I sold my bought new (£17,500) 2018 BMW R1200GS 'Rallye' back to dealers in 2021 after 3 yrs with 1350 miles on the clock for £10,800, I just used my 2019 Suzuki Bergman 400 all the time as it was good for commuting for work in any weather ,anyway i traded the burgman in and bought the wife a new 2021 SV650 as a surprise, only took scooter in for a service, so wasnt planned..anyway after getting rid of the BMW , I bought a new 2021 Himalayan, loved it so much, at 55 yrs i took £6000 out of my pension fund and bought a new 2022 Interceptor..beautiful bike to own and ride, it is a perfect bike for real world riding, who needs mega bhp? well i did for 32 yrs .🤣.but i just love my RE bikes..basically..i now have 2 bought new RE in my garage for under £11k...why pay a lot more for a mainstream brand when you can have up to 4 very reliable Royal Enfield's in your garage for less than one £18/20k BMW, that you pay through the nose to service? 🤔 WARNING: Royal Enfield bikes get under your skin and into your heart very easily, dont try one or they will hook you big style as they are so much fun to ride, bulletproof engines and so simple to service yourself..be warned!! If you are thinking about buying an interceptor or a continental GT..check out the Maxtorque UK cans..ear orgasms all day long 😜 you got another sub m8...really enjoyed your vid and review 👍😁
Hi David, thanks for the comment, that was good to read and very very well said about the Royal Enfields getting under your skin!! I completely fell in love with this bike. There is so much to be said for simplicity and useable power. It really has a magic sauce this bike as I am sure all RE's do 👍 Thanks will check out the Maxtorque cans! Welcome to the channel.
I’ve had a Triumph T100 this year.. I sold it as the low speed fueling was terrible, even with a fuel booster fitted so I sold it. Bought an Interceptor and the ride quality is on a different level.. brilliant bike
Hi from Qld Australia. Had my interceptor 2 years now and cant fault. I have been riding since the early 70's. This bike does everything i want and more. RE are on track to becoming a world class leading manufacturer Look out Japan.
👌 Hi there! That is great to hear from an owners perspective. I absolutely fell in love with this bike, just something so special about it. Completely agree I think there are big things for Royal Enfield to come. Cheers
More like look out Harley Davidson , they could have done something like this when they were building those crap Street 500cc and Street 750cc made in India that have already been discontinued and now HD want to forget they ever made them. Way to go RE great affordable motorcycles!
I've done 10,000km's on my interceptor and had it for 3 years. What an awesome bike. I have customized mine a fair bit and made it my own over the years. I must say, the price those mirrors in the video is astronomically high and you can get reaaaally nice stuff from Baak motorcycles for the enfield. The mirrors I got are much cheaper and look very, very nice - they go just under the bars instead of the micky mouse style mirrors. I have installed bars, mirrors, back tail light, LED indicators all from Baak on mine. I've also put the S&S race only exhaust slip on's on it. I haven't had a single issue with the bike and absolutely love riding it.
Hi James, thanks that is great to know 👍 A friend is considering buying one and then heavily modifying it, great to know that the Baak products are good and reliable! Yes as with most manufacturers accessories they are much cheaper to get else where. It really got under my skin this bike, thoroughly enjoyed it. Hope you continue to enjoy your bike for a long time to come. All the best
I’m 74, been riding all my life. I could afford a new Bonneville but bought the Interceptor. It’s air cooled like a retro bike should be. I hate fake things and the Bonneville has fake carbs and cooling fins. My bike was $5,500 brand new, the Triumph was $14,000. I still have and ride my BMW 1200GS and Husqvarna 701.
Interesting review Angus. Horsepower can be so misleading - I had a Guzzi V7, which was 47HP - but in normal riding was perfectly fine, and because it was relatively light (compared with the Bonneville) I never really felt I needed more. And simplicity has appeal.
Thanks 👍 Absolutely I really fell in love with this bike! There is so much to be said for simplicity and not over doing it with power. Such a charming and fun ride. I would love to get a ride on the V7 at some point.
I took my dl1000xgt in for service and they lent me an interceptor to get home. I enjoyed it so much, I traded the suzuki in for a new Baker Express Interceptor. True love.
Now that is love at first sight haha It is such a special bike I can see exactly why you did! I also fell in love with this bike, just something so special about it 👍 Cheers
If you like to do your own wrenching, RE is the way to go. I have had over fifty street bikes during my thirty-five years of riding. I sold my last go-fast bikes recently and purchased an Interceptor 650. I love adjusting my own valves and adding extra bits to the bike. I have become very attached to this bike and it stirs my soul like my first motorcycle; a BMW r-75/6. If you REALY want to have fun, (not fast fun), take a ride on a RE Classic 350. I have one of those too. It is my daily while the Interceptor gets my “attention to detail” time. I have never owned a Triumph so I can’t make a direct comparison between the two brands but, I am truly happy that I decided to get into the Royal Enfield game. Thanks
👌 This is the first RE I have ever ridden and I must say it has completely captured me, I love it!! There is something just so special and simple about it that I love. The Bonnevilles are better build quality etc.. but there is just something so special about the Royal Enfield. Will be hoping to get a ride on the Classic 350 very soon. Cheers and all the best
Sweet review , thank you . I have owned mine for 11 months and have clocked 3500km , she is not my main bike . I have fitted louder slip on's that sound awesome ! , K&N air filter and fly screen . On the weight 10kg ( 5kg each ) is most by removing the standard mufflers , they are HEAVY ! ps. I ride with guys with Triumph T100's and T120's , Harleys etc and they are blowen away at how well my Interceptor rides and performs .
Cheers 👍 Glad you are enjoying it so much! Yes I would love one as a fun second bike. Just something so special about it. That is some serious weight saving!!
It used to be a British bike till 1994 but now it is completely own by an Indian company Eicher Group and that company has made Royal Enfield what it is today.
They have done a brilliant job 👌 I love the mixture of British styling with an Indian owned company. I think it works so well. Least to say I am a new big fan of Royal Enfield!!
Had my 650 Continental now for 3 years and have covered over 6k miles. Have had no issues at all and the build quality is up with more expensive models. Got a 2 into 1 TEC pipe on my which sheds 12kgs to start with and sounds the Mutts nuts. 3 figures (on a private road of course) are obtainable if desired. It certainly has enough punch for overtaking if you use the torque, which isn't a large amount but with the gearing setup is more than adequate.
This is the first Royal Enfield I have ever ridden and I must say I am smitten! Absolutely brilliant, there is just something so special about this bike as I am sure there is with all RE's 👍 Sounds great as well. Cheers
Such a great bike. Sounds amazing, simple, reliable, easy to work on, cheap to buy/fix... everything most motorcycles are not these days. Just a minor correction: there are two shocks in the rear :)
👍 Absolutely well said. It is such a refreshing bike to ride, so simple and pure experience. You feel really connected to the bike. Ah my mistake!! Cheers
Got my full license a year ago and considered the RE and a Triumph Street Twin. The RE was attractive price wise but unfortunately I found the seat too high for me and weirdly very top heavy. I opted for the Street Twin and very pleased with it.
👍 Always good to test ride before buying. We all have different dimensions and riding styles. Whatever suits you best is the one to go for! Hope you enjoy your Street Twin 👍
Hmnnn..have had a Triumph Tiger for 5 years and whilst competent very top heavy so now on an RE Interceptor and it’s much less wobbly. Nearly went for a Street Twin a few years ago but expensive and fuelling not so great. Seat hight might be an issue for some.
I've had my Interceptor for 9 months and about 2,400 miles. I'm still happy with it. It checks quite a few boxes for me: it looks *great*, it sounds great, gets great gas mileage (about 55-60mpg), it handles well, there's lots of aftermarket stuff. It'll cruise all day at 75mph no problem. Power and torque are plenty for most purposes. The brakes work fine, the ergonomics are fine. And it has a likeable personality. But it's not a bike I'd want to ride to Alaska on. Or even 200 miles. The reason being that the suspension and seat are kind of stiff and cobby. Around town it's fine but it wouldn't be fun riding it all day long. That and the right mirror vibrates. Also, it's hard to impossible to read the digital gas display in bright sunlight. Those are my only complaints. I've got four bikes in the garage and the Interceptor is my main squeeze. Good review. New subscriber.
Great looking bikes...to me it felt a bit like the poor cousin compared to the T100 (re fit and finish) but it is MUCH cheaper and still looks good and is great fun so maybe im being a little harsh..when I bought my Royal Enfield Classic 350 I was toying between that and the Interceptor but fell in love with the looks and the character of the 350 classic...SO much fun!
I agree the fit and finish is definitely better on the Triumphs, however there is just something about the Interceptor that I love!! It has won me over. Love the look of the 350 Classic, so cool 😁
I just bought one today and pick it up next week. My wife and I are going to do some light touring on it and have a big trip planned later this year. I think it's the perfect combo of price, comfort, price, and efficiency!
Great review. I've just bought an Interceptor, after too many overbloated big bikes, and love it. You mention the 'ugly looking bag' but I rather like it - what is it please?
👌 Many thanks I appreciate it, glad you liked the review. I agree it was so refreshing to ride a simple and smaller cc bike! Something very special about the Interceptor, I loved it. It is actually meant for bicycles, I got it in a shop called Halfords! Sorry no model name on it. Cheers
Lots to like about this model. The modern trend is for the 270 degree crank phasing which has the same firing sequence as a V-twin, it makes a throaty sound but isn't the same as a traditional classic British twin which used the 360-degree sequence. Something of the uniqueness of a parallel twin has been lost with the adoption of the 270 degree crank, but it does have advantages in terms of smoothness and power delivery.
