Buying the keeper- Royal Enfield Continental GT
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- Опубликовано: 29 ноя 2023
- While me and the Continental GT may have been on a collision course, heading towards each other since the 1990s, it wasn't a cut and dried purchase. In fact it almost didn't happen.
Here is the story of how we came together.
Freddie Dobbs’ Continental GT review-
• The Royal Enfield Cont...
I just sent this video to my 22 year old son who just bought his first bike. It’s a Hunter 350 that he loved till someone told him it was too small. Ride what makes you happy. Smiles per mile is the only thing that matters.
It's amazing how we can be easily influenced just by comments made by other people. I was susceptible too until I learned better. Hopefully it doesn't take him as many bikes as Ive gone through to find his happy place. cheers.
Envious of your son. Last year I looked at a number of smaller bikes ... all of which are still bigger than what I own. The Hunter 350 immediately felt right just sitting on it. I did not test ride it, however, not being in a position to buy it and not wanting to waste the salesperson's time. But it remains in my short list.
It’s a great bike. Bought one for myself last week.
This is all so true. Just ride the bike that makes you happy. As I've got older, I appreciate simpler machines.
The current crop from RE reminds me of Japanese bikes from the 1980s, just simple enjoyable machines.
I listened patiently and feel rewarded. I hope one realizes this isn't really about bikes only .... it 's bit of a reflection of what we all become ... eventually.
Hopefully people won't spend as much money or take as long as I did to get here. Thanks for watching.
I bought a Harley Davidson Ultra Classic 3 years ago...
I love 3 day rides to different locations...
Divorced, no kids, retired, 69 years old...
Living the dream Brother...
Living the dream...
you got the sweet spot not just in finding your bike..but also in finding what your content is in this world of content overkill is where everyone talks a lot on RUclips and yet have no standpoint! So good to see...and Im a fan kind sir! cheers from India
Thanks for the kind words.
Sir, it cannot be said better. I exactly feel the same about my GT and the race to always faster, better…
The RE brings a lot of people back to what biking and riding really is.
And it doesn’t ever stop doing that.
It is indeed a machine very worthy giving one his last ride and in style😊.
Before it gets handed over to a new generation, not sold, handed over.
It is in my 40 years riding, the most lovely and spectacular bike ever.
I do think mr. Sidarta Lal is a genius 😊
I agree,.. I see me and this bike being lifelong friends.
Thanks for watching.
I really enjoy your videos. As a fellow RE enthusiast I can really appreciate your enthusiasm 😃 I have a 2005 iron barrel Bullet 500 and a 2021 Classic 500. There is something very special about Royal Enfields they have a lot of heart. Keep riding, keep enjoying and most importantly stay upright. All the best from Tasmania Australia
Your story is like mine. When i move to USA from India my Dad sold my Yamaha Rx 100. On that day i cried. Now i bought 3 motorcycles in USA one is Royal Enfield Continental and i really like t like Yamaha RX 100. And i gifted a 125cc Dirt bike to my 12 years old son on his birthday. Hats off to you sir really appreciate you for sharing your story with us. you should tag #Royal Enfield Continental GT. I never seen such a emotional video or story towards motorcycles.
I feel the same about my two modified Interceptors. I am not interested in any other bike. It is all about the way that a bike makes us feel.
New sub here. Really enjoyed your story over here in the cold and damp UK.
I myself have been going through the process of determining what I really want from my motorcycling. Over the past decade, I've noticed the roads where I live are getting fuller and fuller of traffic to the point it's destroying the enjoyment of my bigger sports bikes. On the other hand, when I get out on the quieter lanes with my smaller, much less powerful, 1982 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin (imported from US) I come home feeling happy and relaxed. I'm currently getting a 1956 Matchless G3LS ready for the local roads too.
I do feel I will change my two sports bikes for a 'something special' bike at some point. So thank you for sharing the process you went through in choosing your special bike. And you are right, you do stop looking when you have the bike that 'feels right' for you. I've only been looking, and watching loads of RUclips videos because my sports bikes no longer feel right for me. Fortunately I'm not in a rush, and will continue to work out what I really would like....
Welcome aboard! We all have to find where our own happy place is, I had to go back to where it was as I didn't know I was there at the time.
It’s cold and damp here in Missouri my friend.
