I agree with you on colour- chrome tank colour option looks superb👌🏻 Interesting to hear you mention the rear shocks and ohlins- it’s probably the one bit of the bike I’d change to a simpler looking unit (purely for looks)
Morning Nick, nice summing up of the Interceptor. Perhaps you felt it underpowered as you are used to your Triumph, just a thought 🤔. I concur with most of what you said, the casings do need constant polishing, the suspension is a bit clattery, so I fitted YSS Black Gold Tops on the rear, and 16mm preload spacers to the front (not perfect, but helps). By fitting Scorpion silencers, DNA air filter and Booster plug, the engine can now breathe, and performance is improved over the stock bike. The handlebar brace, is purely cosmetic, and just a nod to the original Interceptor. With mine being an earlier model, it came with the same Pirelli Phantom Sports Comp as fitted to your Bonneville, though my Classic 350 has the CEAT tyres, and they are perfectly fine. I have ridden the Goldstar twice now. The latest making a two part video as the dealer wanted me to produce a really long video for him, so it would have been rude to refuse 😅. There will always be comparisons between the two, but personally, I think the only comparison, is that they are both modern classics. The Goldstar, is more laid back, but can get a wriggle on when asked, whereas the Interceptor is happier at more interesting speeds, but is also happy enough just chilling. The handling of the Interceptor has a sportier feel, whereas the Goldstar is more relaxed. Thanks for doing these vids.
Ohh thats another thing! Triumph wanted £200 for a centre stand....The Interceptor came with one on! If you get a Continental without one...well £50 buys you a complete kit. I have to say, I a totally finished with Triumph now!!
G'day mate. After riding bigger, heavier and more powerful bikes for the last 50 years, my body has decreed that I either ride lighter, more manageable bikes, or stop riding altogether. The latter is certainly not an option for me! So, after looking at numerous alternatives to replace my very comfortable (but heavy) fjr1300, I settled on the RE 650 Interceptor.I'm 6'1, 107kgs and ergonomically, I am very comfortable. As my touring days are now very numbered, It suits my needs for around town and shorter runs. Great price, great value and best of all I can actually work on it myself! I have the "Baker Express" colour, and as one would suspect, the accessories list is growing at a fast rate of knots. The bike at this time in Australia is retailing for $10,990 ride away. Now that's a bloody good price for how this bike makes you feel. Love the channel mate. Subcribed.
Sounds like we could be a similar 'age' . I bought a W650 because a good-one came my way cheap . It's a very similar bike in many ways with obvious motor-differences . I too , gave up my powerful-bikes (except my old TR1 XV1000) and i had to get fit-again through injuries plus age etc. The Game-Changer for me , was starting (and doing regularly) The Tibetan 5-Rites , like yoga but only 5 moves , its impact on body and health is amazing . It inspired other strength-exercises too . Even my specialist (after a surgery ) was gob-smacked at my recovery-rate and now does it too . I tell any older guy who's 'feeling it' (age etc ) most nod ,eyes glaze-over momentarily etc but it works and there's nothing to lose . I couldn't do the 3rd-one (3rd of the 5) properly to start (injury) so I did my own-version : shoulders on floor , back-arched-up, bent at knee .I do this still, so 6-moves now. Give it a go mate , you'll have wood like a 20yr-old too . Dave NZ s
@@kdsowen2882 Hey brother, thanks very much for the information. Back to the Surgeon shortly for the Spinal Cord Stimulator implant, so with a bit of luck that will reduce the pain levels and I can really start to improve my spine/legs. Had spinal fusion surgery last year and now have severe nerve damage both legs. Hence I had to downsize regarding bike weights. Again, I will certainly try these exercises. Cheers mate.
CEATs are Indian. Pirelli used to own them. They are fine but lack some feel. Grip is plenty in the dry and wet. Certainly no need to change to something better like BT46s until they wear out
Very fair review, thank you! What I love about my Mark2, and RE generally, is that upgrade parts are cheap, as compared to my 1200gs for example! I’ve changed the filter to K&N, added Zard mufflers and stainless headers, replaced the shocks, replaced the seat and the handle bar levers - it’s still costs less than the T120. Ok, no real extra power, although the engine feels less strangled, but it sounds fantastic, without being irritating, and it’s easy (so cheap) to work on! However, your quite right about the polishing! Had to buy a table lift to save my back! Thanks for the review, well judged imo.
