Absolutely love my Interceptor it has an intangible, visceral quality that makes it an absolute joy. When I think of the ridiculous amounts of money I've spent on the latest and greatest machines, with all the bells and whistles, and it turns out all I needed was an Enfield 650. Who'd have thought it?
I find the same thing back in the late '80s when i got a triumph 750. It was so easy to ride, very forgiving. No it wasn't as fast as the Honda 750/4 i had, but it was so much fun i didn't care. It was incredibly reliable as well. I think the interceptor might be right for me nowadays.
Hello from Brazil! Excelent video, you just undestand the exact soul of the Interceptor 650. I had lots of bikes in the past, several Bandits (600, 650, 1200, 1250), Triumph Sprint ST, Suzuki Katana 750, Vstrom 650 and 1000, Triumph Tiger 800 and finaly BMW GS 1200 ADV. The BMW is the queen of technology, kind of the alpha predator. But lately I was wishing something more humble, simple, just to enjoy the ride and life. In a basic way. Tried the Interceptor, and was love at first sight. Sheer motorcycling pleasure in its roots! Oh, and she cost no big money! Great bike, able to give to a mature biker everything he/she wants.
Having just retired and coming back to motorcycling, a very good friend offered me the opportunity to buy his 2020 Interceptor (1500 miles), at mates rates, I just had to...😊. The bike is still factory standard other than a change to the touring seat. I absolutely love this bike, it's fairly comfortable, has easily enough power, speed and braking for my more mature riding standard, just love it. It looks stunning when polished up and turns heads whenever I stop. Thank you for your views and safe riding 🎉
Exactly......there is nothing about the Interceptor that is exceptional in any way, but it does everything well enough if you don't have road racer aspirations. In that way it reminds me of another bike I had many moons ago, a Honda CX500. With bikes like these it's all about the package, and how the different elements come together to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts. It looks great, it's affordable, it's fun and it's fast enough for sensible real world use.
I bought an interceptor as my first bike after leaving to ride in my 30s. I've fitted heated grips and a USB charger and I've ridden to work nearly every day for the last year. I am really enjoying owning and maintaining it. It feels like I can go anywhere and do anything. And yes, my clocks condensate up regularly when it's damp
I bought one about 3 weeks ago. An impulse buy as I tend to do and I have to say it's the best bike I've ever owned. Is it perfect, no it isn't. Is it super fast, no it isnt. Is it laden with electronics you don't need or will ever use, no again! What it is though is an honest back to basics motorcycle that will do everything you ask it to do in the style it was designed for. Royal Enfield certainly knew what they were doing when they made the Interceptor and I reckon they got it pretty much spot on. Great review!
If only the manufacturers would cut the crap and just make good basic old school bikes life would be wonderful 😊 ease of maintenance is also a bonus 👍 thanks for a great review Kate 👌🏍🏁
I couldn't agree more. I find myself thinking exactly that while watching reviews of bikes with fantastic engines and wishing that they'd do a version with no tech whatsoever.
I’ve had my INT650 about 9 months and love it. I’ve added the $20USD Hitchcock stem clock and Enfield Precision slip-on pipes. The pipes go more straight back and give room for larger saddle bags. An added bonus is a Harley or Indian type sound on acceleration. The Madstad quick release small fly screen / touring screen is a game changer. I’ve gone on camping trips with it carrying full gear. I also did a group ride the other day with 20 bikers in the mountains and I easily kept up with guys riding 1200s and 1800s. The acceleration off the line isn’t as good but it does pretty well and I can easily cruise at 80 mph or more. If you are looking into one of these you won’t be disappointed!
I rode one for the first time on Saturday. It reminded me a lot of my Triumph Bonnie circa 1973 - easy to ride. It surprised me how zippy it was for a 650. It's a bike that doesn't make you ride to fast (unlike the new 765 RS ) but it can go fast-ish. An impressive bike for the size and money. Gives you confidence - like you say not intimidating!
Every RE I’ve owned has the clock misting idiosyncrasy. Brilliant ‘Everyman’ affordable, economical, easy to live with and enjoyable motorcycle. Thanks for sharing your understanding of it. 👍
I've had mine for three years now, I bought it for it's old school charm for sunny Sundays but I enjoy it so much I ride it more than my other bikes (a 2014Vstrom 650, and a gen 1 SV650 that I restored to mint original condition. I've done 10,000 miles on it now and thoroughly enjoy it , the only mods are Hagon shocks, soft pannier rails and a quadlock phone mount and USB charger plug . The clocks misting up is more frequent through the winter months but doesn't occur in the summer, and it's only the lower part of the clocks, it doesn't bother me that much as I enjoy the ride of the bike and the road and scenery,and as long as I can glance at the speedo when I need to that's ok. One of my favourite rides is through the Trough of Bowland, this bike is ideal for those roads 👌 Great review glad you enjoyed the bike!👍 Oh and I'm no spring chicken by the way , I'm 68 and been riding for 52 years, but mentally still 30 ! 😆
I have a GS and one of these. I uprated to YSS shocks, K&N air filter, the bar end mirrors, the seat from the Continental and the RE screen. It’s my bike for just wandering, it joined me on a very relaxed NC500, has been to Norway and the South of France. It takes you to the beautiful scenery, but copes with the motorway to get there. The engine is a delight, and with 36” inside leg I don’t find myself cramped. It’s a Swiss Army knife bike, it does everything, just it doesn’t do it all perfectly.
