The Royal Enfield Classic 500 | The Final Bastian of the Old School
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- Опубликовано: 2 окт 2024
- I test out the Royal Enfield Classic 500. Built from 2008 until 2020, this is the last of the genuinely old school motorcycles.
Air cooled, manual choke, kick start and post war styling. It does not get more characterful than this!
Thanks to Easy Rider Tenerife for lending me the bike for the day. I highly recommend them for modern classic motorcycle rentals in Tenerife- it is the stuff of biking dreams! www.easyridert...
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Timeline:
0:00: Intro and Walk Around
9:49: The Riding Experience
13:40: Coffee Spot and Price/Rival Discussion
18:45: Final Thoughts and Wrap Up
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Locations:
Tenerife, Spain
Coffee Spot: López Echeto San Isidro, Av. Santa Cruz, 63, 38611 San Isidro, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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#royalenfield #royalenfieldclassic500 #royalenfieldbullet
Great video Freddie
What an iconic Motorcycle the 500cc Engine has been in production since 1927 all but some changes over the years and the Bullitt was born in 1932 and in dealers showrooms in 1933
Thank you for this history, I’ve learnt a lot here🙂👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
The engine was entirely redesigned with an internal balancer in 1983 and again in the early 2000's and turned to unit construction for the 08 model year.
The classic 500 engine is a completely different design to the original 500 Bullet engine. It is unit construction and shares no components at all. It is a relatively modern design but has a heavy crank, long stroke and pushrod operated valves. So, slow reving but with good torque. It is also electronic fuel injection with an ecu controlling that and the electronic ignition. They are pretty strangled as they come from the factory, because emissions and sound. With an ecu cheater and less restrictive exhaust they are even more enjoyable.
@@highlandrab19 the engine shares no working parts with the old Bullet. They only share a bore/stroke ratio. No balancer shaft either. This is a unit construction engine so gearbox integral with the engine casting. The new 350 in the Meteor has a balancer shaft and overhead cam as opposed to the overhead valves on the UCE Bullet and Classic 500.
It's 2022 and we still believe that. I do kick start my bike all the time
We used to have a saying "If you can't kickstart an Enfield , you don't deserve an Enfield" , kickstarting an Enfield was the epitome of manliness
Those were the old models in which you have to adjust the ampere before kickstarting it and the brakes are in the opposite side.
🔥🔥🔥
I brought an enfield bullet 350 in 2021 and opted to not have selfstart and kept only the kick start.
@Slavery is Freedom, War is Peace nope the woman has the manliness lol
It also helps when your battery is completely flat, and last week in the March cold my 500 started third kick no problem. I love my 500 Pegasus! It’s my third Royal Enfield, the others being 350 bullets during the 60s. My other bike is a 1983 Harley Ironhead, which is really nice, but the Enfield always, always works! PS: You don’t have to be a muscled lump to kickstart this bike, in fact, you can actually crank the kickstart by hand. It ain’t going to break your arm, or chuck you over the bars when you use your leg, the approved method obviously!
I’m in Australia, I bought this bike as my treat for getting my first job out of uni. Im a mechanical engineer and this was my way to “stay in touch with old school mechanics”. No tractions control, no computers, everything I can fix myself, perfect. When I took it for a test ride I knew straight away it was the one. I was laughing the whole ride. The way it bumps along is truly just a lot of fun.
No computer??? If its the fuel injected model, it'll have an ECU..
@@sirgalah561 - it has a manual choke - thats a hint that it's an analog bike. Carbs, not EFI.
@@sirgalah561 Carburetor, no EFI. And kick start to boot !
It's not a choke, it's a fast idle control. Helps to warm the engine when cold. I can also confirm that the bike is 100% efi. Indian 350 version of this bike came with carburettors the 500 never had them in any market.
@@FATBOY692011 lmao , the 500's started having EFI's only from 2017, the 500cc has been in production WAY before , i had a 2009 machismo 500 with a carb , i still have a 350cc with a 500cc's carb in it .
I have a RE classic 500, and you hit the nail on the head. I’ve had Honda’s, Kawasaki’s, Suzuki’s and even triumph. Not one of those bikes have made me as happy as my Royal Enfield. I know it has faults and I know it’s only 27hp but I don’t care, when you ride it it brings you back down to earth in such a calm way and you remember why you started riding in the first place. This bike has such a big personality, I love it.
Spot on with your comment.. Riding my RE C500 it takes me back 30 odd years to when I was riding my old Honda CB125N... No electric start - bare bones basic bike...
I love my bike I even called it "Emily" M.L.E like the rifle - Magazine Lee Enfield...
@@sirgalah561 Ha ha! Couldn’t agree with you guys more. Love my 500 Pegasus to bits and I’m going to ride it until I die! 🇬🇧🤡
Samd feeling here Richard 👍
My wife saw an Enfield on the road and thought "That bike is pretty." and that was the end of our discussion on whether I could get a motorcycle. We got one the next weekend. Love it. Perfect city rider for commuting and short fun rides.
As a man who has owned over 80 bikes in 13 years. From 50cc to 1700cc. I fully agree. The bullet/classics have something all other bikes don't.
I bought my Classic 500 new in December 2019, before I even had my licence. Due to all the lockdown restrictions I wasn't able to get my test done until the end of August 2021. Can you imagine how frustrating that was...However I used the time wisely and the bike was customised to my taste, engine bars, sump guard, spotlights changes to the exhaust and rear suspension. Since passing my test I've racked up over 3000 miles on the bike, which I call HG Wells as it's my time machine. It's never let me down and always provokes conversation wherever I go. You can chuck it into corners with ease and that noise is glorious. Not a bike for selling on, I have a BMW F800ST which is fast but soulless. It has no name.
