This is for those who want to buy a 40's harley, a 60's bmw, a old triumph or even a english made enfield, but do not want to spend too much money and time restoring the vehicle. This motorcycle gives the feeling of piloting a classic bike, without the fear of breaking or abusing the old mechanisms... The big mistake that people do is think that a Royal Enfield will perform like a modern cruiser, or a freaking sportsbike... Everyone who says that it sucks for vibrating, are the same people who wanna run apple's appstore on a nokia 3310.
This motorcycle is legend. All metal, no plastic. It brings man tears to my eyes when i see this motorcycle. In today's modern world, people don't much appreciate such styled motorcycle
Harley Davidson does not stand a chance next to Enfield in India ... I used to own one in India and will buy one when I go back home !! Love India Love RE
@@bharatbojorangbal7523 'Battle Green' is not available in India, to civilians. Other variants of C500 are 2.2 to 2.6 Lakhs INR (varies as per States Road Tax etc)
I was reading another review somewhere and the comments were saying that the vibrations are the worst on 500s that aren't properly run-in yet. Something to the tune of about 5000km+ the vibration lessen...
aussiejohn1987 it’s true, the vibes decrease as they get run in. Mine has nearly 40,000km now. At between 70 to 80 km/h you feel the vibes at their worst. Smoothes out at 90 and is okay at 100.
My 2009 Classic Bullet 500 has a decent Mostyn 18" reverse megaphone that accidentally had the middle baffle plate smacked out of it when it came out of the box, I use Penrite 15W-50 oil with 20% Morey's Oil Stabiliser and Morey's Upper Cylinder Lubricant/Fuel Injector Cleaner in each tank full. I have 29000kms on the clock and I live in the Northern Territory outside of Darwin, and "Roy" sees 300-400 kms each weekend in either severe heat and or rain. Roy sits comfortably on 100-110 kmh and hits 120kmh overtaking often. When you ride an Enfield, you have to stop embarrassing it by thinking of it as a friendly old horse. Even draught horses like a gallop. So don't ride the Enfield like it was a Katana or Ducati, but do yourself and your Enfield by just riding it like a bike. Yeah they have the vibrations at some point in the revs but you get used to that very quickly. My Enfield has never let me down and goes as strong (stronger ) than when I got it. I love my Royal Enfield and it even gets let in the house at night because it doesn't leak oil.
My first bike, back in 1975, was a 1969 Yamaha 100 L5T (don't laugh, I was fourteen years old). It was supposed to be a street and trail bike back in the day and had a dual transmission, street and trail ranges. Had lots of fun on it, and it would cruise at around fifty MPH on the street (where I was too young to ride, but did it anyway). Beyond antiquated for these days, but the old bikes were fun. Watching this video reminded me of those low-tech, low-speed, fun old days.
This is a piece of cake ... Indians love those nowadays.... even youngsters got bored of speed bikes like KTM dukes or Ninjas This is a perfect bike .. Pls just check out for Royal Enfield - Thunderbird
Indian people sure are proud of Royal Enfield, my Indian friends are always talking about the Bullet. lol. They are very beautiful bikes and I'm sure in India at slower speeds these are more than capable of keeping up with traffic but I would not want to ride one for maybe more than a day in Australia or in the US. I rode a Hero Honda in Sri Lanka and it was a blast so Im not a Indian motorcycle hater.
They have a strong following in England too. The plentiful supply of spares from India for old bikes helps. The 'export' bikes do have a higher spec. Not the world's fastest bike yet they can keep up with traffic on british motorways where the cars travel around 80mph despite our 70mph speed limit. It is not lack of power restricting top speed but running out of revs, they're a trifle under geared. But motorways are boring and there are plenty of lesser roads to use which are more enjoyable.
Nevermind keeping up with traffic, you can pass most of it. I have ridden with Harleys and the RE can thread through traffic better than they can. Whilst not the fastest bike in the world, it is not all that slow, but it does need to be fully run in to develop this potential. It likes cruising at 45-65 mph which suits most of our roads and will fast-cruise at 70mph sitting upright. Realistic top speed about 80mph so it can and will cope with UK motorway traffic, pass the trucks and so on.
You do seem to have problems with service provision. We are having issues with the UK importer. Most of our dealerships though have been in the bike business for years and can service a bike in a couple of hours. Most of us get the first service done and then annual to maintain warranty. Mainly we do our own servicing.
Todd Sadler , I don't enjoy riding on our motorways but have to (have had to) routinely ride several miles continuously at 80+mph and pipped 85mph, probably by drafting. I know the speedo isn't lying because that's the speed cars go at on our "70mph" motorways. Our motorways are not fun on any bike.
@@maadhujovi9528 Because I've owned several and ridden many others. I don't need to read a spec sheet. How many Harleys have you ridden or owned? huh? The trouble with people like you is that you are quick to be unnecessarily rude rather than post a polite comment asking why I have made that comment.
After riding my cousin's royal enfield classic 350, i fell in love with it and i sold my ktm duke 250 and bought a royal enfield. All my friend and family member say that i'm a fool for selling ktm to buy a royal enfield classic.. i just laugh and didnt say a thing because you cannot explain the feelings you have when riding an enfield compares with other motorcycles.
One day I might still buy one - even with 40 years of HD's in me...and 2 currently in the garage (Softail and Limited) I still love these old-but-new bikes!