I have really fallen in love with this bike! Just something about it 👌 Yes I suppose the 270 degree crank does take away some character from the bike. Sounds great though and for longer trips it is nice and smooth. I do agree though I was expecting it to be a bit more "characterful". Cheers
It would be interesting to see you do a review on a 2nd-hand W650 (360-degree-crank ) I own-one and really-enjoy it but would love to try an RE650 ( I love V-twins too and ride an-old XV1000 TR1 --my 'big' bike ) I like the idea of being-able to upgrade it so-easily and it would be easy to unleash another 10hp without a huge outlay . Dave nz
👌 They are both great bikes. The RE I just personally found something special about it, but that is just individual. Hope you continue to enjoy your bike.
Hi, yes of course. It is actually meant for bicycles, I bought it in a shop called Halfords!! Fits on almost any motorbike. Sorry have no model name though. Cheers
These bikes do hold up well. They are tested and survive the worst of roads and weather conditions in India. Most people who tour to the remote and treacherous mountains of North India prefer Royal Enfields. I love the Bonnie too though I haven't test ridden it but out here in India they are almost 3 times more expensive than the Inty 650 and they have very few service centers.
I enjoy your videos and style. I'm happy to see these RE 650's. Back in the eighties when there weren't any contemporary British twins and up through about 2002 I owned a Suzuki 650 Tempter that I thoroughly enjoyed. In spite of having a Sabre v65 1100 and a VFR 750 and others bikes, I decided the 650 was potentially a Goldilocks engine size. I currently have a Nighthawk 650SC as well as an SV650. I'm phasing out the 4cylinder 1100's and enjoy my CB750 and VN750, etc. I look forward to finding an RE 650 in the used market some time in the future. Ciao.
Thanks so much I appreciate it and glad you enjoy the videos 👍 Yup 650 is for sure a sweet spot. Definitely recommend trying the RE650 out, its great fun
Interesting that it evokes an emotional-response , many people have said the same about this bike (and Kawasaki W650's ) Crotch-rocket junkies-aside , most reviewers get very-happy over the riding-experience and it's just-great to look at and listen-to . My 2nd-bike is a W650 , similar-power and a great-sound , effortless to ride and everyone admires it . There's something to be said for these-styles of bike that are more than their HP or performance , simple, practical and cool . Dave nz
Hi Dave, absolutely, these style of bikes have such a great place in the market. Great price and just so much fun to ride despite HP. A great reminder of how motorcycling can still be fun with out crazy HP figures 👍
I had an Interceptor for 13 months and 5500 miles, then traded it in on a T100 which I have now had for 10 months and 3200 miles. The Triumph is a much nicer bike. It has 50% more torque and it peaks at a much lower RPM. It would run circles around the Interceptor. The Triumph is a lot more expensive but if your budget will allow it, it's worth it.
I really enjoyed your review and your enthusiasm. I absolutely love Royal Enfield, so much heart and so much character. I don't mean to be picky but those accessories that you called after market are actually genuine RE parts, not after market. Anyway great video, cheers 😀
I love mine, but its far from stock at this point. I've upgraded the exhaust, suspension and put on knobby tires and a load of other things to turn it into a scrambler for my back roads. Gives me an alternative to the Speedmaster.
RE 650 is a great starter bike and great for the price but I traded mine in on a Triumph Bonneville T120 after 4 months. It doesn't compare to the Triumph in any way - fit, finish, power, stability, etc. I really enjoyed mine for what it is - an inexpensive, easy to ride, lower-powered retro style bike.
@@sidmallya7421 Lol. I've got 25k miles on my 2020 T120, all in the state of Texas under the blazing hot sun, and never had one issue, not one. My RE650 was also reliable, although I started to experience the occasional transmission false neutrals in 4th and 5th gears (others have noticed this as well). Once again, the RE is a great bike for the price and if that's your budget I say go for it.
The T120 is considerably more powerful and expensive! The RE is more comparable to the T100, the overall build quality etc.. of the Triumph is better, but there is just something about the RE that I love. That special feeling!
Being a bit of a Triumph fan I'm going to be able to try one finally as my dealer is now fully franchised and the REs are selling. However I have to admit that sitting on the showroom floor they don't impress me like the Bonnevilles do so if and when I try one out I'm going to have to try to curb my prejudices a bit.
👍 The Royal Enfield is definitely a bit more rough around the edges! However it really does grow on you, I have sort of fallen in love with this bike. For its simplicity and is flaws (and price). Hope you get a ride on one soon.
@@redangrevival Me too! I just had the T120 out for the first time in a month due to heat and today was only good for a few miles before the fan came on and started cooking my legs.
Many thanks, really pleased you enjoyed the review 👍 Both fantastic beginner bikes. Just down to personal preference I would say. I would say the V Twin in the Guzzi packs a bit more punch than the RE.
Great bike …I’ve swapped my Triumph Tiger for an Interceptor. If you like touring the back roads it’s a joy. Two-up maybe but knee down no…each too their own😀 Heading for the Cotswolds soon and hopefully the Pyrenees next year.
Hi Pete, awesome sounds like a fun swap! Such a special bike, I really loved it 😁 You will have an absolute blast touring on this, so much fun and character. Also different from all of the other adventure bikes touring around. Cheers and hope you enjoy it.
I have a 650 interceptor, also a 1975 Triumph T140 with an aftermarket cam and 34mm mikunis. My boys have an SV650 and a Moto-Guzzi V7 Storm. The SV is the quickest, The guzzi is the prettiest, The 750 Bonny is just an old classic but it is a true Triumph at least. Some interesting comparisons between all four. Both the SV and even the T140 are quicker but the enfield is so much more torquey than the T140 and so so much smooother. Interestingly it is also significantly quicker than the V7 which was a surprise as on paper they look identical but they bike that me and my boys all want to ride is the enfield- it;s just so nice to ride.
👍 Thanks that is great to hear the comparison between the models. I am yet to ride the V7! The Interceptor is so much more than its specs and price suggest, I really fell in love with this bike. Just something so special about it. I want one haha. Cheers
If you have both sv650 and Int 650 in a garage for a daily commute. Which one do you take most of the time? Just got my full license and these 2 bikes both resonate with me in a different way.
@@lildurian The SV is quicker but the clutch is heavy, it's not comfortable and the enfield is much smoother and also more forgiving. It;s interesting that when I go out riding with my sons, everyone wants to ride the enfield. SV is a fun bike to ride but the enfield is just such a sweet ride.
@@redangrevival I actually love the V7 and used to try and borrow it whenever I could before I had the enfield which is smoother, more mechanically sympathetic if that makes sense and it is quicker which was a surprise to both me and my son. My only complaint is the seat feels hard after an hour or so. Just did a 200 mph round trip ride on it today up to northern vancouver island in the 70 to 80 mph region on an admittedly semi-deserted road and got 75 mpg- incredible.
@@motorcyclementor1785 thank you for your opinion. When i tested Int 650 it felt good but when you want to hussle it, it does not perform as well as SV650 i used to pass my full license. The bike that might straddle that compromise might be speed twin 1200. For that money i could buy both bikes lol.
I just picked mine up and the only complaints I have are common enough. First, the grips are a bit too narrow, but I have padded gloves that will likely fix that. Second, the placement of the foot pegs. They are placed over where one would normally place one's feet at a stop. I can fix this by scooting back on the seat. Other than that, I put 112 miles on it my first day owning it. It wanted to ride at 60-65 moh, even though the break in speed was 50 for 300 kms.
You can add grip puppies to increase the diameter of the grips - I use Chinese copies from eBay £3 or so. If i had an interceptor I'd be tempted to see if old school barrel shapped grips could be fitted. I had them on my bonnie and they were really comfy.
What I really like about the interceptor it's that even if it's smaller cc than the t100 it has 6 speeds just that probably make it much more suitable for highway cruising and mileage
@@norsewoods2999 👍 Many thanks I appreciate that, same to you as well. Perfect I really recommend it, think Spring time would best the best time to go. All the best
I don’t think they are “aiming squarely at Triumph.” Instead they’re aiming for the middle weight classic category, which hasn’t been serviced well, other than say the W650 Kawa.
Hi Clive, many thanks I appreciate it and glad you like the channel, welcome 👍 The bag is actually meant for bicycles! I got it in a shop called Halfords. Fits most motorbikes brilliantly.
Hi, thanks Tom I appreciate it glad you enjoyed the review 👍 Massive congratulations on your new bike! Am sure you will love it. Sorry I cannot find the link atm, but it should be an option from RE. I would try asking your local dealer for the brown diamond stitched seat. Sorry, I hope that helps.
Excellent review, thank you for taking the time to do a detailed report. BEAUTIFUL bike, I’d love to get one! On another note, what riding jacket are you wearing in the video? It looks really cool!
Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 It is a great bike, really fell for this one. The jacket is a Merlin Chigwell Light, great summer mesh jacket
Really nice shinny bike.. more my era when there were BSA Goldstar..BSA Rocket..Triumph Bonneville..Norton Commando and of course Royal Enfield. Interesting exhaust pipes on these and really nice sound, and sound being an important factor when considering a bike. Not sure on that windscreen. Great video and really professional! How amusing motorbike shadows are! Nice one Cheers Angus
👍 Thanks, really pleased it came across professionally! I loved riding this bike, such a pure and simple ride 😁 I have sort of fallen in love with this bike! There really is something to be said for simplicity. Would like to get a ride on the new BSA Goldstar to compare the two. Cheers
I've owned a V7 which was stolen a few years ago, great bike, I've ridden an intercepter and a kawasaki w800, my money went on a air/oil cooled T100 Bonneville, imop a better bike overall.