You sir, can become an author. Loved the last line. "It's fast but soulless. It has no name."
@@neosmith166 very kind of you. Thank you.
I loved this; I used this on my podcast episode this morning!🙂🙌🏻🙌🏻
@@FATBOY692011 i have always commented that soul thing on every royal Enfield video or post
I called my RE Classic 500 "Emily" (M.L.E. - Magazine Lee Enfield) - apparently soldiers in WW1 used to call their Lee Enfield rifles Emily, so I though if its "Built Like a Gun" it can be named after one as well...
I also own a BMW F650GS.. I've owned it for 12 years now.. I called it "Herman" (Herman the German)..
Ive already started modifying my RE.. I changed the standard bars for the trials bike bars so I can sit a bit more upright, I've taken off the pillion seat and replaced it with a rack, I took off the pillion pegs too (don't need 'em), and have fitted the canvas pannier bags.. I've ordered from Hitchcocks a "peashooter" muffler and a single skin header pipe, and I'll fit a DNA air filter when the exhaust eventually arrives (its been on order for 4 months)...
I like the fact that no matter where you stand (in front, back, or side on) it says on the bike everywhere "Royal Enfield" how many other bikes do that..
Your enthusiasm for the Classic 500 is amazing. Recently bought a used Classic 500 and the fun it has is unexplainable. Used my friend's Classic 500 few times, but having one at your garage is a different feeling. The thump it has is music to ears. Cruise at 85-90kmph and enjoy the scenes.
The best part is, my little angel needs 3 rides a day on Classic. She calls it Boom Boom. 😂😂😂
Hey Freddie I’m from India and I recently bought classic 350 reborn (it’s new generation) and it’s moreee funn more rhythmic . It has meteor engine , semi - digital instrument cluster , no kick😩, dual channel abs , duel disc breaks , meteor’s chassis and much more but now it’s the perfect mixture of vintage and modern bike . “Made like gun .. goes like bullet “ 😉
Anddd
It’s my daily driver , I’m a college student and here in India people love these Enfields here they have there own identity there known status. In almost 1.5 months I’ve clocked around 900 kms on this . Top notch handling 💯 definitely addicted to dug dug sound it makes .
A fantastic insight, thank you for sharing this Suryansh! I used this insight on my podcast episode this morning🙂🤜🏼🤛🏼
I have some problems with the new classic, I own a classic 2017, and a thunderbird 2014, they got the old school feel I am afraid the 2022 variants don't have that
In Australia, I was riding mine the other day taking the long slow way through the international diplomatic area when an elderly gentleman wearing what appeared to me to be traditional Indian garb and taking his regular walk , stopped in his tracks to watch and listen to me pass. Watching in my mirror he didn't move whilst in sight. It just made that ride, for me, extra special .
RE is an emotion for Indians.
I have the Desert Storm.. I get loads of Indian people come over and chat with me about the bike..
As an Indian motor bike means only Royal Enfield .
My dad had bullet when I was a kid, father daughter used to go for long drives , me sitting on the fuel tank😀 brings back so many memories 🙂
That's a fun story we all can relate. sitting on the fuel tank without any worry in the world 😆
I live in Brisbane, Australia. I am so proud to have a classic 500.
I drive it at 110kph 40km to work very often. I can’t say I’ve noticed the vibrations. I have however put a 19t front end sprocket in it though to lower the Revs the bikes putting out.
I am obsessed with this bike. I’m in two minds. Do I ride it every day until the day comes that it will inevitably die. Or do I cherish the bike and take it out just every now and then knowing that once this bike is dead I can’t go buy another 500.
This bike was the best motoring decision I have made. I really am so happy to own it.
Mate Ride it as much as your heart desire. This bike is so common in India you can always get all the spare parts & accessories shipped to Brisbane, and they are not very expensive. It's so simple that with a little help from RUclips you can fix it yourself. Just ride safe as damage to body is a bit difficult to fix.
Keep using it as much as you can, it really has long life.. It's very often to spot classic models of 40-50 years age
use it on weekends n when u feel u need to clear ur head...on a long lone road trip
RE's are like curious case of Benjamin Button, it's gets younger everyday 😅😅
Ride it everyday to work, this bike has a life span of 25-30 years.
Just wanted to thank Monica for the great camera work. It really makes the videos so much better.
Thank you so much Kim! This means a lot 😊🙏 Have a lovely day ☕️
+1
I confirm entirely what you said, word by word, and I share your enthusiasm by this machine. I ride for 50 years every kind of bikes in north Portugal and Spain. I owned 16 till the day, since 1968. Now i have a 2018 (euro 4) Battle Green Classic 500 with 27000km, ( not modified) bought used with 10000km. I had a few simple problems; the worst and most expensive one was a fuel pump. After these years I dont feel bored, tired, or wanting to have any different sensorial experiences with any other bikes. It fulfills my most deep aspirations concerning motorcicles. From time to time i have some kind of temptations related with Harley , Moto Guzzi or other Royal Enfield new models as an eventual second bike. But I think that none of them is as rational as the Classic 500 to own , so tasty and so comunicative as it is. I think i would always loose something essential if I swaped it, for example the kickstarter , the thump and the sound, even with the stock exhaust. It is deliciously slow and I feel so secure and relaxed as in a high tech machine. Why more tech if those things do not mean different pleasures nor more intense or continuous happyness?
Yes👍🙌🕉️
@Ramu Deliciously slow is a flaw; not high tech is a flaw; being a rational bike, a tasty one (vibrating) and being comunicative are perhaps flaws to you. I refered I had a few simple problems, as the fuel pump. Are you realy convinced that I am a fan old boy? Read it again.
I'm affraid you don't reach some kinds of subtle reasonements from the sensitivity domain. Not about affections or emotions.