Hi Kate, i found removing the sticker on the bottom of the clocks cured the slight misting problem and ive wired in my satnav, got heated grips and a small screen and now its a real go anywhere motorcycle. Dont forgot the 70mpg even having fun on it and yeah the fuel guage starts flashing with a gallon left in the tank. I came from a Vstrom 1000 and i dont miss the power too much. 😊
As a new rider I just bought a Chrome Int 650, love it, my days of going like the clappers topping the ton everywhere are long gone, police no longer have a sense of humour about such things and those speed cameras are a pain, the Int lets me smell the roses and just have fun at speeds where my licence is not at risk.
Just recently got the Continental GT and loving it ...returning to motorcycling after about 25 years absence. Done a bit of tinkering already. PS I had the condensation thing one morning but it was very humid.
I have owned 3 motorbikes in my life - a Honda CB100N (on which I passed my test back in the late 1970's!), a Triumph T140e (early 1980's, so a Meriden bike!) and a Royal Enfield 350 Bullet (made in India) army, with gearshift and brake pedal on the 'wrong' sides, in the late 2000's. I am considering getting another bike, and I do like the look of the present Royal Enfield selection, and the 650 looks like a very good bike for some getting back into biking in their early 60's! I have never been one to race around on a bike, s something more for 'pootling' around sounds great to me! Thanks for your views on this bike - you may have settled my mind on what to get! 👍
I stopped chopping and changing bikes when i got my Bonnie of similar vintage to yours back in the 80s, it was my everything bike. Many years later i took a break from having a bike, but returned recently with a Ducati monster 695. They are very light, which was a plus when getting used too biking again, and very good handling. It feels 'Bonnie' like to me. However, these Enfield 's are turning my head too. It'd be better for luggage than the Ducati, has ABS brakes and the Ducati has more power than i need and less tank range. If you're on a budget, you might be surprised by how good a little Monster feels.
Good to see you out & about. Whilst I often enjoy making progress ...a lot of satisfaction can be gained from easing off a bit, taking in less trunk roads & enjoying decent areas we ride within. Many faster bikes can also be ridden with a chilled mindset ....Also more time to react.
I would like to see Royal Enfield use the instruments that the new meteor 650 and all the 350s have. Maybe the switchgear too. Having said that, this is a wonderful motorcycle.
On mine I fitted Hagon shocks, if you put the rebound to the soft it totally transforms the ride and handling as to the front Hitchcocks 10% stiffer springs and change the fluid to 10W, some times they don't have the same in each leg from the manufacturer " like my didn't and quite abit different too" with all that done it rides good. By the way great vid
You were right the scenery on your latest videos has got better and better 👍👏👏👏.. use all the advantages of where you are.💕😎. Great reviews recently appreciate all the hard work you put in. Onwards to 1 million subscribers 🎉
Hi Kate, enjoyed your relaxed little bimble on the Interceptor, I think your summing up was pretty good and accurate, like you my main machine is a 1250 GS ADV, but I could well see it as a second bike. I would re-name it the Royal Enfield B road master. Thank you.
Excellent and enjoyable review Kate, you’ve nailed the reason this bike exists. RE have created their own market with a bike that makes sense. Thanks for the shoutout, I’m definitely no spring chicken lol.
Maybe because I started riding bikes in the late 70’s, or maybe it’s my choice of bikes now (Harley and Vespa and 35 year old YPVS) but I don’t find anything to complain about with the Enfield suspension😀. But it’s more likely that 48HP is more than enough for me nowadays. I catch myself looking at 100BHP+ bikes occasionally, but I know realistically I would never use the performance.
Your quite right Kate, I'm a older rider, I've been riding motorcycles for 50 years, owned various makes and sizes of bike's over the years, But I'm setting on owning a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 now, In my experience, I believe they are the best bike's on the market that suit myself now, I like to do all my own Servicing on them as well, Which is also an advantage with these Royal Enfield's 👍 Great video's Kate, Nice to see a young lady riding motorcycles, Very rare when I started riding motorcycles 👌 Cheers Paul
I wouldn't mind a Harry Enfield, absolutely perfect for pleasure riding in the countryside where I live, it would make a welcome change to having to consciously go slower and chill out - nice summing up Kate 👍
I’ve had my Inty for a year now and the points you have made are all valid. The condensation happened for me on the first day I got it, then disappeared until my first ride this year in February and was back again, but soon went. Many FB posts state to take the yellow stickers off under the clocks and that solves it, I am yet to do that. The seat I found a bit hard when riding for an hour plus, but when I had my bike shipped to Spain for a 5 day jaunt, being on it all day was not a problem. I just think both the seat and my arse needed breaking in and now it is a non issue. I will change the shocks and tyres soon, but not until I have got some more wear out of them. I do think that the common upgrades are done in many cases as people follow the herd and I think there must be so many hardly used, seats, shocks, mirrors, footrests,exhausts, tyres etc. etc. that you could almost build a new bike from what’s been taken off! I set myself a budget, so I only change stuff if it really needs it! Nice review but the way! 👍
At last someone who gets the bike ! My days of seeing a grey line and a green blur around me while riding are long gone ! Much prefer a nice tootle and seeing some countryside , they are very customisable but please please don't do a TMF ! You can make these bikes look very individual without involving someone that'll clean you out ....mine got lots of attention on the DGR yesterday among a lot of custom bikes and she's a keeper ! Just buy one you won't regret it !