I got the interceptor and found, it does just what I want from green lanes to mountain roads and a bit of motorway when necessary, great to hear your story....may your (s)miles be many.👍
The Interceptor is a great bike. It's a better all rounder than my GT but I do enjoy it's sporty focus.
Very good story love the way you are telling it in very calm and relaxed way.
i just love the way you said "now and again even a blind squirrel finds a nut" i suppose i,m the same ive just found your channel and i love it keep the videos coming they are awesome .From a new fan in south wales UK 👍👍👍
I have an Interceptor 650, but unlike you, I check out reviews of other bikes. Every time I come across something intriguing or a bike that catches my eye, it just solidifies my connection with the Interceptor. It's unbeatable, a genuine bike, and hands down the best decision I made over three years ago when I bought it.
Im now just more interested in watching videos of what people are doing with their bikes instead of reviews.
25 yr rider here with lots of bikes through the years. This is relatable in so many ways. Stay safe.
Awesome story. Loved it!
New sub here, great video Uncle V, your experience chimed with me and i like your relaxed delivery.
Uncle voodoo I have just subscribed and wanted to say how calming and affirming your videos are. Love the open face helmet. I can relate to your new found contentment with a simple and "slow" bike after following the crowd looking for bigger cc and facing bigger price tags. Happy new year, I hope you never choose to stop making such peaceful videos
Your stories are awesome man! The bikes badass too
I really appreciate your very honest and thoughtful perspective on how you feel about the RE Continental GT650, and what riding a motorcycle is about for that matter. I'm a 55 year old veteran (from DuPage county Illinois) and after almost dying in my late 20's while in service, I started appreciating life even more, especially the simple things. That includes this bike. I have friends that ride the latest and greatest sport bikes, but I feel the same way you do. I don't need anything more than what this bike can possibly give me. I say possibly because I am in the market to get one. It also reminds me of how simpler life was back in those days (60's & 70's) of cafe racers. And I would like to relive that with this bike. I think that is what's missing now living in these times. Thanks for sharing your valuable thoughts and experiences that I couldn't have put into better words myself. BTW, really love your GT with the chrome tank. Ride safe out there.
Greetings! The time periods mentioned when I had the Seca 400 and Ducati Monster was when I lived in Illinois - Pekin for the Yamaha and Bloomington for the Ducati. Haven't been back there in about 2 decades though.
Loved your story. Cheers!
Thank you.
Great story Chief! And yeah,it’s Special!
Great video. Love the new bike
Well said ! Thanks for your story, God bless.
glad you enjoyed it!
What a great vlog , you have a way with words there Uncle Voodoo, well done !!!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great story👍👍
Like i needed any further convincing. This ride has appealed to part of me that just refuses to shut up since first laying eyes & ears on one. There’s an almost intuitive guarantee I’d find it to be the exact same ownership experience & only one way to silence that call & find out. Thanks for sharing the wisdom, mate.
Excellent video
Just bought this bike and absolutely love it. Comfortable, sounds great, looks great and perfect for the type of backroad cruising I enjoy.
I love the hell out of mine, its one of those bikes that's so cool it just doesn't matter if it's fast or not!
You have it so right! Its all about smiles per miles!
Newly subscribed as I find your videos interesting and our MC journey to be oddly similar. I too have been chasing the "perfect machine" for decades with several fails but boy has it been fun! Sold my Int 650 3 years ago and now think I will grab one of the Conti GT bikes in particular because you can get them with cast wheels and tubeless tires now! I think these bikes offer just enough of everything I need in a bike to pull the trigger (again) LOL. Thank you for your great videos and reflective thoughts and humor.
It’s definitely not the bike for everyone, but every time I get on mine it takes me back to the most enjoyable era of my motorcycle journey. Thanks for watching 👍
Your Continental GT sure sounds nice. Like you, at one point I had my eye on a Royal Enfield Classic 350 in Signal Gray. And like you I just couldn't find one at the right time. I ended up getting a 2001 Kawasaki W650 because it checked the right boxes for me. And the sound it produces makes me smile.
I think you make so many good points and your early experiences resonate with me. Especially the dirt bike riding as a kid.
But the most important idea is finding what is right for you. The "best" motorcycle is a fickle thing. But the one that makes you smile is a keeper.