Great summing up Nick Enjoyed that ! The BSA does tho start at 6.5k for the Basic highland green Then up to £6800 red black / silver then top is 7k I’m sure you know anyway 😊 Good looking machine the interceptor Look forward to you riding the Conti GT which is great to ride And the super meteor which I haven’t ridden Good one again have a good one 😊😊
Dear MotoUK, I agree with your assessment of this bike (I've got the Continental GT, same bike but with rear set foot pegs and clip-on bars). I too would love a gear indicator (I recently bought a third party kit that will allegedly provide that but I've yet to install that). For me there is more than enough power but that's just me I guess. Spot on about the high center of gravity, the engine is mounted high and that makes righting the bike, if you drop it, extra hard. My many modifications have been to reduce the weight of the bike and lower the saddle height (I'm a short guy). Best regards.
Got the Int650 last fall. Best bike I’ve owned in 30 years. I love the thing. I did test ride the Moto Guzzi but the cockpit felt more cramped to me and it didn’t seem worth the extra cash. Hickcocks sells Enfield Precision pipes which go parallel and sound great and allows for big saddle bags. Carry on Mate! From across the pond.
As an owner of the Interceptor, Bonneville T100 and Moto Guzzi V7 850 Special (and many more bikes) I can tell you that the Moto Guzzi is built to a higher standard in nearly every aspect than the Interceptor. Brakes, suspension, seat, tyres, instruments, switch gear, footrest mounts, mirrors etc. all better. Not even mentioning 65 hp, shaft drive and 21 litre fuel tank. Being 6ft3" I fit perfectly on the bike. It is one of the very few bikes where I felt I did not have to change anything, just perfect out of the box. Not that there is anything really wrong with the Interceptor, for the price it is a great bike.
I have met many that day the seat is awful. I've ridden the cepter twice now and never had a issue so it's good to see you were OK with it too. Seat tires are just "OK" I found. For the money it's Brill, not triumph power but not trying to be either. Where would we be without Royal Enfeild. Good job Nick. Have a good weekend 👍
It breaks better than Triumph Trident, despite its weight. Tested in learning pit. I can tell, I felt pretty confident and stable on this motorcycle. I loved the power range of the gears - not as cranky, and pleasant riding also because of posture. I am 182cm... so it is suitable for middle length guys/girls. BTW, Guzzi spelling is Gootzy.
harleys and a lot of honda's come fitted with rubbish tyres... this bike is a great platform for upgrading... it sits comfortably at 70mph... thats all i want so i bought the barcelona blue 23 model with mag wheels and luckily..it has avon roadrider ii tyres as standard... not a trackday tyre but a very good everyday leisure tyre.. my days of high speed motorway are long gone.. i cannot think of anything worse than sitting at 90 mph on a bike again... give me a twisty b road in the country thats real biking.. thats why i bought one..
Like to add that I also had a Bonneville and find that I get on with the Enfield better for many reasons and build quality is about the same....I had several faults on the Triumph including lamda sensors, chrome coming off, engine vibration, clunky gear box...no storage(Enfield has a little tool kit at least! Agree that a gear indicator would be good...my Bonneville didn't have one either! I don't like bike comparisons as this is very much personal preference but you did mention the Bonneville. Thanks for the review!
The Int (Interceptor) 650 is not fantasy. Could use a gear indicator. Got a touring seat and luggage rack. Eventually, a windscreen will go on it. At 47 hp, enoigh. On the road, feels good, sounds good. After 2,400 mi (3,800+ km), look foreward to riding even just to grocery store. Been on or ther bikes. But the Enfields just feel.different. They make me want to ride. 😊 😊
Thanks for the review. Seems fair. I have the GT version. I agree about the need for a 'what gear am I in now' indicator. Basically I love the bike. This is no BMW but it is a hell of a lot cheaper, very pretty and a lot of fun. I'm a little guy so lower weight would have been nice (I've reduced that by 11% which is not enough), softer suspension also would have been nice and lower saddle height for me was essential (I had to lower mine by a couple of inches). The only problem I had was the notorious off white grease on the relay socket contacts (on my bike that meant the starter motor would intermittently fail to work (with no kick-starter on these bikes that is really annoying) but symptoms vary depending which relay is affected). Tyre choice is limited in that size but I have read that Bridgestone make a better tyre that will fit. Subscribed in the hope of one day finding out what you think of the GT.
Hi 👋 many thanks for the comment and appreciate an RE owners opinion. So thanks for the sub and the GT will be here in about a month so will cover that bike 🙏
Between the Inter and the Goldie it would be the Interceptor ( not a single person really )having said that the Enfield singles do look lovely . I have thought about getting an Inter but there is just so much out there to choose from I just cannot make up my mind but at some point I will ride one although I think the overall weight might just put me of a bit , great watch as always cheers 👌👍
John Barron can you tell us specifics about the seat I'm 72 - don't find stock seat comfortable for more than about an hour. I bought their very nice looking "touring" seat and it wqs worse!