I suspect RE will be a while getting that popular over here in the US. Dealer support, for now, is an issue. the bikes themselves are pretty nice. Quality is no longer the issue that it was made out to be. Personally, I would have been fine with one of these. My Kawasaki Vulcan S is a mostly simple motorcycle. I was impressed by the availability of a clock, fuel gauge and two trip meters. Woo hoo! It has two riding modes: On and off. My Yamaha YX600 Radian from 1987 did not have any of those things but was a blast to ride.
Agree with you Kate. A good ride-out is a good way of easing stress or worries- basically you are concentrating so hard on riding that any stresses are pushed out of the way.
Very nice interesting videos you make . Great motivator for my daughter. I love UK and your videos are full of scenic views of UK . LOVE IT. Keep it up
I've got a 650 conti love the bike yes you have to think about things more but it gets you involved in the ride rather than just opening it up as somebody said it reminds me of my bonnie in the seventies , done the speed thing in my early days (big Guzzi 1100) been riding since 1973 bit of an old git now but still love my bikes thanks for a great video
Great vid as always, you are so lucky living where you do. The roads look amazing, I live in the middle of Oxford and there are no roads like you've got round here.
Hi Kate lovely presentation of the inty 650, lovely country side. I have a question. Since im more of a sedate rider like the way you were riding here and enjoying. Maybe while touring long distances I may do 80 to 100kmph max. So im kind of confused between the inty 650 and the bullet 350(J series engine ) which also is butter smooth, lovely under thigh support, commanding postion and that seat is like a sofa on wheels by default.(the 350). The inty on the other hand demands a slightly committed posture and I feel my knees get a bit bent in ride postion . One of the main reasons im selling one of my bikes which demands such a posture. What tempts me is the 650s value for money, simple basic and reliable engineering (just like the 350) . Its a equal decision for the heart and mind for both . Just the bullet 350 is a newer iteration here in India and the maroon chrome standard is just WOW ! Which one would you opt for considering it isnt your first bike or the only bike in the garage? Just fyi most parts in india have speed limits up to 80, 100, 120 kmph. So the 350 can do 80 to 100 comfortably. I dont generally cross 100. Another reason im selling that bike. But the sound of the twin is music. Never been confused with a bike choice so far. Request your opinion.
Own one Enfield! I want more. Think the word "Chill" is my take on them. P.s A 40bhp Classic I'll be tempted by, must try the Meteor 650 as well. Oh be brill to hear what you and Mike think of the BSA Goldstar.
Awesome video! I love Lake District. Many fond memories. Great bike too. I did some bimbling today as a matter of fact. To be honest I did put her in Dynamic mode for a bit. Just to warm up. 😂 and that breakfast, when I get back I will definitely look Two Sister’s up. I love your videos. Best!
Yes the Hagons shocks are great - just put them on and in combo with YSS front upgrade make it fantastic ....Really nice summing up of a beautiful bike - they are a joy to own and keep getting better with every ride
Hi Kate, Yes I've had an Interceptor 650 for a year and a half now and sometimes there is a bit of misting in the clocks, never anything major. I did like the Twin exhausts but I changed mine to a two into one 'STINGER' exhaust from 'TEC'...and the sound is ..I.M.H.O...Epic. [ But as I always say..I ride bikes..I don't read them ] OK..now and again..so I can ride more bikes I'll throw a few in but on the whole I'll leave the 'real' stat reading to your good self lol. Love the vids. Happy riding.
I love my RE GT. Fits in nicely with my R1250RS and GSX-1000F. So easy to customise, reliable as hell and solid. She's almost 3 and so far no complaints. If I did have one or two it's the seat and the tank size. The LCS display is a bit small but a helluva lot easier to read than the on a Triumph Speed twin.
C’est une moto pour faire des balades éviter les autoroutes mais les petites départementales prendre sont temps regarder les paysages, la liberté en moto de légende merci pour cette vidéo
Great video and as ever very informative and balanced review. I love my Interceptor but I have had the issue with clocks misting a few times. Other than that the bike is faultless.
@@collyernicholasjohn the 743cc version (83.5mm pistons) is more compatible with the stock throttle bodies, injectors, ports and intake/exhaust valve sizes. Still makes 55 horsepower which is nice along with the added torque compared to stock.
Hi Kate great video I had one of first interceptors in 20 18 they are great bikes for the money really are I had no great problems yes the clocks do mist up you can rectify that by taking them apart and making a few mods or good old fairy liquid works I’ve had Triumphs twice the money do the same I’d definitely have another as a second bike keep up the good work Kate and ride safe
Good honest review Kate, you sum the bike up very accurately,very good value,and it’s fast enough for back roads, and cruising,if you wanted something fast you would choose a different bike,as it’s aimed at a different market, still enjoyable 🏍🇸🇪😎👍
Enjoyed the video and I agree that Royal Enfield machines are all the better for being simple, the way bikes used to be. Regarding the instrument fogging problem, I think you’ll find that all the 650 twins suffer from this, I have a 2021 Continental GT and whenever the weather is cool or damp the speedo and rev counter steam up on the inside and I’ve not heard of an effective cure, it’s strange.