I tell ya, I just traded my 2015 Street 500 for a Royal Enfield Classic 500. The Harley had been gathering dust in my garage because there just wasn't any compelling reason to ride it. This RE, on the other hand, is a joy to ride. It's not going to set any speed records, but I'm not a 22 year old idiot any more.
I do like even I have one of this and I do appreciate when riders filter and cut down all other motorcycles and start believing on ROYAL ENFIELD....❤❤❤
A couple of thoughts. I had a 500 classic. LOVED that bike. (sold for financial reasons) The vibration at speed is horrific. (50 mph is the sweet spot..SMOOTH) This thing needs another gear or a taller sprocket if they want it to work in the US. Hand numbing. I put on heavy, thick, padded grips and that took care of that problem. Mirrors are a useless blur. The brakes are (a little) better than you say. An aftermarket exhaust and a K & N filter let the poor thing breathe and really pepped it up. I fitted a sidecar onto mine and it drew a lot of admiring looks... It was fun. The torque made the weight of it do-able but the wind resistance was an impenetrable wall at 60mph... the good news is it removed all vibration. One more thing: It is too expensive here in the US. $5,400 ? It would cost half that in India. You can get FAR more capable bikes for that price.
Yeah, mine is tuned up a bit and has gone ton-up, but at a price of throwing money at it, K&N, PCV etc. And if you want a fast bike this is the wrong one. Where it excels are back roads 9-ft wide country lanes poddling along at 40-50 with the odd squirt of 60-ish if we're being legal, and where any straight bits test the suspension like a fairground ride. The vibrations though, after it has been run in for 1000 miles, gradually change up later through the gears for about 500 miles, eventually getting over 5200rpm and italian tune up; this beds the bearings, shafts and journals in, and the tingly bar vibrations diminish, a lot. If you do this earlier you will hammer them oval,. This is also why if the engine is thrashed during running in, the bearings get hammered oval and it will always vibrate like a road drill. This can be done at any mileage after running in, I know one chap who did it successfully after 25,000 miles. Don't blame the bearings, they're the same ones used by HD, it's just that big singles can hammer bearings flat. With that done the sweet spot shifts to 65-70mph (about 4200rpm) even on stock models. Wind buffeting above 70 is unpleasant though, and I hate riding on motorways because they're so mind-numbingly boring.
Outselling Harleys😗, royal enfield has gone way beyond than that. It is the only legendary bike maker that is selling more than Harleys, Indian, triumph even combined every year. And it's buyers are not grandpa's but young and middle age guys.
I really liked the video. That's a beautiful color of Classic 500, which,unfortunately, is not available in India right now. Your sarcastic comments about its technology was all over the video. It lags behind in technology but the riding is really a great experience always.
The chain and sprockets staying on the swingarm was common on swingarm bikes of the 50s era, nice to see it retained, makes it simpler to do roadside repair of tire, which I hope is still tubed
Gotta love this bike for what it is, and not hate it for what it is not. I greatly enjoy my classic 500 (with rear disc brakes). If I want to get after it and cover miles, I hop aboard the BMW R1200RT. If I want to just enjoy the breeze and go back to a simpler time in motorcycling history, the Classic 500 is PERFECT.
And yet it is not the best selling brand in India where it is considered expensive, something of a status symbol, and they buy smaller cheaper bikes for daily transport. The export market is good in Europe, Australia/NZ and S.America
There's another version of this motorcycle. that is useable for some off road use. that is very much like this one, except that all the chrome bits are blacked out. and it has different tires. one thing is for sure they are tractor.
Apparently the vibrations settle down appreciably after the bike is run in at about 10,000 - brakes bed in and all things tend to get generally more zen.
...and safe speed too, I'd rather run on that speed with that classic bike than 120 on a gay plastic-y gimmick motorcycles nowadays....streets are not race tracks
Loved it mate! It's reviews like yours that I'm off to pick one up next week (A Pegasus). Only problem, I'm in the south of England, and it's in the north, so it'll be possibly just run in by the time I get home! Thanks! PS: And Mongolia! that fecking does it! A man after my own heart!
Hi mate,sorry about the delay! I love this bike! Hope you have a smile on your face when you ride your Pegasus. I can't wipe the smile off mine :) 2000 miles and it's been run in nice and does 90mph and 90mpg! I'm going to keep it FOR EVER! A real beauty!
Nice point of view ! But you are missing the point why it was made . It is not meant to be buttery smooth nor rev high . Its a freeway cruiser , well at least in India. I have one of those and it costed me just 2000 dollars . I got to ride a KTM Duke 390 for months , but I love the classic more . Despite minor flaws , It has a charm that melts your soul . Sorry that you did not get to experience that.
The roads in Australia are vastly different - very smooth and the traffic is very orderly. This bike struggles to keep up on the freeway here! But as a backstreet bike around town, it does make sense. And I do get a sense for why people love them, I do understand the charm. At $2000, it would be a great bargain. They're closer to $9000 here, which puts them in competition with far more capable bikes like the SV650 etc - but nothing has the classic look like the Enfields do, and nothing gives you the same simple riding experience either, so there's definitely a place in the market for them.
I agree with what you said .The $9000 dollar price tag is no way justifiable . It is a total shock to me that it is priced that high. I would have gone for a entry level Harley or a Moto Guzzi for 9k. Maybe people here in RE should not cling on only to the legacy and the classic looks but also work on the technology, to deliver a freeway friendly motorbike . Cheers !
