are the bars too narrow?
No a few people have mentioned that, I think it's an effect caused by the wide angle lens - it seems to exaggerate my hand position...
I pretty much like about any bike and the Enfields always look so cool, has the yesteryear look. I instantly saw the mirrors shaking even before you mentioned it. I figured, "those are gonna be useless" and you confirmed that. It would be fun to take it for a spin for an afternoon but probably never own one. And as usual, nicely done on the review TMF. Cheers! Allan
+Allan Brown Thank you Allan...
always a laugh when it comes to enfields. I just bought the Pegasus edition and I pick up a honda cb500x in roughly a week. one I should be able to ride many trouble free klm and the other - I get a chance to fix...lolbut the old enfield do have character and I will be keen to get my hands on the 650 interceptor I ordered when it arrives later this yearbut if you don't like tinkering with bikes.....stay away from these or the c5 or b5 or....lol
I just noticed that you grab the handlebar a bit off. Any reason why?
Nope - mainly an artefact of the GoPro's wide angle view I think....
Thanks again TMF - another great review. What a lovely looking bike!
Cheers n thanks!
why do Euro models get ABS and not in Indian models? It is manufactured here, but why not implementing safety in the home country??
Good question - I would guess it just comes down to trying to keep the price down locally....
Greasemonkey and Meee Have you seen what the average wage is in India? They are a poor country
Nathan C people buying these here are certainly not poor -_-
+Nathan C your country also poor
looking back at this video, there are a lot of parts that have ended up on the Conti/Intercepter 650. Nice review, its a quit interesting bike, but sounds totally eclipsed by the new 650 models!
It is!
Awesome bike .....love royal Enfield
+Sai Mahidhar Good stuff - thanks for watching - TMF
Looks a lovely bike. I would consider buying one.
I think there's room for a classic on your fleet TMF 😉 Ever tempted by an old school 90's sportsbike like a 916/FireBlade /Zxr750?
Very much so!
Its twin cylinder 750 cc variant will come by the end of year
Looking forward to trying one of those!
I’m still waiting for it. 😊
I own one and love all its glory and Flaw's..
Brilliant - thanks for watching - TMF
That bike sounds amazing.
Just bought one and I love it get the exhaust off it and get a tail pipe on it and it sounds AWESOME.
Nice one!
the first thing I'd do if I got that bike is drop those clip ons under the yoke to give it more of a café racer look.
Yes, a bit like the Thruxton the "clip ons" aren't really clip ons at all (to help with our aged backs!).
what is the maximum speed? i want to see if i can travel on highway or will be eaten by others
It's not fast by any stretch of the imagination, you can hold 70mph but I wouldn't want to go much faster for longer - don't know what the actual top speed is...
Mohamed Essam well that depends on how big your testicles are. I mean you could do 95mph on it but that doesn't feel very safe. Also, redlining it can be a rather harrowing experience but if launched correctly it'll get to 60 in about 10 seconds.
Can you find any Ural motorcycles around you, if you can perhaps one w/o the sidecar attached?
No I've not seen any anywhere, would love a crack at one of those, with or without sidecar...
Did you used stock exhaust in this bike? I think it is a custom because the exhaust looks smaller.
+Sukalpa Kundu Yes the exhausts are a "dealer special"
How did you position or set the Mic? The bass on the recording is better than most and gets close to the actual sound.
...it's just mounted in my helmet - taped near my mouth...
Hi Thanks for the two RE reviews, I ride a 500 Bullet so was very interested in your comments which I agree with totally, I am hoping your friends in the Dealers shop get a new 650 twin Continental or Interceptor and lend it to you that would be VERY interesting. We will have to wait until later in 2018 for that! Could be your ideal bike? Classic looks with modern touches, I will wait with baited breath!!! Dave Northumbria.
Yes I can't wait to give the Interceptor a crack I must say....
Hi i am planning to buy a used continental gt 2016 and modify it as money is a problem, and i drive in indian roads, do you think i should choose new continental gt or buy older gt and just service it?
The new one is waaaaaay better
Interesting how the big manufacturers are having to ditch air cooled engines, but Enfield manage to keep chugging on with their antique engines and still pass the euro regs! All credit to them.
Yes, wonder why that is??