I agree with most of your comments apart from the seat which I found uncomfortable. Its not the worst seat I have come across but its up there. I spent some money getting it re padded which made a little difference and then spent some more money on cushioning. I am an old man and am loosing my muscle definition (bum padding) so it might not be a problem for people with better padded buttocks.😊
The frame, engine, and transmission are all solid construction - over-engineered if anything. I think what people love about it is that it’s so good on the fundamentals - and there are many upgrades that allow you to bring it up to and exceed, say, Triumph, Honda or Kwaka standard for less money than a used one of those.
@@alexmorgan3435 Ride one , I've had 4x 150mph-bikes over the years , these you have to ride like bikes of old and they are fun + f-all to gain a bit more HP or spend a few thou on an 865-kit , you'll lift the front-wheel in 1st and second . It's not trying to be a plastic-fantastic 'Sport-Bike', they cost nothing , keep-up with harleys, look as good, sound as good and you don't have to have a ' wanna-be' tattoo . 52-bikes over 69yrs , Dave NZ
I can’t decide between the RE 650 or the Kawasaki W800. Around here they’re about the same price of $6,500. I haven’t seen the RE up close but the Kawasaki looks nice with lots of attention to detail.
Interested to hear you would swap the tyres for no apparent reason other than the name, I have this brand on my Meteor and find them very good, most other reviewers have had positive feedback on the tyres. Is this a subconscious bias or is there something really specific you found untoward with the tyres I need to know about 🤔 As always thanks for your efforts, great content.
Good question Mark. I thought the same. Most reviews seem to find the CEATS good dry and wet. Personally I don’t like the Pirelli’s that come stock on the T120. Not enough to change immediately but as soon as a change is needed I am going for Michelin or Bridgestone.
@@denisg4288 Hi Denis the Pirelli comment seems very prevalent ref the T120/100. I feel I will probably change them on my T100 at some point, however really pleased thus far with the baby meteor Ceat tyres😀
@@denisg4288 Go for Metzler , they make T120's really-planted on the road , try a t120 with them if you can , I don't know about the Michelin , but they are better than the Bridgestone on the T120 and even though the parent-company is Pirelli , they are a stand-alone tyre-company . They are less 'skittish' than pirelli's and suit the weight and rake of the T120 . Dave NZ
Lovely bike , as for upgrades I wouldn't get anything that detracted from the Retro / Classic looks of the bike ( The Missenden Flyer absolutely butchered his ) . Sceat tyres are a top brand in India .
You say you wouldn't change anything on it but you haven't ridden one then! The seat is absolute garbage it's like riding on a piece of wood. And keeping it retro is not going to get you any more money in the future for it probably less.
@@PhilipKerry I've had one for 3 years. Here in the US if it's not a Harley Davidson it's junk. But just so you know I love my Royal Enfield. I'm 70 years old and that seat is horrible. Foot pegs are too far underneath my butt so I put large crash bars on it and welded 1 in stainless pipe for foot pegs. Moved the shifter and the brake up. Put on a windshield made in Italy, heated grips, handlebar extenders, heavy duty rack w/matching trunk, new tires Michelin, bar end mirrors, LED headlight And you'll find that the battery is junk replaced it with a gel. Way more comfortable and better looking! Every time I go out people want to know what it is and where did I get it. Just my opinion! If you ride one for over an hour it'll be your opinion too!
Great looking bike, but for me; that's where the attraction ends. It's overweight & underpowered. For a £6,500 retro' bike, I'd be looking more in the direction of a nice used Kawasaki Z650rs.
@@MOTOUK1 The Japanese come at the retro' market from a different angle to the Indians. The Japanese apply retro' looks to a modern bike. Whereas, the Indians attempt to apply 'some' modern tech' to an old bike design. I think the Japanese have got it dead right, again.
Good balanced review thank you….. I’m a Chrome Mk2 owner myself and I agree it’s the most in-character colour. Just a point on the luggage options….there are several good sized luggage options out there for the interceptor….have a look at this Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Luggage ruclips.net/video/YTPaZF9Zk_U/видео.html
The gold star in red is a real looker, which I would choose over the Interceptor, love to see all these re makes made in Britain and restore our heritage, however, you have some nice bikes coming up and do hope BSA hear your request.
Value for money is important for many as well as a simple to maintain machine. Specially for us pensioners on a limited budget. May well down size from my Kwaka Vulcan VN900 custom cruiser. 650lb bike is getting a bit of a lump
As a pensioner too ,found I was really struggling with heavy-bikes , I started doing The Tibetan 5-Rites , just 5-moves , it transformed my life . I do a little 'light-weights' work too now , but it was the '5' that did it and i can go on boats now also which i hated before (sea-sickness) . First-move is spinning-clockwise and only took a week to get over it , that and the 3rd-move were the hardest . I can't believe that more people don't know about this , like turning the clock-back 10-years . 52-bikes over 69-yrs . Dave NZ
Every time you say Moto-guzzy, an Italian weeps 🙂 I'm interested in the Continental, it looks wonderful, but I'm wondering whether the Speed twin is worth the extra money.
