Just been to the NEC to look at the BSA scrambler. Cheaper to buy a new BSA at £4995 and simply add a few extras and some Pirelli scorpion rally tyres. As that’s basically all bsa have done for an extra £1600. Doesn’t look like they’ve done anything with the headstock bracket wiring issue. Although I must say personally I thought it was a better representation of a scrambler than Royal Enfields Bear.
@@andrewpaton8819 I thought the BSA came with Scorpions as standard. I'm sure that's what one of the videos I saw from the NEC said. Personally, the twin pot motor and simpler air/oil cooling makes the decision the other way.
I sat on both at the NEC and frankly the Classic 650 felt like it’s in a different league……it’s flippin awesome……but I fell in love with the Guerrilla.
I agree with you about the colours of the new 650s, that turquoise is a real gem! As for the powerplant, I don't think it's going against the heritage of either British bikes in general or RE in particular. You already mentioned various twin cylinder British models from the halcyon days and let's also not forget that Royal Enfield's original output wasn't restricted to just singles; their first Super Meteor from 1952 was a twin as was the 1958 Constellation and the 1960s Interceptor. We're lucky at the moment with RE and BSA to have a choice between similar flavour machines, one powered by a twin and one by a single. I'd be happy with either - or preferably both!
Couldn't agree more. It's a nice looking bike for sure and totally agree with your colour choice, but it needs to be a single for my money. All my bikes bar one big four cylinder have been singles they deliver a totally different riding experience. RE needs to bring back the 500 methinks.
I fancy the 500 single, but I keep hearing that it's unpleasant above about 50 mph, owing to the vibration. And, I don't mean that 'the vibration is noticeable' ... but that it's horrible. You can still buy them brand new in the UK. Seen 'em on eBay. New, old stock, £5k, but the scrambler version.
what do i think ??? i think your right ;; a bike close on a 1/4 of a ton , - the restricted engine is going to feel a little saggy ,, r.e. are still catering to [ i've just past my test ] [[ welcome new riders from me ]] ,, i don't think they need to stick to this for all variants , if they want to stick to the 'twin' set up then make it a 750 ish with an increase in compression to give it a bit more thump without going mad and upsetting the insurers ,, === which makes your video kinda spot on doesn't it ;;
I suspect my wife and paniers will balance out the look of the classic 650 nicely. And i may venture on to a bit faster roads than my classic 350. I have no issues with the twin, rather a twin than a radiator.
Hi Dave,..I studied all the new offerings BSA and RE at the show yesterday,.. I thought the new BSA Scram was head and shoulders above RE and also BSA own Goldstar a big step up in build quality, and at around 212 kg the white one with bar ends was the business 👍
I’m sooo glad you made this video. I’m working on the principal that if you can’t get a bike over the hard knot pass three times a week. You’re buying the wrong bikes. I’ve been on rocket ships since 1982 and am falling out of love even though I love the thrills and the pain.Thinking of paying the extra and buying two top classic 500s and calling it a day👍🏴
I going to keep my 2005 Daytona ss of seven years for track bike and grow old disgracefully in retirement. Smell the roses and experience different areas🤫
I hope you will soon have the chance to test the Classic and the Bear for us! I think those 2 bikes should have a shorter gear ratio and be optimised for legal speeds... I am curious about the better suspensions of those 2 bikes compared to the interceptor... Can¨t wait 😉👍🏼👍🏼 For the character, I agree with you and I always liked the mono! But I remember my first "big" bike wich was a Yamaha XS650 twin (at 360°) and character as well as vibrations were there 😂
Hi Dave, went to the nec, on Monday, Iv got to say that royal enfield have done it again and knocked it out of the park with the classic and the bear 650s. I have owned a interceptor and currently have a super meteor 650 and I'm afraid I don't agree that there is a significant difference in performance, Im just not feeling that. When you talked about the bsa single cylinder Is more authentic as a 50s or 60s motorcycle? They certainly weren't water cooled. I've been a subscriber of your excellent channel for atleast a year or more and this is the first time I haven't agreed with you , sorry Dave.
Good video and well shared thoughts. I saw and sat on the Classic 650 at Motorcycle Live today......beautiful bike and perfect seat, foot an bar positioning for me. Really looking to test ride as soon as they become available but as there was no info on bike weight that I could find I think your suspicions about power to weight ratio may be well founded; time will tell. Keep up the great work; love your videos and ramblings.😊
Great video.... I ride a Triumph T100 black, which I love. I also own a Yamaha XVS 1300, loads of chrome, so our summer bike. I love R.Enfields.... but a 650 is just not big enough because 80% of the time I have got my wife on the back. If only R.E woulod develop a larger capacity engine.... they are stuck at 650 and so obviously I am not there targer customer. A classic R.E 850 would be brilliant come on R.E, STOP reworking the same platform!
I agree with you that the Classic 650 should have been a big single, just like the BSA, which is a bike I really like. What I do like about the new 650 though is that it has a very traditional air cooled engine. I also like the way they've worked with the frame when designing the bike, giving it more design integrity This is not something they did with the new 350 Classic, where they kind of grafted a 3D photocopy of a Classic 500 onto a modern generic frame not designed for the Classic 500 look. They had to use lots of plastic inner panels to hold the thing together.
Nice video Dave! As you can imagine I would say Goldstar... Classic 650 has been in the works for so long its built up this huge expectation and it just doesnt quite meet it in my opinion. The 243kg is something that is gaining momentum as an issue online and we know as RUclipsrs that when something like this takes root its hard to correct... Classic 350 id much prefer tbh 😊
Cheers Sean yes absolutely the 350 is faithful to the brief whereas the 650 (insofar as it has presented this far) has a smack of tokenism about it. As you say it has been mooted for several years….now that’s what I call a staged release! 😁
Greetings Dave, both are terrific looking bikes! I plan a test ride on the Classic 650 when available here in the US. If it is as comfortable as the Meteor 350, I'll have one in teal. Take care Sir!
I think you are spot on, the 650cc twin could do with boring out to 750cc and producing 70bhp with the weight in the 240kg range, but RE are stuck appealing to the A2 licence holders which seems to be their core market at the moment, I must admit that the new classic is drop dead gorgeous though.
I predict Q2 of next year there will be a video from Dave saying Norman is staying but which of the other three is going to make room for the classic 650 once he gets to see and feel the classic 650 in the flesh. For those that want more then I am afraid it's what works in the India and other south east Asia not what our tiny market wants. Purchase costs and operating cost are key requirements and 650's are already seen as a premium performance package. They would not be the price point they are if they only sold in USA and Europe.