A fine video. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Originally I never particularly liked the look of this bike only having seen it on RUclips etc ... Until I saw two, in the flesh, in a showroom. The green tank with chrome engine and the silver/orange tank with blacked out engine. It instantly changed my mind. I sat on it and felt like this could be the one. The positioning, was just right. Bear in mind I'm a late starter, I've not got my full license yet, so I've got plenty of time to make a decision. I think though, that chrome tank in a blacked out engine configuration would be an awesome look. If it feels right to you, that's all that matters, and I can't be making purchasing mistakes, I haven't the financial clout to do so. Great to listen to your story 😎
Be sure to check out my video about the polished aluminum engine casings- they require attention from the owner. The black engine might be the direction to lean if you don’t want to deal with that.
I fully understand that these bikes aren’t for everyone so I try to make videos pointing the ups and downs of owning them.
Great video , new subscriber , I’m a Brit, living in southern Austria , own 15 bikes , mainly 1970s Hondas and Suzukis but my most used are the two Enfield , interceptor 650 and a new chrome/ bronze classic 350 , every word you said ring true ! Ride safe
I always say that RE’s current bikes are reminiscent of what Japanese were back in the 70s 80s and 90s and I hope they don’t depart from that.
That is a really beautiful bike and a nicely shot video showing it at its best while capturing the quintessential understated side of American life. Anyway at the tender age of 53, I am riding a 125 retro scrambler until I get my wings (I have to pass my full test) and the Interceptor 650 is on my short list.
Great story 💯
I started riding 3 years before you. It’s funny how your story and mine are parallel. Except my CB400 was not a bike I wanted and I had no bubble. I had a friends lend me their inline 4 750 or 900. I was thrust into that never ending desire for more and when did I want it? Now! 😂. Now I have one of everything in the garage. Much like shoes in the closet. I get to choose which bike fits the task at hand. My current version of your RE is a v85TT. It brings back that UJM vibe while delivering great handling and modern brakes but in a pleasant power delivery with more character than power. Enough but not excessive. What it has is an anti-manic vibe. It never rewards you riding it like a goon. It rewards you riding it like a classic ride from the late 70s. Btw my good friend and riding buddy has that same RE GT with that same chrome tank. I keep asking him when will he sell it to me. 😅. I really enjoyed my coffee time this morning listening to your story. Thanks for a great start to my day.
I feel the same way about bikes and the urge to get something else as you start getting more involved with the media around them.
I got a new 2007 Yamaha FZ6 shortly after starting to ride and love the bike. It had been my main transportation for most of the time since then and every time I thought of getting something "better and newer", I just couldn't justify it. In 2020, and with 50k miles on it, I figure it was time to look into something different that didn't make me feel like I needed to be going faster all the time. Being the time of the big C, I got a Kymco Spade 150 while I decided what I really wanted. That was one of the best temporary decisions I ever made. I had a blast on it and put 8k miles on it including a 1200 mile tour.
It took a couple more years to decide on the FZ6 replacement and I was between a dual sport or modern classic. A Suzuki DR650 won, being sort of both. It was a great choice. Unfortunately, it was totaled after someone rear-ended me in a hit and run a couple months ago. After getting everything settled, I purchased a RE INT650 last month. I love it and it's as ideal for me as it gets.
I still have the FZ6 as my backup bike and purchased the DR650 from the insurance company to fix back up for future off road adventures.
A great video and a great story I’ve only been riding for a year at age 62 I’ve always loved bikes but I never got around to it but I love it now I bought a Triumph 1200 speedmaster and I’ve just bought a new Honda Transalp i can’t imagine how many bikes I might have bought 👍
That small CC around town joy is what I feel about my KLR 650, even though it's a physically large bike. It's still light and a fun flickable hooligan bike around town.
Loved the story, and love the bike. And yes, I bought one too :)
In the 1970s I read an article in Motorcycle Sport, a long since defunct title, that the best bike was 50 to 60 bhp and 300lbs. I did not believe it and spent lots of money over the years buying heavier and more powerful bikes (still have some of them) but the bikes I enjoyed most were a 1976 GS 400 Suzuki I bought for £300 which took me round Europe with my then GF (about 40bhp and 400lbs) and my Ducati 750SS (about 60bhp and 400lbs) which took me to Italy 3 times across the alps. At 71 years of age I have settled on my keeper bike a Monster M900 which is about 75bhp and originally 402lbs but I have spent more than I care to tell my wife reducing the weight to 345lbs (CF wheels, titanium fasteners everywhere, lightened flywheel, single ss custom exhaust, lithium battery, alloy clutch etc etc). Thanks for the video
What wind Uncle Voodoo, the leaves on the trees are dead still ha ha. Love all your videos.
lol. This was the 4th filming location I attempted to film at!