TheMissendenFlyer I guess most manufacturers focus more on performance. Emissions regs mean engines are running much leaner, and consequently much hotter, and they also rev very high and create more noise. A water jacket adds sound insulation as well as cooling. Enfield engines are very low performance and probably don't burn as much fuel so easier to stay within emissions targets. They also don't rev fast enough to make quite as much of a screaming noise as higher performance engines. Less HP and less power equals less noise and emissions?
the owner must have bypassed the kill switch on the side stand :) its next on my to-do list for my conti
Aha..maybe that was it...definitely worth doing me thinks...
TMF, when can you get your leg over a Himalayan?? or a Kwak X300??
Himalayan has been delayed getting into the UK - not sure when that one is going to happen.....and I don't have any access to Kawasaki's (but I'm working on it!)...
Judging by the nicely coloured up header and the straight thru mega phone exhaust this bikes got a few miles under the belt, that's why it feels much better than the Classic. Under 2000 km they have no where reached their potential.
On the 350 that exhaust is worth an extra gear on most hills, if only I could stop it blowing the fibre glass out every few weeks ;-)
hi, can you review the RE Thunderbird or the Rumbler 500CC ??
+Naresh kumar Those are models not available in the U.K. Unfortunately - so no....
sad to hear that, anyways great video !!!!
brembos abs great value bike !!!!! looks like a poor mans thruxton as always great review
Indeed. I wouldn't waste even sitting on it let alone any cash for it. Thruxton R, although a much dearer bike, is much much much much better.
Well I don't think it's really a fair comparison...the bikes are of a similar style (i.e. cafe racer) but that's pretty much where the similarity ends, you have to consider the RE for what it is....
So what do you want? Excellence or affordability? As an old 'Triumph' guy, I'd rather buy a Moto Guzzi V7 before I'd spend a similar amount on a new Triumph, but the reality of the situation is that I'd far sooner be able to afford 5 grand for the Continental GT before I could swing the deal for a European bike. I don't care HOW good the new Triumph is, 11 grand is just not on, mate. There isn't a bike in the world worth that.
indeed , I get a new T120 and it's heavy, awkwardly and also hot like hell, fan is always on even if you stay at 70 km/h in sixth gear, burning your legs every 2 minutes. I will change it soon with a V7 for sure, or why not, for a Continental GT! (after a test ride, of course) Ok, I know they are completely different bikes, but lately I rode few km per year and so also a single piston with this character could do the deal.
Ruperth Herbert I spent time with the V7 and the T120. To me the T120 made the V7 feel cheap and under powered.
Nice review TMF looks nostalgically romantic but I think in the real world I'll give it a miss, still thinking about that MT-09 mmm !
Yes the two bikes are quite different!
Any comparison to the Triumph Street Cup?
Not really in the same league to be fair, the Street cup feels thoroughly modern and refined, the Continental feels properly "old school" and anything but...but many would say there-in lies it's charm...thanks for watching - TMF
Okay, understood. :)
thanks for your presentation! like the looks, but with 29 bhp in todays traffic you are always full throttle would prefer a in-line- two with 50+ bhp. oops, triumphs street twin comin round the corner....
awesome review and good insights what a consumer can expect.
Thank you...
Greetings from down under m8, can you do the Royal Enfield himalayan sometime? I'm a new rider trying to find an adventure commuter.
Cheers!
Would love too but they aren't yet available in the UK - as soon as they are, I shall definitely be riding one!
Im 6"2 would i fit okay?
Nice review.
Ginormous fun with a straight pipe exhaust and in India's mad traffic. Rides much easier than my 75' Model B Yezdi. :D
I like the bike in Yellow though.
:0) ...thanks for watching....
Surprised to see an RE in your channel !! Cheers from India. I own a RE CL350 btw. :)
This is the second one and I'm sure there'll be more - I love the character of these machines and their British Heritage (I know we have not a lot to do with them these days of course)....
TheMissendenFlyer so why doesn't Britain produce any classic feeling motorcycles anymore. Triumph isn't classic anymore, I've rode my mate's t100, feels very modern in terms of its riding dynamics.
Single channel Abs? I did not see the Abs ring in the rear.