The classic 350 looks the oldest of all retro bikes. With the classic 650 (especially the teak green) RE has succeeded to keep it that way and that's the main thing for me. a BSA seems from a more recent period in time. A 350 thumper and 650 twin with 270° crank will off course offer you a different feeling. But for me, that is a good thing. If you have them both in your garage (and that's my plan), the difference will offer more enjoyment. I am not concerned about the performance, my riding style will also remain 'classic'.
The classic 650 just has an odd looking rear fender sitting so high off the tire. While my super meteor is very nice it lacks the character of my 350 Bullet, my Moto Guzzi V7, any of my old dirt bikes and old BMW 1200’s or even Harley’s. If the BSA’s ever come to America I’ll probably get one. There’s just nothing like the feel of a thumper. I just hope it’s smoother than the Moto Guzzi was. Thanks for your thoughts.
Totally agree with you on the looks Dave. So a water cooled single or an air-cooled twin? Needs looking at as you say, in the flesh. Nice video, cheers.
I agree with you about the new 650 RE should be a 650 single . I have been saying all a long that RE already have too many bikes with that 650 twin lump installed . I reckon that teal & maroon couloir is too bright & tacky looking , I reckon it would look more the period part with a more subtle matt Teal or Maroon paint job . As for the modern BSA Gold Star I think they have done a reasonable job on it for the price , although it would look better with a reproduction Lucas type rear lamp fitted to a slightly redesigned rear mudguard , as the one fitted at factory lets it down a bit .
Having only ridden one 650 twin RE I haven't made the comparisons you have Dave. I thought the Shotgun felt fine when I rode it a couple of weeks ago; I was happy at 80/85 on the A12 and the gearbox was the best I have ever used [after owning over 200 bikes and riding many more]! It didn't feel as top-heavy as the Interceptor either when pushing it around. I was seriously considering the Bear next spring but I'm currently more than happy with the BMW F800R I've just got...😀
I suspect that you are right Dave, it’s too heavy for the power, looks good but for me it should have looked more like a Bullet, a proper duel seat not the same as the shotgun where the pillion seat looks like a afterthought , as a old school tourer you could forgive the weight but it’s not a replacement for the classic 350 as a solo ride, all the best buddy 👍
Glad it's not just me. I took the Enfield Shotgun for a test ride and really wanted to love it but was actually shocked by the lack of performance. All the road tests on RUclips were glowing so it came as a bit of a disappointment. Sorry but the ride, brakes and comfort were also disappointing. Salesman wasn't surprised when I returned after fifteen minutes and stated that he thought I'd be underwhelmed. Sorry Enfield, it left me confused as to why people are so gushing about your bikes.
I’m so gushing about my Interceptor, because for what I want from my riding it’s perfect. As far as it being disappointing, depends what you actually want from your ride & what you are comparing it to. Thank goodness we don’t all want the same thing.
I own a 2013 RE Classic 500. That has been converted to a carburetor using a kit from Hitchcocks, and has a non cat con aftermarket exhaust, also from Hitchcocks. The carburetor, an Amal Concentric MK1, has been properly jetted. It was WAY to lean with the EFI, to the point where it would barely run. It wheezed and sputtered like crazy. It had a huge flat spot just above idle. And it ran super hot. The carburetor solved all those issues. My understanding is that the fake BSA cannot be connected to a piggyback tuner to richen up the mixture, and that trying to do so will brick the whole thing. If that is the case, it would be completely worthless to me. Sadly, the Royal Enfield Classic 650 may have the same problem, since it seems to be mostly aimed at the European market. If that is the case, I wouldn't consider either one. But that teal colored Classic 650 sure is a beauty.
I'm sharing your thoughts exactly. The spirit of the single is significant. And the only option is the BSA. I wish I was closer to one of the few dealers in Germany. Crossing the border to Austria would even be closer... How are the around-town manners of those singles? I've mainly ridden four-in-lines. Recently tried a Hornet 750 and hated it around town... super twitchy and I tensed up my whole upper body posture and right wrist. Fours are just so smooth... but I want power from low revs! And low weight! BTW my dad's also retired police. He recently went from Gold Wing 1200 to California 1100. Gotta pay him a visit soon. o/
Sir I see your point and agree, I wonder if the geniuses at RE haven't reached the same conclusion. I own 2 RE's both of which new Himalayan and 350cc Classic Desert are gutless compared to Japanese motorcycles, but to me that's also part of their charm. I did own the Super Meteor but it was hurting my backside ever though I upgraded the suspension, I loved the twin but I was aware of what I was buying, simple pleasure and reliability, I just hadn't considered the seat and suspension as devices of sadistic torture. I also love singles more grunt, the BSA doesn't sell in Australia as yet maybe one day I'll get to own one but until then RE will do me fine. I bought my 350 Classic because of your videos and honesty and that makes me happy in my choice, I've turned my back on other makes except Moto Guzzi whom I adore having owned 3. The V7 stone, 940 Belargio and 1200 Norge you can't beat soul. God bless you David Australia
I agree about the lack of power in the RE 650 lineup. I've ridden them and, for me, they're just not strong enough. I'm 230 lbs and out here in the Wilds of the Northern Plains and Black Hills we have long uphill grades and strong headwinds. (no matter which direction you ride) 😉 Also, we have higher speed limits than you guys and if you don't ride at least five over the limit, you'll get run over. Kinda wish RE would make a true "Super" Meteor with about 60hp. Can't remark on the BSA since they are nowhere to be seen over here.