Hi kate spoke to you at wray bike night I'm from kendal also have a royal enfield himalayan as one of my bikes and them roads round there are ruff as if you had taken a right at that pub the black labrador it's a brilliant road can take you through to bowness road gets better that way. keep up your good vids👍
Sometimes it takes a ride on a none fancy electronic overloaded bike to remember why got into Motorcycles in the first place 😎😎 I ride my T120 more than I ride my sport tourer it’s just so easy and light😎😎 lovely countryside wow just remember how lovely the countryside is in England.
It looks like you chose the best roads for the bike. These bikes interest me because they just plod along. Now that you have ridden a Royal Enfield, I think you should try to get a classic 500. I'll love to hear your thoughts on that.
I've got one. it's easy to ride. very economic, it doesn't shake itself to pieces like my old triumph /BSA/norton bikes ,a delightful clutch and g/box better than my vfr. Against , the front suspension is a bit harsh , the seat needs improving and the rear brake needs to be bent outwards for better feel.
@@UsernameKate riding a RE is the equivilant to a stroll. You dont have to sprint everywhere! Its also a very pure experience as you have no tech so they are great to learn on.
I find these newer bikes , with all there electronics etc are just like electric car mirrors 🤪, once you’ve set them up you never use them again . I’ve been riding 52 years and don’t bother with 95% of them . I know it’s cold outside ( outside temp gauge waste of space ) . 😂🙄🙄. I like the Enfield , just up the suspension and away you go 😊😊👍👍
"Soft" is what this bike's about. Can't chill is the first pot hole tries to knock your teeth out ;) I assume the rear has adjustable pre-load? If so, I would adjust it so that it matches the front. You're looking to match rider sag (i.e. where it sits with you on it) as a % of total available travel. I know you said you'd prefer it firmer, but even if it ends up real soft as a result, it'll handle a lot better. I would also check the damping on the front and back. It's probably not easily adjustable, but regardless, it's good to know if it's correctly damped or not. In case you don't know how to do it: hold the front brake, then firmly push the front down as far and as hard as you can (push along the fork axis). Then let the front come back up naturally. It should jump back up, stop at some point near the top of its travel and settle down. If it takes a while to come back up it's overdamped. If it stops and doesn't settle it's also likely overdamped. If it doesn't "settle", but keeps bouncing it's underdamped (try it on a stock MT-07, you'll see what I mean). Technically the ideal setting (stop high and settle down just a bit) is "underdamped" in strictest engineering terms, but it's only just a tiny bit and that's what's needed here. The rear is exactly the same as the front, except you push straight down. It should do the exact same thing. If both are damped and sprung correctly the bike should behave itself very well. It won't do anything "exciting" (other than let you admire the scenery, of course), but it won't do anything stupid either and should handle rough roads fairly well.
Hi Kate I think we have the same taste in breakfasts but we would differ on the royal Enfield. Looks like a good basic bike but would it become boring. A good second bike me thinks.
Bimble is a great word.i do Like the interceptor but if going back roading and small villages with 30 mph limits Find the scram 411 absolutely brilliant. Still may buy a 650 but think the 411 is a keeper. As for rider mods. No thanks. Nice video by the way.
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Absolutely love my Interceptor it has an intangible, visceral quality that makes it an absolute joy. When I think of the ridiculous amounts of money I've spent on the latest and greatest machines, with all the bells and whistles, and it turns out all I needed was an Enfield 650. Who'd have thought it?
I find the same thing back in the late '80s when i got a triumph 750. It was so easy to ride, very forgiving. No it wasn't as fast as the Honda 750/4 i had, but it was so much fun i didn't care. It was incredibly reliable as well. I think the interceptor might be right for me nowadays.
Hello from Brazil! Excelent video, you just undestand the exact soul of the Interceptor 650. I had lots of bikes in the past, several Bandits (600, 650, 1200, 1250), Triumph Sprint ST, Suzuki Katana 750, Vstrom 650 and 1000, Triumph Tiger 800 and finaly BMW GS 1200 ADV. The BMW is the queen of technology, kind of the alpha predator. But lately I was wishing something more humble, simple, just to enjoy the ride and life. In a basic way. Tried the Interceptor, and was love at first sight. Sheer motorcycling pleasure in its roots! Oh, and she cost no big money! Great bike, able to give to a mature biker everything he/she wants.
Having just retired and coming back to motorcycling, a very good friend offered me the opportunity to buy his 2020 Interceptor (1500 miles), at mates rates, I just had to...😊. The bike is still factory standard other than a change to the touring seat. I absolutely love this bike, it's fairly comfortable, has easily enough power, speed and braking for my more mature riding standard, just love it. It looks stunning when polished up and turns heads whenever I stop. Thank you for your views and safe riding 🎉
Exactly......there is nothing about the Interceptor that is exceptional in any way, but it does everything well enough if you don't have road racer aspirations. In that way it reminds me of another bike I had many moons ago, a Honda CX500. With bikes like these it's all about the package, and how the different elements come together to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts. It looks great, it's affordable, it's fun and it's fast enough for sensible real world use.
Nail on head 🔨😁
I bought an interceptor as my first bike after leaving to ride in my 30s. I've fitted heated grips and a USB charger and I've ridden to work nearly every day for the last year. I am really enjoying owning and maintaining it. It feels like I can go anywhere and do anything. And yes, my clocks condensate up regularly when it's damp
I bought one about 3 weeks ago. An impulse buy as I tend to do and I have to say it's the best bike I've ever owned. Is it perfect, no it isn't. Is it super fast, no it isnt. Is it laden with electronics you don't need or will ever use, no again! What it is though is an honest back to basics motorcycle that will do everything you ask it to do in the style it was designed for. Royal Enfield certainly knew what they were doing when they made the Interceptor and I reckon they got it pretty much spot on. Great review!