Lovin' your enthusiasm as ever Freddie! - and I couldn't agree with you more on the Classic 500, bags of character, brilliant looking - but get the Classic 350 which is better in every way....nice to see that sunshine again!! All the best to you and Monika....
Hi guys from a big fun of you both. Happy to hear what I always felt, motorcycling is something else. Not just electronics and horse power. Happy new owner of a Classic 350 here.
I'd rather have the 500, Flyer. But maybe they'll bring a new one out.
Nah, get the 500. The 350 just looks, the 500 is...
Big mistake not having a kickstart tho!!!
@@1990-t1j
I’d think that, with the improvements RE have made with the 350 engine, then suely, they’ll be looking into developing a modern engined version if the 500cc classic. Maybe next year. Imagine what a monster that would be!!! Would be a game changer that!!
Would have To have a kick start though, and maybe emmence touring cruising caperbelities..
Thanks for sharing. I have to say in my 43 years of riding bikes. I too have done the big bike, fast bike thing. However my perceived wisdom , for what it’s worth , is that what’s really important is smiles per mile. I had a bullet 500 for 8 years , I regretfully sold it as I wanted , and still love, an interceptor and I did not have the secure storage space to keep both.
You are right about reliability and comfort at higher speeds but the sheer joy of riding the Bullet kept me smiling all the way. Sure long cross country journeys , in the UK took longer. With journeys I could do in 4 or 5 hours on a bigger bike taking me all day or even overnight. That just added to the adventure. It used to breakdown three or four times every thousand miles , but with basic tools in my panniers I fixed it by the side of the road every time. Spare parts are so incredibly cheap and readily available in the UK or by post from India.
I have also been lucky enough to holiday in India on several occasions , where I have hired an Enfield for about £40 per week . It is an absolute pleasure to stay in a culture where motorcycles are part of everyday life and are universally used. I would urge anyone to try this . Kind regards Phil.
I used to have the 2002 Bullet 500 . It was a kickstart only bike. It was Athena Grey. I loved that bike. But I sold it and kept my more practical bike at the time. Sometimes I wish I still had it. It was pure pleasure to ride. And you almost never went to get gas without someone asking about the bike,or seeing the gleam in an old gentleman’s eyes as he told stories of his youth on a motorcycle. You don’t just own a Royal Enfield,you experience a Royal Enfield.
Every time that I ride it my whole body enjoys it and I always take the longest route home on my classic 500 2020
I'm in India and I've ridden an Enfield for more than 30 years. I still have a Bullet 350 of 1990 vintage (with the brake and gear levers on the 'wrong' side) but I recently augmented my garage with a used Classic 500. I picked it up for the equivalent of £1000. It looks lovely in the Desert Storm (khaki) livery. I'm so happy with it that I've made it my display pic. As you said it's not particularly fast, but then 50 mph is the fastest one can safely ride on Indian roads - whether it's interstate highways or country lanes. And the torque is so addictive.
Hi Freddie, I've owned a classic 500 for a couple of months now, and it is almost the perfect bike for where I live (Isle of Wight). Totally agree with what you said about it, I own a meteor as well and yes, that does ride more smoothly and the build quality is arguably better, but I cant help but love the 500.
Great review of a great bike, Freddie. I have been riding motorcycles for 40 years and bought myself a Royal Enfield 500 Classic in 2019. Based in Sydney, Australia, I absolutely love it and ride it wherever and whenever I can. I have put around 10,000 kms on it in the three years I've had it and it is still going strong. A great workhorse of a machine and, as you noted, a lot of fun to ride. And I often start it with the kick-start just for the pure joy of remembering what motorcycling was about back in the day - it's also a good work out on a cold winter's morning.
Freddie, as a Meteor 350 owner and Royal Enfield fan, I'd like to comment. One, the Classic 500 holds its value very well. There was one for sale at Quaker City Motorsport in Philadelphia, PA here in the US. It was a 2018 whose mileage was in the five figures. They were asking $7,000 US for it, or $2,000 more than when it was NEW! It sold quickly; it's no longer on the dealer website.
As for the 349cc J series engine, it is a GEM! I say that as someone with previous experience with thumpers. I had a 1982 Honda FT500 Ascot, and man, that thing vibrated like crazy. After an hour or so on it, I was tired; I was ready to call it a day. OTOH, the Meteor's engine is so smooth that I can do a few hours on the bike. I like my Meteor so much that I'm tempted to get a Classic 350 when it becomes available here. Oh and BTW, the Classic 350, even in the top shelf Chrome Red/Bronze, is STILL less expensive than that used Classic 500 was... :)
Oh, and have you heard of the new Meteor Effect? It's true! There's a new phenomenon known as the Meteor Effect. When one guy gets a Meteor 350, an acquaintance of the new Meteor 350 owner will get one too. I got a Fireball Yellow that I love. My fellow, retired neighbor across the street was envious; he said that I'd gotten the bike he wanted. A week or so later, what did I see, but my neighbor pulling in on his new Stellar Red Meteor 350. That's the Meteor Effect!
I own a classic 350, back in my home in India. . I fell in love with the ride so much that just in 2 years I rode it nearly 30,000 Kms. . Am looking forward to buy the new generation classic here in the UK
I bought my RE classic 500 in March 2021 and I’ve never been happier as a motorcyclist in my life. It’s the perfect commuter as well as a travel companion if you’re not in a hurry, which is the proper way to ride if you care for your safety. It’s pure joy riding these bikes so much so I feel no need for upgrading. You were right. Every single moment in these bikes is unique and makes you feel alive. Great video BTW.
Absolutely loving mine, a 2017 classic 500 in Montreal, Canada, under pretty intense weather but with all the fun !