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
Got my set all the way up with headphones on and output volume is very low. Nice styled bike but again, too much black. The only black should be the frame, tires, & cables. I'm in the States in the midwest. We got the crotch rockets (Japanese) and the Harleys. Everything else is non existent here. More Harleys than anything else by a long shot because they're no dealers for the others. Anything other than a Harley, the closest dealerships for Triumph, BMW, Moto Guzzi, etc. are more than 180 miles away. And only 1 of them. Any direction of my house within 50 miles is a Harley dealership. Plus, for the Hondas, we're limited on what we can have. Honda and the rest of the Japanese bikes are pretty much gone/cruiser bikes/or the CB line. The Enfield was sold at an Indian dealership but has since gone. The Indians are about to leave also. Motorcycle biz around here is shakey & weird.
Sorry I just don't get these bikes. They just seem insipid to me. For £6.5k you can pick up some really nice mint condition low mileage second hand bikes that are way quicker, much better riding experience and genuine bargains, better build quality, more comfortable, ride all day long comfort, much more practical. As I say I just don't get buying a new RE when you have so many fabulous cheap well looked after 2nd hand bikes to choose from, a sports bike, a sports tourer, nakeds, retro classics, cruisers, the choice is huge. It just seems that these bikes are ridden by people with not much imagination settling for mediocrity. If you want to say retro modern classic then I'd get a nice Triumph Speed Twin several years old well looked after FTSH, or Bonneville too many flavours to choose from or a Kawasaki 650 RS, anything but not these bland not particularly exciting bikes.
Alex, Go and ride a 2nd-hand one with a few k's on it (dealers must have them )Don't compare it, just ride it (fast-ish) and see if it puts a smile on your face. Put all your Bias's aside , and find a twisty-road......
I've got a 21 this is my third summer. You must have a pretty cushy bum mate. The seat on this thing is like riding on an oak plank. I got the touring seat and it's not a whole lot better believe me You're better off getting the saddle that they sell in India looks like a high low thing. It's gel and it's super comfy I'm 70 and I can ride all day. Didn't like the foot pegs so I put the large crash bars on it and welded 1 in stainless tubing and put bicycle grips for foot pegs. Then I just extended the controls so I could make it into a heel shifter. They sell a windshield for that from a company in Italy really solid rock solid. And it's got a weak headlight. I put an LED one on and I don't even take it out at night. Oh... The tires are really crappy I put a set of real michelins on. That's about it well handlebar extensions and I put about 20 different objects on there but.... It's a great bike!
I agree with you on colour- chrome tank colour option looks superb👌🏻
Interesting to hear you mention the rear shocks and ohlins- it’s probably the one bit of the bike I’d change to a simpler looking unit (purely for looks)
Have to agree Freddie, if the rear shocks didn’t have the gas chamber on they would look better. Basic shocks 👍
Morning Nick, nice summing up of the Interceptor. Perhaps you felt it underpowered as you are used to your Triumph, just a thought 🤔. I concur with most of what you said, the casings do need constant polishing, the suspension is a bit clattery, so I fitted YSS Black Gold Tops on the rear, and 16mm preload spacers to the front (not perfect, but helps). By fitting Scorpion silencers, DNA air filter and Booster plug, the engine can now breathe, and performance is improved over the stock bike. The handlebar brace, is purely cosmetic, and just a nod to the original Interceptor. With mine being an earlier model, it came with the same Pirelli Phantom Sports Comp as fitted to your Bonneville, though my Classic 350 has the CEAT tyres, and they are perfectly fine. I have ridden the Goldstar twice now. The latest making a two part video as the dealer wanted me to produce a really long video for him, so it would have been rude to refuse 😅. There will always be comparisons between the two, but personally, I think the only comparison, is that they are both modern classics. The Goldstar, is more laid back, but can get a wriggle on when asked, whereas the Interceptor is happier at more interesting speeds, but is also happy enough just chilling. The handling of the Interceptor has a sportier feel, whereas the Goldstar is more relaxed. Thanks for doing these vids.
Ohh thats another thing! Triumph wanted £200 for a centre stand....The Interceptor came with one on! If you get a Continental without one...well £50 buys you a complete kit. I have to say, I a totally finished with Triumph now!!