If only the manufacturers would cut the crap and just make good basic old school bikes life would be wonderful 😊 ease of maintenance is also a bonus 👍 thanks for a great review Kate 👌🏍🏁
I couldn't agree more. I find myself thinking exactly that while watching reviews of bikes with fantastic engines and wishing that they'd do a version with no tech whatsoever.
I’ve had my INT650 about 9 months and love it. I’ve added the $20USD Hitchcock stem clock and Enfield Precision slip-on pipes. The pipes go more straight back and give room for larger saddle bags. An added bonus is a Harley or Indian type sound on acceleration. The Madstad quick release small fly screen / touring screen is a game changer. I’ve gone on camping trips with it carrying full gear. I also did a group ride the other day with 20 bikers in the mountains and I easily kept up with guys riding 1200s and 1800s. The acceleration off the line isn’t as good but it does pretty well and I can easily cruise at 80 mph or more. If you are looking into one of these you won’t be disappointed!
I rode one for the first time on Saturday. It reminded me a lot of my Triumph Bonnie circa 1973 - easy to ride. It surprised me how zippy it was for a 650. It's a bike that doesn't make you ride to fast (unlike the new 765 RS ) but it can go fast-ish. An impressive bike for the size and money. Gives you confidence - like you say not intimidating!
Every RE I’ve owned has the clock misting idiosyncrasy. Brilliant ‘Everyman’ affordable, economical, easy to live with and enjoyable motorcycle. Thanks for sharing your understanding of it. 👍
New owner, can confirm.
Best part." I got no idea where I am!" Lol. A great sign of a fun ride.
I've had mine for three years now, I bought it for it's old school charm for sunny Sundays but I enjoy it so much I ride it more than my other bikes (a 2014Vstrom 650, and a gen 1 SV650 that I restored to mint original condition.
I've done 10,000 miles on it now and thoroughly enjoy it , the only mods are Hagon shocks, soft pannier rails and a quadlock phone mount and USB charger plug .
The clocks misting up is more frequent through the winter months but doesn't occur in the summer, and it's only the lower part of the clocks, it doesn't bother me that much as I enjoy the ride of the bike and the road and scenery,and as long as I can glance at the speedo when I need to that's ok.
One of my favourite rides is through the Trough of Bowland, this bike is ideal for those roads 👌
Great review glad you enjoyed the bike!👍
Oh and I'm no spring chicken by the way , I'm 68 and been riding for 52 years, but mentally still 30 ! 😆
I have a GS and one of these. I uprated to YSS shocks, K&N air filter, the bar end mirrors, the seat from the Continental and the RE screen. It’s my bike for just wandering, it joined me on a very relaxed NC500, has been to Norway and the South of France. It takes you to the beautiful scenery, but copes with the motorway to get there. The engine is a delight, and with 36” inside leg I don’t find myself cramped. It’s a Swiss Army knife bike, it does everything, just it doesn’t do it all perfectly.
Hi Kate, i found removing the sticker on the bottom of the clocks cured the slight misting problem and ive wired in my satnav, got heated grips and a small screen and now its a real go anywhere motorcycle.
Dont forgot the 70mpg even having fun on it and yeah the fuel guage starts flashing with a gallon left in the tank. I came from a Vstrom 1000 and i dont miss the power too much. 😊
As a new rider I just bought a Chrome Int 650, love it, my days of going like the clappers topping the ton everywhere are long gone, police no longer have a sense of humour about such things and those speed cameras are a pain, the Int lets me smell the roses and just have fun at speeds where my licence is not at risk.
Just recently got the Continental GT and loving it ...returning to motorcycling after about 25 years absence. Done a bit of tinkering already. PS I had the condensation thing one morning but it was very humid.
I have owned 3 motorbikes in my life - a Honda CB100N (on which I passed my test back in the late 1970's!), a Triumph T140e (early 1980's, so a Meriden bike!) and a Royal Enfield 350 Bullet (made in India) army, with gearshift and brake pedal on the 'wrong' sides, in the late 2000's. I am considering getting another bike, and I do like the look of the present Royal Enfield selection, and the 650 looks like a very good bike for some getting back into biking in their early 60's! I have never been one to race around on a bike, s something more for 'pootling' around sounds great to me! Thanks for your views on this bike - you may have settled my mind on what to get! 👍
I stopped chopping and changing bikes when i got my Bonnie of similar vintage to yours back in the 80s, it was my everything bike. Many years later i took a break from having a bike, but returned recently with a Ducati monster 695. They are very light, which was a plus when getting used too biking again, and very good handling. It feels 'Bonnie' like to me. However, these Enfield 's are turning my head too. It'd be better for luggage than the Ducati, has ABS brakes and the Ducati has more power than i need and less tank range. If you're on a budget, you might be surprised by how good a little Monster feels.
Good to see you out & about.
Whilst I often enjoy making progress ...a lot of satisfaction can be gained from easing off a bit, taking in less trunk roads & enjoying decent areas we ride within.
Many faster bikes can also be ridden with a chilled mindset ....Also more time to react.