Personally I would say the INT650, just because of that little bit of extra power! However character and personality, I would go with the Classic 350 every time. Recently rode the new BSA Gold Star (vid out soon) now thats a fun bike 👍
I own one. good bike for value but not for freeways as it needs more revs than I like and it feels busy. for quick acceleration, gears need be changed quickly at around 2k rpm only. there's not much pull beyond 2.5k rpm when I am starting off the line. I am in 6th cog already at 60-70 kph speed. The parts quality is substandard compared to japanese brands. There is frequent repairs and parts replacement required which I never experienced with honda and yamaha. But for the price there is no alternative to get parallel twin 650 motorcycle.
You should have bought a KTM Duke 390 or ADV 390 for similar price. This motorcycle is not for ripping it to the redline just because its 650CC. Quality of parts is getting better, fit and finish is getting better. If you compare the INT 650 with the recently launched Super Meteor 650 you can see the difference in fit and finish. Enjoy its charm brother, not everything is about top speed and RPM's. Cheers!
Hello from Germany. Also bought a 2022 Interceptor. It is now waiting for warm times in the underground car park. In the run-up I saw 1 million videos and descriptions and had the choice between a Guzzi V7 with 65 hp and the RE with 48 hp. Until today I thought the Interceptor always had a steel braided brake line (Stahlflex) , but I have a black one and I see black or nothing on this video. Seems like RE saved that on the 2022 again??
Hi, congrats on getting your Interceptor, lovely bike 👍 Unfortunately the bike in this video is not mine! I own a Triumph Speedmaster. Two great bikes, but I think you made the right choice, the Interceptor is brilliant value for money. Yes they save money in places like that to make it such an affordable price. The brakes felt fine to me. Cheers and enjoy your ride when the weather warms up!
@@redangrevival Thank you very much. I've already seen Interceptor with steel braided lines, model year 2021 and you can also find earlier models on RUclips that have silver (steel) lines. It doesn't matter, the black brakes too and I'll discuss it with my workshop at the 1st customer service to see if the upgrade is worth it. Stay healthy PS: By the way, I'm back after a 38-year break. Now retired, you need a little joy and refresh memories. On trips to the North Cape or on 2 weeks at the TT on the Isle of Man in 1982 ;-)
Thanks for the excellent review. Looking forward to buying the Int 650 next month. Can you let us know what brand jacket you are wearing in this video? The jacket looks great. Is it by Oxford? Thanks!
👍 Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review! Lucky you, I bet you cannot wait. I have fallen in love with this bike, just something so charming and special about it. It is a Merlin Chigwell Light Jacket. Great mesh summer jacket (not for winter). Cheers
@@redangrevival Oh awesome. Thanks. We don't have those here in Central Florida. I'll look em up for sure. Thanks again for the reply. God bless 🙏 Jeff
Things to note that I’ve found in my research on the Interceptor and most of the REs is that they have things like the pegs, shifter lever, etc that stick out that would hit the ground first in a drop or crash that are attached directly to the frame. If you bend the frame, the bike is done, and even with crash guards, that wouldn’t protect it. The metal for pegs and such attached to the frame are very thin compared to the Bonneville’s, very easy to bend so to me that is a big factor in considering a T100 over the Interceptor. The T120 is way out of this class and even hard to compare the T100 when it comes to CCs and the smoothness. I haven’t ridden an RE, only sat on some, but I can’t imagine it’s smoother than the Bonnie’s, especially if you are going over 55 mph, per other reviews, it get’s shaky, the vibration is a major annoyance and it’d be a pain to tour on. I see it only as a city, commuter type bike and that is where most accidents come into play statistically. I personally wouldn’t go under 1200ccs again, maybe the 900 in the city. How do you think it was smoother than a Bonnie? How fast did you get it up to?
I don't think it was smoother than a "Bonnie". In my opinion smoother does not always mean better!! Of course the Bonnevilles are built to a higher quality, hence the price. Motorbikes are not just about numbers and practicality, I especially found that with this bike. It just felt so special to me, loved it. Did 75mph and it was very smooth, honestly hardly any vibrations at all! I would love to do a weekend tour on this bike.
I’ve been riding my RE for a year and a half. 6000 miles plus so far. I use it as my primary ride, my secondary is a 1964 Corvair. The bike delivers on every point that a bike should, I’ve found no issues with lack of smoothness or shaking. I must admit, however, that I have nothing to compare it with;I’ve just returned to riding after a thirty year absence. My rides consist of daily commutes to work that include both city and rural routes, I’ve taken road trips of 300 mile round trips that include interstate travel at 80 mph and South and North Carolina and East Tennessee mountains. The bike is better at being a bike than I am a rider, but I keep practicing slow and fast. I didn’t know it was a thing but my other biking friends are surprised to see such a thin chicken strip on the back tire from an old guy like me. Two last points, it’s inexpensive, even paid for, and it gets 54 mpg all the time.
@@trumpetsphere 👌 Sounds like you are loving it, which is great! It is not the fastest or most powerful bike, but it has something special about it. I love it!
You've answered your own question really. The brake lever, gear shift etc are lightweight but the frame is massively strong. You'd have to hit something big very hard to bend it. Levers are cheap.
True, but you also have to take a few "minor" things into account - freight, taxes, dealers commissions, marketing expenses in GBP not INR etc. All things considered, they are STILL very affordable in the UK. The mean average salary for all workers in the UK is £31,447. This means that an average worker in the UK could buy 6 of these bikes a year. How many people in India can buy 6 Interceptors in their annual pay? They would need 21 lakh as annual salary.
@@hussainalmubarak5347 Exactly it is all about the different affordability of different countries. If the Interceptor was the same price in India as in the UK then it would not sell!!
@@redangrevival Well, I saw your review and immediately bought the seat as it looked so awesome!. :P Now, I will make one review. Don't you worry!! Cheers from India!
Went through the Cotswolds the other day on way back from Wales, you are right lovely riding! Great vid am leaning towards maybe the Scram just for maybe for better mpg/adv riding. But am def going to test ride the Interceptor👍👍👍 P.s Like the Merlin jacket.
👍 A beautiful place to ride. Such classic British country side!Yes the Scram definitely looks better for some off road rides. Would highly recommend testing the Interceptor as well, I really fell in love with this bike! Thanks its a great summer jacket.
@@redangrevival I'd prob get the Interceptor if wasnt unsure if I didnt want to try adv riding... Its actually got an ok range the Interceptor but not sure if I'd want it for a tourer. Guess you can tour on any bike but havent decided if something more "rugged" better. Decisions. I know I'd love a bigger cruiser/classic with not so much the bhp but a 16litre tank..or say a 650 himi. (There is a Motomorini 650...).
@@MauriceTarantulas Yes the Interceptor is fine on gravel roads but wouldn't want to do much more that that! Just had a look at the Motomorini 650, looks great 👍 Love the design
I have a 2021 T100 and a 2022 Interceptor. I definitely think that the T100 is 1.5 times better the bike but at 1.5 times the cost so they are the same value for money.
Another person falls under the spell of Royal Enfield. I'm sure the prices have a lot to do with their popularity. If Triumphs were the same price, they'd fly off the shelves. People love them for the simple riding and the amazing looks too. They do seem to be more popular with men though. I guarantee you'll own one by the time you hit 40 😉
Haha it has got me this bike, I love it!! There is just something about it, it is far from perfect but I love that about it. As you say the price is just so appealing as well 👍 I am trying to persuade a friend to get one so I can ride it!
Wow I’m actually surprised at this bike. I don’t know why but I always associated this bike with poor quality. In terms of fit and finish between the Bonneville and this bike how would you rate it.? The exhaust is very noticeable, nice
Royal Enfield hasnt been British for over 70 years. It was sold to India in 1955 and is owned by Eicher motors based in Chennai (formerly Madras). Engineering is still done in England but its not a British Company.
R E actually stopped production in the UK in around 1970. There is a 750 interceptor from that time, where this gets its name from. The Indian RE started out assembling UK made parts, but later started producing their own from scratch, and then developing/evolving from there. I'm under no illusions though, modern RE's are only RE in name (although with an actual path back to the original make - unlike the modern AJS, BSA, Brough superior etc). It is comforting that they appear to take development very seriously though, with the R&D in Leics, Harris frames etc. I believe even the Bullet 5 speed box was designed at my old university (who also designed the Nissan Quashqui). I do think that RE have done a very good job of imitating an old 60's Brit bike though, although the right side of the engine looks like a huge egg to me, more like a n XS650 than a Bonneville/commando etc. It doesn't put me off enough to discount it and I'm looking forward to a test ride. 😀
it can not match the Bonny for sound ...a 270 degree crank just doesn't beat the sound of my 360 degree crank Bonny - a 2005 model which does NOT vibrate at all ..
@@redangrevival I've got a Street Triple R which is becoming a bit lairy for me. So I'm thinking of buying a used Thunderbird Sport 900 and customizing it slightly to give it more of a hipster / retro vibe, with a more attractive tank off a 900 Adventurer and perhaps even a brown seat and grips.,
Engine guards look awful on the Interceptor 650. They should be chrome, or sliver painted at least, cause they look terrible on this silver engine...Bonneville's got one of the best looking crash bars, you can barely notice them.