9000km now, I'm 23yo and I would not want any other bike. + Everyone loves it
Took one of these on a tour of south India a while back, Mine had an ammeter on the binnacle and the electric start was quite temperamental.
The person who rented me the bike told me it took 2 kicks to start the bike.
( Now I can’t vouch for the theory behind it, but it worked)
The first ‘kick’ should be gentle to put the ammeter needle slightly on the negative side, the next kick should be normal and the bike started right away.
Cheers.
Good day Freddie.
What is that background guitar sounds.?? I love it
Hope you reply.
Thanks.!
Pull the decomp lever, Some pumping to centre the crank to BDC and one, just one firm kick. It should fire right away.
Correct
Positive side not negative
I was waiting for this . Another excellent video from you and Monica. You did justice, in explaining about the character of the bike. I am from India , living in UK. I have fond memories of seeing this beauty in Indian country side. In cities, Bullets are widely used. And also, it gives me silly happiness to say that the royal Enfield bikes are made from Chennai (Madras) that's where I am from.
On my bucket list is to tour The Western Ghats on a Enfield with my wife on the pillion.
Thanks Hymavathy! I do love the fact RE are very proudly built in India; they fly the flag for 🇮🇳 so well!🙌🏻🙌🏻
@@russcattell955i the best time would be from September to February.. late mansoon to winter
wish I saw more of our beloved brothers from Chennai Riding them REs on the windward side of these Tropical Ghats known as The Home of The Mountains ( Mala Naadu ) aka KERALA.
You know whose country it is ;)
I own a Classic 500 Stealth Black, same what's shown in this video. The Meteor and the new Classic 350 are amazingly smooth but there's something about the 500 which is unmatched. The "character" is something unique to this. I've travelled across India on this and I wouldn't trade it for anything else.
Was there a lot of poop in the roads ?
@@joecamel6835 not sure if you're being racist. But I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say no Indian roads don't have poop. Not sure where you would've got that idea. Western representation of India is plain wrong. Of course places where there is a lot of population density will be dirty which is the case with any city/country in the world.
@@joecamel6835 so much less than streets of newyork😂😂
@@joecamel6835 I've only travelled a little in India but the thing that struck me most was the way that people politely collaborated to keep the traffic moving. Some of the roads weren't great but no worse than here in the UK. On the other hand, the coastal road south from Chennai was very good and very scenic.
Hi Freddie, I love my RE Classic Chrome 500, Purchased brand new in March 2021. Although they finished production of the Bullet 500 in March 2020, the Indian factories had to slow down production or close due to COVID. Hence my 500 was manufactured in October/November 2020(according to the date stickers all over the bike!) and available to buy new at a UK dealer in March with a 21 plate!! It seems to have been put together with some different bits left on the shelves, namely it has trials tyres and I'm convinced the rear mudguard is the dark green colour option rather than the black and chrome it should be!! Never mind that, I love it, it has so much character. As you say it's great down the lanes. I haven't taken it on a motorway yet as I'm still having to 'run' it in for the first 1200 miles! Not a process you have ever had to do, with a car or bike Freddie!! 😂
Great videos. Thanks very much, keep them rolling. Regards to Monica.
This is BRILLIANT!!🤣🤣 I don’t know why your description of your Classic 500 makes me want one more!!
I had the classic 500 and he was an garage queen , clocked about 6000 miles on him over 5 years but unfortunately , he was stolen:( after few years , I bought another classic 350 and now it has clocked bout 12000 miles over 2 years . i absolutely love this machine . This aint just a machine . it's an emotion. it brings the man out of you.
I feel like this might be the video that elevated you and Monica to a premium motorcycle review channel. Great job you guys, keep up the great work.
I've got a 2021 classic 500 and everything you say is true, make you so happy riding it.. Done 2500kms and still love riding it.. I'm from New Zealand and its right at home on ll the back roads..
This was my dream bike! I will never own one, but would gladly test it one day.
It's not a luxury toy, as you said, but an indian motorcycle, meant to be affordable and reliable. This is why I love it.
There are plenty of videos showing Royal Enfields doing pretty much anything in India.
Thanks for the review!
Why will you never own one? They are affordable and more fun than any modern racing bike.
I have been riding the same Royal Enfield Classcic 500CC (2013 model) , I echo every word of Freddie. This is the best bike u can get that is close to the old school biking. I also drove this bike 6800km all the way to Leh/ladakh from south india. This bike is reliable cause its simple and never fails to deliver. The best part is the fun riding it at 80km/hr simply priceless
Excellent review as always Freddie! I tested the Classic 500 two months ago and absolutely fell in love with it! Thing is, in Malaysia the Classic 500 costs USD 10,250 otr. A new importer is bringing in the new Classic 350 for USD 6,250 before roadtax and insurance. So I'm waiting to test that before I decide on a new Classic 350 or a used Classic 500.
Freddie, great video. Im from Perth Australia, and own a squadron blue Classic 500, we have all types of terrain from coastal to the city to the freeways and the hills and it does not miss a beat.. I also have a 1965 mustang. I switch between the two. my RE classic 500 is a 2021 model which i baught in April 2021 ive done 4000km on it. Im inlove with the past and how basic yet sophisticated and character filled their machinery was. ive ridden motocycles before, and you just go through the motions, this is the only motocycle ive ridden that actually feels like im riding the bike, you become one with it, you trust its single cylinder thumping engine will get you through anything, and at night the massive front light beams like a light house in the night guiding you home. Its a feeling you cant describe, you must ride it to understand its charm. Side note- if you want to reduce the vibration, ots super important you follow the user manuel to the dot when it comes to riding it in. its a slow process. but even at a 100km/h i have minimal vibration.