I would like to see Royal Enfield use the instruments that the new meteor 650 and all the 350s have. Maybe the switchgear too. Having said that, this is a wonderful motorcycle.
I' M 70!!
AND I ENJOY MY INTERCEPTOR, TODAY WE WERE RIDING AT THE DGR 2023 IN MÉXICO CITY !!!!
On mine I fitted Hagon shocks, if you put the rebound to the soft it totally transforms the ride and handling as to the front Hitchcocks 10% stiffer springs and change the fluid to 10W, some times they don't have the same in each leg from the manufacturer " like my didn't and quite abit different too" with all that done it rides good. By the way great vid
You were right the scenery on your latest videos has got better and better 👍👏👏👏.. use all the advantages of where you are.💕😎. Great reviews recently appreciate all the hard work you put in. Onwards to 1 million subscribers 🎉
Hi Kate, enjoyed your relaxed little bimble on the Interceptor, I think your summing up was pretty good and accurate, like you my main machine is a 1250 GS ADV, but I could well see it as a second bike. I would re-name it the Royal Enfield B road master. Thank you.
Excellent and enjoyable review Kate, you’ve nailed the reason this bike exists. RE have created their own market with a bike that makes sense.
Thanks for the shoutout, I’m definitely no spring chicken lol.
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
Well done Kate. Great work.
Thank you so much! 🥰
Maybe because I started riding bikes in the late 70’s, or maybe it’s my choice of bikes now (Harley and Vespa and 35 year old YPVS) but I don’t find anything to complain about with the Enfield suspension😀. But it’s more likely that 48HP is more than enough for me nowadays. I catch myself looking at 100BHP+ bikes occasionally, but I know realistically I would never use the performance.
Your quite right Kate,
I'm a older rider,
I've been riding motorcycles for 50 years, owned various makes and sizes of bike's over the years,
But I'm setting on owning a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 now,
In my experience, I believe they are the best bike's on the market that suit myself now,
I like to do all my own Servicing on them as well,
Which is also an advantage with these Royal Enfield's 👍
Great video's Kate,
Nice to see a young lady riding motorcycles,
Very rare when I started riding motorcycles 👌
Cheers Paul
I wouldn't mind a Harry Enfield, absolutely perfect for pleasure riding in the countryside where I live, it would make a welcome change to having to consciously go slower and chill out - nice summing up Kate 👍
I’ve had my Inty for a year now and the points you have made are all valid. The condensation happened for me on the first day I got it, then disappeared until my first ride this year in February and was back again, but soon went. Many FB posts state to take the yellow stickers off under the clocks and that solves it, I am yet to do that.
The seat I found a bit hard when riding for an hour plus, but when I had my bike shipped to Spain for a 5 day jaunt, being on it all day was not a problem. I just think both the seat and my arse needed breaking in and now it is a non issue.
I will change the shocks and tyres soon, but not until I have got some more wear out of them.
I do think that the common upgrades are done in many cases as people follow the herd and I think there must be so many hardly used, seats, shocks, mirrors, footrests,exhausts, tyres etc. etc. that you could almost build a new bike from what’s been taken off! I set myself a budget, so I only change stuff if it really needs it!
Nice review but the way! 👍
At last someone who gets the bike ! My days of seeing a grey line and a green blur around me while riding are long gone ! Much prefer a nice tootle and seeing some countryside , they are very customisable but please please don't do a TMF ! You can make these bikes look very individual without involving someone that'll clean you out ....mine got lots of attention on the DGR yesterday among a lot of custom bikes and she's a keeper !
Just buy one you won't regret it !
I suspect RE will be a while getting that popular over here in the US. Dealer support, for now, is an issue. the bikes themselves are pretty nice. Quality is no longer the issue that it was made out to be. Personally, I would have been fine with one of these. My Kawasaki Vulcan S is a mostly simple motorcycle. I was impressed by the availability of a clock, fuel gauge and two trip meters. Woo hoo! It has two riding modes: On and off. My Yamaha YX600 Radian from 1987 did not have any of those things but was a blast to ride.
Fun fact there's a RE factory in Milwaukee now . I think if a dealership sells them new than they service them, no ?
Agree with you Kate. A good ride-out is a good way of easing stress or worries- basically you are concentrating so hard on riding that any stresses are pushed out of the way.
I own a Yamaha and Kawasaki cruisers, and I want to add a Royal Enfield to the stable. They seem so cool, and different
Very nice interesting videos you make . Great motivator for my daughter. I love UK and your videos are full of scenic views of UK . LOVE IT. Keep it up
This is what i was looking for . Thanks a lot. I wanted to know whether interceptor is laid back or not
if there was a dealer nearby... i'd have one... un-complicated....
You should get one as a summer bike and custom it be good videos Kate x
I've got a 650 conti love the bike yes you have to think about things more but it gets you involved in the ride rather than just opening it up as somebody said it reminds me of my bonnie in the seventies , done the speed thing in my early days (big Guzzi 1100) been riding since 1973 bit of an old git now but still love my bikes thanks for a great video
cool, I got one of these 650s and its my very first bike. I feel like this bike spoils me in terms of riding experience on this very nice machine.
A lovely bike!
thanks for the video, never even sat on a bike an been ogling this specific model for about a week, perfect timing.
Great vid as always, you are so lucky living where you do. The roads look amazing, I live in the middle of Oxford and there are no roads like you've got round here.