For the price they are Ok. When you examine them closely though, the details are not happening for me. No Japanese pedigree, which isn't to be discounted in today's hyperbolic world. A lot has gone into the R&D lineage of Japanese motorcycle culture and most of it is unseen; The insanely reliable high-quality end product is largely taken for granted. Paying extra for that is well worth it in my world.
I agree the Japanese quality and reliability it too often over looked, they are amazing bikes 👍 This RE does not match them on that, however for the price and the way it rides I just fell in love with this bike, just had so much fun riding it, until it breaks down 😉
@@redangrevival I've got a 790 Bonneville it's built like a fricking tank I'd never swap it for an Interceptor ever. I was looking at the usual Interceptor, V7, Kawasaki w650/w800, or Bonneville. There's no comparison it's Bonneville every day of every week. Interceptor build quality is suspect, which is fair enough at the price but wouldn't like to see one in eighteen years which is the age of my Bonnie, Kawasaki although excellent build quality just felt like a tribute act, V7 I still like tbh and wouldn't mind having one as well but definitely not instead of. I'd always advise someone to buy a second hand Bonneville over an Interceptor. It's all opinions tho, but we all agree on one thing open road and motorbike is virtually an unbeatable experience....😎🏍️
🙌 Well said sir!! Absolutely at the end of the day it is all about the ride, and what a ride it is whatever two wheels you are on. Fair enough, that is the beauty of motorbikes, they are so individual there is one for everyone. All about how the bike makes you feel. Sounds like you love your Bonnie and I totally understand that. All the best and enjoy the ride 👌
You pay your money and make your choice, but to compare that thing to a Triumph, come on, I have worked on Indian made machines for forty years and have to say no, it may look nice but I will bet the internals don't. Not for me.
The Triumph is definitely better build quality etc... However there is just something special about this bike that I loved. I think the Triumphs are now almost too "polished" and smooth. Something so characterful about the Interceptor. Just personal opinion. Cheers
David, with all due respect, these are newer engines than the ones you had worked on. Definitely not par or better than Triumph but not as bad as the ones a decade ago. You will be pleased to know that these motorcycles survive the harshest of conditions on Indian roads and are tough as nails. Indians do not change their motorcycles (or cars) as frequently as, say, in the UK or the US hence they have to make these bikes tough and frugal. Which Indian machines did you work with, just out of sheer curiosity?
It’s more about selling the accessories in the guise of reviewing the bike! You out to mention that up front that you are pitching wares from the sponsors of the bike!
Zero sponsorship here! I am making no money from Royal Enfield or the Dealership. I was merely mentioning the price of the accessories for the viewers benefit. Yes some videos are like that but this is not the one!
Frankly, you didn't push it anywhere near hard enough to show it's achilles heel....the handling and suspension. Perhaps, a note to take forward for further reviews? You don't need to lose your licence, but burbling along country roads at 50 mph is not going to cut it, sorry. You could do that on a 125. Getting to 70 on a smooth motorway does not review the bike. You could do that on a 125. Flick it along challenging country and B roads you know well and can therefore compare it to other bikes.
I take your point and will consider it for future reviews! However I personally don't think this bike was designed to be going fast along a bumpy country road. The motorway was just to see how it handled faster roads for a potential tour! Trust me though I have some fun with it on some B roads, can't show everything on camera. Its tricky to commentate and ride spiritedly at the same time!
I sold my bought new (£17,500) 2018 BMW R1200GS 'Rallye' back to dealers in 2021 after 3 yrs with 1350 miles on the clock for £10,800, I just used my 2019 Suzuki Bergman 400 all the time as it was good for commuting for work in any weather ,anyway i traded the burgman in and bought the wife a new 2021 SV650 as a surprise, only took scooter in for a service, so wasnt planned..anyway after getting rid of the BMW , I bought a new 2021 Himalayan, loved it so much, at 55 yrs i took £6000 out of my pension fund and bought a new 2022 Interceptor..beautiful bike to own and ride, it is a perfect bike for real world riding, who needs mega bhp? well i did for 32 yrs .🤣.but i just love my RE bikes..basically..i now have 2 bought new RE in my garage for under £11k...why pay a lot more for a mainstream brand when you can have up to 4 very reliable Royal Enfield's in your garage for less than one £18/20k BMW, that you pay through the nose to service? 🤔
WARNING: Royal Enfield bikes get under your skin and into your heart very easily, dont try one or they will hook you big style as they are so much fun to ride, bulletproof engines and so simple to service yourself..be warned!!
If you are thinking about buying an interceptor or a continental GT..check out the Maxtorque UK cans..ear orgasms all day long 😜
you got another sub m8...really enjoyed your vid and review 👍😁
Hi David, thanks for the comment, that was good to read and very very well said about the Royal Enfields getting under your skin!! I completely fell in love with this bike. There is so much to be said for simplicity and useable power. It really has a magic sauce this bike as I am sure all RE's do 👍
Thanks will check out the Maxtorque cans! Welcome to the channel.
I’ve had a Triumph T100 this year.. I sold it as the low speed fueling was terrible, even with a fuel booster fitted so I sold it. Bought an Interceptor and the ride quality is on a different level.. brilliant bike
That is very interesting to hear, i'm surprised to be honest!
Hi. Can I just ask, is your enfield a euro 4 or euro 5? I'm uncertain whether to hunt for a low mileage older E4 model. Cheers
that’s odd. My 2021 T100 is amazing and a jump up from my 2022 Interceptor.
Hi from Qld Australia. Had my interceptor 2 years now and cant fault. I have been riding since the early 70's. This bike does everything i want and more. RE are on track to becoming a world class leading manufacturer Look out Japan.
👌 Hi there! That is great to hear from an owners perspective. I absolutely fell in love with this bike, just something so special about it. Completely agree I think there are big things for Royal Enfield to come. Cheers
Royal Enfield sells more motorcycles than anyone else. 280 thousand a year I think 🤔
More like look out Harley Davidson , they could have done something like this when they were building those crap Street 500cc and Street 750cc made in India that have already been discontinued and now HD want to forget they ever made them.
Way to go RE great affordable motorcycles!
@@xclent1975 they are stopping yet harley 440x is launched in india 😂 and it looks ugly
I've done 10,000km's on my interceptor and had it for 3 years. What an awesome bike. I have customized mine a fair bit and made it my own over the years. I must say, the price those mirrors in the video is astronomically high and you can get reaaaally nice stuff from Baak motorcycles for the enfield. The mirrors I got are much cheaper and look very, very nice - they go just under the bars instead of the micky mouse style mirrors. I have installed bars, mirrors, back tail light, LED indicators all from Baak on mine. I've also put the S&S race only exhaust slip on's on it. I haven't had a single issue with the bike and absolutely love riding it.
Hi James, thanks that is great to know 👍 A friend is considering buying one and then heavily modifying it, great to know that the Baak products are good and reliable! Yes as with most manufacturers accessories they are much cheaper to get else where.
It really got under my skin this bike, thoroughly enjoyed it. Hope you continue to enjoy your bike for a long time to come. All the best
I’m 74, been riding all my life. I could afford a new Bonneville but bought the Interceptor. It’s air cooled like a retro bike should be. I hate fake things and the Bonneville has fake carbs and cooling fins. My bike was $5,500 brand new, the Triumph was $14,000.
I still have and ride my BMW 1200GS and Husqvarna 701.
Fair enough, its a fantastic bargain 👌
Interesting review Angus. Horsepower can be so misleading - I had a Guzzi V7, which was 47HP - but in normal riding was perfectly fine, and because it was relatively light (compared with the Bonneville) I never really felt I needed more. And simplicity has appeal.
Thanks 👍 Absolutely I really fell in love with this bike! There is so much to be said for simplicity and not over doing it with power. Such a charming and fun ride. I would love to get a ride on the V7 at some point.
I took my dl1000xgt in for service and they lent me an interceptor to get home. I enjoyed it so much, I traded the suzuki in for a new Baker Express Interceptor. True love.
Now that is love at first sight haha It is such a special bike I can see exactly why you did! I also fell in love with this bike, just something so special about it 👍 Cheers
If you like to do your own wrenching, RE is the way to go. I have had over fifty street bikes during my thirty-five years of riding. I sold my last go-fast bikes recently and purchased an Interceptor 650. I love adjusting my own valves and adding extra bits to the bike. I have become very attached to this bike and it stirs my soul like my first motorcycle; a BMW r-75/6. If you REALY want to have fun, (not fast fun), take a ride on a RE Classic 350. I have one of those too. It is my daily while the Interceptor gets my “attention to detail” time. I have never owned a Triumph so I can’t make a direct comparison between the two brands but, I am truly happy that I decided to get into the Royal Enfield game. Thanks
👌 This is the first RE I have ever ridden and I must say it has completely captured me, I love it!! There is something just so special and simple about it that I love. The Bonnevilles are better build quality etc.. but there is just something so special about the Royal Enfield. Will be hoping to get a ride on the Classic 350 very soon. Cheers and all the best
Do you have the DIY videos and detailing stuff ? Would love to see ❤
Sweet review , thank you .
I have owned mine for 11 months and have clocked 3500km , she is not my main bike .
I have fitted louder slip on's that sound awesome ! , K&N air filter and fly screen .