ive never ridden a modern retro bike yet, ive a couple of ducatis in the garage a 998 s4r and an 821 monster and as i reach pension age in june i,m wanting to add a chill out option along side them, ive been offered a mint xs650 low mileage for reasonable money but noticed that for about 5 to 700 more i can buy a spanking new enfield 600. i had a halco 650 back in the 90,s paired with a bladeand loved it but now me heads fartin cabbages on which way to go...... help
I'm not used to seeing you on the bigger roads. Those roads look a little on the damp side. Glad to see some sunshine showed up. 240 kilos sounds like a lot of weight for the RE 650 Classic as my all metal W800 is only just over 220 kilos wet. It's unfortunate that RE has to keep the 650 engine in in the A2 license range. Kawasaki did that with the W800 by rating the horsepower at 6000rpm where in the rest of the world they are rated at 51.7hp at 6500rpm. i suspect the engines are identical and Kawi was playing a numbers game. I don't notice a real difference in performance with my W800 with or without a 150lb passenger. The RE 650 makes its torque and horsepower at a higher rpm than either the Goldstar or the W800. The torque characteristics of the W and the Goldstar are remarkably similar in the low to mid rpm range but the W is much more perky and smoother at higher rpms. The best of both worlds actually. I agree that the lack of substantial low rpm torque of the RE 650 may not be the best match for the 650 Classic but I do understand the economics of why they are using it. Probably not my cup of tea as I am addicted to low and mid rpm torque. I makes the machine so easy and pleasant to ride on normal roads and traffic conditions. Perhaps the torque characteristics of the RE 350 for such a small displacement is one of the reasons it is so popular even though not really suitable for the fastest of roads. Cheers: BJ
The teal blue Classic 650 is my favorite colour too TBW 😊. I want to see one with the pillion seat attached. I am concerned about the frame though, borrowed from the Super Meteor and Shotgun 650. If the rear shock angle is the same as those it'll suffer with that harsh rear end 😢. The weight is a concern too. The SM was a bit lardy and the Classic 650 will be of similar weight. But, you can't tell a book from it's cover, so I'll have a rest ride next March. The Bear, I really like but it's too tall 😢 You're spot on Dave with regard to the riding experience of the Classic 350. I can count on the fingers of one hand how many overtakes I've accomplished in 18 months 😂. So, I'm entirely content with just following traffic, in the "Zen" zone with absolutely nothing to prove. My 2017 T120 has almost too much of everything by contrast. But with enough shove to safely perform an overtake, it definitely provides an entirely different riding experience - and I almost feel compelled to "make progress" as a result. Perhaps this is why Ernie the Enfield gets the most use. Of course, some of this comes from where I am in my riding career these days and with advancing years comes an entirely different appreciation of what motorcycling is for me now. The power to weight ratio of the SM650, Shotgun and the incoming Classic 650 puts you in a position of being neither here nor there.
hi, I own a RE Watsonian 500cc scrambler.. and understand your opinion on a single cylinder personality.. However, in the past, I have also owned 650cc parallel twin.. which one is better 🤔.. I couldn't actually say, i really liked both.. maybe the single, because of that "thump" .. cheers 🍻
"Royal Enfield Classic 650 or BSA Gold Star 650" the choice is obvious. The Royal Enfield Classic 650 wins hands down, for several reasons. Especially that teal colored one. It looks like Royal Enfield finally came to their senses on that one. There is almost NO flat black on it, other than the things that actually should be flat black, like the tires, seat, grips, hoses, and cables. I wish the cylinder block was shiny aluminum as well, and the tail light housing was chrome, but it's still a beautiful bike. It looks WAY better than the "BSA". Plus the overall quality is going to be much better than the BSA. And it's a twin instead of a single. And it is air cooled instead of liquid cooled, with no ugly radiator stuck on it. It should also have much better performance. There will likely be a lot more accessories and aftermarket parts for it. Hopefully a non cat con aftermarket exhaust. It's also made by an actual motorcycle company that has been around since 1901, and has a full line of bikes (sadly most of them are mostly flat black) while the fake BSA is a one off bike made by a company nobody ever heard of, it's the only bike they make, and seems to have a lot of issues. It will also have way more depreciation than the Royal Enfield. Hitchcocks has lots of parts for Royal Enfield. I have no idea where you would get parts for the BSA. It seems like the BSA is nothing more than a poor attempt by a non motorcycle company to cash in on the BSA name. Royal Enfield is likely here to stay, the BSA could disappear any time, along with any parts or support.
i love love love the 650 goldstar it's so nice - the classic 350 and 500 look so much better than the 650, i dont know how but something looks off - better with the rear seat on but still.....i would take the 350 or the 500
With the RE Classic 650, what you see is what you get; there's no pillion seat like there is with the Shotgun 650. Curb weight is 536 lbs or 243 kg. I think it's a very pretty bike. A couple of cons: tubed tires; to do chain maintenance, the near-side exhaust must be removed (remove 2 screws to take off the rear portion of the exhaust to expose the chain). I can't make comparisons to the BSA as they're not sold in the US. I was all excited about the BEAR 650 until I found out it has tubed tires with no tubeless option like the Himalayan 450 or INT650. Every other scrambler on the planet (Triumph, Ducati, Honda) has tubeless tires. These bikes are not going to be ridden off pavement except for gravel roads; who needs tubes for that? Wheels for tubeless tires and the tubeless tires themselves can't be that expensive. And RE has seen fit to remove the center stand; one isn't even available as an optional accessory. It looks like they've modified the frame a bit where the center stand would be. Two strikes; it's out. I'm rather bummed. I finally find a scrambler with an exhaust that won't roast my thigh and I can't easily fix a flat or maintain the chain. So I dunno. If I'm going for impractical, I hope Honda brings the Hornet 1000 to the US; I'll go for a 150 hp naked instead. :)
@thegwhitehouse I didn't notice those. The US press hasn't said anything about a pillion seat. The bike isn't available in the US yet so isn't on RE's US website. But I just looked at RE's UK website and it says the bike comes with a removable pillion seat like the Shotgun has. Wish they'd show a picture of it with the pillion seat installed.
It comes with a pillion seat the 650. You can see it on the fuzzy bikers channel, in his recent trip to RE's factory visit.. Also Himalayan also comes with tubeless tires.
Sat on both the 350 classic and 650 at the bike show, found the 350 more comfortable . Have test rode a 350 and loved it ,comfort, lightweight, looks and character, just wasn’t sure about 20 hp as my only bike. (Not enough room for two). If I had to choose between the two I think I would go 350! However having said all that my next bike will probably be a Guerrilla😂
The Classic 650 is a variation on the theme that is Royal Enfield. My only complaint is the use of tube tires. That reeks of CHEAP. The Himmie 452 can be had with spoke tubeless wheels, why not this one? Keep putting the great back into Great Britain. Thank you! SS in "The Land of the Knee-Waling Turkeys" (I.e., commiefornia), USA!
You could be right about the lack of power due to the increased weight of the classic 650 we will have to wait and see!🙂 I do like the look of and love the rotax engine fitted to the BSA it but I don't agree that the BSA Goldstar looks better than the Classic 650 though, especially with that after thought of a radiator fitted to it just looks awful to me. And the fact that you can't get a center stand and you can't even fit one to it is a serious omission. I also don't like the plastic mudguards on it which are metal on my Classic 350 but that's just my opinion 🙂
I weigh about 90 kilos, so I worked-out the ratio of power/weight for these two bikes ... with me riding each of them. The Goldie provides about 111 Watts per kg, with me aboard. The Classic provides about 106 Watts per kg, with me aboard. The difference between the two bikes diminishes as they are laden. So, with a pillion passenger, the performance should be very close. The two machines are pretty closely-matched, at least on paper. I'm guessing that the real difference between the two machines, is in the way that the power is delivered. I'd agree with you, preferring 'low-down grunt'. Of course, I've taken no account of the gearing.