Always love your videos Freddie especially on a Sunday over a coffee! I don’t think it’ll feel like summer until you get back to the UK and you are out and about in the English countryside! 😄👍🏻Cheers Dan
Thanks Dan, I’m really looking forward to it!🙂🇬🇧🤘🏻🤘🏻
2017 Redditch Edition here.
I know that the passion your brilliant video conveys is real, because I feel the same way about this bike every time I ride it. Riding the Classic 500 is motorcycling distilled down to its pure essence. My other bike is a KTM 1290 Super Adventure and as brilliant as it is, if it came down to keeping only one motorcycle, the KTM would have to go.
When the day comes and I can’t get my leg over it anymore I’ll put it on display in the house somewhere. She’s a keeper!
Cheers from Luxembourg,
Lupo
Absolutely love your infectious enthusiasm Freddie. I’ve got the new a classic 350 and I’m just blown away by it. Fabulous fun that I never want to get off!
I have been riding my classic 350 for last 9 years. It has been an absolute love affair at first sight. As with any relationship, you get so use to be in relationship that you some time forget how it all started. Your video has reminded me, why I felt in love with my bike. It's still a pleasure driving it on highways. If you are on the fence about buying the bike or not, jump in and buy. You won't regret it.
Please do a review of the new classic reborn and how it compares to the old models.loving your videos man and the accent , great cinematography 🍻
Bhaiii
This bike (Classic 350) is THE bike I want to test next- I’ll do all I can to find one while I’m here in Tenerife🙂👌🏻🏍
@@FreddieDobbs YES! Looking forward to that video.Will you compare it to the Meteor and the Classic 500?
New classic looks awful brodha and feels are also compromised👎👎👎
@@FreddieDobbs yep I want to see a comparison between new 350(the engine pushes more in comparison to the old models) and the 500.
The mash 400 is really tempting me cause it's lighter and has 27 hp
Back in India... I owned 1988 diesel bullet which is running fine till now at 2022 ..... Absolutely gem of a simple machanical machine.... That I will never sell for the rest of my life .... BTW great review.... I'm tempting for used classic 500 now🤤🤤🤤🤤
fab vid! without a doubt RE make some beautiful bikes. I would love one of these or the new classic 350. however for my needs of motorway use and a pillion, they might not be quite up to it!. In other news i'm hopefully going to be getting my very first ever motor bike today after passing the tests! I've been sat ready to go since 0700 even though its a Sunday! lol
Enjoy mate, best thing ever.
May it be everything you ever imagined, and more.
I bet the excitement levels are through the roof!!😆. Have an incredible day bike shopping!!😀🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Royal Enfield is Royal Enfield, when ever i drive my RE Bullet 350, it feel like i am British Era , and roming in street and watching Victorian era buildings.
This bike is living creature. No matter how many super bikes in Market.
Old is every time is gold.
I love my RE Bullet 350. My Truly legend Bike.
Great video, I like seeing other people enjoying the classicness of the classic. I have a gun metal grey 500 I bought a year ago. I ride it to work every day unless the weather is bad. It's a 30km commute half on country roads and main road. 100 kmh is a good speed to cruise at now that the motor has loosened up a bit, but 80kmh is definitely more comfortable and enjoyable. It's well suited to taking your time and appreciating the moment. It takes you back in time to a simpler time, but without the worry of braking down and constant maintenance. I've done about 5000ks, had two services and it is running perfect. I made a luggage carrier and racks to hang a couple of army bags on as panniers which work and look great. I get a lot of complements and people checking it out. It's the first bike I've bought new and was careful to not over rev it in the run in period. I will keep this bike for the rest of my life and one of my sons will carry on riding it I'm sure. Probably my youngest, he is a biker like me.
I own one of these beauties. Classic 500 is as raw as you can get out there. Riding it with that intense thump is like an addiction.
Another great 21 mins to start my rainy Sunday! L
Love the 1940’s styling of RE and I am besotted by the new 350 Classic, I can see it in my garage soon next to my GS as the lazy weekend bike of choice to cruise around the Lake District where I live.
The new 350 just looks unbelievably good in the red chrome version, with all the charm of the 500 but without the drawbacks, what’s not to love! Just got to convince the management!
Thanks as ever Freddie and Monica for your fab channel.
I’ve got the chrome/red 350 and live near Brampton, Cumbria. It’s like they made it for our roads. Get one, you will NOT regret it!
It looks better in the flesh, so to speak, than pictures and videos depict. If I didn't have my Classic 500 then I would definitely have one.
I'm frantically pestering my wife to go for her licence so she can have one and I can have a shot or two.
I don't think you would be dissapointed if you got one.
I was talking to the folks from Holywood Service Station in Dumfries who are the official agents in that area. They confirmed to me a rumour I heard last week that they had forty bikes going out the door.
That's a lot of metal and a real testament to the brand.
The Classic 350 is now the number one new bike I’d considering buying😍🏍👌🏻
I think it would suit you perfectly, It is just so good looking!
If you do I will!!
@@johnnybgood7812 how do you compare it to the 500? Is it too slow and low torque?
Another great video, your passion shines through, for anything two wheeled. Having ridden bikes for more than 30 years I must pull you up on 1 point, the kick start was not just for starting a bike with a flat battery, several bikes I owned had no electric start, this was the only way to start them, the most modern bike I owned that still only had a kick start was a Yamaha RXS100 from back in the 80's - I have never ridden a Royal Enfield, I feel I need to change that, thanks for the fabulous vlogs.
Hi Freddie love the video. Had a bullet myself. Great bikes!! Was a bit concerned about the item hanging from the sump? Looked like a loose wire (cut off switch)
Thanks Steven! Well spotted; Monika noticed this two minutes later so I let Easy Rider know after the ride
Was looking for this! Thank God, I was not the only one to notice and be bothered by it.