On the weight 10kg ( 5kg each ) is most by removing the standard mufflers , they are HEAVY !
ps. I ride with guys with Triumph T100's and T120's , Harleys etc and they are blowen away at how well my Interceptor rides and performs .
Cheers 👍 Glad you are enjoying it so much! Yes I would love one as a fun second bike. Just something so special about it. That is some serious weight saving!!
Royal Enfield and maybe Harley Davidson still understand that a broad flat torque curve is more important than peak horsepower.
👍 Even though it is down on power figures, it is such a joy to ride!
It used to be a British bike till 1994 but now it is completely own by an Indian company Eicher Group and that company has made Royal Enfield what it is today.
They have done a brilliant job 👌 I love the mixture of British styling with an Indian owned company. I think it works so well. Least to say I am a new big fan of Royal Enfield!!
Had my 650 Continental now for 3 years and have covered over 6k miles. Have had no issues at all and the build quality is up with more expensive models. Got a 2 into 1 TEC pipe on my which sheds 12kgs to start with and sounds the Mutts nuts. 3 figures (on a private road of course) are obtainable if desired. It certainly has enough punch for overtaking if you use the torque, which isn't a large amount but with the gearing setup is more than adequate.
This is the first Royal Enfield I have ever ridden and I must say I am smitten! Absolutely brilliant, there is just something so special about this bike as I am sure there is with all RE's 👍 Sounds great as well. Cheers
The build quality is not "up there with more expensive models" at all. Dream on, however, by all means.
Such a great bike. Sounds amazing, simple, reliable, easy to work on, cheap to buy/fix... everything most motorcycles are not these days. Just a minor correction: there are two shocks in the rear :)
👍 Absolutely well said. It is such a refreshing bike to ride, so simple and pure experience. You feel really connected to the bike. Ah my mistake!! Cheers
I'm hooked on these reviews, this was one of the more enjoyable ones. Great bike, great presentation!
👌 Many thanks, really pleased you're enjoying the reviews!! Lots more to come 😁
There is magic in Royal Enfields...
👌 Absolutely something very special about them!
It's not cheap, it's value for money. It's the Royal Enfield.
I agree, it is a fantastic bike. Full stop 👍
Rode it last year. A very Bristih bike overall. :) Great value for the money and it looks very nice. Keep going. Got my like.
Got my full license a year ago and considered the RE and a Triumph Street Twin. The RE was attractive price wise but unfortunately I found the seat too high for me and weirdly very top heavy. I opted for the Street Twin and very pleased with it.
👍 Always good to test ride before buying. We all have different dimensions and riding styles. Whatever suits you best is the one to go for! Hope you enjoy your Street Twin 👍
'I found the seat too high for me and weirdly very top heavy' Me too. But I went for a Meteor.
@@kshred3043 Fair enough the Meteor has a much lower seat height 👍 Enjoy
Hmnnn..have had a Triumph Tiger for 5 years and whilst competent very top heavy so now on an RE Interceptor and it’s much less wobbly. Nearly went for a Street Twin a few years ago but expensive and fuelling not so great. Seat hight might be an issue for some.
#dolomitefan thinking about getting an INT650. May I ask how tall you are just to get an idea about the relation between comfort zone & height?
I've had my Interceptor for 9 months and about 2,400 miles. I'm still happy with it. It checks quite a few boxes for me: it looks *great*, it sounds great, gets great gas mileage (about 55-60mpg), it handles well, there's lots of aftermarket stuff. It'll cruise all day at 75mph no problem. Power and torque are plenty for most purposes. The brakes work fine, the ergonomics are fine. And it has a likeable personality.
But it's not a bike I'd want to ride to Alaska on. Or even 200 miles. The reason being that the suspension and seat are kind of stiff and cobby. Around town it's fine but it wouldn't be fun riding it all day long. That and the right mirror vibrates. Also, it's hard to impossible to read the digital gas display in bright sunlight. Those are my only complaints.
I've got four bikes in the garage and the Interceptor is my main squeeze.
Good review. New subscriber.
Thanks and welcome to the channel 👍
Excellent great news I have one myself now for 4 months and I'm loving it
👍 It is a fantastic motorbike! Such a simple and pure riding experience. I want one haha
I’m new to biking and have been astounded by how nice most bikers seem to be! Wish I had started biking sooner!
Welcome to the world of biking 👍 Lots of good times to come.
Great looking bikes...to me it felt a bit like the poor cousin compared to the T100 (re fit and finish) but it is MUCH cheaper and still looks good and is great fun so maybe im being a little harsh..when I bought my Royal Enfield Classic 350 I was toying between that and the Interceptor but fell in love with the looks and the character of the 350 classic...SO much fun!
I agree the fit and finish is definitely better on the Triumphs, however there is just something about the Interceptor that I love!! It has won me over. Love the look of the 350 Classic, so cool 😁
I don’t own one but they really do look the biz. I test rode one last summer it did not disappoint.
A possible second bike! I fell in love with it haha
I’ve added a booster plug, and bistable levers, filter and open cover as well as performance exhaust. Sure gives it more of a kick!
I just bought one today and pick it up next week. My wife and I are going to do some light touring on it and have a big trip planned later this year. I think it's the perfect combo of price, comfort, price, and efficiency!
👌 congratulations on your new purchase!
Great review. I've just bought an Interceptor, after too many overbloated big bikes, and love it.
You mention the 'ugly looking bag' but I rather like it - what is it please?
👌 Many thanks I appreciate it, glad you liked the review. I agree it was so refreshing to ride a simple and smaller cc bike! Something very special about the Interceptor, I loved it.
It is actually meant for bicycles, I got it in a shop called Halfords! Sorry no model name on it. Cheers
Lots to like about this model. The modern trend is for the 270 degree crank phasing which has the same firing sequence as a V-twin, it makes a throaty sound but isn't the same as a traditional classic British twin which used the 360-degree sequence. Something of the uniqueness of a parallel twin has been lost with the adoption of the 270 degree crank, but it does have advantages in terms of smoothness and power delivery.
I have really fallen in love with this bike! Just something about it 👌 Yes I suppose the 270 degree crank does take away some character from the bike. Sounds great though and for longer trips it is nice and smooth. I do agree though I was expecting it to be a bit more "characterful". Cheers
I love the 270 sound quality.
It would be interesting to see you do a review on a 2nd-hand W650 (360-degree-crank ) I own-one and really-enjoy it but would love to try an RE650 ( I love V-twins too and ride an-old XV1000 TR1 --my 'big' bike ) I like the idea of being-able to upgrade it so-easily and it would be easy to unleash another 10hp without a huge outlay . Dave nz
I waited for the arrival of the RE 650 and went ahead and went with the street twin. I'm very pleased.
👌 They are both great bikes. The RE I just personally found something special about it, but that is just individual. Hope you continue to enjoy your bike.
Can you tell me about your that handle bar bag thing that you have in this video? I really like the look and potential practicality for me of that.
Hi, yes of course. It is actually meant for bicycles, I bought it in a shop called Halfords!! Fits on almost any motorbike. Sorry have no model name though. Cheers
Love the Interceptor! As new, it's more value for money than the Bonnie. But...let's see in a few years time how the RE's hold up quality wise...
My 2020 Int has no rust or corrosion, and I live on the SE coast. My Harley isn't as well finished, and the quality is just as good as my Triumph.
@@MzLunaCee good to hear!😀
These bikes do hold up well. They are tested and survive the worst of roads and weather conditions in India. Most people who tour to the remote and treacherous mountains of North India prefer Royal Enfields. I love the Bonnie too though I haven't test ridden it but out here in India they are almost 3 times more expensive than the Inty 650 and they have very few service centers.
I enjoy your videos and style. I'm happy to see these RE 650's. Back in the eighties when there weren't any contemporary British twins and up through about 2002 I owned a Suzuki 650 Tempter that I thoroughly enjoyed. In spite of having a Sabre v65 1100 and a VFR 750 and others bikes, I decided the 650 was potentially a Goldilocks engine size. I currently have a Nighthawk 650SC as well as an SV650. I'm phasing out the 4cylinder 1100's and enjoy my CB750 and VN750, etc. I look forward to finding an RE 650 in the used market some time in the future. Ciao.
Thanks so much I appreciate it and glad you enjoy the videos 👍 Yup 650 is for sure a sweet spot. Definitely recommend trying the RE650 out, its great fun
Interesting that it evokes an emotional-response , many people have said the same about this bike (and Kawasaki W650's ) Crotch-rocket junkies-aside , most reviewers get very-happy over the riding-experience and it's just-great to look at and listen-to . My 2nd-bike is a W650 , similar-power and a great-sound , effortless to ride and everyone admires it . There's something to be said for these-styles of bike that are more than their HP or performance , simple, practical and cool . Dave nz
Hi Dave, absolutely, these style of bikes have such a great place in the market. Great price and just so much fun to ride despite HP. A great reminder of how motorcycling can still be fun with out crazy HP figures 👍
I had an Interceptor for 13 months and 5500 miles, then traded it in on a T100 which I have now had for 10 months and 3200 miles. The Triumph is a much nicer bike. It has 50% more torque and it peaks at a much lower RPM. It would run circles around the Interceptor. The Triumph is a lot more expensive but if your budget will allow it, it's worth it.
I really enjoyed your review and your enthusiasm. I absolutely love Royal Enfield, so much heart and so much character. I don't mean to be picky but those accessories that you called after market are actually genuine RE parts, not after market. Anyway great video, cheers 😀
Thanks, really glad you enjoyed the video 👍 no worries, yup my mistake you are correct!