650 classic at 243 kilos, seems rather a lot !. Is it my imagination or all bikes getting heavier these days ?. My KTM GT is 226 kilos , which sounds more like it. Hell of a lot more horsepower too, but the original price, madness of course.( I bought it 2nd hand ). In my view, out of the bikes you describe, the REnfield classic looks the best.
Your absolutely right about the Enfield 650 classic, looks shite with the single seat as do most bikes apart from racing seats ( too old for them ) lol keep em coming youngen
O'h dear! There is becoming too much choice! I'd have all of them, but I'm happy with my Scram! To be honest I like singles but am not averse to a twin either, whether it's dressed up as a classic or otherwise. But, if I were to put my money down on another bike it would depend upon the proximity of the dealer to me! So it's RE..Sorry BSA!
I've been keenly anticipating the arrival of the Classic 650, however the images I've seen thus far have left me a bit cold. I find it a bit too 'cruiserish', and too much like the Shotgun. I'm now hoping for a Bullet version with a more traditional pillion seat and upright riding position!
If truth be told Royal Enfield hit the nail on the head when they introduced affordable classic motorcycles. Riders all over the world couldn't wait to own a beautiful piece of history and ride around on a bike your granny could service. However, l always felt that Royal Enfield should have built a 750cc with 50hp which could cope with anything that came it's way. One of my favourite memories in life was going to the movies when l was a kid and watching The Great Escape. My older brother took me, l was about 9 or 10 years old and seeing Steve McQueen riding that motorbike filled me with the same BUZZ l get today riding my black ⚫️ Triumph Bonneville 865. I have ridden all types of motorcycles from 20hp to 200hp and l almost got signed to race for Aprilia back in 1878 but the deal fell through and l never got the opportunity to race 🏁 😢 My choice of motorcycle today is modern classic, and although I'm happy tooting around coastal roads and countryside, l do want to be on a motorbike that has the power to avoid the growing number of idiots and aliens 👽 that appear on our pot hole 🕳 covered roads today. So come on Royal Enfield get that 750cc Street Scrambler ready for 2026 and for God's Sake get Rid of that Ridiculous R logo/Decal 🙄 the R with wings that screams MY LITTLE PONY......STOP USING THAT LOGO . Great bikes Royal Enfield 👌 Love BSA but l still think like Steve McQueen, Triumph bonneville is King of Cool 😎
Does look very pretty on the eye. But, thought they might have moved on, a little, using tried n tested 650. Not a bad thing. But, felt this needed to be a single. Just my thoughts. But, production of a new engine etc, would add to cost.. it’s heavy. Maybe there working on a bigger engine like the 450 Sherpa. They will sell for sure. Just too tall and heavy for me. Look forward to your reviews when they become available at Appleyards.😊😊😊
I think RE have missed a trick with the Classic 650 and have got lazy with the Bear. Classic 650 - firstly, the styling is off. Mudguards aren’t right shape, tank isn’t right shape and seat is ‘odd’ for a classic. Exhausts are wrong shape as well - need to be straight, not kinked. Secondly, it’s the wrong engine - whilst the twin maybe a good engine, it’s soulless (not a patch on the current Triumph twins). But a classic needs an upright engine and, I believe, should be a single. Lastly, the weight is just too heavy. In short, RE should have developed the J-series platform engine for the bigger Classic. I certainly won’t be parting with my 350!!. As for the Bear, whilst I get the economic sense in continuing to extract the most out of the twin platform, I think the Bear is a lazy development. Scrambler should have a high level exhaust. This feels a lazy, cosmetic development. I’m really interested to see the BSA scrambler in the flesh, though - that does look interesting, especially in the yellow colour way.
The Classic for me has to be in single cylinder form and the 350 nails it. For extra power I've bought the Guerilla 450 which matches (if not exceeds) the Interceptor. I don't like the look of the 650 Classic, those exhausts don't look right, they need to be straight. The styling for me is very similar to the Shotgun, and as with the Shotgun the Classic 650 weighs in at 243kg, far too heavy for me. I do like the look of the BSA but its reliability record and the trade perception of them put me off buying one. Hopefully BSA have now ironed out all its faults and its reputation will recover, that so and ill consider buying on.🙂👍
Cheers Martine. For the first time this year I’m not going to the NEC. There’s so much coverage on RUclips and the drive from Yorkshire to Birmingham is a bit of a pain…and expensive 😎 X
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Personally I’m drawn to the Bear, and the new BSA scrambler looks the business too.
Just been to the NEC to look at the BSA scrambler. Cheaper to buy a new BSA at £4995 and simply add a few extras and some Pirelli scorpion rally tyres. As that’s basically all bsa have done for an extra £1600. Doesn’t look like they’ve done anything with the headstock bracket wiring issue. Although I must say personally I thought it was a better representation of a scrambler than Royal Enfields Bear.
@@andrewpaton8819 I thought the BSA came with Scorpions as standard. I'm sure that's what one of the videos I saw from the NEC said. Personally, the twin pot motor and simpler air/oil cooling makes the decision the other way.
Think the bear looks better than the bsa. But I like the standard bsa
I sat on both at the NEC and frankly the Classic 650 felt like it’s in a different league……it’s flippin awesome……but I fell in love with the Guerrilla.
@@loftysaltmarsh69 Take a test ride on a Guerrilla, you won’t be disappointed . It’s light , agile and a whole lot of fun!👍
As I said over at Uncle Stuart's place, what I really want is a Classic 650 with a 350 Signals paint job, Bear suspension and dual purpose tyres.
I agree with you about the colours of the new 650s, that turquoise is a real gem! As for the powerplant, I don't think it's going against the heritage of either British bikes in general or RE in particular. You already mentioned various twin cylinder British models from the halcyon days and let's also not forget that Royal Enfield's original output wasn't restricted to just singles; their first Super Meteor from 1952 was a twin as was the 1958 Constellation and the 1960s Interceptor. We're lucky at the moment with RE and BSA to have a choice between similar flavour machines, one powered by a twin and one by a single. I'd be happy with either - or preferably both!
Couldn't agree more. It's a nice looking bike for sure and totally agree with your colour choice, but it needs to be a single for my money. All my bikes bar one big four cylinder have been singles they deliver a totally different riding experience. RE needs to bring back the 500 methinks.