G'day mate. After riding bigger, heavier and more powerful bikes for the last 50 years, my body has decreed that I either ride lighter, more manageable bikes, or stop riding altogether. The latter is certainly not an option for me! So, after looking at numerous alternatives to replace my very comfortable (but heavy) fjr1300, I settled on the RE 650 Interceptor.I'm 6'1, 107kgs and ergonomically, I am very comfortable. As my touring days are now very numbered, It suits my needs for around town and shorter runs. Great price, great value and best of all I can actually work on it myself! I have the "Baker Express" colour, and as one would suspect, the accessories list is growing at a fast rate of knots. The bike at this time in Australia is retailing for $10,990 ride away. Now that's a bloody good price for how this bike makes you feel. Love the channel mate. Subcribed.
Sounds like we could be a similar 'age' . I bought a W650 because a good-one came my way cheap . It's a very similar bike in many ways with obvious motor-differences . I too , gave up my powerful-bikes (except my old TR1 XV1000) and i had to get fit-again through injuries plus age etc. The Game-Changer for me , was starting (and doing regularly) The Tibetan 5-Rites , like yoga but only 5 moves , its impact on body and health is amazing . It inspired other strength-exercises too . Even my specialist (after a surgery ) was gob-smacked at my recovery-rate and now does it too . I tell any older guy who's 'feeling it' (age etc ) most nod ,eyes glaze-over momentarily etc but it works and there's nothing to lose . I couldn't do the 3rd-one (3rd of the 5) properly to start (injury) so I did my own-version : shoulders on floor , back-arched-up, bent at knee .I do this still, so 6-moves now. Give it a go mate , you'll have wood like a 20yr-old too . Dave NZ
s
@@kdsowen2882 Hey brother, thanks very much for the information. Back to the Surgeon shortly for the Spinal Cord Stimulator implant, so with a bit of luck that will reduce the pain levels and I can really start to improve my spine/legs. Had spinal fusion surgery last year and now have severe nerve damage both legs. Hence I had to downsize regarding bike weights. Again, I will certainly try these exercises. Cheers mate.
Great looking machine. I'm 79 yrs old, so have some perspective.
Cheers Gary 🙏 RE have certainly upped their game on quality and have some cracking bikes in their line up. Cheers and have a good Christmas 🎅
The Misender Flyer was saying his rear shocks started leaking on his Interceptor.He changed them to Hagon shocks.
Yes I think they were original ones too, painted black. Have a fab weekend Rachel, weather is good 👍
CEATs are Indian. Pirelli used to own them. They are fine but lack some feel. Grip is plenty in the dry and wet. Certainly no need to change to something better like BT46s until they wear out
Thanks for the feedback on these tires 👍
Interesting to hear you talk about the "top heavy" nature of the bike. I have only heard that from one other person, no one else seems to mention it.
Only my opinion 😁👍
@@MOTOUK1 Absolutely, I wish more people would realize that it's a personal opinion. I hear changing the exhaust shifts quite a bit of weight.
These bikes open up nicely when you put a more free flowing set of pipes on.
Yes I’ve heard that too 👍
Very fair review, thank you! What I love about my Mark2, and RE generally, is that upgrade parts are cheap, as compared to my 1200gs for example! I’ve changed the filter to K&N, added Zard mufflers and stainless headers, replaced the shocks, replaced the seat and the handle bar levers - it’s still costs less than the T120. Ok, no real extra power, although the engine feels less strangled, but it sounds fantastic, without being irritating, and it’s easy (so cheap) to work on! However, your quite right about the polishing! Had to buy a table lift to save my back! Thanks for the review, well judged imo.
Great summing up Nick
Enjoyed that !
The BSA does tho start at 6.5k for the Basic highland green
Then up to £6800 red black / silver then top is 7k
I’m sure you know anyway 😊
Good looking machine the interceptor
Look forward to you riding the Conti GT which is great to ride
And the super meteor which I haven’t ridden
Good one again have a good one 😊😊
Really good points there Nick. 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks Buddy
Dear MotoUK, I agree with your assessment of this bike (I've got the Continental GT, same bike but with rear set foot pegs and clip-on bars). I too would love a gear indicator (I recently bought a third party kit that will allegedly provide that but I've yet to install that). For me there is more than enough power but that's just me I guess. Spot on about the high center of gravity, the engine is mounted high and that makes righting the bike, if you drop it, extra hard. My many modifications have been to reduce the weight of the bike and lower the saddle height (I'm a short guy).
Best regards.
Thanks for tuning in and your feedback 👍
Got the Int650 last fall. Best bike I’ve owned in 30 years. I love the thing. I did test ride the Moto Guzzi but the cockpit felt more cramped to me and it didn’t seem worth the extra cash. Hickcocks sells Enfield Precision pipes which go parallel and sound great and allows for big saddle bags. Carry on Mate! From across the pond.