Well i am from India and over here its a icon of royalty tbh it actually has that royal feel while riding it and the kick part is super funny cause i am 17 and i have no problem starting my father’s royal enfield classic 350 with kick start and it gives the best feeling ridding it in 60km/hr in 5th gear on a country road
Great vid Freddie - and as for the owner experience you asked for:
Turning 50 this year, I now look back on 22 years of riding and owning a wide range of bikes, up to 1800cc, or up to 150+ hp, up to 50k Euros price tag - amongst my current 4 bikes, it is the humblest, cheapest and smallest, that never fails to put the biggest smile on my face with each ride: my Bullet, the Classic 500 called „The Helicopter“….
Don't tell me! You call it The Helicopter because of the engine rhythm at 25 mph!
I have the same bike with the exhaust changed and wow it puts a smile on my face every time I ride it
Much appreciated work ❤️lots of love from india 🇮🇳🙏 these bikes are real deal in Himalayas 7000-10000 feet above sea level ❤️
I learned riding with this bike back in the christmas holidays of 2012....this feels like driving a tractor! But the fun is immense! And the stability is amazing! Challenges are high up if u fall or crash, coz in ur 20s u wont be able to get it up single handedly! But despite that, it makes u feel alive😇
Eu sou do Brasil, e esse vídeo me emocionou, porque você falou exatamente o que senti quando pilotei pela primeira vez a minha Classic 500. Eu tinha uma Harley também. Vendi ela ao me dar conta que só queira andar na Royal Enfield.
They way u didi this video was very passionate. I don’t think any other bike youtuber has shown this excitement.
One of the bikes I have had for the last six years is a 2017 Royal Enfield Classic Chome 500 and I totally agree with you with your enthusiasm. You can take most anywhere but maybe at 50 to 55 mph. I do have more powerful and sophisticated machines but the Royal Enfield is special in a good way.
Love your videos Freddie. You have been my main port of call for deciding what will be my next bike. Took a Royal Enfield classic 350 for a test ride yesterday and holy smokes, I now know what you mean. It is by far the most beautiful piece of machinery I have ever ridden. 🙌 As soon as I've got the cash I'll be buying one. Keep up the videos. And come to NZ for a ride, haha. 🤙
Another epic video as always 👌 looks even better in the flesh! What a classic photo of your grandad, motorcycling is in your DNA. Love kickstarters! Hurt my shin a few times when young, oh the memories 😆 ok time to get up and have a coffee ☕️ 😉
Thanks Nick! That’s the first kick starter I’ve ever tried- it took me quite a long time to get the hang of it!😆. I’ll see you soon🙂☕️
I ve never seen such a beautiful review about this motorcycle. You ve nailed all the points.
This exhaust note is compared to helicopter sound.
There are some cool videos about it.
Bought my Classic 500 new in 2015. Covered 24000 miles now, including 2 trips to the West Country (I live in Kent). I wouldn't sell or change her for anything else! Changes I've made....Hitchcocks bottle exhaust, smaller indicators, Lucas style rear light, Halcyon bar end mirrors and a brown leather pan seat from India. Always draws a crowd when I park up. I love her! Also, had no problems with bad vibrations at motorway speeds around 65mph. Great review mate! 👍
RE 500 - HE IS THE MAN. KEEP THIS MAN'S SPEED WITHIN 50-60 . FEEL THE RIDE. from India.
Great vid, sold my 500 to get an interceptor biggest regret i had. Sold the interceptor now on the lookout for another 500. Best bike for smiles
So interesting, thank you for sharing!🙂🙌🏻
I do hope this styling comes more into fashion as the post war era bikes are the most beautiful motorcycles ever made in my opinion. These days the late 60´s early 70´s is all the rage but im so glad Royal Enfield has stuck to this era with their Classics.
Im waiting to test the new 350 when the ice melts here in Norway but seen the new bike at the dealer and it looks gorgeous.
Great review mate.
I’m starting to agree with you; post war bikes are stunning!🤩 I honestly believe that when I get to test the 350 Classic, I may well buy it!
@@FreddieDobbs Took a good look at the bike yesterday and i always take notice in welds. both frame and tank welds were superb and generally quality is beond expectations. only gripes is plastic fenders and rather cheap looking switch housings but then again both function fine and for the price id say thats such minor points. Id probably build new switch housings out of billet aluminium if i buy the bike.
Love your motorcycle philosophy. It's spot on. I think the era of the £20k+ motorcycle is now tipping toward a basic is better or at least different. There is a growing realisation you can have as much or even more fun with 20hp as you can with 150hp. It's a lot cheaper too!
The production values of your videos are excellent (thank you Monika) and I have been enjoying some of the musical sound track. Is it possible to have the discography in the description or in the closing credits?
Thanks again.
I’m delighted you feel the same. I’ve now gone full circle and I genuinely, hand on heart believe these smaller machines are more fun than the 100hp+ bikes.
Of course; I always include every song title in the written description of each video🙂👌🏻
I feel the same. Te cuento en mi idioma. Es un amor muy especial. Primero te impactas y sientes la primavera del amor sobre ella. Es dura, pesada, sin grandes prestaciones pero transmite una sensación extrema de rudeza y simpleza, es realmente la vieja escuela y el romanticismo perfecto que nos enamora de las motos. Abrazo desde Mendoza , Argentina. Es imposible no enemistarse de la Royal 500 Classic.