I fancy the 500 single, but I keep hearing that it's unpleasant above about 50 mph, owing to the vibration. And, I don't mean that 'the vibration is noticeable' ... but that it's horrible. You can still buy them brand new in the UK. Seen 'em on eBay. New, old stock, £5k, but the scrambler version.
Just to be different i like the look of new bsa scrambler,
what do i think ??? i think your right ;; a bike close on a 1/4 of a ton , - the restricted engine is going to feel a little saggy ,, r.e. are still catering to [ i've just past my test ] [[ welcome new riders from me ]] ,, i don't think they need to stick to this for all variants , if they want to stick to the 'twin' set up then make it a 750 ish with an increase in compression to give it a bit more thump without going mad and upsetting the insurers ,, === which makes your video kinda spot on doesn't it ;;
I suspect my wife and paniers will balance out the look of the classic 650 nicely. And i may venture on to a bit faster roads than my classic 350. I have no issues with the twin, rather a twin than a radiator.
Hi Dave,..I studied all the new offerings BSA and RE at the show yesterday,.. I thought the new BSA Scram was head and shoulders above RE and also BSA own Goldstar a big step up in build quality, and at around 212 kg the white one with bar ends was the business 👍
Cheers David 😊👍🏻
I saw the classic 650 at the NEC, like you I liked the teal colour best. It really does look good though, and I think it should sell well.
I’m sooo glad you made this video. I’m working on the principal that if you can’t get a bike over the hard knot pass three times a week. You’re buying the wrong bikes. I’ve been on rocket ships since 1982 and am falling out of love even though I love the thrills and the pain.Thinking of paying the extra and buying two top classic 500s and calling it a day👍🏴
I going to keep my 2005 Daytona ss of seven years for track bike and grow old disgracefully in retirement. Smell the roses and experience different areas🤫
I hope you will soon have the chance to test the Classic and the Bear for us! I think those 2 bikes should have a shorter gear ratio and be optimised for legal speeds... I am curious about the better suspensions of those 2 bikes compared to the interceptor... Can¨t wait 😉👍🏼👍🏼 For the character, I agree with you and I always liked the mono! But I remember my first "big" bike wich was a Yamaha XS650 twin (at 360°) and character as well as vibrations were there 😂
Hi Dave, went to the nec, on Monday, Iv got to say that royal enfield have done it again and knocked it out of the park with the classic and the bear 650s. I have owned a interceptor and currently have a super meteor 650 and I'm afraid I don't agree that there is a significant difference in performance, Im just not feeling that.
When you talked about the bsa single cylinder Is more authentic as a 50s or 60s motorcycle? They certainly weren't water cooled. I've been a subscriber of your excellent channel for atleast a year or more and this is the first time I haven't agreed with you , sorry Dave.
Good video and well shared thoughts. I saw and sat on the Classic 650 at Motorcycle Live today......beautiful bike and perfect seat, foot an bar positioning for me. Really looking to test ride as soon as they become available but as there was no info on bike weight that I could find I think your suspicions about power to weight ratio may be well founded; time will tell. Keep up the great work; love your videos and ramblings.😊
It's 240 kgs and 50 hp.
Very insightful thanks Dave - a single matching the Goldstar has to be RE's next move ....wish we got the Goldstar down under !
Great video.... I ride a Triumph T100 black, which I love. I also own a Yamaha XVS 1300, loads of chrome, so our summer bike. I love R.Enfields.... but a 650 is just not big enough because 80% of the time I have got my wife on the back. If only R.E woulod develop a larger capacity engine.... they are stuck at 650 and so obviously I am not there targer customer. A classic R.E 850 would be brilliant come on R.E, STOP reworking the same platform!
I agree with you that the Classic 650 should have been a big single, just like the BSA, which is a bike I really like. What I do like about the new 650 though is that it has a very traditional air cooled engine. I also like the way they've worked with the frame when designing the bike, giving it more design integrity This is not something they did with the new 350 Classic, where they kind of grafted a 3D photocopy of a Classic 500 onto a modern generic frame not designed for the Classic 500 look. They had to use lots of plastic inner panels to hold the thing together.
Nice video Dave! As you can imagine I would say Goldstar... Classic 650 has been in the works for so long its built up this huge expectation and it just doesnt quite meet it in my opinion. The 243kg is something that is gaining momentum as an issue online and we know as RUclipsrs that when something like this takes root its hard to correct... Classic 350 id much prefer tbh 😊
Cheers Sean yes absolutely the 350 is faithful to the brief whereas the 650 (insofar as it has presented this far) has a smack of tokenism about it. As you say it has been mooted for several years….now that’s what I call a staged release! 😁
yes I agree Dave it looks too high at the front but having seen one with the pillion seat it does even it up a bit
Greetings Dave, both are terrific looking bikes! I plan a test ride on the Classic 650 when available here in the US. If it is as comfortable as the Meteor 350, I'll have one in teal. Take care Sir!
Cheers Michael 😎👍🏻
I think you are spot on, the 650cc twin could do with boring out to 750cc and producing 70bhp with the weight in the 240kg range, but RE are stuck appealing to the A2 licence holders which seems to be their core market at the moment, I must admit that the new classic is drop dead gorgeous though.
RE is allegedly developing a bigger engine and it might even be liquid cooled.
Power to weight ratio will exceed the 350 classic.
The heavier frame of the 650 Classic really needs the 850 big bore kit. I'm surprised it is not offered as standard.
Happy Holidays motorcycle man!😉😉
I predict Q2 of next year there will be a video from Dave saying Norman is staying but which of the other three is going to make room for the classic 650 once he gets to see and feel the classic 650 in the flesh. For those that want more then I am afraid it's what works in the India and other south east Asia not what our tiny market wants. Purchase costs and operating cost are key requirements and 650's are already seen as a premium performance package. They would not be the price point they are if they only sold in USA and Europe.
Interesting comparison Dave. Will be good to know whether the RE is markedly different
The classic 350 looks the oldest of all retro bikes.
With the classic 650 (especially the teak green) RE has succeeded to keep it that way and that's the main thing for me. a BSA seems from a more recent period in time.
A 350 thumper and 650 twin with 270° crank will off course offer you a different feeling.
But for me, that is a good thing. If you have them both in your garage (and that's my plan),
the difference will offer more enjoyment.
I am not concerned about the performance, my riding style will also remain 'classic'.
The classic 650 just has an odd looking rear fender sitting so high off the tire. While my super meteor is very nice it lacks the character of my 350 Bullet, my Moto Guzzi V7, any of my old dirt bikes and old BMW 1200’s or even Harley’s. If the BSA’s ever come to America I’ll probably get one. There’s just nothing like the feel of a thumper. I just hope it’s smoother than the Moto Guzzi was. Thanks for your thoughts.