Harleys cost twice that over here minimum... Guzzis too. And apparently the export Enfield is a very different beast to the domestic one in terms of materials, quality and finish. It's very pricey here if you take it in terms of performance... But then, nobody else is making a true modern classic like these, and you'd never get the same amount of attention on something that goes quicker.
+gizmag Oh , Ok . But the export version of Royal Enfield Classic 500 is the same as the domestic version except that the Indian version lacks the lambda o2 sensor in the ECU . From mid 2014 , Materials , Fit and Finish and the Quality is all the same sir .
Interesting - the importers here were talking about different wheels, tyres, even the spokes were unchromed on the domestic version. And the handlebars being made of cheaper metal to the point where their lead mechanic was able to bend one with his hands.
Vid tells it perfectly, I worked at a dealer ship, here is some of our set up protocol, tossed battery that came with it and installed a modern sealed unit, Test low fuel indicator light working, it should come with the 7" headlamp option stock, night time riding not safe with 5" lamp. tighten all bolts, do an oil and filter change install Castrol full synthetic, ck chain and master clip direction. etc. One thing not mentioned in vid is shifting. Its not bad but you need to be deliberate when you shift, it is not as silky smooth as a Japanese transmission ...just leave it in 4th gear and you can motor on forever
One of the best reviewer of UA-cam!!!! Love and respect from India. Hope to see your videos soon mate, for no reasons I cannot find your gsxs1000 and speed triple, the Yamaha Mt video. God knows what the issue is.....
Why it doesn't start on side stand is probably due to the “Roll Over Sensor” which switches off Ignition and cut off fuel supply as it detects tilt. That's a safety feature I suppose. Nice review thanks.
These bikes sell well here in Asia. The reason being they are mechanically simple, metal parts can be easily "repaired" by anyone, they are more affordable that western bikes, they are light enough for most smaller statured east Asians, most Asian roads and traffic don't allow you to go over 80kph. There is little opportunity to really make use of a 1000cc+ bike, so these are powerful enough for most any need.
It doesn't want start on the side stand for one and simple reason - the oil pump is located on the right side, so on the side stand the oil pump sucks only the air and the engine works with no lubrication. I know some people remove that side stand switch but if you leave your bike to warm up on the side stand - you're slowly but surely killing your engine.
Ahhh, why people always do that. Come on! Don't you really know that??? facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1054851061236156&set=a.177146295673308.52757.100001338158061&type=3&theater
If you cannot open this picture - the oil level is paralel to the ground leven when on the side stand. When you ride, taking corner the oil level stays paralel to the crankshaft axis for instance. Why? Cause that is a basic physics my friend. As a biker you should know that as good as where is a front wheel of your motorbike.
I hope you didn't took it as an offense, I was curious and for a moment I didn't realized what actually happens inside. what so called maybe a stupid question. but that's how we learn. do you have any experience with these so called royal enfields? I thinking to get a standard bullet as my next bike.
Hi. No offense at all. I just hear that over and over. I am glad you are open minded person that intend to learn. I own Royal Enfield C5 and I am Royal Enfield Club Poland member. I know older bullets engines too (I'm internal combustion engines engineer). If you like to ride and you ride a lot I would suggest UCE engine: more reliable, better lubrication system allows to take higher load for long time, no need to adjust valves, electronic ignition system (or even fuel injection in EFI models). What else would you like to know?
Now that they've unfortunately discontinued these, I hope they come back with a similar model or meteor with the 650 twin. 270° crank and very smooth. I think it would be a great ride.
This bike would be fantastic if there were a 750 version. I love the way it looks but for a person (such as myself) that's, 6'1" and 225lbs, it's just not enough motor. Even if they put the 650 on it, it would be better. Overall, Royal Enfield is making a strong statement in the motorcycle world and, if they continue to make good decisions, they should be making their mark for some time to come.
I bought my 2013 B5 Bullet based more on feel and sound rather than looks, though it does look great. It no longer has that dreadful EFI, it has been trash canned and replaced with an Amal carburetor. And that horrible 50 pound torpedo of an exhaust has been replaced with an aftermarket pipe similar to what the '08 and older Bullets had, with no baffles. It now runs and sounds WAY better than it originally did.
I had a bike (a Honda CT 90) that used the same style of rear drive (bushings in the wheel). It would also go about 60 miles per hour if I pushed it hard, and rode nicely at 45 or 50 miles per hour (80 km/hr). Did they make the 500 cc equivalent of my Honda CT 90? Wild...
Great review Gizmag, could not agree more with everything. I Regularly drive trough all of those Yarra Blvd, Eastern freeway areas featured in your video. Also had a classic 500 back in India for a while. I reckon they look better with both seats (but personal preference really!). I would say the bike fits a completely different purpose and appeal when used in Australia compared to India however.
I have had the pleasure of riding it on freeways, dirt roads, suburban roads and highways. Multirole is perhaps the right way to attribute the machine.
Brilliant review... btw.. 90% of Indian bikes have alteast 1 drum brake. I laughed so hard at your joke that they were extinct. Really nice review. About the vibration...I heard you can fill sand inside the handlebar to reduce it a bit. Adding a filter and few tweaks should easily keep it at 120 smooth.
Some bikes won't start when side stand is on cos there s been instances where ppl forget to pull it up before ride and topple and skid at left hand turns cos the un pulled stand lifts the rear wheel. Hope that explains.
it's not a fat tourer. but on the other hand it's a bike which take the world to himalayas. lastly it's gonna be smooth after a 50 kms of highway haul...