My original plan was to film a portion, ride to another spot, film a portion, ride, and repeat... instead of me sitting at a picnic table, but the wind was too much for the mics. This spot was eventually used and the video filmed in one go just due to it being a kind of natural wind break.
That bike is really luring me in.. I've done the 350 power valves, some knee scraping now I just want to go for a simple drive.. comes with age I guess.. that said I'm now 51 and sure as theres a tail on a donkey if you give me a a high powered machine I'll whip it for what it's worth! Another reason for me to buy a gt... Great vid btw 👌👌
Super cool machine man. I totally get it. I rode a Honda C70 as a kid. Stripped the fairings off of it, put knobbies on and made trials all over my county. I sold it and wished I never did. Getting the trail 125 really brought it back and filled the void. A neighbor of mine was going to have a yard sale one Saturday and told me he had a bike he was going to sell and I should come look before he did. Rode over to his place Friday before the yard sale. In his garage was a mint 02 883 Sportster. As a bike tech, I really hadn't worked on many Harleys and didn't really care for them to be honest. He said it was in need of major work and he said he'd take $700 for it. It had the original tires and like 1200 orig miles. I snatched it up, cleaned the carb, bought a battery for it, and rode it by his yard sale the next day. It was one of the coolest sounding, best riding bikes for what it was I've ever owned. Kinda wish I still had it, but just had too many. My hands down favorite bike is my 93 Suzuki DR350s. I've owned it over 20 years and someone would just have to take it for a rip thought the woods to understand why I'll never sell it. Enjoyed the video man!
Very good motorcycle life story sir.
It's a great feeling knowing what you have is exactly what you need and enjoy. The Continental is a lovely bike and great value. I guess it's hard to really know if it's a keeper until you have had it for a few years. I have a Moto Guzzi Bellagio (940cc 75bhp) which I have owned for 16 years and to remind me of the good old days I also have a 1978 CX500 (50bhp). The Moto Guzzi is my keeper, I genuinely will never sell it, it's actually worth as much today as when I bought it 16 years ago. I have changed it's appearance by fitting a V7 tank and seat to it but that was because I love the way it rides but just fancied a change in the way it looked. I would suggest you give Moto Guzzi a try if you get a chance, their bikes have sole, character and just make you feel great.
i love the sound of that bike
if you haven't noticed..... So Do I !!!
Hey Uncle, I'm pretty much on the same wave length as you, I grew up riding in the mid 70's on Triumph Tigers and Bonnevilles, same as you have gone through a myriad of different Motorcycles over the years currently owning a KTM super duke 1290r, Street Triple 765, and have just recently bought an interceptor 650 purely on nostalgic reasons me thinks, longing for the old days I suppose, haven't regretted my purchase at all in fact the 650 is getting more bum time than the other bikes by a long way, great vid by the way, subscribed 😊👍
It’s always nice when the favorite reveals itself by you consistently reaching past the other keys to grab one in particular. 😊
Pretty cool reminiscing video. I went to a dealership to buy a slightly used Honda. But ended up buying a new Royal Enfield Meteor 350. I worried for a year that I made a mistake. But, there is just something about the RE. Every time I ride my Meteor, I love it just a little bit more.
OUTSTANDING, thanks for sharing. I was in the mindset the bigger the bike, the better.
Until I bought a Kawasaki versys x300 to help a guy out with the intent of flipping it. I fell in love with the little x300. It's a super fun ride.
Me and a friend spent a lot of time running that little Duc against my bigger bikes as we were just astonished at the usable power delivery vs bikes that should eat its lunch. We determined that there is a point at which buying more power is a waste of money and we're only doing so for bragging rights as too much power can be a hindrance on the streets.
Some what similar story here. I’m 65 and started riding 48 years ago.
Have owned 14 machines over the years and loved them all. Many hundreds of thousand miles on many types and configurations.
My latest is a 2024 Kawasaki Z900rs se.