Thank YOU, Kate!
You have to add the album The Pursuit of Accidents and the track Eyes Waterfalling.
Haha, I meant this comment for another channel, but seems like you're a Level 42 fan, too. Me since 1987.
Hi Kate lovely presentation of the inty 650, lovely country side.
I have a question. Since im more of a sedate rider like the way you were riding here and enjoying.
Maybe while touring long distances I may do 80 to 100kmph max. So im kind of confused between the inty 650 and the bullet 350(J series engine ) which also is butter smooth, lovely under thigh support, commanding postion and that seat is like a sofa on wheels by default.(the 350).
The inty on the other hand demands a slightly committed posture and I feel my knees get a bit bent in ride postion . One of the main reasons im selling one of my bikes which demands such a posture.
What tempts me is the 650s value for money, simple basic and reliable engineering (just like the 350) .
Its a equal decision for the heart and mind for both .
Just the bullet 350 is a newer iteration here in India and the maroon chrome standard is just WOW !
Which one would you opt for considering it isnt your first bike or the only bike in the garage?
Just fyi most parts in india have speed limits up to 80, 100, 120 kmph. So the 350 can do 80 to 100 comfortably. I dont generally cross 100. Another reason im selling that bike. But the sound of the twin is music.
Never been confused with a bike choice so far. Request your opinion.
Own one Enfield! I want more. Think the word "Chill" is my take on them.
P.s A 40bhp Classic I'll be tempted by, must try the Meteor 650 as well.
Oh be brill to hear what you and Mike think of the BSA Goldstar.
It's the chilling-ess bike I've had and I've had many😊
Girl u are brave being in an unknown place, u r definitely a rider ❤
Awesome video! I love Lake District. Many fond memories. Great bike too. I did some bimbling today as a matter of fact. To be honest I did put her in Dynamic mode for a bit. Just to warm up. 😂 and that breakfast, when I get back I will definitely look Two Sister’s up. I love your videos. Best!
Yes the Hagons shocks are great - just put them on and in combo with YSS front upgrade make it fantastic ....Really nice summing up of a beautiful bike - they are a joy to own and keep getting better with every ride
I enjoy listening to your reviews Kate.
Great work as always! Do you think you might get your hands on the new BSA? That might be an interesting comparison.
The Lake District is a very beautiful part of the world.
Hi Kate, Yes I've had an Interceptor 650 for a year and a half now and sometimes there is a bit of misting in the clocks, never anything major. I did like the Twin exhausts but I changed mine to a two into one 'STINGER' exhaust from 'TEC'...and the sound is ..I.M.H.O...Epic. [ But as I always say..I ride bikes..I don't read them ] OK..now and again..so I can ride more bikes I'll throw a few in but on the whole I'll leave the 'real' stat reading to your good self lol. Love the vids. Happy riding.
I love my RE GT. Fits in nicely with my R1250RS and GSX-1000F. So easy to customise, reliable as hell and solid. She's almost 3 and so far no complaints. If I did have one or two it's the seat and the tank size. The LCS display is a bit small but a helluva lot easier to read than the on a Triumph Speed twin.
C’est une moto pour faire des balades éviter les autoroutes mais les petites départementales prendre sont temps regarder les paysages, la liberté en moto de légende merci pour cette vidéo
Great review Kate, the more I watch on here, the more I want one! I'm hoping maybe this year I will get a used one and eventually start modifying it.
So good to see you do this! Yay!
Great video and as ever very informative and balanced review. I love my Interceptor but I have had the issue with clocks misting a few times. Other than that the bike is faultless.
My 2020 INT650 has 28,000 miles in 3 years with no issues. I am putting the S&S 750cc kit in it; almost done with the installation. Virginia, USA.
I’m interested in the 750 bore too. Have the feeling it’s a happy mean rather than the 865 which may over stress the rest of the engine.
@@collyernicholasjohn the 743cc version (83.5mm pistons) is more compatible with the stock throttle bodies, injectors, ports and intake/exhaust valve sizes. Still makes 55 horsepower which is nice along with the added torque compared to stock.
Condensation in the clocks ,standard. Goes once the weather warms up. Mines just typed over 10k in just under 3yrs.
Hi Kate great video I had one of first interceptors in 20 18 they are great bikes for the money really are I had no great problems yes the clocks do mist up you can rectify that by taking them apart and making a few mods or good old fairy liquid works I’ve had Triumphs twice the money do the same I’d definitely have another as a second bike keep up the good work Kate and ride safe
Good honest review Kate, you sum the bike up very accurately,very good value,and it’s fast enough for back roads, and cruising,if you wanted something fast you would choose a different bike,as it’s aimed at a different market, still enjoyable 🏍🇸🇪😎👍
Still got it bring it to Wray bike night on Thursday
Enfield have classic looks
Yes, I'll be there on the good ole enners!
Love your vid Kate! Keep up the great work!😊😊
Enjoyed the video and I agree that Royal Enfield machines are all the better for being simple, the way bikes used to be. Regarding the instrument fogging problem, I think you’ll find that all the 650 twins suffer from this, I have a 2021 Continental GT and whenever the weather is cool or damp the speedo and rev counter steam up on the inside and I’ve not heard of an effective cure, it’s strange.
Great video would like to ride with you sometime just bought the 650 interceptor.