Eu regs for sidestand switching Cush drive back wheel standard in the late 1960s makes for easier puncture repair without readjusting the chain and takes half the time. There is a fuel warning and trip .
I'm into 80s inline four's and v four's. I can appreciate the classic charm of the royal. You gotta be an Indi rock scooter guru. Cows have right of way in traffic.
me too and when i went to my bike shop to buy a new used bike (i wanted the honda vfr800) i came home with a 796 Ducati and now im a vtwin addict or L twin as Ducati calls it...i discovered really fast that i dont like going much past 100 mph (that pavement looks extremely abrasive at that speed)
+phil tripe you made the right now then, the VFR800's natural cruising speed seems to be about 100mph, that's when they start to feel like they're getting in the zone.
Interesting. The CGT rides like a 400F with a big single dropped into it. Not as smooth and not as quick but compare the frames, surprise, the CGT is more modern.
You're dead on there Jeff - totally different experiences. I find I can zen out when I'm going quick, the white lines are a meditation that puts me in the moment. But you do miss out on smelling the coffee and appreciating where you're riding. I haven't found a bike yet that can do both, because if a bike can go fast, that's what I'll do more or less all day long. Maybe this is something that'll change with time.
If you change the front and rear sprocket, dual exhaust and custom intake, would the bike be needed on the freeway? I am looking into this bike or other variant to drive here in Souther California.
I've heard some comments on UA-cam of people saying that parts tend to break or fall off these bikes, including things such as the spikes of the wheels, parts that leave the rear wheel wabbling and the biker on the verge of a catastrophic event... I LOVE the looks of these bikes, but these comments sent shivers down my spine... Do such things really tend to happen with these motorcycles?
This is for those who want to buy a 40's harley, a 60's bmw, a old triumph or even a english made enfield, but do not want to spend too much money and time restoring the vehicle. This motorcycle gives the feeling of piloting a classic bike, without the fear of breaking or abusing the old mechanisms... The big mistake that people do is think that a Royal Enfield will perform like a modern cruiser, or a freaking sportsbike... Everyone who says that it sucks for vibrating, are the same people who wanna run apple's appstore on a nokia 3310.
u r absolutely right...
Then why buy a 3310 in the first place?
This motorcycle is legend. All metal, no plastic. It brings man tears to my eyes when i see this motorcycle. In today's modern world, people don't much appreciate such styled motorcycle
Maaz Ahmed well said...👍
i think u shoud visit Kerala n Punjab (India)where Royal enfield is like beat of our heart and its the dream of many teenagers to own one
Believe me, a lot of people appreciate them. That's why they're selling so well.
Right.
You need to wait for at least 2 to 6 month due to advance booking.
I absolutely love this motorcycle!! I firmly believe it’s one of the most beautiful, classic looking motorcycles (available) on the road.
Harley Davidson does not stand a chance next to Enfield in India ... I used to own one in India and will buy one when I go back home !! Love India Love RE
what's it like to ride round India, like to have a ride one day.
@@tub19 well depends on what roads you take and kind of people you ride with.
@@tub19 Leh-Ladakh tour is a must on any biker's 'bucket list'.
How many price this Royal enfield?
@@bharatbojorangbal7523 'Battle Green' is not available in India, to civilians. Other variants of C500 are 2.2 to 2.6 Lakhs INR (varies as per States Road Tax etc)
go to 115km/h and vibration is more bearable, used it as a commuter for a year, freeway every day, it can handle it.
I was reading another review somewhere and the comments were saying that the vibrations are the worst on 500s that aren't properly run-in yet. Something to the tune of about 5000km+ the vibration lessen...
Then you don't know about cruise meaning leave
aussiejohn1987 it’s true, the vibes decrease as they get run in. Mine has nearly 40,000km now. At between 70 to 80 km/h you feel the vibes at their worst. Smoothes out at 90 and is okay at 100.
Use fuly senthetic engin oil which will reduce vibration by 50 %
My 2009 Classic Bullet 500 has a decent Mostyn 18" reverse megaphone that accidentally had the middle baffle plate smacked out of it when it came out of the box, I use Penrite 15W-50 oil with 20% Morey's Oil Stabiliser and Morey's Upper Cylinder Lubricant/Fuel Injector Cleaner in each tank full.
I have 29000kms on the clock and I live in the Northern Territory outside of Darwin, and "Roy" sees 300-400 kms each weekend in either severe heat and or rain.
Roy sits comfortably on 100-110 kmh and hits 120kmh overtaking often.
When you ride an Enfield, you have to stop embarrassing it by thinking of it as a friendly old horse.
Even draught horses like a gallop.
So don't ride the Enfield like it was a Katana or Ducati, but do yourself and your Enfield by just riding it like a bike.
Yeah they have the vibrations at some point in the revs but you get used to that very quickly.
My Enfield has never let me down and goes as strong (stronger ) than when I got it.
I love my Royal Enfield and it even gets let in the house at night because it doesn't leak oil.
Yep, I've got a 2017 Classic 500 in Classic Black, and I love it. Others have already commented on how vibrations go down after proper break in.
I want this to be my first bike, here in austin texas. thanks for the review.