+Pyskotic Good question! I don't know the answer to be honest!
TMF, As you do so many reviews of bikes, how do you keep yourself from buying them (the good ones)
Now I'm retired lack of cash has a seriously restraining effect!
Retired? Wow you don't look old enough to be retired. Better not start doing airplane reviews then, lol.
Why were some of the cars he passed parked the wrong way..
I passed my test on the original GT in 1966 this little bike went quicker than the modern GT, I bought one far prefer my Classic 500. My GT is very hard to start when cold, the Classic very easy to start. By the way I live in The Philippines now a great country to use a bike all year around
Lucky man Bruce!
can you do a RE Himalayan review? Good review btw...
Would love too - they're not available in England yet though :0(
ohh.. ohk... do one if and when available
bar end mirrors are needed to , i have the GT bar ends on my Classic 500 looks better to
Yes the mirrors supplied as stock are chocolate T Pot jobs!
What is the top speed of the GT? Would it really struggle crushing at 70mph?
I don't know the top speed - cruising at 70mph would be possible but I'm guessing it may not be that comfortable doing so....
TheMissendenFlyer
Thanks for the reply,
Love the style of the bike and that it’s A2 compatible, but go on a lot of duel carriage ways and after years on a 125 maxing out at 70 it would be nice to have a little more juice!
Don't own one, have never ridden one. Have ridden several hundred thousand miles on a variety of bikes in my work and personal life, mostly BMW's...I know these are underpowered and perhaps a bit overpriced in the U.S...having said that, I am seriously considering finding a modern used one. The reliability issues seem to be more a product of old tech/vibration/hand assembled fit and finish that require regular and mindful attention . Modern motorcycles are wondrous machines that generally require only gasoline,oil and minor periodic maintenance and Service. The R.E. ownership experience appears to be more akin to owning my 1971 Norton than my modern BMW. Weekly if not daily visual inspection,tightening and adjusting are required to keep one from slowly deteriorating into a rattling can of uselessness. Definitely not a ride it and park it and ride it some more machine. Stone axe simple throwbacks to yesteryear with a few modern touches thrown in. Not for everyone's tastes,circumstances or abilities.
Yes 100% agree, these bikes aren't in the same league as "modern" bikes (I know these technically are modern)...but if you go in with your eyes open, I reckon one of these would be a lot of fun to own....
could you do a video on RE 350 classic. ?
I think we only get the 500 over here Mukul.....
What's your height? Cause I think that played a role to the comfort of riding position
5 foot 8 inches....
lol then my bad. looks like we're the same height :P
I rode a Continental and found it very disappointing it even broke down on the test ride. For the money the SWM Gran Milano is a much better bike. Same price with better brakes and suspension. Sounds great and doesn’t suffer from such bad vibrations as the RE.
Yes I must admit the Continental GT didn't really do it for me either - of the three RE's I've ridden it's my least favourite - looking forward to trying the Interceptor though, that looks like a potentially lovely bike...just hope the ride quality is on par with other manufacturers....
Does it have an ABS module on the rear wheel as well..???
I can't honestly remember....didn't see the ABS sensor ring if it does!
This is the kind of bike you ride to work when you live above the bookstore you own. I rode a bullet a few years ago and I think the engine only caught up to the gear change after I let go of the clutch lever. My dad owned an Enfield when I was a youngster some 45 years ago and it almost led to a die-vorce (death or divorce ) between my folks. Please understand, I'm not trying to dis the bike but it is what it is, it's a café, no not a racer, that part they're still working on. I suppose in the times we're living in and the choices available to us, this beautiful but dated technologically disadvantaged 'motorcycle ' unfortunately trails the wish list by only a few days. It does look fashionably dated though and in all honesty anything 2-wheels still grabs my attention. I just don't want to plan an overtake 15 minutes in advance in today's traffic. Thanks for showing us this masterpiece, she's beautiful.
Yes I think you've got it right there Jacob, you don't buy one of these if you need a day to day work horse (at least not in the UK)....you do buy one if you want something to admire and take out on a Sunday afternoon pootle around the back lanes...
Back then premium parts like brembo, pirelli and paioli made the bike expensive. If the price was kept little bit lower or on par with classic 500 this bike wouldn't have flopped.