As an owner of the Interceptor, Bonneville T100 and Moto Guzzi V7 850 Special (and many more bikes) I can tell you that the Moto Guzzi is built to a higher standard in nearly every aspect than the Interceptor. Brakes, suspension, seat, tyres, instruments, switch gear, footrest mounts, mirrors etc. all better. Not even mentioning 65 hp, shaft drive and 21 litre fuel tank. Being 6ft3" I fit perfectly on the bike. It is one of the very few bikes where I felt I did not have to change anything, just perfect out of the box. Not that there is anything really wrong with the Interceptor, for the price it is a great bike.
Weird that you have 3 bikes that are all very similar. The 850 is much larger and heavier than the 750 v7 which might have been what he test rode
I have met many that day the seat is awful. I've ridden the cepter twice now and never had a issue so it's good to see you were OK with it too.
Seat tires are just "OK" I found.
For the money it's Brill, not triumph power but not trying to be either.
Where would we be without Royal Enfeild.
Good job Nick. Have a good weekend 👍
Thanks buddy 🙏
It breaks better than Triumph Trident, despite its weight. Tested in learning pit.
I can tell, I felt pretty confident and stable on this motorcycle. I loved the power range of the gears - not as cranky, and pleasant riding also because of posture. I am 182cm... so it is suitable for middle length guys/girls.
BTW, Guzzi spelling is Gootzy.
The Hornet would be my choice. It isn't a retro but if you want a basic mid sized naked twin then for £6999otr it's great value.
harleys and a lot of honda's come fitted with rubbish tyres... this bike is a great platform for upgrading... it sits comfortably at 70mph... thats all i want so i bought the barcelona blue 23 model with mag wheels and luckily..it has avon roadrider ii tyres as standard... not a trackday tyre but a very good everyday leisure tyre..
my days of high speed motorway are long gone.. i cannot think of anything worse than sitting at 90 mph on a bike again... give me a twisty b road in the country thats real biking.. thats why i bought one..
Like to add that I also had a Bonneville and find that I get on with the Enfield better for many reasons and build quality is about the same....I had several faults on the Triumph including lamda sensors, chrome coming off, engine vibration, clunky gear box...no storage(Enfield has a little tool kit at least! Agree that a gear indicator would be good...my Bonneville didn't have one either! I don't like bike comparisons as this is very much personal preference but you did mention the Bonneville. Thanks for the review!
Thanks Ray always great to hear your thoughts. Think Enfield have a lovely range of bikes and looking forward to riding the Super Meteor 650 next 🫰
The Int (Interceptor) 650 is not fantasy. Could use a gear indicator.
Got a touring seat and luggage rack.
Eventually, a windscreen will go on it. At 47 hp, enoigh. On the road, feels good, sounds good. After 2,400 mi (3,800+ km), look foreward to riding even just to grocery store. Been on or ther bikes. But the Enfields just feel.different. They make me want to ride. 😊 😊
Rear shocks are by Gabriel.
Thanks for the review. Seems fair. I have the GT version. I agree about the need for a 'what gear am I in now' indicator. Basically I love the bike. This is no BMW but it is a hell of a lot cheaper, very pretty and a lot of fun. I'm a little guy so lower weight would have been nice (I've reduced that by 11% which is not enough), softer suspension also would have been nice and lower saddle height for me was essential (I had to lower mine by a couple of inches). The only problem I had was the notorious off white grease on the relay socket contacts (on my bike that meant the starter motor would intermittently fail to work (with no kick-starter on these bikes that is really annoying) but symptoms vary depending which relay is affected). Tyre choice is limited in that size but I have read that Bridgestone make a better tyre that will fit. Subscribed in the hope of one day finding out what you think of the GT.
Hi 👋 many thanks for the comment and appreciate an RE owners opinion. So thanks for the sub and the GT will be here in about a month so will cover that bike 🙏
Between the Inter and the Goldie it would be the Interceptor ( not a single person really )having said that the Enfield singles do look lovely . I have thought about getting an Inter but there is just so much out there to choose from I just cannot make up my mind but at some point I will ride one although I think the overall weight might just put me of a bit , great watch as always cheers 👌👍
John Barron can you tell us specifics about the seat I'm 72 - don't find stock seat comfortable for more than about an hour. I bought their very nice looking "touring" seat and it wqs worse!
I agree with most of your comments apart from the seat which I found uncomfortable. Its not the worst seat I have come across but its up there. I spent some money getting it re padded which made a little difference and then spent some more money on cushioning. I am an old man and am loosing my muscle definition (bum padding) so it might not be a problem for people with better padded buttocks.😊
You're not alone with disliking the original seat it's one of the first thing s that people change. RE do a touring version.
The frame, engine, and transmission are all solid construction - over-engineered if anything. I think what people love about it is that it’s so good on the fundamentals - and there are many upgrades that allow you to bring it up to and exceed, say, Triumph, Honda or Kwaka standard for less money than a used one of those.
You still have a bike with the performance of an asthmatic snail.