Hey it's 2019
My first bike, back in 1975, was a 1969 Yamaha 100 L5T (don't laugh, I was fourteen years old). It was supposed to be a street and trail bike back in the day and had a dual transmission, street and trail ranges. Had lots of fun on it, and it would cruise at around fifty MPH on the street (where I was too young to ride, but did it anyway). Beyond antiquated for these days, but the old bikes were fun. Watching this video reminded me of those low-tech, low-speed, fun old days.
This is a piece of cake ... Indians love those nowadays.... even youngsters got bored of speed bikes like KTM dukes or Ninjas
This is a perfect bike ..
Pls just check out for Royal Enfield - Thunderbird
I own a ‘19 Harley Road King and I absolutely love this little Royal Enfield. I’d be proud to own one.
Indian people sure are proud of Royal Enfield, my Indian friends are always talking about the Bullet. lol. They are very beautiful bikes and I'm sure in India at slower speeds these are more than capable of keeping up with traffic but I would not want to ride one for maybe more than a day in Australia or in the US.
I rode a Hero Honda in Sri Lanka and it was a blast so Im not a Indian motorcycle hater.
They have a strong following in England too. The plentiful supply of spares from India for old bikes helps. The 'export' bikes do have a higher spec. Not the world's fastest bike yet they can keep up with traffic on british motorways where the cars travel around 80mph despite our 70mph speed limit. It is not lack of power restricting top speed but running out of revs, they're a trifle under geared. But motorways are boring and there are plenty of lesser roads to use which are more enjoyable.
Nevermind keeping up with traffic, you can pass most of it.
I have ridden with Harleys and the RE can thread through traffic better than they can.
Whilst not the fastest bike in the world, it is not all that slow, but it does need to be fully run in to develop this potential.
It likes cruising at 45-65 mph which suits most of our roads and will fast-cruise at 70mph sitting upright. Realistic top speed about 80mph so it can and will cope with UK motorway traffic, pass the trucks and so on.
You do seem to have problems with service provision. We are having issues with the UK importer. Most of our dealerships though have been in the bike business for years and can service a bike in a couple of hours. Most of us get the first service done and then annual to maintain warranty. Mainly we do our own servicing.
Todd Sadler , I don't enjoy riding on our motorways but have to (have had to) routinely ride several miles continuously at 80+mph and pipped 85mph, probably by drafting. I know the speedo isn't lying because that's the speed cars go at on our "70mph" motorways. Our motorways are not fun on any bike.
Riding motorcycle is an experience, It's didn't build for motorways.
Definitive video for those who wonder what the fuss is about Royal Enfield .Its not about speed or performance. As he says - just you and the bike
I have one and everyone says that the vibrations tend to reduce after 1000 miles. I am finding that to be somewhat true
I've ridden one of these over the Rohtang pass. Lets see anyone do that on a Harley!
😂😂😂u clearly have no grasp of a spec sheet
@@maadhujovi9528 And what is that supposed to mean??
@@CornishMotorcycleDiaries why do u think harleys are incapable of doing it?
@@maadhujovi9528 Because I've owned several and ridden many others. I don't need to read a spec sheet. How many Harleys have you ridden or owned? huh? The trouble with people like you is that you are quick to be unnecessarily rude rather than post a polite comment asking why I have made that comment.
@@CornishMotorcycleDiaries ooo....good good.suddenly a 19bhp machine is better than a 57 bhp machine😂😂😂you are a fan bhai.nothing more.
After riding my cousin's royal enfield classic 350, i fell in love with it and i sold my ktm duke 250 and bought a royal enfield. All my friend and family member say that i'm a fool for selling ktm to buy a royal enfield classic.. i just laugh and didnt say a thing because you cannot explain the feelings you have when riding an enfield compares with other motorcycles.
I saw your Continental GT review a while ago, so had high hopes for this video. Brilliant work, Sir.
Probably the best Royal Enfield Bullet review I have seen. Great video.
One day I might still buy one - even with 40 years of HD's in me...and 2 currently in the garage (Softail and Limited) I still love these old-but-new bikes!
I tell ya, I just traded my 2015 Street 500 for a Royal Enfield Classic 500. The Harley had been gathering dust in my garage because there just wasn't any compelling reason to ride it. This RE, on the other hand, is a joy to ride. It's not going to set any speed records, but I'm not a 22 year old idiot any more.
I still have my Harley, but the Enfield has a special place in my heart and my carport.
it's really unfortunate that RE stopped the production of classic 500, battle green and desert storm are personal favorites
Always love your videos, cheeky by nature.
how about my ride videos ?
This review was poetic. Kudos, mate!
Awesome bike review, thanks, you've just convinced me to buy one
coolest bullet review ever done....
It is not a bullet
For Indians it is Bullet... I must also add that though the review is good, the bike is trash. At least one's that are sold in India.
@@amitgeorge2414 classic and bullet are two different bike
You (and the butcher) convinced me. I want one.
My first love with motorcycles started from RE Classic 500 !
I do like even I have one of this and I do appreciate when riders filter and cut down all other motorcycles and start believing on ROYAL ENFIELD....❤❤❤
A couple of thoughts. I had a 500 classic. LOVED that bike. (sold for financial reasons) The vibration at speed is horrific. (50 mph is the sweet spot..SMOOTH) This thing needs another gear or a taller sprocket if they want it to work in the US. Hand numbing. I put on heavy, thick, padded grips and that took care of that problem. Mirrors are a useless blur. The brakes are (a little) better than you say. An aftermarket exhaust and a K & N filter let the poor thing breathe and really pepped it up. I fitted a sidecar onto mine and it drew a lot of admiring looks... It was fun. The torque made the weight of it do-able but the wind resistance was an impenetrable wall at 60mph... the good news is it removed all vibration. One more thing: It is too expensive here in the US. $5,400 ? It would cost half that in India. You can get FAR more capable bikes for that price.