The McDonnell1957 Aircraft “ VOO DOO “ F- 101 . The long bird photo reconnaissance aircraft.
Was just in your part of the world last week, came out from western Colorado and couldn’t help but think that just around the next turn might be uncle voodoo
Great story telling as always ,cheers
My first bike was a 1981 KZ 750. Unlike you, I was reading all the magazines and trying to min-max. Ultimately cost was probably a factor in my choosing the KZ, because I believe it was a bit cheaper than other choices. That was the time when everyone was going to 4 valves/cylinder, but the KZ was still 2 valves. It was a simpler design, but that turned out to be a good thing. The KZ 750 was light and powerful and was the king of box stock racing at that time. Not that that should matter, though it did impress my 20 year old mind. It was a good simple design that worked, though, and I still remember that bike fondly.
I also had a 600 Hurricane. I too lusted after the F2, but I couldn't afford the upgrade. Then I had kids and the Hurricane ended up being my last motorcycle.
I forgot to mention it in the video but when I sold the Ducati I never got around to getting the one I had planned to get, life got in the way with kids and whatnot. It happens.
Very good talk. I love my gen 2 KLR 650. It could be better at everything it does, but I does them and puts a smile on my face. It could be prettier but I still get compliments on it usually from people who don’t know motorcycles but have a passing interest. I just smile and say it’s fun.
I had a gen 1 KLR, it was one of my favorite on/off road bikes.❤
Legend !
What a great video on your experience with the motorcycles in your life.
Truly Zen and the Art of Motorcycling.
My story is different but similar. I was one of those kids that grew up on mini bikes, three-wheelers, and snowmobiles and we're from the same era of riders. I'm just a farm boy from Central Illinois that became a Bloomington IL firefighter and then moved to the West Coast.
I worked at the Mitsubishi plant in Bloomington during the Ducati segment of this video! The Seca was purchased at the Yamaha dealer in Pekin.
I was born in L.A. Ca. but I grew up near Mackinaw.
@@UncleVoodoo what a small world, I’m from Mackinaw! Class of 83. Our farm is right between Heritage Lake and route 9. No wonder I like your channel and sense of humor so much.
@@pinkiewerewolf lol, I was class of ‘85, or would’ve been as I was bouncing between living in Mackinaw and Pekin in those years. You were probably in my sister’s class. Spent many a summer splashing around in Heritage Lake.
@@UncleVoodoo I spent a lot of time with friends at Heritage Lake.
Those were great days in many ways.
You’ve got great RUclips content. Keep em coming. 👍
John aka pinkie
Just bought a transalp 750 after selling my Harley and versys x300. Man am i missing the 300. Such a wonderful bike and so light. Of 20+ bikes it is probably my favorite and should have kept it.😢
Good stuff!
Respect to ya sir. I also chose this bike. Top of my list was the absence of plastic ;). No plastic tax.
I have a Continental GT 650 myself, also a Mr Clean.
Like it very much.
One of the reasons this bike caught my attention are the good memories I have of my Yamaha XS650, many years ago.
The current crop of RE bikes remind me a lot of Japanese bikes from the 80s and 90s, I feel like Ive found a time machine that has taken me back to the good ole days.
My GT started life as a Black Magic version and I converted it to Mr Clean...
there have been 2 Mr Clean color ways and mine doesn't match either of them- bonus points to anyone who can spot what is wrong with mine! lol.
It seems you have a center stand on it ! 👍@@UncleVoodoo
My dad did the same at 40 right in front of me. I wish you many happy joyful rides on your motorbike. right now, I’m in love with my Kawasaki 400. The slowest bike on the road but it gets incredible gas mileage, and I’ve taken it on some dirt roads up here in California to pan for gold and have no range anxiety. At 375 pounds wet, it’s really easy to pick up and carry Gear. I bought it salvaged cheap. After looking at the odometer on my other bikes, I sat and thought - where did those miles come from? Mostly from getting groceries and commuting with an occasional trip to Yosemite or the gold country. I have found lots of secondary roads that are empty And Treelined.
👍
smaller bikes get overlooked quite often but they are very convenient and fun to boot.