Hi kate spoke to you at wray bike night I'm from kendal also have a royal enfield himalayan as one of my bikes and them roads round there are ruff as if you had taken a right at that pub the black labrador it's a brilliant road can take you through to bowness road gets better that way. keep up your good vids👍
Excellent, thanks Daz, I will know for next time :) I actually like bowness too!
Sometimes it takes a ride on a none fancy electronic overloaded bike to remember why got into Motorcycles in the first place 😎😎 I ride my T120 more than I ride my sport tourer it’s just so easy and light😎😎 lovely countryside wow just remember how lovely the countryside is in England.
Thanks Kate, enjoyable and informative as always.
The perfect motorcycle for a bimble in the countryside 🙂👍🏍🇬🇧
Great video Kate ❤ really like the royal enfields
Hi. What make are the bar end mirrors? Cheers
standard mirrors on the bike
@@UsernameKate On the continental they're standard but not the interceptor.
I would probably go for the Royal Enfield Scrambler with a side car for the dog. My first bike was in the 70s so dont need the gadgetry.
This bike is brilliant!! I would definitely have one in the garage
Enjoyed your review.
Great job. ❤
Jepp, the dash can get a little foggy when it is cold (drop in temperature). My R.E. Interceptor did that too.
Good bike, but I sold it two weeks ago.
It looks like you chose the best roads for the bike. These bikes interest me because they just plod along.
Now that you have ridden a Royal Enfield, I think you should try to get a classic 500. I'll love to hear your thoughts on that.
A new classic 500 with a similar sound to the 350....that would be brill.
You sound like Diane Morgan which is charming
I hadn't thought of that till you said it. In fact that's a good idea for a TV show, 'Cunk on a motorbike".
I've got one. it's easy to ride. very economic, it doesn't shake itself to pieces like my old triumph /BSA/norton bikes ,a delightful clutch and g/box better than my vfr. Against , the front suspension is a bit harsh , the seat needs improving and the rear brake needs to be bent outwards for better feel.
Great video wonderful ride thanks for sharing it with us be safe keep the rubber side down
Nice easy-going bike..needs louder pipes to give it some character..currently sounds like an old honda cub😅 ❤
I am shopping either the Interceptor or the Continental. How much more do I have to lean forward on the bars with the Conti? I need to go sit on both.
I haven't ever ridden the conti I'm afraid!
"Royal Enfield - It's good enough" 👍
Great review - but something I can’t understand is your need for a gear indicator on a bike with a rev counter…
I don't need it, I can function without them, I just like them 🤣
Ok 👍👌 Kate
Cant beat getting lost
Id love to see the usernamekate intercepter 650
waiting for the Himalayan 450 twin, fuel injection and liquid cooled, reckon this is going to be another big seller for RE
It's not twin it's still a single and it was leaked yesterday photos of production bike
Bimbling through villages feels right on an RE.
So rightttt
@@UsernameKate riding a RE is the equivilant to a stroll. You dont have to sprint everywhere! Its also a very pure experience as you have no tech so they are great to learn on.
What's a gear indercator.
I find these newer bikes , with all there electronics etc are just like electric car mirrors 🤪, once you’ve set them up you never use them again . I’ve been riding 52 years and don’t bother with 95% of them . I know it’s cold outside ( outside temp gauge waste of space ) . 😂🙄🙄. I like the Enfield , just up the suspension and away you go 😊😊👍👍
"Soft" is what this bike's about. Can't chill is the first pot hole tries to knock your teeth out ;)
I assume the rear has adjustable pre-load? If so, I would adjust it so that it matches the front. You're looking to match rider sag (i.e. where it sits with you on it) as a % of total available travel. I know you said you'd prefer it firmer, but even if it ends up real soft as a result, it'll handle a lot better.
I would also check the damping on the front and back. It's probably not easily adjustable, but regardless, it's good to know if it's correctly damped or not.
In case you don't know how to do it: hold the front brake, then firmly push the front down as far and as hard as you can (push along the fork axis). Then let the front come back up naturally. It should jump back up, stop at some point near the top of its travel and settle down. If it takes a while to come back up it's overdamped. If it stops and doesn't settle it's also likely overdamped. If it doesn't "settle", but keeps bouncing it's underdamped (try it on a stock MT-07, you'll see what I mean). Technically the ideal setting (stop high and settle down just a bit) is "underdamped" in strictest engineering terms, but it's only just a tiny bit and that's what's needed here.
The rear is exactly the same as the front, except you push straight down. It should do the exact same thing.
If both are damped and sprung correctly the bike should behave itself very well. It won't do anything "exciting" (other than let you admire the scenery, of course), but it won't do anything stupid either and should handle rough roads fairly well.
Hi Kate I think we have the same taste in breakfasts but we would differ on the royal Enfield. Looks like a good basic bike but would it become boring. A good second bike me thinks.
I want one
This bike from India 🇮🇳 ❤
Bimble is a great word.i do
Like the interceptor but if going back roading and small villages with 30 mph limits
Find the scram 411 absolutely brilliant.
Still may buy a 650 but think the 411 is a keeper.
As for rider mods.
No thanks.
Nice video by the way.
Purchase price aside - Interceptor 650 or Moto Guzzi V7 Stone?
Yamaha t7
I like the orange, I hate the orange of other bikes funny enough , REs is more a golden orange.
Ever used the gs's 139 hp?
I'd rather have it available and not use it than not have it available if that's what you're getting at 😊