Which one's can you buy for this price? And which one's will bring provide you with the old school character that this motorbike provides?
Yeah, mine is tuned up a bit and has gone ton-up, but at a price of throwing money at it, K&N, PCV etc. And if you want a fast bike this is the wrong one. Where it excels are back roads 9-ft wide country lanes poddling along at 40-50 with the odd squirt of 60-ish if we're being legal, and where any straight bits test the suspension like a fairground ride.
The vibrations though, after it has been run in for 1000 miles, gradually change up later through the gears for about 500 miles, eventually getting over 5200rpm and italian tune up; this beds the bearings, shafts and journals in, and the tingly bar vibrations diminish, a lot. If you do this earlier you will hammer them oval,. This is also why if the engine is thrashed during running in, the bearings get hammered oval and it will always vibrate like a road drill.
This can be done at any mileage after running in, I know one chap who did it successfully after 25,000 miles.
Don't blame the bearings, they're the same ones used by HD, it's just that big singles can hammer bearings flat.
With that done the sweet spot shifts to 65-70mph (about 4200rpm) even on stock models. Wind buffeting above 70 is unpleasant though, and I hate riding on motorways because they're so mind-numbingly boring.
High tork and a little bit of vibrations are part of the fun...
Outselling Harleys😗, royal enfield has gone way beyond than that.
It is the only legendary bike maker that is selling more than Harleys, Indian, triumph even combined every year.
And it's buyers are not grandpa's but young and middle age guys.
Haha true, youngsters like Enfield, I'm 22 I own a Thunderbird 500X.
Love my classic chrome.with full running in you can lose the bad vibes.it's a bike to chill out on.
I really liked the video. That's a beautiful color of Classic 500, which,unfortunately, is not available in India right now. Your sarcastic comments about its technology was all over the video. It lags behind in technology but the riding is really a great experience always.
I like all your moto videos, but your Enfield reviews are extra special. I plan (or hope) to buy one in the near future.
+Tom OfNorthCal they're certainly a unique brand. Nobody else does a true modern classic.
The chain and sprockets staying on the swingarm was common on swingarm bikes of the 50s era, nice to see it retained, makes it simpler to do roadside repair of tire, which I hope is still tubed
Royal Enfield classic 500cc is my DREAM ❤️
Gotta love this bike for what it is, and not hate it for what it is not. I greatly enjoy my classic 500 (with rear disc brakes). If I want to get after it and cover miles, I hop aboard the BMW R1200RT. If I want to just enjoy the breeze and go back to a simpler time in motorcycling history, the Classic 500 is PERFECT.
Ono of the most entertaining bike reviews I've seen. Love it!
Outselling harley davidson...with proud...!
Outselling the combined weight of BMW, Ducati and Triumph.
Well, 1 bln potential clients in it's local market only ;)
And yet it is not the best selling brand in India where it is considered expensive, something of a status symbol, and they buy smaller cheaper bikes for daily transport. The export market is good in Europe, Australia/NZ and S.America
Why you Engrish so brad :(
When will grammar Nazis like you understand that it is not everyone's first language?
There's another version of this motorcycle. that is useable for some off road use. that is very much like this one, except that all the chrome bits are blacked out. and it has different tires. one thing is for sure they are tractor.
Love from India . U are the best motor bike reviewer.
Apparently the vibrations settle down appreciably after the bike is run in at about 10,000 - brakes bed in and all things tend to get generally more zen.
I was looking for this video again for sometime now for purely this part of the video @7:06, thank you.
90 to 100 kmph is the best way to ride this bike :)
...and safe speed too, I'd rather run on that speed with that classic bike than 120 on a gay plastic-y gimmick motorcycles nowadays....streets are not race tracks
Loved it mate! It's reviews like yours that I'm off to pick one up next week (A Pegasus). Only problem, I'm in the south of England, and it's in the north, so it'll be possibly just run in by the time I get home! Thanks! PS: And Mongolia! that fecking does it! A man after my own heart!
How do you like your Pegasus? I pick mine up tomorrow in the States
Hi mate,sorry about the delay! I love this bike! Hope you have a smile on your face when you ride your Pegasus. I can't wipe the smile off mine :) 2000 miles and it's been run in nice and does 90mph and 90mpg! I'm going to keep it FOR EVER! A real beauty!
Nice point of view ! But you are missing the point why it was made . It is not meant to be buttery smooth nor rev high . Its a freeway cruiser , well at least in India. I have one of those and it costed me just 2000 dollars . I got to ride a KTM Duke 390 for months , but I love the classic more . Despite minor flaws , It has a charm that melts your soul . Sorry that you did not get to experience that.
The roads in Australia are vastly different - very smooth and the traffic is very orderly. This bike struggles to keep up on the freeway here! But as a backstreet bike around town, it does make sense. And I do get a sense for why people love them, I do understand the charm. At $2000, it would be a great bargain. They're closer to $9000 here, which puts them in competition with far more capable bikes like the SV650 etc - but nothing has the classic look like the Enfields do, and nothing gives you the same simple riding experience either, so there's definitely a place in the market for them.