You are at Peace with your choice. That is a really good thing. I'm not quite to that point as of yet. I have three in my current collection that I believe will be with me for the duration. However, after owning 40 bikes over 53 years I still have starry eyes for other motorcycles. Tomorrow, I will be test riding the new Super Meteor. I expect to like it just fine but I still need to ride a Kawi W800 and a T100. Being a motorcycle whore is a very expensive occupation. Nice video. BTW, I grew up about two hours south of Peoria. Since 1980, however, I've been living out west. Great roads out here in the Black Hills area. Looks like pretty darn good roads in VA, too.
Great video! Thanks for sharing your moto journey! Since buying my RE GT650 it’s put a lot of fun back into riding! What’s the the saying? “Opinions are like a$$holes…. Everybody has one, some just stink more than others” 😂😂
As I mentioned in the video- the GT was at the bottom of my list and I was a bit apprehensive about pulling the trigger... but boy am I glad I did.
I like it way more than I thought I would.
"Good enough". Yes, yes!
NOBODY gets me to still for 27 mins w/out wanting to run away (other than Big CHief on the Midwest Streetcars channel). Subbed. '24 GT650 is in my future... and it's taking EVERYTHING in my power to not just grab a used one (since I modify everything anyway - lol ).
The stellar deal I got on this one kept me from the’24 model, to me the best update the new model gets is the switch gear- the USB port and 4 way flashers are probably worth the wait.
Unless you find a monster deal like I did.
@UncleVoodoo you practically stole yours... lucky man. Lol. I found a few when I was impatient but they were all "consulation prizes" and I would've been happy until the '24s drop and I know I would've had buyers remorse at that point. You've got a great looking mosheen sir and you're a great storyteller. I'll spend some time catching up on your other content. Cheers. 🏍 💨
My Buell m2 is great for the highway. My triumph bonneville. 1997 was great. Great sound. Always was ready to go. My current re continental g t is great.
My first "bike" was a 1981 Vespa PX 125 - which is still in my mind…
It was that good that bought a 2006 in 2008 and kept it until 2018 and never looked for something else. Traveled whole Europe with it and I only lost it, because my ex sold it while I was moving from Austria to Germany…
Another bike that is still in my mind is my 2nd bike a Jawa 350 with sidecar which I rode for 3years and only sold it because my ex didn’t like sidecars and wanted a car instead…
Worked at a HD dealership in 2003/04 and got a deal on a 1996 Sportster 1200S with a Buell M2 Cyclone engine which was heavily tuned (around 100hp at the rear wheel!!!), but had to sell it when I got a bit in trouble and financed my truckdriving license with it…
Now in Germany and without a bike I was looking for another Vespa PX, but couldn’t find one for a reasonable price.
I ended up buying a 2004 Sportster 1200 Custom, but it never touched my heart that deep…
Maybe while the HD scene here is totally strange and only show people ride HD and all the other motorcyclists talk shit about HD and hate these bikes..
I have now 2 possibilities - live in my bubble and stay away from other bikers or sell it and get something new…
Ain’t sure which way I will go…
Ive had an 883 and 1200 Custom, liked them well enough but Im just not a cruiser guy.
When I mentioned that I had won a couple of bike shows....
One of the the bikes was a Vespa P200 that I restored and painted like a taxicab. It was fun to watch all the Harley guys pissed off that a scooter bested all their much more expensive bikes in the show!
You either love the Royal Enfield or you don't. Bike looks and sounds smooth Voodoo. Had to put on the face gator here also. Watch those leaves and black ice.
I ran into a spot in the last video where leaves were ground into the road filling the pores in the surface, very slick indeed.
Looking forward to the classic 650.
I enjoyed hearing your motorcycle evolution.
Mine’s been similar.
As I recall, you had some rust issues with you R.E. Himalayan.
I’m hoping that you don’t have the same problems with this Continental GT.
I very like the sound of your Continental.
Have you gotten a garage where you can park the bike out of the rain, etc.?
I enjoyed all your Himalayan and Monkey episodes. I’d thought of getting a Himalayan, but I’ll stick with my KLR650 & CRF300 Rally.
Will be taking delivery soon of a Triumph Scrambler 1200XE. I might need a bigger garage.
Happy Trails
I don’t have a garage but I’m keeping the GT on my covered porch where the Super Cub used to sit.
The only rust i had on the Himalayan itself was on the bolts for the oil cooler, everything else was on the pannier racks which were pretty low quality.
You're in a very, very small club who've realized other's advice is often worthless. Experts, probably, friends, nope. I congratulate you....