@@alexmorgan3435 Ride one , I've had 4x 150mph-bikes over the years , these you have to ride like bikes of old and they are fun + f-all to gain a bit more HP or spend a few thou on an 865-kit , you'll lift the front-wheel in 1st and second . It's not trying to be a plastic-fantastic 'Sport-Bike', they cost nothing , keep-up with harleys, look as good, sound as good and you don't have to have a ' wanna-be' tattoo . 52-bikes over 69yrs , Dave NZ
I can’t decide between the RE 650 or the Kawasaki W800. Around here they’re about the same price of $6,500. I haven’t seen the RE up close but the Kawasaki looks nice with lots of attention to detail.
If they are the same price, 2 things they Kawasaki finish will be better, but the RE looks are better
great video, thank you
Great looking bike, I don’t like the horrible green colour on the tank. Would fit Hagon shocks on the back.
It is nice looker and agree I’m not keen on that colour but they do some awesome ones 👍
Interested to hear you would swap the tyres for no apparent reason other than the name, I have this brand on my Meteor and find them very good, most other reviewers have had positive feedback on the tyres. Is this a subconscious bias or is there something really specific you found untoward with the tyres I need to know about 🤔 As always thanks for your efforts, great content.
To be fair they had an ok feel to them, just rather have Pirelli or a Michelin on there, than a tyre brand I’m not familiar with. 👍
Good question Mark. I thought the same. Most reviews seem to find the CEATS good dry and wet. Personally I don’t like the Pirelli’s that come stock on the T120. Not enough to change immediately but as soon as a change is needed I am going for Michelin or Bridgestone.
@@denisg4288 Hi Denis the Pirelli comment seems very prevalent ref the T120/100. I feel I will probably change them on my T100 at some point, however really pleased thus far with the baby meteor Ceat tyres😀
@@denisg4288 Go for Metzler , they make T120's really-planted on the road , try a t120 with them if you can , I don't know about the Michelin , but they are better than the Bridgestone on the T120 and even though the parent-company is Pirelli , they are a stand-alone tyre-company . They are less 'skittish' than pirelli's and suit the weight and rake of the T120 . Dave NZ
Lovely bike , as for upgrades I wouldn't get anything that detracted from the Retro / Classic looks of the bike ( The Missenden Flyer absolutely butchered his ) . Sceat tyres are a top brand in India .
You say you wouldn't change anything on it but you haven't ridden one then! The seat is absolute garbage it's like riding on a piece of wood. And keeping it retro is not going to get you any more money in the future for it probably less.
@@JohnBarron-nk7pe In your opinion ...................
@@PhilipKerry I've had one for 3 years. Here in the US if it's not a Harley Davidson it's junk. But just so you know I love my Royal Enfield. I'm 70 years old and that seat is horrible. Foot pegs are too far underneath my butt so I put large crash bars on it and welded 1 in stainless pipe for foot pegs. Moved the shifter and the brake up. Put on a windshield made in Italy, heated grips, handlebar extenders, heavy duty rack w/matching trunk, new tires Michelin, bar end mirrors, LED headlight And you'll find that the battery is junk replaced it with a gel. Way more comfortable and better looking! Every time I go out people want to know what it is and where did I get it. Just my opinion! If you ride one for over an hour it'll be your opinion too!
I’m seriously considering trading my ‘11 CBR100RR for a Continental GT650. Am I insane?
No not insane, and you’ll have fun on a GT
Yes.
Ceat tyres are one of the largest manufacturer of tyres in the far east 😊
Cool, they feel ok tbh
Great looking bike, but for me; that's where the attraction ends.
It's overweight & underpowered.
For a £6,500 retro' bike, I'd be looking more in the direction of a nice used Kawasaki Z650rs.
Lot of good bikes second hand for that money agree
@@MOTOUK1 The Japanese come at the retro' market from a different angle to the Indians.
The Japanese apply retro' looks to a modern bike. Whereas, the Indians attempt to apply 'some' modern tech' to an old bike design.
I think the Japanese have got it dead right, again.
Agree. I think the likes of these REs et al are truly bland. I don't get why people buy them as for the money you could buy so many much better bikes.
@@markatchison9974 Sure have , that's why one of my bikes is a kwaka W650
Good balanced review thank you….. I’m a Chrome Mk2 owner myself and I agree it’s the most in-character colour. Just a point on the luggage options….there are several good sized luggage options out there for the interceptor….have a look at this Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Luggage
ruclips.net/video/YTPaZF9Zk_U/видео.html
Ceat are one of the world's biggest tyre makers based in India. Just because you haven't heard of them doesn't mean their products are poor.
Agree just don’t hear about that brand a lot here 👍
But they are.... not the best.....