I agree with what you said .The $9000 dollar price tag is no way justifiable . It is a total shock to me that it is priced that high. I would have gone for a entry level Harley or a Moto Guzzi for 9k.
Maybe people here in RE should not cling on only to the legacy and the classic looks but also work on the technology, to deliver a freeway friendly motorbike . Cheers !
Harleys cost twice that over here minimum... Guzzis too. And apparently the export Enfield is a very different beast to the domestic one in terms of materials, quality and finish.
It's very pricey here if you take it in terms of performance... But then, nobody else is making a true modern classic like these, and you'd never get the same amount of attention on something that goes quicker.
+gizmag Oh , Ok . But the export version of Royal Enfield Classic 500 is the same as the domestic version except that the Indian version lacks the lambda o2 sensor in the ECU . From mid 2014 , Materials , Fit and Finish and the Quality is all the same sir .
Interesting - the importers here were talking about different wheels, tyres, even the spokes were unchromed on the domestic version. And the handlebars being made of cheaper metal to the point where their lead mechanic was able to bend one with his hands.
Phouc dat with clothes to match haha. I like this bike. basic is so dam enjoyable. may go from m XJR1200 to one of these happily. nice review
Vid tells it perfectly, I worked at a dealer ship, here is some of our set up protocol, tossed battery that came with it and installed a modern sealed unit, Test low fuel indicator light working, it should come with the 7" headlamp option stock, night time riding not safe with 5" lamp. tighten all bolts, do an oil and filter change install Castrol full synthetic, ck chain and master clip direction. etc. One thing not mentioned in vid is shifting. Its not bad but you need to be deliberate when you shift, it is not as silky smooth as a Japanese transmission ...just leave it in 4th gear and you can motor on forever
I enjoy your videos thank you very much. Just leaning in my own and this bike is sharp. Yes
One of the best reviewer of UA-cam!!!! Love and respect from India. Hope to see your videos soon mate, for no reasons I cannot find your gsxs1000 and speed triple, the Yamaha Mt video. God knows what the issue is.....
BOYS RIDES BIKE...MAN RIDES MACHINE ...MADE LIKE A GUN.....
Why it doesn't start on side stand is probably due to the “Roll Over Sensor” which switches off Ignition and cut off fuel supply as it detects tilt. That's a safety feature I suppose. Nice review thanks.
Bhupinder Singh ... those brilliant Indians " safety comes first "..
Simple - I disconnected the switch and it will now start on side stand.
Maybe its an Australian market thing because mine starts on the side stand no problem.
Beautiful Colour .. Beautiful Bike... Legendary Bike ....
where can I repaint my classic 500 black to battle green in Bangalore India...am in love with this color
Phouc dat (fuck dat) bahahahaha you had me in stitches cuz!
+MyRandomLife247 I've been hanging to use that in a video for years!
Someboory give this guy a medal
MyRandomLife247 RE Himalayan review plz
Wuff... love that starting sound
These bikes sell well here in Asia. The reason being they are mechanically simple, metal parts can be easily "repaired" by anyone, they are more affordable that western bikes, they are light enough for most smaller statured east Asians, most Asian roads and traffic don't allow you to go over 80kph. There is little opportunity to really make use of a 1000cc+ bike, so these are powerful enough for most any need.
It doesn't want start on the side stand for one and simple reason - the oil pump is located on the right side, so on the side stand the oil pump sucks only the air and the engine works with no lubrication.
I know some people remove that side stand switch but if you leave your bike to warm up on the side stand - you're slowly but surely killing your engine.
So i assume left turns must be very brief aswell.
Ahhh, why people always do that. Come on! Don't you really know that???
facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1054851061236156&set=a.177146295673308.52757.100001338158061&type=3&theater
If you cannot open this picture - the oil level is paralel to the ground leven when on the side stand. When you ride, taking corner the oil level stays paralel to the crankshaft axis for instance. Why? Cause that is a basic physics my friend. As a biker you should know that as good as where is a front wheel of your motorbike.
I hope you didn't took it as an offense, I was curious and for a moment I didn't realized what actually happens inside. what so called maybe a stupid question. but that's how we learn. do you have any experience with these so called royal enfields? I thinking to get a standard bullet as my next bike.
Hi. No offense at all. I just hear that over and over. I am glad you are open minded person that intend to learn.
I own Royal Enfield C5 and I am Royal Enfield Club Poland member. I know older bullets engines too (I'm internal combustion engines engineer). If you like to ride and you ride a lot I would suggest UCE engine: more reliable, better lubrication system allows to take higher load for long time, no need to adjust valves, electronic ignition system (or even fuel injection in EFI models). What else would you like to know?
Fun review! I like your comedic approach to it but it is a cool bike
Now that they've unfortunately discontinued these, I hope they come back with a similar model or meteor with the 650 twin. 270° crank and very smooth. I think it would be a great ride.
Great review. I wouldn't buy one, but hey, every one to their own.
A QD rear wheel (quick detach) used to be a common selling feature on lots of bikes.
I really enjoyed this.
I miss these video reviews.
This bike would be fantastic if there were a 750 version. I love the way it looks but for a person (such as myself) that's, 6'1" and 225lbs, it's just not enough motor. Even if they put the 650 on it, it would be better. Overall, Royal Enfield is making a strong statement in the motorcycle world and, if they continue to make good decisions, they should be making their mark for some time to come.