I love mine, but its far from stock at this point. I've upgraded the exhaust, suspension and put on knobby tires and a load of other things to turn it into a scrambler for my back roads. Gives me an alternative to the Speedmaster.
Sounds awesome!! I completely fell in love with this bike. Just so simple and pure riding experience. I want one haha
@@redangrevival I highly recommend it if you get the chance. I wouldn't get rid of my Speedmaster for one, but having it has a secondary bike is nice.
@@keithstewart1979 👍
RE 650 is a great starter bike and great for the price but I traded mine in on a Triumph Bonneville T120 after 4 months. It doesn't compare to the Triumph in any way - fit, finish, power, stability, etc. I really enjoyed mine for what it is - an inexpensive, easy to ride, lower-powered retro style bike.
Fit, finish, stability and utterly unreliable like all British motorcycles.
@@sidmallya7421 Lol. I've got 25k miles on my 2020 T120, all in the state of Texas under the blazing hot sun, and never had one issue, not one. My RE650 was also reliable, although I started to experience the occasional transmission false neutrals in 4th and 5th gears (others have noticed this as well). Once again, the RE is a great bike for the price and if that's your budget I say go for it.
The T120 is considerably more powerful and expensive! The RE is more comparable to the T100, the overall build quality etc.. of the Triumph is better, but there is just something about the RE that I love. That special feeling!
15K miles on my Triumph Speedmaster in the last 12 months. Not one problem!
@@redangrevival Yes, sometimes I wish I'd kept mine and made a scrambler out of it.
Cracking bike. A genuine retro unlike triumphs pastiche. Incredible value for money.
👍 It really does fee like a true retro, love it!
Being a bit of a Triumph fan I'm going to be able to try one finally as my dealer is now fully franchised and the REs are selling. However I have to admit that sitting on the showroom floor they don't impress me like the Bonnevilles do so if and when I try one out I'm going to have to try to curb my prejudices a bit.
👍 The Royal Enfield is definitely a bit more rough around the edges! However it really does grow on you, I have sort of fallen in love with this bike. For its simplicity and is flaws (and price). Hope you get a ride on one soon.
@@redangrevival Me too! I just had the T120 out for the first time in a month due to heat and today was only good for a few miles before the fan came on and started cooking my legs.
Such a lovely bike and the price is amazing
👍 It really is such a great package! Such a loveable bike
Great review on the RE. I’m drawn between that bike and the Moto Guzzi V7 ..as a beginner!
Many thanks, really pleased you enjoyed the review 👍 Both fantastic beginner bikes. Just down to personal preference I would say.
I would say the V Twin in the Guzzi packs a bit more punch than the RE.
Should get a Red Rooster exhaust for RE650, it sounds just insaaaane..🥰😍
Will have a listen to that 👍
Lextec is good too, added to a decent air filter and it improves the bottom and and mid range.
Great Content! Your riding jacket looks really cool. Can I kindly know what make is it? Thank you.
Hi, many thanks I appreciate and glad you like the content 👍
Yes of course, it is a Merlin Chigwell Light mesh summer jacket. Thanks
Great bike …I’ve swapped my Triumph Tiger for an Interceptor. If you like touring the back roads it’s a joy. Two-up maybe but knee down no…each too their own😀 Heading for the Cotswolds soon and hopefully the Pyrenees next year.
Hi Pete, awesome sounds like a fun swap! Such a special bike, I really loved it 😁 You will have an absolute blast touring on this, so much fun and character. Also different from all of the other adventure bikes touring around. Cheers and hope you enjoy it.
I have a 650 interceptor, also a 1975 Triumph T140 with an aftermarket cam and 34mm mikunis. My boys have an SV650 and a Moto-Guzzi V7 Storm. The SV is the quickest, The guzzi is the prettiest, The 750 Bonny is just an old classic but it is a true Triumph at least. Some interesting comparisons between all four. Both the SV and even the T140 are quicker but the enfield is so much more torquey than the T140 and so so much smooother. Interestingly it is also significantly quicker than the V7 which was a surprise as on paper they look identical but they bike that me and my boys all want to ride is the enfield- it;s just so nice to ride.
👍 Thanks that is great to hear the comparison between the models. I am yet to ride the V7!
The Interceptor is so much more than its specs and price suggest, I really fell in love with this bike. Just something so special about it. I want one haha. Cheers
If you have both sv650 and Int 650 in a garage for a daily commute. Which one do you take most of the time? Just got my full license and these 2 bikes both resonate with me in a different way.
@@lildurian The SV is quicker but the clutch is heavy, it's not comfortable and the enfield is much smoother and also more forgiving. It;s interesting that when I go out riding with my sons, everyone wants to ride the enfield. SV is a fun bike to ride but the enfield is just such a sweet ride.
@@redangrevival I actually love the V7 and used to try and borrow it whenever I could before I had the enfield which is smoother, more mechanically sympathetic if that makes sense and it is quicker which was a surprise to both me and my son. My only complaint is the seat feels hard after an hour or so. Just did a 200 mph round trip ride on it today up to northern vancouver island in the 70 to 80 mph region on an admittedly semi-deserted road and got 75 mpg- incredible.
@@motorcyclementor1785 thank you for your opinion. When i tested Int 650 it felt good but when you want to hussle it, it does not perform as well as SV650 i used to pass my full license. The bike that might straddle that compromise might be speed twin 1200. For that money i could buy both bikes lol.
I just picked mine up and the only complaints I have are common enough. First, the grips are a bit too narrow, but I have padded gloves that will likely fix that. Second, the placement of the foot pegs. They are placed over where one would normally place one's feet at a stop. I can fix this by scooting back on the seat.
Other than that, I put 112 miles on it my first day owning it. It wanted to ride at 60-65 moh, even though the break in speed was 50 for 300 kms.
👍 I am sure you will get used to the few niggles a new bike has. Great first days ride, won't take you long to break it in!
@@redangrevival Especially as it's 95 miles back to the service center.
You can add grip puppies to increase the diameter of the grips - I use Chinese copies from eBay £3 or so. If i had an interceptor I'd be tempted to see if old school barrel shapped grips could be fitted. I had them on my bonnie and they were really comfy.
You get what you pay for it's that simple. RE fans love to talk about value for money but ignore what that term actually means.
Yes the quality on the Triumphs is definitely better. However there is just something special about the RE that I loved!
Your posts are so interesting! I look forward to seeing these everday! 😁❤️💞 I’m 3rd :))
Thanks so much 👍 Really pleased you like the videos and can enjoy watching them. All the best.
What I really like about the interceptor it's that even if it's smaller cc than the t100 it has 6 speeds just that probably make it much more suitable for highway cruising and mileage
Yes that over run gear really helps smooth it out at higher speeds. It is a surprisingly smooth engine as well, I thought 👍
Royal Enfield interceptor is 🔥🔥🔥
Another top video. Quick one. What’s that brown Belstaff jacket you have please ?
👍 Many thanks. It is actually a "Merlin Chigwell Light" summer mesh jacket
@@redangrevival brilliant. Thank you so much. Hope your well. Love the Portugal vids. Defo somewhere am gonna ride 😊
@@norsewoods2999 👍 Many thanks I appreciate that, same to you as well. Perfect I really recommend it, think Spring time would best the best time to go.
All the best
@@redangrevival nice one. Thanks for the tip 👌🏼
I don’t think they are “aiming squarely at Triumph.” Instead they’re aiming for the middle weight classic category, which hasn’t been serviced well, other than say the W650 Kawa.
👍 yes true, I suppose the T100 really dominates the classic market currently. One to beat!
Hi just subscribed great channel I was wondering what the handle bar bag is that you use as I think it would be useful on my bonniville
Cheers
Clive
Hi Clive, many thanks I appreciate it and glad you like the channel, welcome 👍
The bag is actually meant for bicycles! I got it in a shop called Halfords. Fits most motorbikes brilliantly.
Great review - actually just bought the Orange Crush Interceptor on the weekend. Could you please share the details on the seat - link ? Cheers, Tom
Hi, thanks Tom I appreciate it glad you enjoyed the review 👍 Massive congratulations on your new bike! Am sure you will love it.
Sorry I cannot find the link atm, but it should be an option from RE. I would try asking your local dealer for the brown diamond stitched seat. Sorry, I hope that helps.
Thanks Gus, I’m sure it will be easy to track down - cheers mate
Excellent review, thank you for taking the time to do a detailed report. BEAUTIFUL bike, I’d love to get one! On another note, what riding jacket are you wearing in the video? It looks really cool!
Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 It is a great bike, really fell for this one.
The jacket is a Merlin Chigwell Light, great summer mesh jacket
@@redangrevival thank you, much appreciated!
Really nice shinny bike.. more my era when there were BSA Goldstar..BSA Rocket..Triumph Bonneville..Norton Commando and of course Royal Enfield.
Interesting exhaust pipes on these and really nice sound, and sound being an important factor when considering a bike.
Not sure on that windscreen.
Great video and really professional!
How amusing motorbike shadows are!
Nice one
Cheers Angus
👍 Thanks, really pleased it came across professionally! I loved riding this bike, such a pure and simple ride 😁 I have sort of fallen in love with this bike! There really is something to be said for simplicity.
Would like to get a ride on the new BSA Goldstar to compare the two.
Cheers
I've owned a V7 which was stolen a few years ago, great bike, I've ridden an intercepter and a kawasaki w800, my money went on a air/oil cooled T100 Bonneville, imop a better bike overall.