Totally agree with you on the looks Dave. So a water cooled single or an air-cooled twin? Needs looking at as you say, in the flesh. Nice video, cheers.
I agree with you about the new 650 RE should be a 650 single . I have been saying all a long that RE already have too many bikes with that 650 twin lump installed . I reckon that teal & maroon couloir is too bright & tacky looking , I reckon it would look more the period part with a more subtle matt Teal or Maroon paint job . As for the modern BSA Gold Star I think they have done a reasonable job on it for the price , although it would look better with a reproduction Lucas type rear lamp fitted to a slightly redesigned rear mudguard , as the one fitted at factory lets it down a bit .
Having only ridden one 650 twin RE I haven't made the comparisons you have Dave. I thought the Shotgun felt fine when I rode it a couple of weeks ago; I was happy at 80/85 on the A12 and the gearbox was the best I have ever used [after owning over 200 bikes and riding many more]! It didn't feel as top-heavy as the Interceptor either when pushing it around.
I was seriously considering the Bear next spring but I'm currently more than happy with the BMW F800R I've just got...😀
I'm not looking for a new bike nor have I ridden any of them but, if I was, the Gold Star would be the one for me.
Recently you could buy a brand new one for as little as £4,500
BSA , I can't wait to try the new scrambler
Interesting observation, point well made.
I suspect that you are right Dave, it’s too heavy for the power, looks good but for me it should have looked more like a Bullet, a proper duel seat not the same as the shotgun where the pillion seat looks like a afterthought , as a old school tourer you could forgive the weight but it’s not a replacement for the classic 350 as a solo ride, all the best buddy 👍
Absolutely Mike 👍🏻
Glad it's not just me. I took the Enfield Shotgun for a test ride and really wanted to love it but was actually shocked by the lack of performance. All the road tests on RUclips were glowing so it came as a bit of a disappointment.
Sorry but the ride, brakes and comfort were also disappointing.
Salesman wasn't surprised when I returned after fifteen minutes and stated that he thought I'd be underwhelmed.
Sorry Enfield, it left me confused as to why people are so gushing about your bikes.
I’m so gushing about my Interceptor, because for what I want from my riding it’s perfect. As far as it being disappointing, depends what you actually want from your ride & what you are comparing it to. Thank goodness we don’t all want the same thing.
For me it's the Gold star. As I like the single. Plus I own the Gold star
Win win 😊
I own a 2013 RE Classic 500. That has been converted to a carburetor using a kit from Hitchcocks, and has a non cat con aftermarket exhaust, also from Hitchcocks. The carburetor, an Amal Concentric MK1, has been properly jetted. It was WAY to lean with the EFI, to the point where it would barely run. It wheezed and sputtered like crazy. It had a huge flat spot just above idle. And it ran super hot. The carburetor solved all those issues. My understanding is that the fake BSA cannot be connected to a piggyback tuner to richen up the mixture, and that trying to do so will brick the whole thing. If that is the case, it would be completely worthless to me. Sadly, the Royal Enfield Classic 650 may have the same problem, since it seems to be mostly aimed at the European market. If that is the case, I wouldn't consider either one. But that teal colored Classic 650 sure is a beauty.
I'm sharing your thoughts exactly. The spirit of the single is significant. And the only option is the BSA. I wish I was closer to one of the few dealers in Germany. Crossing the border to Austria would even be closer...
How are the around-town manners of those singles? I've mainly ridden four-in-lines. Recently tried a Hornet 750 and hated it around town... super twitchy and I tensed up my whole upper body posture and right wrist. Fours are just so smooth... but I want power from low revs! And low weight!
BTW my dad's also retired police. He recently went from Gold Wing 1200 to California 1100. Gotta pay him a visit soon.
o/
Hi singles great around town no issues. Give my regards to your dad as a colleague 👍🏻
Sir I see your point and agree, I wonder if the geniuses at RE haven't reached the same conclusion. I own 2 RE's both of which new Himalayan and 350cc Classic Desert are gutless compared to Japanese motorcycles, but to me that's also part of their charm. I did own the Super Meteor but it was hurting my backside ever though I upgraded the suspension, I loved the twin but I was aware of what I was buying, simple pleasure and reliability, I just hadn't considered the seat and suspension as devices of sadistic torture. I also love singles more grunt, the BSA doesn't sell in Australia as yet maybe one day I'll get to own one but until then RE will do me fine. I bought my 350 Classic because of your videos and honesty and that makes me happy in my choice, I've turned my back on other makes except Moto Guzzi whom I adore having owned 3. The V7 stone, 940 Belargio and 1200 Norge you can't beat soul. God bless you David Australia
Cheers pal some good points there 😊👍🏻
Hi Dave , i need to see the classic 650 with a double seat tbf , but i think the BSA looks better
TBW I'd actually go the Bear650 instead.
Cheerio
Don't think they will tweek the output as they are marketed for the A2 licence holder imho.
Nice looking bike and appear to be well finished off.
I agree about the lack of power in the RE 650 lineup. I've ridden them and, for me, they're just not strong enough. I'm 230 lbs and out here in the Wilds of the Northern Plains and Black Hills we have long uphill grades and strong headwinds. (no matter which direction you ride) 😉 Also, we have higher speed limits than you guys and if you don't ride at least five over the limit, you'll get run over. Kinda wish RE would make a true "Super" Meteor with about 60hp. Can't remark on the BSA since they are nowhere to be seen over here.
Yes I have to remember you guys need the extra power on those roads 👍🏻
@@thebingleywheeler Especially us "Chubby" guys who still ride hard.
ive never ridden a modern retro bike yet, ive a couple of ducatis in the garage a 998 s4r and an 821 monster and as i reach pension age in june i,m wanting to add a chill out option along side them, ive been offered a mint xs650 low mileage for reasonable money but noticed that for about 5 to 700 more i can buy a spanking new enfield 600. i had a halco 650 back in the 90,s paired with a bladeand loved it but now me heads fartin cabbages on which way to go...... help
I'm not used to seeing you on the bigger roads. Those roads look a little on the damp side. Glad to see some sunshine showed up. 240 kilos sounds like a lot of weight for the RE 650 Classic as my all metal W800 is only just over 220 kilos wet. It's unfortunate that RE has to keep the 650 engine in in the A2 license range. Kawasaki did that with the W800 by rating the horsepower at 6000rpm where in the rest of the world they are rated at 51.7hp at 6500rpm. i suspect the engines are identical and Kawi was playing a numbers game. I don't notice a real difference in performance with my W800 with or without a 150lb passenger. The RE 650 makes its torque and horsepower at a higher rpm than either the Goldstar or the W800. The torque characteristics of the W and the Goldstar are remarkably similar in the low to mid rpm range but the W is much more perky and smoother at higher rpms. The best of both worlds actually. I agree that the lack of substantial low rpm torque of the RE 650 may not be the best match for the 650 Classic but I do understand the economics of why they are using it. Probably not my cup of tea as I am addicted to low and mid rpm torque. I makes the machine so easy and pleasant to ride on normal roads and traffic conditions. Perhaps the torque characteristics of the RE 350 for such a small displacement is one of the reasons it is so popular even though not really suitable for the fastest of roads.