Hi Sir,
Plz choose between Bullet 500 vs Classic 500
what are the pro and cons of this both
Please give me the clear picture
The Vietnamese butcher rocks. Love the Yarra boulevard, you wont get caught for speeding on the RE ;>)
+Bikes & Drones first time I've taken a test bike down there and not had to look over my shoulder!
gizmag :>)
I bought my 2013 B5 Bullet based more on feel and sound rather than looks, though it does look great. It no longer has that dreadful EFI, it has been trash canned and replaced with an Amal carburetor. And that horrible 50 pound torpedo of an exhaust has been replaced with an aftermarket pipe similar to what the '08 and older Bullets had, with no baffles. It now runs and sounds WAY better than it originally did.
I had a bike (a Honda CT 90) that used the same style of rear drive (bushings in the wheel). It would also go about 60 miles per hour if I pushed it hard, and rode nicely at 45 or 50 miles per hour (80 km/hr). Did they make the 500 cc equivalent of my Honda CT 90? Wild...
Yeaaaaah another good old review! Keep it comin!
Great review Gizmag, could not agree more with everything. I Regularly drive trough all of those Yarra Blvd, Eastern freeway areas featured in your video. Also had a classic 500 back in India for a while. I reckon they look better with both seats (but personal preference really!).
I would say the bike fits a completely different purpose and appeal when used in Australia compared to India however.
I have had the pleasure of riding it on freeways, dirt roads, suburban roads and highways. Multirole is perhaps the right way to attribute the machine.
Brilliant review... btw.. 90% of Indian bikes have alteast 1 drum brake. I laughed so hard at your joke that they were extinct. Really nice review. About the vibration...I heard you can fill sand inside the handlebar to reduce it a bit. Adding a filter and few tweaks should easily keep it at 120 smooth.
This is a real motorcycle....no gimmicks, no unnecessary speed (dumb street racing)....just enjoyable classic ride ...
Yes I'm a fan.
Some bikes won't start when side stand is on cos there s been instances where ppl forget to pull it up before ride and topple and skid at left hand turns cos the un pulled stand lifts the rear wheel. Hope that explains.
Perfect video for my beauty...
1:05 bro. This is heritage. Very respectable bike.
I love Royal Enfield Classic 500cc pegasus. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
it's not a fat tourer. but on the other hand it's a bike which take the world to himalayas. lastly it's gonna be smooth after a 50 kms of highway haul...
Eu regs for sidestand switching
Cush drive back wheel standard in the late 1960s makes for easier puncture repair without readjusting the chain and takes half the time.
There is a fuel warning and trip .
I'm into 80s inline four's and v four's. I can appreciate the classic charm of the royal. You gotta be an Indi rock scooter guru. Cows have right of way in traffic.
me too and when i went to my bike shop to buy a new used bike (i wanted the honda vfr800) i came home with a 796 Ducati and now im a vtwin addict or L twin as Ducati calls it...i discovered really fast that i dont like going much past 100 mph (that pavement looks extremely abrasive at that speed)
+phil tripe you made the right now then, the VFR800's natural cruising speed seems to be about 100mph, that's when they start to feel like they're getting in the zone.
Interesting. The CGT rides like a 400F with a big single dropped into it. Not as smooth and not as quick but compare the frames, surprise, the CGT is more modern.
On a fast bike I return from a ride with a lasting impression of black asphalt and white lines, no memory of the scenery.
You're dead on there Jeff - totally different experiences. I find I can zen out when I'm going quick, the white lines are a meditation that puts me in the moment. But you do miss out on smelling the coffee and appreciating where you're riding. I haven't found a bike yet that can do both, because if a bike can go fast, that's what I'll do more or less all day long. Maybe this is something that'll change with time.
Those footpegs are a safety issue imho. Should be part of import compliance regs to have them fold.
I got a 2016 Bullet 500 as my first bike :) I think I'm ready for a bigger bike, but I can't bring myself to let go of my Bullet.
ive had a few of these bikes...how right you are...lol
Omg so fun narration. You rock man !!!!!!! Hahah nice..
Why your channel does not make more of awesome motorcycle review videos?
why a low 8.5 : 1 comp. ratio, what are its advantages, what if the ratio us increased?
Hopefully if this takes off in the US other manufacturers like Harley will bring back their REAL retro bikes.
If you change the front and rear sprocket, dual exhaust and custom intake, would the bike be needed on the freeway? I am looking into this bike or other variant to drive here in Souther California.
your reviews are awesome
Really informative and to the point review. The last bit was genius :P
The big ass part really got me into this bike ahahah
nice review anyway
Roman chariot style...LMAO. great honest review and i want to buy one now.
The Roman Chariot left me laughing for a long time 😂
Once run in properly the vibrations disappear, mine is currently at 3k and running smooth
Excellent and practical
5th gear, 80 Kmph on a long stretch. Nirvana 😄
I've heard some comments on UA-cam of people saying that parts tend to break or fall off these bikes, including things such as the spikes of the wheels, parts that leave the rear wheel wabbling and the biker on the verge of a catastrophic event... I LOVE the looks of these bikes, but these comments sent shivers down my spine... Do such things really tend to happen with these motorcycles?
No, not in my experience over 32.000km in 7 years.
Battle green is my dream bike
Great review ! Now let me know how tall you are and how much do you weigh so I can finally make up my mind and get myself one of these ! TIA