Im to the point now where if someone tells me something "sucks", they'd better have a factual and detailed and well thought out argument ready to go or I'll just dismiss their opinion on the spot. lol.
Absolutely, and that's almost about most of the stuff in our lives 😊
Agree 100%. My friends all were giving me advice i knew was the Worst Advice For ME .. they kept saying buy a Bigger Bike... get blah blah blah, all they were telling me to get, was what THEY wanted. I ended up buying a Husky Vitpilen 401. I was a Brand New Rider, and Wanted to LEARN , NOT Grow into. If i am " Growing Into " something, that means to me it is Alot more than i was Comfortable with. Funny part , one of the friends who mocked me most, was At Least cool enough to go pick up the bike with me, and i asked if he wanted to ride it back, i got back to my house about 10 minutes after him, and he had the BIGGEST SMILE on his Face, and all he kept saying was how much fun it was. Not because its an Awesome bike, but Because he was able to USE IT ! And Not push HIS Limits. He could just Enjoy it. Long Story Short... do what makes YOU Comfortable, NOT Others
That Ducati monster 750 is what
my bike is based off I just got my license in Oz
And I have VTR 250! Based off that the v twin trellis frame everyone loved despite my bike being small it’s a cult following
I don't know what my Holy Grail motorcycle is. I have owned one dual sport, one 500 cc cruiser, 49 cc, 250 cc, and 125 cc scooters, and a 125 cc Grom style motorcycle. The one that gave the most fun was the 49 cc scooter by a hair over the 250 cc dual sport. I'm considering getting a Royal Enfield Meteor for a couple of reasons. Others report that it is very smooth and I like the cruiser riding position. It is interstate highway capable in some states but not all. I am brave enough to ride at 70 mph on an 80 mph road.
The tiny scooter was so much fun because it was only used for city riding on roads with speed limits no higher than 45 mph. It weighed 176 pounds. The roads were usually good roads way back then. Now I want bigger wheels to avoid dying because of hitting a pot hole with the 12" wheels. The weight of the RE 350 is almost what the 500 cc cruiser weighed, and that wasn't ideal. I have a feeling that the RE 350 would last forever with very little maintenance due to the smoothness and it being underpowered. The price is right too. If only Suzuki still made the Van Van 200, the DR 200, or the TU250X, I would go with one of those.
Maybe I'll buy something used and hope for the best. I don't own a car. My scooter is the only motorized vehicle owned.
A thoroughly enjoyable yarn
Been searching for “that” bike for 45 years. I have had 17 and own 3 now and still ain’t found it. I love them all and I always find something that could be a little bit better.
To me that “little bit better” is a road that never ends and I had get off of it.
If all I needed from a motorcycle was to go to the store and to ride for fun, I'd move to a low speed limit city and buy another 49 cc scooter. I love that they can fit anywhere and are so easy to move.
i’ve been riding since 1968. I’m on motorcycle 109. We have very different approaches and requirements. And videos.
Funny my last two favorites were a left back 95 Ninja500 (still the old EX500), I bought in Fall of ‘96, and ‘99 Ducati 750 Monster I got a deal on the Duc, bought used in late October of 2000. The 2001’s 750s were to hit the showroom in a couple if weeks with a price drop.
The 750 Monster was a highly under rated bike. Like I said in the video we kind of always want more but when we look back, that plain jane M750 stands out. It was a great bike.
I'm kinda where you are now at 55. My first learner bike was a Chinese cafe racer I bought online for $3k delivered to my door. It has a Honda clone motor from the 70's. 16 whole hp. I figured it's lightweight and low hp would be perfect to learn on. After a year I bought a 2021 KTM 390 adventure at 43.5hp. I like it but occasionally I want to ride the Chinese cafe racer. It's air cooled, carbureted and sounds like a motorcycle where the KTM is so quiet. I need a bike where I can hear the motor. I am tempted to chase hp but I don't like sport bikes. So I am looking at triumph speed twin 1200, Moto Guzzi v7 special, Kawasaki 900rs and Royal Enfield Continental GT. I have to ask myself if I really need a lot of hp? I love vintage British bikes and Cafe racers. My KTM is fast enough and the RE should be more than fun enough for me. There's also that Kawasaki w800 to which is a nice bike. I love analog gauges over the TFT displays. If I had a garage I would have a lot of bikes but I don't.