I agree the Bonneville is a better bike overall! However this RE is great value for money imo
Great review - thanks. Which bike would you say was most fun - Int 650 or Classic 350??
Personally I would say the INT650, just because of that little bit of extra power! However character and personality, I would go with the Classic 350 every time.
Recently rode the new BSA Gold Star (vid out soon) now thats a fun bike 👍
Review number 1001, on YT of the RE 650. Nothing new here, with all do respect.
Because every reviewer is telling the truth! Its a great bike 👍
I own one. good bike for value but not for freeways as it needs more revs than I like and it feels busy. for quick acceleration, gears need be changed quickly at around 2k rpm only. there's not much pull beyond 2.5k rpm when I am starting off the line. I am in 6th cog already at 60-70 kph speed. The parts quality is substandard compared to japanese brands. There is frequent repairs and parts replacement required which I never experienced with honda and yamaha. But for the price there is no alternative to get parallel twin 650 motorcycle.
As you say there are negatives about it, but for the price it is a brilliant bike with a lovely engine 👍
You should have bought a KTM Duke 390 or ADV 390 for similar price. This motorcycle is not for ripping it to the redline just because its 650CC. Quality of parts is getting better, fit and finish is getting better. If you compare the INT 650 with the recently launched Super Meteor 650 you can see the difference in fit and finish. Enjoy its charm brother, not everything is about top speed and RPM's. Cheers!
Thanks for the review info. Can you tell me what your jacket is?
It's my pleasure, glad you enjoyed the review 👍 It is a Merlin Chigwell Light, great mesh summer jacket
Thanks so much for the reply. Loving your videos and reviews. 😊
Hello from Germany. Also bought a 2022 Interceptor. It is now waiting for warm times in the underground car park. In the run-up I saw 1 million videos and descriptions and had the choice between a Guzzi V7 with 65 hp and the RE with 48 hp. Until today I thought the Interceptor always had a steel braided brake line (Stahlflex) , but I have a black one and I see black or nothing on this video.
Seems like RE saved that on the 2022 again??
Hi, congrats on getting your Interceptor, lovely bike 👍 Unfortunately the bike in this video is not mine! I own a Triumph Speedmaster.
Two great bikes, but I think you made the right choice, the Interceptor is brilliant value for money.
Yes they save money in places like that to make it such an affordable price. The brakes felt fine to me. Cheers and enjoy your ride when the weather warms up!
@@redangrevival Thank you very much.
I've already seen Interceptor with steel braided lines, model year 2021 and you can also find earlier models on RUclips that have silver (steel) lines.
It doesn't matter, the black brakes too and I'll discuss it with my workshop at the 1st customer service to see if the upgrade is worth it. Stay healthy
PS:
By the way, I'm back after a 38-year break. Now retired, you need a little joy and refresh memories.
On trips to the North Cape or on 2 weeks at the TT on the Isle of Man in 1982 ;-)
@@mistered999 👍 Welcome back to the motorcycling world and community. Enjoy every minute of it
@@redangrevival Yes - i will😀
Thanks for the excellent review. Looking forward to buying the Int 650 next month. Can you let us know what brand jacket you are wearing in this video? The jacket looks great. Is it by Oxford? Thanks!
It's a Merlin. I've recently bought one, it's a great jacket, well made and reasonably priced.
@@peterwillis4239 Thank you very much.
👍 Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review! Lucky you, I bet you cannot wait. I have fallen in love with this bike, just something so charming and special about it. It is a Merlin Chigwell Light Jacket. Great mesh summer jacket (not for winter). Cheers
Tjx fr video. Would these panniers hinder the pillions seating 💺 in anyway? Did you try a pillion ON with the PANNIERS ?
My pleasure, glad you liked it 👍 From memory I think yes they would restrict the pillion.
Do you have a link to that handlebar bag? Thanks 🙏👍. I have a 2022 Int Orange Crush. Love this bike. Great video 😊
Sorry no link, but I bought it from a shop called Halfords. Is meant for bicycles, but is just great for most motorbikes.
@@redangrevival Thanks for the reply? You know the brand?
@@onecrazywheel In house Halfords brand I believe
@@redangrevival Oh awesome. Thanks. We don't have those here in Central Florida. I'll look em up for sure. Thanks again for the reply. God bless 🙏
Jeff
Things to note that I’ve found in my research on the Interceptor and most of the REs is that they have things like the pegs, shifter lever, etc that stick out that would hit the ground first in a drop or crash that are attached directly to the frame. If you bend the frame, the bike is done, and even with crash guards, that wouldn’t protect it. The metal for pegs and such attached to the frame are very thin compared to the Bonneville’s, very easy to bend so to me that is a big factor in considering a T100 over the Interceptor. The T120 is way out of this class and even hard to compare the T100 when it comes to CCs and the smoothness. I haven’t ridden an RE, only sat on some, but I can’t imagine it’s smoother than the Bonnie’s, especially if you are going over 55 mph, per other reviews, it get’s shaky, the vibration is a major annoyance and it’d be a pain to tour on. I see it only as a city, commuter type bike and that is where most accidents come into play statistically. I personally wouldn’t go under 1200ccs again, maybe the 900 in the city.
How do you think it was smoother than a Bonnie? How fast did you get it up to?
I don't think it was smoother than a "Bonnie". In my opinion smoother does not always mean better!! Of course the Bonnevilles are built to a higher quality, hence the price. Motorbikes are not just about numbers and practicality, I especially found that with this bike. It just felt so special to me, loved it.
Did 75mph and it was very smooth, honestly hardly any vibrations at all! I would love to do a weekend tour on this bike.
I’ve been riding my RE for a year and a half. 6000 miles plus so far. I use it as my primary ride, my secondary is a 1964 Corvair. The bike delivers on every point that a bike should, I’ve found no issues with lack of smoothness or shaking. I must admit, however, that I have nothing to compare it with;I’ve just returned to riding after a thirty year absence. My rides consist of daily commutes to work that include both city and rural routes, I’ve taken road trips of 300 mile round trips that include interstate travel at 80 mph and South and North Carolina and East Tennessee mountains. The bike is better at being a bike than I am a rider, but I keep practicing slow and fast. I didn’t know it was a thing but my other biking friends are surprised to see such a thin chicken strip on the back tire from an old guy like me. Two last points, it’s inexpensive, even paid for, and it gets 54 mpg all the time.
@@trumpetsphere 👌 Sounds like you are loving it, which is great! It is not the fastest or most powerful bike, but it has something special about it. I love it!
You've answered your own question really. The brake lever, gear shift etc are lightweight but the frame is massively strong. You'd have to hit something big very hard to bend it. Levers are cheap.
I don't think a smoother bike is a better one. If Triumph wants to make a smoother, they should go with a DOHC not SOHC machine like Bonnie
Love em great looking bikes !!👌👍
Yup I am a big fan, thought I may like it 👍
Comparatively, you folks still pay a lot for the interceptor! Here in India it retails for 3.5 Lakh, which is roughly 3.5 grand in UK money.
👌 That is incredible value for money! I would have several of them 😉
True, but you also have to take a few "minor" things into account - freight, taxes, dealers commissions, marketing expenses in GBP not INR etc. All things considered, they are STILL very affordable in the UK. The mean average salary for all workers in the UK is £31,447. This means that an average worker in the UK could buy 6 of these bikes a year. How many people in India can buy 6 Interceptors in their annual pay? They would need 21 lakh as annual salary.
@@hussainalmubarak5347 Exactly it is all about the different affordability of different countries. If the Interceptor was the same price in India as in the UK then it would not sell!!
Nice review! Is the seat good for longer rides? You said you “Imagine” it will be good. 😀 My only question is, is it? Thank you!!
Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 To be honest I have not done a long ride on the bike so cannot give an accurate answer!
@@redangrevival Well, I saw your review and immediately bought the seat as it looked so awesome!. :P Now, I will make one review. Don't you worry!! Cheers from India!
@@SrinivasGanesh 👍
The sound of the bike is like the sound of a metallic fleshy being, that's how I can best describe it haha.
Haha 👍 Such a special bike it is almost alive!
Mate where are your jeans and jacket from? , thx
Jacket is "Merlin Chigwell Light" great mesh summer jacket. Jeans are "Ironhead, John Doe" 👍
It may have been asked before but I'm new to your channel...what is the brand of your jacket?
Hi Kevin, welcome to the channel. No problem at all, it is a "Merlin Chigwell Light" great summer mesh jacket 👍
@@redangrevival Thank you!
Went through the Cotswolds the other day on way back from Wales, you are right lovely riding! Great vid am leaning towards maybe the Scram just for maybe for better mpg/adv riding.
But am def going to test ride the Interceptor👍👍👍
P.s Like the Merlin jacket.
👍 A beautiful place to ride. Such classic British country side!Yes the Scram definitely looks better for some off road rides. Would highly recommend testing the Interceptor as well, I really fell in love with this bike!
Thanks its a great summer jacket.
@@redangrevival I'd prob get the Interceptor if wasnt unsure if I didnt want to try adv riding...
Its actually got an ok range the Interceptor but not sure if I'd want it for a tourer. Guess you can tour on any bike but havent decided if something more "rugged" better.
Decisions. I know I'd love a bigger cruiser/classic with not so much the bhp but a 16litre tank..or say a 650 himi. (There is a Motomorini 650...).
@@MauriceTarantulas Yes the Interceptor is fine on gravel roads but wouldn't want to do much more that that!