The gold star in red is a real looker, which I would choose over the Interceptor, love to see all these re makes made in Britain and restore our heritage, however, you have some nice bikes coming up and do hope BSA hear your request.
Thanks David 🙏👍
Value for money is important for many as well as a simple to maintain machine.
Specially for us pensioners on a limited budget.
May well down size from my Kwaka Vulcan VN900 custom cruiser.
650lb bike is getting a bit of a lump
As a pensioner too ,found I was really struggling with heavy-bikes , I started doing The Tibetan 5-Rites , just 5-moves , it transformed my life . I do a little 'light-weights' work too now , but it was the '5' that did it and i can go on boats now also which i hated before (sea-sickness) . First-move is spinning-clockwise and only took a week to get over it , that and the 3rd-move were the hardest . I can't believe that more people don't know about this , like turning the clock-back 10-years . 52-bikes over 69-yrs . Dave NZ
That's good to know, I'm going to look into that,thanks.
How does the suspension compare with the Bonneville as standard?
Prefer the Bonny suspension but I’m biased as own one. But it’s better
Nice review I’d rather have a second hand Triumph 👍
Haha me too
Any well looked after proper motorcycle has to be better than these REs and BSAs. They are just too slow and boring.
Every time you say Moto-guzzy, an Italian weeps 🙂
I'm interested in the Continental, it looks wonderful, but I'm wondering whether the Speed twin is worth the extra money.
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
😂😂 I know, I even have Italian friends that correct me 👍 Continental GT will be next month as Scram 411 is inbound. Love the looks of the Continental. I’ve ridden the speed twin and it’s a glorious bike. Think the Continental is better looking though
@@MOTOUK1 I wonder if the trumpets 1200 engine can be shoehorned into the RE's frame... 😂
Or maybe the Thruxton would be the better choice... it's nice but 14K+
Got my set all the way up with headphones on and output volume is very low. Nice styled bike but again, too much black. The only black should be the frame, tires, & cables. I'm in the States in the midwest. We got the crotch rockets (Japanese) and the Harleys. Everything else is non existent here. More Harleys than anything else by a long shot because they're no dealers for the others. Anything other than a Harley, the closest dealerships for Triumph, BMW, Moto Guzzi, etc. are more than 180 miles away. And only 1 of them. Any direction of my house within 50 miles is a Harley dealership. Plus, for the Hondas, we're limited on what we can have. Honda and the rest of the Japanese bikes are pretty much gone/cruiser bikes/or the CB line. The Enfield was sold at an Indian dealership but has since gone. The Indians are about to leave also. Motorcycle biz around here is shakey & weird.
What an alarming number of jump-cuts and edits!
Cheers
Sorry I just don't get these bikes. They just seem insipid to me. For £6.5k you can pick up some really nice mint condition low mileage second hand bikes that are way quicker, much better riding experience and genuine bargains, better build quality, more comfortable, ride all day long comfort, much more practical. As I say I just don't get buying a new RE when you have so many fabulous cheap well looked after 2nd hand bikes to choose from, a sports bike, a sports tourer, nakeds, retro classics, cruisers, the choice is huge. It just seems that these bikes are ridden by people with not much imagination settling for mediocrity. If you want to say retro modern classic then I'd get a nice Triumph Speed Twin several years old well looked after FTSH, or Bonneville too many flavours to choose from or a Kawasaki 650 RS, anything but not these bland not particularly exciting bikes.
Yes agree Alex so much to choose from second hand these days although I see prices rising atm. Some people like the RE brand though 👍
Alex, Go and ride a 2nd-hand one with a few k's on it (dealers must have them )Don't compare it, just ride it (fast-ish) and see if it puts a smile on your face. Put all your Bias's aside , and find a twisty-road......
Gear indicator 😂
Aarrrgh! Zig zag lines!
Well...if it says "honest," it must be, right? And its on the internet, so it's GOTTA be...huh?
Did I watch? Nope.
Your a £1000 over with your price on the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
They start at £5500
You need to get your facts right.
Their media and website state in U.K prices start from £6,459 so you need to stop fact checking people
I've got a 21 this is my third summer. You must have a pretty cushy bum mate. The seat on this thing is like riding on an oak plank. I got the touring seat and it's not a whole lot better believe me You're better off getting the saddle that they sell in India looks like a high low thing. It's gel and it's super comfy I'm 70 and I can ride all day. Didn't like the foot pegs so I put the large crash bars on it and welded 1 in stainless tubing and put bicycle grips for foot pegs. Then I just extended the controls so I could make it into a heel shifter. They sell a windshield for that from a company in Italy really solid rock solid. And it's got a weak headlight. I put an LED one on and I don't even take it out at night. Oh... The tires are really crappy I put a set of real michelins on. That's about it well handlebar extensions and I put about 20 different objects on there but.... It's a great bike!