Cheers: BJ
I do love the W800 I’d be happy to have one
I would buy the 650 Classic in a heart beat, except for the weight:243 Kilos!
The teal blue Classic 650 is my favorite colour too TBW 😊. I want to see one with the pillion seat attached. I am concerned about the frame though, borrowed from the Super Meteor and Shotgun 650. If the rear shock angle is the same as those it'll suffer with that harsh rear end 😢. The weight is a concern too. The SM was a bit lardy and the Classic 650 will be of similar weight. But, you can't tell a book from it's cover, so I'll have a rest ride next March. The Bear, I really like but it's too tall 😢
You're spot on Dave with regard to the riding experience of the Classic 350. I can count on the fingers of one hand how many overtakes I've accomplished in 18 months 😂. So, I'm entirely content with just following traffic, in the "Zen" zone with absolutely nothing to prove. My 2017 T120 has almost too much of everything by contrast. But with enough shove to safely perform an overtake, it definitely provides an entirely different riding experience - and I almost feel compelled to "make progress" as a result. Perhaps this is why Ernie the Enfield gets the most use. Of course, some of this comes from where I am in my riding career these days and with advancing years comes an entirely different appreciation of what motorcycling is for me now. The power to weight ratio of the SM650, Shotgun and the incoming Classic 650 puts you in a position of being neither here nor there.
My thoughts exactly Philip….from one set of advancing years to another 😎👍🏻
Gold Star because it's a single. But I'd rather have the new scrambler version.
hi, I own a RE Watsonian 500cc scrambler.. and understand your opinion on a single cylinder personality.. However, in the past, I have also owned 650cc parallel twin.. which one is better 🤔.. I couldn't actually say, i really liked both.. maybe the single, because of that "thump" .. cheers 🍻
"Royal Enfield Classic 650 or BSA Gold Star 650" the choice is obvious. The Royal Enfield Classic 650 wins hands down, for several reasons. Especially that teal colored one. It looks like Royal Enfield finally came to their senses on that one. There is almost NO flat black on it, other than the things that actually should be flat black, like the tires, seat, grips, hoses, and cables. I wish the cylinder block was shiny aluminum as well, and the tail light housing was chrome, but it's still a beautiful bike. It looks WAY better than the "BSA". Plus the overall quality is going to be much better than the BSA. And it's a twin instead of a single. And it is air cooled instead of liquid cooled, with no ugly radiator stuck on it. It should also have much better performance. There will likely be a lot more accessories and aftermarket parts for it. Hopefully a non cat con aftermarket exhaust. It's also made by an actual motorcycle company that has been around since 1901, and has a full line of bikes (sadly most of them are mostly flat black) while the fake BSA is a one off bike made by a company nobody ever heard of, it's the only bike they make, and seems to have a lot of issues. It will also have way more depreciation than the Royal Enfield. Hitchcocks has lots of parts for Royal Enfield. I have no idea where you would get parts for the BSA. It seems like the BSA is nothing more than a poor attempt by a non motorcycle company to cash in on the BSA name. Royal Enfield is likely here to stay, the BSA could disappear any time, along with any parts or support.
i love love love the 650 goldstar it's so nice - the classic 350 and 500 look so much better than the 650, i dont know how but something looks off - better with the rear seat on but still.....i would take the 350 or the 500
Almost bought a super meteor 650 but like you felt it was lacking a bit so went with Triumph Bonneville T120 and love it
Love the T120
With the RE Classic 650, what you see is what you get; there's no pillion seat like there is with the Shotgun 650. Curb weight is 536 lbs or 243 kg. I think it's a very pretty bike. A couple of cons: tubed tires; to do chain maintenance, the near-side exhaust must be removed (remove 2 screws to take off the rear portion of the exhaust to expose the chain). I can't make comparisons to the BSA as they're not sold in the US.
I was all excited about the BEAR 650 until I found out it has tubed tires with no tubeless option like the Himalayan 450 or INT650. Every other scrambler on the planet (Triumph, Ducati, Honda) has tubeless tires. These bikes are not going to be ridden off pavement except for gravel roads; who needs tubes for that? Wheels for tubeless tires and the tubeless tires themselves can't be that expensive. And RE has seen fit to remove the center stand; one isn't even available as an optional accessory. It looks like they've modified the frame a bit where the center stand would be. Two strikes; it's out. I'm rather bummed. I finally find a scrambler with an exhaust that won't roast my thigh and I can't easily fix a flat or maintain the chain. So I dunno. If I'm going for impractical, I hope Honda brings the Hornet 1000 to the US; I'll go for a 150 hp naked instead. :)
No pillion seat but has pillion footrests🤔
@thegwhitehouse I didn't notice those. The US press hasn't said anything about a pillion seat. The bike isn't available in the US yet so isn't on RE's US website. But I just looked at RE's UK website and it says the bike comes with a removable pillion seat like the Shotgun has. Wish they'd show a picture of it with the pillion seat installed.
It comes with a pillion seat the 650. You can see it on the fuzzy bikers channel, in his recent trip to RE's factory visit.. Also Himalayan also comes with tubeless tires.
Sat on both the 350 classic and 650 at the bike show, found the 350 more comfortable . Have test rode a 350 and loved it ,comfort, lightweight, looks and character, just wasn’t sure about 20 hp as my only bike. (Not enough room for two). If I had to choose between the two I think I would go 350!
However having said all that my next bike will probably be a Guerrilla😂
The Classic 650 is a variation on the theme that is Royal Enfield. My only complaint is the use of tube tires. That reeks of CHEAP. The Himmie 452 can be had with spoke tubeless wheels, why not this one?
Keep putting the great back into Great Britain.
Thank you!
SS in "The Land of the Knee-Waling Turkeys" (I.e., commiefornia), USA!
You could be right about the lack of power due to the increased weight of the classic 650 we will have to wait and see!🙂
I do like the look of and love the rotax engine fitted to the BSA it but I don't agree that the BSA Goldstar looks better than the Classic 650 though, especially with that after thought of a radiator fitted to it just looks awful to me.