Just had a look at the Motomorini 650, looks great 👍 Love the design
I have a 2021 T100 and a 2022 Interceptor. I definitely think that the T100 is 1.5 times better the bike but at 1.5 times the cost so they are the same value for money.
Well said 👍
Another person falls under the spell of Royal Enfield. I'm sure the prices have a lot to do with their popularity. If Triumphs were the same price, they'd fly off the shelves. People love them for the simple riding and the amazing looks too. They do seem to be more popular with men though. I guarantee you'll own one by the time you hit 40 😉
Haha it has got me this bike, I love it!! There is just something about it, it is far from perfect but I love that about it. As you say the price is just so appealing as well 👍 I am trying to persuade a friend to get one so I can ride it!
That sounds like a plan 😂
Everyone keeps banging on about it ONLY being 47 hp. That's rather the point, it's A2 license friendly, which makes perfect commercial sense.
It is not much power compared to some modern bikes, but I don't see that as a negative!
Wow I’m actually surprised at this bike. I don’t know why but I always associated this bike with poor quality. In terms of fit and finish between the Bonneville and this bike how would you rate it.? The exhaust is very noticeable, nice
I was also very surprised 👍 Really fell for this one! Fit and finish is a lot better on the Triumph, however something about the RE just won me over.
Buy .. I have mine sonce when it was launched.
No fault .. and it drives comfy and its powerful even with my 110 kilos.
@@rolfschroeder3174 👍 That is great to hear that you are enjoying it so much and that you have had no problems.
Have you tried the V7?
Unfortunately i haven’t yet! Would really like to get a ride on one though 👍
Waiting for classic 650
Same that will be a beautiful bike and a lovely engine to compliment it 👌
WORD ON THE STREET... la tourelle bonneville !
Royal Enfield hasnt been British for over 70 years. It was sold to India in 1955 and is owned by Eicher motors based in Chennai (formerly Madras). Engineering is still done in England but its not a British Company.
👍 I know but I still like to hold onto its original heritage! I think the mixture of British and India ownership/design is a great combo!
@@redangrevival Yes, i agree and the bikes are so much better for it too
R E actually stopped production in the UK in around 1970. There is a 750 interceptor from that time, where this gets its name from. The Indian RE started out assembling UK made parts, but later started producing their own from scratch, and then developing/evolving from there. I'm under no illusions though, modern RE's are only RE in name (although with an actual path back to the original make - unlike the modern AJS, BSA, Brough superior etc). It is comforting that they appear to take development very seriously though, with the R&D in Leics, Harris frames etc. I believe even the Bullet 5 speed box was designed at my old university (who also designed the Nissan Quashqui). I do think that RE have done a very good job of imitating an old 60's Brit bike though, although the right side of the engine looks like a huge egg to me, more like a n XS650 than a Bonneville/commando etc. It doesn't put me off enough to discount it and I'm looking forward to a test ride. 😀
me gusta este moto
👌
RE is better now, but no way better then Triumph 😊
Fair enough! I think the Triumph is a better bike all round. However I still prefer the RE, it just has something special about it 👍
@@redangrevival I only know them from 3 or 5 years ago. Ne er owned one. Never wanted to. However, I am liking them more now.
@@TriumphLover They do seem to be improving, and they have a variety of new models coming out this winter 👍
it can not match the Bonny for sound ...a 270 degree crank just doesn't beat the sound of my 360 degree crank Bonny - a 2005 model which does NOT vibrate at all ..
I agree, but the older bikes generally do sound better anyway. So your older Bonny has an advantage there!
Oh how I wish the exhaust didnt stick up in the air.....not a retro or classic look.
NO!!! 😂 I like that jacket though - is it a Belstaff?
You have to have a Royal Enfield to go with the jacket 😉 No, it is a Merlin Chigwell Light. Great mesh summer jacket
@@redangrevival I'd rather have your Speedmaster than 2 Royal Enfields. I'm going to look into buying the jacket though, thanks. 👍
@@OCCUPIEDNATION O yes same! I love my Speedmaster 😁
@@OCCUPIEDNATION Perhaps have the Guzzi as a second bike
@@redangrevival I've got a Street Triple R which is becoming a bit lairy for me. So I'm thinking of buying a used Thunderbird Sport 900 and customizing it slightly to give it more of a hipster / retro vibe, with a more attractive tank off a 900 Adventurer and perhaps even a brown seat and grips.,
Only 47 HP. How much does anyone need?
160hp can be fun haha! No I know modern bikes are ridiculously powerful these days.
There are at least 5 new Royal Enfields on their way.
Can't wait 😁 They are making some brilliant bikes atm!
Its lathable to aim at Triumph bonavile
I think Royal Enfield have done a great job at it!!
@@redangrevival Yes very agree.
Engine guards look awful on the Interceptor 650. They should be chrome, or sliver painted at least, cause they look terrible on this silver engine...Bonneville's got one of the best looking crash bars, you can barely notice them.
They are available in chrome too, not sure why this bike has them black...
So, did you finally go and buy one for yourself?
Not yet! I still love my Speedmaster but I do have a soft spot for this RE 👍
@@redangrevival ..and so do I!
Looking across tube and re followers they seem plagued with issues. Puts me right off
Yes the build quality is not as good as the Triumph! However there is something just so special about the RE
They do offer a good warranty..
For the price they are Ok. When you examine them closely though, the details are not happening for me. No Japanese pedigree, which isn't to be discounted in today's hyperbolic world. A lot has gone into the R&D lineage of Japanese motorcycle culture and most of it is unseen; The insanely reliable high-quality end product is largely taken for granted. Paying extra for that is well worth it in my world.
I agree the Japanese quality and reliability it too often over looked, they are amazing bikes 👍 This RE does not match them on that, however for the price and the way it rides I just fell in love with this bike, just had so much fun riding it, until it breaks down 😉
It's definitely not better than a Triumph Bonneville, is it better value for money? Definitely.
Looking at it statistically and build quality etc.. I agree. However genuinely preferred riding this over the T100! Just something special about it.
@@redangrevival I've got a 790 Bonneville it's built like a fricking tank I'd never swap it for an Interceptor ever. I was looking at the usual Interceptor, V7, Kawasaki w650/w800, or Bonneville. There's no comparison it's Bonneville every day of every week. Interceptor build quality is suspect, which is fair enough at the price but wouldn't like to see one in eighteen years which is the age of my Bonnie, Kawasaki although excellent build quality just felt like a tribute act, V7 I still like tbh and wouldn't mind having one as well but definitely not instead of. I'd always advise someone to buy a second hand Bonneville over an Interceptor. It's all opinions tho, but we all agree on one thing open road and motorbike is virtually an unbeatable experience....😎🏍️
🙌 Well said sir!! Absolutely at the end of the day it is all about the ride, and what a ride it is whatever two wheels you are on. Fair enough, that is the beauty of motorbikes, they are so individual there is one for everyone. All about how the bike makes you feel.
Sounds like you love your Bonnie and I totally understand that. All the best and enjoy the ride 👌
@@redangrevival 👍
You pay your money and make your choice, but to compare that thing to a Triumph, come on, I have worked on Indian made machines for forty years and have to say no, it may look nice but I will bet the internals don't. Not for me.
The Triumph is definitely better build quality etc... However there is just something special about this bike that I loved. I think the Triumphs are now almost too "polished" and smooth. Something so characterful about the Interceptor. Just personal opinion. Cheers
David, with all due respect, these are newer engines than the ones you had worked on. Definitely not par or better than Triumph but not as bad as the ones a decade ago. You will be pleased to know that these motorcycles survive the harshest of conditions on Indian roads and are tough as nails. Indians do not change their motorcycles (or cars) as frequently as, say, in the UK or the US hence they have to make these bikes tough and frugal. Which Indian machines did you work with, just out of sheer curiosity?
Man, is you is or is you ain't gonna wear yourself out doing all these reviews. :p
Great review by the way....ride safe...
Haha I know!!! It ok actually, I am doing 2 videos a week now instead of 3 and it is MUCH easier. Want to go off on Speedy for a tour soon 👍
Cheers
It’s more about selling the accessories in the guise of reviewing the bike! You out to mention that up front that you are pitching wares from the sponsors of the bike!
Zero sponsorship here! I am making no money from Royal Enfield or the Dealership. I was merely mentioning the price of the accessories for the viewers benefit. Yes some videos are like that but this is not the one!
I can buy them for 6 grand new... fooking bargain bikes
Absolutely brilliant! With bike prices just ever increasing it is so nice to have a great bike at a reasonable price 😁 Love this bike
Frankly, you didn't push it anywhere near hard enough to show it's achilles heel....the handling and suspension. Perhaps, a note to take forward for further reviews? You don't need to lose your licence, but burbling along country roads at 50 mph is not going to cut it, sorry. You could do that on a 125. Getting to 70 on a smooth motorway does not review the bike. You could do that on a 125. Flick it along challenging country and B roads you know well and can therefore compare it to other bikes.
I take your point and will consider it for future reviews! However I personally don't think this bike was designed to be going fast along a bumpy country road. The motorway was just to see how it handled faster roads for a potential tour!
Trust me though I have some fun with it on some B roads, can't show everything on camera. Its tricky to commentate and ride spiritedly at the same time!
😁👍👍👍😁
👌👍👌
I like this bike but one thing engine size is too big that's only the problem to me...
Have you considered the Classic 350?
@@redangrevival No no just i am telling my opinion
@@s.vivekanandan2037 👍 all good.