Freddie - great vid - I've owned a classic 500 for a couple of years now. Love it. It's the only bike I'd never consider selling. Just takes a little longer to get places as the "avoid motorways" option must be selected on Google maps 😀
Very interesting. I genuinely cannot stop thinking about the Classic four days on! The key to a good time; motorways off and Classic ignition on🙂❤️🏍👌🏻
@@FreddieDobbs ever heard of the calimoto app? In my opinion it's a great motorcycle specific route planner/satnav that can plan twisty routes/round trips etc so you can easily avoid those motorways. If you haven't tried it, there is a free version and I would recommend it
Great review...I have a 2016 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 and yes it's magical and would never ever get rid of it...Every time I ride my Bullet I am so so happy... Life is good.y bike is even more original in that it has no ABS and a drum back brake. The gold piping on the tank, mudguards and side panels are all hand painted... It's beautiful and the colour is March Grey... It's done 8500 miles and not missed a beat...
Bye Stuart 😊🔆
I've fancied one of these for years, ever since I decided it was time to slow down. But they hold their price ridiculously well, they aren't worth that sort of money really. My 30 year old suzuki 500 cost less than 1k, will cruise at 85 and is built pretty well. I'll wait 5 years and see if I can get a used 350 classic for decent money! It does look like a far better bike than the 500.
This is a very valid point; they are gigantic amount of money (relatively speaking), and you can take your pick from an infinitely better Japanese bike for half the price👌🏻👌🏻
But for some reason I still want one!😆
I’m with you regarding the Meteor and Classic 350; I’ll be watching the used market closely
@@FreddieDobbs spot on. I'd say motorcyclists are split into 3 camps. Those who just want the fastest bike, those who want the most reliable, utilitarian transport, and those, like me and you, who just ride bikes for the pure enjoyment, and we need a bike that talks to our heart, that has character, that we can just enjoy looking at. So what is sensible often gets shoved out of the way by what talks to our hearts more.
There very cheap in india. Maybe look at used bikes on olx india. Shipping will probably cost more than the bike itself.
Freddie love your videos my friend.. I did own one of these for a couple of years here in Ontario Canada and I live in Niagara on the Lake which is wine, country side roads that were perfect for this bike! However I sold it because of the negatives you comment on...too much vibration above 50mph and poor relative build quality BUT it was the most FUN if ridden as you describe... slowly on secondary roads where it is an absolute ⭐⭐⭐. I bought a 2021 Continental 650GT which is like night and day in terms of quality, and an absolutely marvelous engine and gearbox that rival anything from Japan. Always turns heads and is ABSOLUTE FUN...Enfield know how to inject the most important ingredient into their bikes....Soul😊!!!
I have own a classic the older version of 350cc
It’s agricultural ,it’s basic have clocked in 6800 kms since august 2020
It gives a fuel mileage around 35-40 kilometres per liter
It’s not at all a fun thing while manoeuvring in reverse
The service is semiannual with averaging around £20
And I am a med student who uses it for the daily commute
Love from 🇮🇳
Thank you so much for sharing this, Rahul!🙂🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Hi Freddie, I was watching your video and enjoyed your pure enthisiasm and excitement while explaining a legend of a motorcycle.
I myself an owner of Standard 350 Bullet for the last 3 years, and one thing that I can say it never feels old (the excitement). Many have commented many things and I donot know if any one have suggested what I am going to suggest, but if possible you may try my suggestion.
Try a Royal Enfield which have the IC engine, they have more character than the UCE Bullets. I have ridden many, and they are still available in India. These IC engine bullets have given me goose bumps some time.
Nice documentation, please carry on.
You could say 'the bike has kept true to the original', or you could say RE has 'never bothered to update it', but when something works why would you. Manufacturers have a compulsive need to update bikes each year, even to the point of ruining them, which is proven in part, by the second hand market for certain models, and your love for this bike. Great video 👍
That’s a very good point and I strongly agree!
That's because other brands have to complete with each other for bhp and specs. The royal Enfield doesn't have competition and doesn't care about power or tech. It's unique.
i have never ever seen any one putting a bike review like this..........with this degreeeeeeee of connect and love for the bike...............lot to learn from u bro...............amazing........first video of urs.......and now I'm ur subscriber for life...........keep the connect onnnnn
Nice one Freddie and Monika, i've been to India quite a few times and motorcycles are used for everything, classic 350/500s are everywhere with some showing incredibly high mileage, the owner of my favourite beach cafe had a 350 with over a hundred thousand miles on the clock...
Wow Henry !
Owner of desert storm 2014 model . Love it. A torque king 🤴
I loved this video & your amazing enthusiasm for the Enfield. It did make me chuckle that you were captivated by all the features our generation once hated about motorbikes when we were younger! 😄
It's just pure drive experience.. old school bike.. I'm loving it.😀
Looks like Thomas Tuchel is into motorcycling these days 😅
Jokes aside, I’m from India and the Royal Enfield is an iconic motorcycle here. A legend of sorts. It’s amazing to see how a brand like Royal Enfield can unite motorcycling enthusiasts around the world. 😊
its was a brtitish brand which was then bought by indians... not an idnian brand btw
Great stuff, had me chuckling a lot 😅. Freddie, I’ve had mine for a year now, I can honestly say - of all the bikes I’ve owned & ridden, this is by far my absolute favourite ! I don’t know if it’s an age thing - 50 (mid life) ! - or if it’s the bike but - you are correct - you cannot stop smiling when your on it, it gets so much attention & nice comments. It definitely is happiest on A & B roads around 50mph which I now cannot get enough of, when I rode sporty’s or 1300 pan european’s I felt more like a passenger, with the classic 500 I feel like the rider, it gives so much back ! With a new pipe on it sounds so good, there is an abundance of enhancements available making it great for a bit of tinkering ! I would say to anyone thinking about trying one or getting one - give it a go - it might just surprise you ! 😊
I don't know, Freddie. You just made a cool bike cooler.