And the fact that you can't get a center stand and you can't even fit one to it is a serious omission.
I also don't like the plastic mudguards on it which are metal on my Classic 350 but that's just my opinion 🙂
I weigh about 90 kilos, so I worked-out the ratio of power/weight for these two bikes ... with me riding each of them.
The Goldie provides about 111 Watts per kg, with me aboard.
The Classic provides about 106 Watts per kg, with me aboard.
The difference between the two bikes diminishes as they are laden. So, with a pillion passenger, the performance should be very close.
The two machines are pretty closely-matched, at least on paper. I'm guessing that the real difference between the two machines, is in the way that the power is delivered. I'd agree with you, preferring 'low-down grunt'. Of course, I've taken no account of the gearing.
Wonder if they left the seat off the classic to hide a few more kgs.
650 classic at 243 kilos, seems rather a lot !. Is it my imagination or all bikes getting heavier these days ?. My KTM GT is 226 kilos , which sounds more like it. Hell of a lot more horsepower too, but the original price, madness of course.( I bought it 2nd hand ). In my view, out of the bikes you describe, the REnfield classic looks the best.
Your absolutely right about the Enfield 650 classic, looks shite with the single seat as do most bikes apart from racing seats ( too old for them ) lol keep em coming youngen
O'h dear! There is becoming too much choice! I'd have all of them, but I'm happy with my Scram! To be honest I like singles but am not averse to a twin either, whether it's dressed up as a classic or otherwise.
But, if I were to put my money down on another bike it would depend upon the proximity of the dealer to me! So it's RE..Sorry BSA!
Has to be a single 💪🏻
I've been keenly anticipating the arrival of the Classic 650, however the images I've seen thus far have left me a bit cold. I find it a bit too 'cruiserish', and too much like the Shotgun. I'm now hoping for a Bullet version with a more traditional pillion seat and upright riding position!
If truth be told Royal Enfield hit the nail on the head when they introduced affordable classic motorcycles.
Riders all over the world couldn't wait to own a beautiful piece of history and ride around on a bike your granny could service.
However, l always felt that Royal Enfield should have built a 750cc with 50hp which could cope with anything that came it's way.
One of my favourite memories in life was going to the movies when l was a kid and watching The Great Escape.
My older brother took me, l was about 9 or 10 years old and seeing Steve McQueen riding that motorbike filled me with the same BUZZ l get today riding my black ⚫️ Triumph Bonneville 865.
I have ridden all types of motorcycles from 20hp to 200hp and l almost got signed to race for Aprilia back in 1878 but the deal fell through and l never got the opportunity to race 🏁 😢
My choice of motorcycle today is modern classic, and although I'm happy tooting around coastal roads and countryside, l do want to be on a motorbike that has the power to avoid the growing number of idiots and aliens 👽 that appear on our pot hole 🕳 covered roads today.
So come on Royal Enfield get that 750cc Street Scrambler ready for 2026 and for God's Sake get Rid of that Ridiculous R logo/Decal 🙄 the R with wings that screams MY LITTLE PONY......STOP USING THAT LOGO .
Great bikes Royal Enfield 👌 Love BSA but l still think like Steve McQueen, Triumph bonneville is King of Cool 😎
Does look very pretty on the eye. But, thought they might have moved on, a little, using tried n tested 650. Not a bad thing.
But, felt this needed to be a single. Just my thoughts.
But, production of a new engine etc, would add to cost..
it’s heavy.
Maybe there working on a bigger engine like the 450 Sherpa.
They will sell for sure.
Just too tall and heavy for me.
Look forward to your reviews when they become available at Appleyards.😊😊😊
Agree Mark the Sherpa engine would have been perfect
The Bear is the one to have. I don’t like the Classic 650 . It looks like it’s been cobbled together. Looks out of balance without the pillion seat.
Yes Pal that Bear looks well smart 👍🏻
I think RE have missed a trick with the Classic 650 and have got lazy with the Bear. Classic 650 - firstly, the styling is off. Mudguards aren’t right shape, tank isn’t right shape and seat is ‘odd’ for a classic. Exhausts are wrong shape as well - need to be straight, not kinked. Secondly, it’s the wrong engine - whilst the twin maybe a good engine, it’s soulless (not a patch on the current Triumph twins). But a classic needs an upright engine and, I believe, should be a single. Lastly, the weight is just too heavy. In short, RE should have developed the J-series platform engine for the bigger Classic. I certainly won’t be parting with my 350!!.
As for the Bear, whilst I get the economic sense in continuing to extract the most out of the twin platform, I think the Bear is a lazy development. Scrambler should have a high level exhaust. This feels a lazy, cosmetic development.
I’m really interested to see the BSA scrambler in the flesh, though - that does look interesting, especially in the yellow colour way.
Yes I do like the look of the bsa scrambler
The Classic for me has to be in single cylinder form and the 350 nails it. For extra power I've bought the Guerilla 450 which matches (if not exceeds) the Interceptor. I don't like the look of the 650 Classic, those exhausts don't look right, they need to be straight. The styling for me is very similar to the Shotgun, and as with the Shotgun the Classic 650 weighs in at 243kg, far too heavy for me. I do like the look of the BSA but its reliability record and the trade perception of them put me off buying one. Hopefully BSA have now ironed out all its faults and its reputation will recover, that so and ill consider buying on.🙂👍
The Guerrilla is brilliant 👍🏻
I believe it is 243kg. Way too heavy. Bsa or interceptor better bet I think. Or bear and b65
BSA
I've just bough the Goldstar, the 650 classic is not good enough.
Id love a signals classic 660 if they do one.
Are you going to the NEC? There's just too many great bikes.. 🎉 if only I could win the lottery 😄, thanks for your insight, got my coggs working x❤
Cheers Martine. For the first time this year I’m not going to the NEC. There’s so much coverage on RUclips and the drive from Yorkshire to Birmingham is a bit of a pain…and expensive 😎 X
@thebingleywheeler completely understandable x
@martinehulme8743 😎 X
RE Classic 650
Power to weight ratio will exceed the 350 classic. Hard to see how it could be underpowered?
I think you will end up buying the Classic 650!
Maybe the Teal one 😂
Would it be rude to say the Bloody obvious.. despite being your subscriber! Just joking as shillingham fans believe in absolutes.
No kickstart, no carb, no points. Classics my arse
Either one, as long as you are a fan of stupidly overweight barges.
Who wants a gutless motorcycle. Less is more. Come on. Being overtaken by cyclists. 😂