That’s very kind of you to say so🙌🏻
I'm considering either this or the 650 interceptor as my first bike. Just such simple bikes , which i can appreciate and work on myself.
Excellent vid, sums up Bullet riding perfectly. I have an iron block 500 (kick start only) which is my go to bike for relaxation and getting a silly grin on my face. No fuel injection, drum brakes, absolutely perfect for pottering around the back lanes during the summer months. Only issue with the newer ones is that they have muted the exhaust (I know legislation) to the point where it looks but does not sound quite like it should.
Yeah man. I have an 07' bullet 500 military w/sidecar. Last of the iron jugs. drum brakes. Neutral, key and switch on. let the batt amp needle do a jiggle, and drop the kickstart. Love it.
Hiya mate, glad you liked the Classic. I ride a 500 Bullet over the way in Fuerteventura. Totally agree with your comments about the authenticity and rider pleasure of the RE 500s. Ride safe, happy day's 👍👍
As always things are invented , they get to the point where they are right and then we carry on going too far with it , look back and realise that we'd sorted it waaaaaay back !
A bit like razors ! We had the cuthroat razor then developed the DE razor to perfection but then carried on putting on more blades , Aloe Vera strips , wobbly heads .....and now people have realised the DE razor was awesome and are now re-selling , go figure ! .....Great video !
So so true; completely agree!
i have a 2017 classic 500 here on the east coast united states and it is the absolute most fun i have had on a motorbike.i have many bikes from hondas to custom harley davidsons and no matter where i go on the classic i always have loads of people wanting to stop and have a chat about the bike.........it will surley shake the shit out of you on the highway but some nice passes gloves will take care of that
The sights in Tenerife never disappoint! Also, thank you for the subtitles! Its a very small thing but I personally enjoy watching videos with captions, and it really raises the experience for me.
I’m delighted you find the subtitles useful, Marco! Thank you for letting me know that they’re being used🙂
This! As a non english speaker subtitles are very very helpful!
Nice Video Freddie!
I also do have a EFI Bullet 500. It does not have the best cornering, braking and acceleration abilities. But it is built for everyday use in India and it can handle our roads in the EU and UK without problems. I mainly use it for travelling and long distance rides. Last year we went together from France (Haut-Rhin) to Spain and back, 4500km in 3 weeks. It is built for this riding style!
Yes, sometime a 6th gear or 10 more HP would be nice, but common, the bike has everything you need to get from A to B and it is reliable as hell.
Absolutely love these. story time:
These were the workhorses of the himalayan mountains before the Himalayan came along (They still are to some extent). If you land in any town in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains, you will see a lot of guys heading up on REs, full loaded and in style. You can also rent one pretty much everywhere.
3 years ago me and some of my friends rented 2 Bullet 500s (same engine) and 3 Himalayans and rode it through Sikkim(Eastern part of Himalayas). The bullets were absolute workhorses. They were fitted with these huge side carriers and we loaded up bags of 5 people on each bike. so the himmys took a pillion and the Bullets took the luggage. I chose to be one of the Bullet riders. The torque on this makes easy (but slow) work of the steep mountains even with all that load. It just pulls up steep climbs and hairpin bends like a tractor. And the thump is just 😘. That exhaust note still rings in my ears when I think of the Mountains.
I def want to own one someday just for the memories.
PS: you have to visit the himalayas someday to really experience the "dug dug" life.
Hi there! This seems like a big sister to a Suzuki Van Van. They’re so similar in a number of things!
My favourite Sunday morning feel good entertainment! Nice one guys!
Thank you!🙂🙌🏻
I suggested you try one of these and have only just seen that....... you already had! Doh!! Sorry about that lol 😀 Great video Freddie. Great you love them, I love mine, which is one of the final Battle Green versions, on a '21 plate. I live on The Isle of Wight and the 500 is perfect fine weather riding on the near vacant A and B roads we have here on the island. Riding heaven and the attention it gets is astonishing. I've never known anything like it tbh. I also own a new '22 plate Himalayan (another lovely bike but for different reasons) and I have to say that the fit and finish on my 500 is better than the Himi. Maybe I got lucky with my 500, I don't know but it is pretty much flawless.
Beautiful video!
From what I personally can tell, to the Indian rider, an Enfield is so much more than a means of transportation. They have plenty of 100-150cc bikes for commuting and good gas mileage. The Enfields, especially the classic/bullet 350, are seen as premium bikes for enthusiasts and tourers, a desire of many middle class riders. Though their prestige was a bit shaken by competition from the likes of Yamaha or KTM, they still hold a place akin to the one Harley holds in American culture.
in India R E sold 64000 unit in a month of May 2022
Bang on.... I'm from india and i can confirm what you said.
Though RE is selling like hot cakes in india right now
Het Freddie i trade my honda st1100 in 2020 for one of the last classic 500 over here in the netherlands. The best change i ever made. Is a great bike.
gorgeous motorbike, love from India and proud owner of Royal enfield :)
Hi , could it be a Marmite Machine , never forgetting the sound , weather it is coming or going ? and the trail of teeth following on behind , full admiration for all who ride, smile and keep their teeth . Happy days in your warmer climate . Take care both of you ride safe and keep them coming .
This has to be my favourite video of yours. The enthusiasm you have for this bike is contagious. I am sitting here 1000s of miles away and I was smiling ear to ear while watching the entire video.
Royal Enfield Classic 500 Military Green Mat with little modifications. 👌
Man is so excited...I'm from India I ride this bike everyday...trust me this bike has a character...
Bro u brought me 100yrs back
Awesome video and awesome content can’t wait for the next video Thank’s Freddie and Monika
The world has gone safety crazy. Takes all the thrill and excitement out of life.