Great video, its interesting to hear people's motorcycle journey and how they end up with certain bikes. Also, the Continental GT is beautiful. For some reason my wife doesn't like them, otherwise I'd probably have one
My wife is in same camp as yours, she wanted me to get the Classic 350.
The GT was a wild card pick and I was a bit apprehensive about buying it but I’ve become enamored with it.
From experience I can say it’s one of those bikes that if buy one and then sell it, you’ll regret doing so down the road.
My first bike was a 1954 Royal Enfield G2 i loved it very much, but it drank a lot of fuel so i switched to a Royal Enfield Machismo 500 I love it now but still remrse about that G2 bullet
It's hard to let go of that first love!
I own the same colorway that Freddie has..... it is my "keeper" as well!
Yeah Freddie really liked that Dux Deluxe, we also agree that the “lazier” performance of the GT makes it a more usable street bike than things like the Triumph Thruxton. Enjoy 😊
Love it, love you uncle voodoo ❤
callsign voodo, you will be around for some time!!
I’ve learned as I have reached 50+ that I don’t give a hoot what others think about what I have. If I like it, what does it matter what Joe down the street thinks?
Im the same way, my wife says Im arrogant but I chalk it up to simply not giving a crap what other people think! lol.
@@UncleVoodoo😆
Wise words indeed. I am terrible for this. Riding 30 years with well over 40 bikes, 5 of them Enfields. Bought an R9T and its build quality is terrible (really). Engine paint flaking, rusty bolts. It rides nice but…my new GT650 Mr Clean should be with me next week 🎉 My second GT650 👍
Si , è una moto bellissima ❤️
Wise words but you’re now influencing me 😂 I recently sold my interceptor for t120. New bike is awesome but something about that 650 engine is so characterful. The only real modern classic out there.
Found your channel years ago because I have a Monkey. My brother bought a Super Cub a couple years back and we've been having a lot of fun riding together. I bought a new Royal Enfield Hunter 350 this Fall and to put it away for winter after only 200 miles. It's killing me to wait for Spring! I'd like to keep the Monkey as well, but we'll have to see. Now that you don't have the Super Cub, are you still going to do door dash in the Prius or is that chapter closed?
I'm still using the Prius. I have worked out a way to mount the box on the GT as a back up if need be.
similar experience my dad died ar 49 of a heart attack, i realied that ot all the bikes I had owned my gs400 was the bike i had most fun on, so i bought the same bike as you but rocker red
Those red GTs are pretty, I think that's the most similar scheme to the original GT 250s.
I have a Continental GT myself and couldn’t agree more, it’s the bike for me and to hell with other peoples opinions.
I remember when Interceptor and GT came out and all the RUclips videos introducing them ended the same way with the "reviewers" saying if they had to pick one they'd take the interceptor....... and me yelling at the screen NOOOOO!!!!!! THE GT IS BAD TO THE BONE YOU DUMMIES!!!!
lol. they're both good but after riding the GT my pick is obvious. enjoy your bike and thanks for watching.
Which mufflers did you install? There's a ton of options out there and it is difficult to decide...
Mine are from S&S, they were on the bike when I got it.
Hi Uncle VooDoo, what are your thoughts on the 2024 continental GT I’m not sure if the updates are worth missing out on the chrome engine, on the 2023.
Thanks 🙏
The only '24 update I wish my bike had is the new switchgear (mainly for the 4 way flasher). The engine coating really comes down to looks and maintenance- looks are subjective and some do and some don't mind the upkeep of the bare aluminum version vs black.
I prefer the aluminum personally but it's just really subjective as to what different people like. There is no update that would have me considering swapping the old model for the new one.
@@UncleVoodoo Thanks, I agree with you that the aluminum and spoked wheels look better.
Likewise been biking for a while mate
First bike was a BSA Bantam D1 in 1969.
The reason IMHO Enfields have a devout owner base and sells so well is not just price.
Its their honesty .
They dont profess to be something they are not.
Not fast, Not high tech. Not complicated.
But what they do have by the bucket full is the Soul and Character that nearly all other bike builders have totally lost.
And the reason I bought one.
Last bike? 900 Kawasaki.
So I do know what techno bikes are like.
High performance? sure but just another non descript plastic coated techno blob.
Enjoy your RE mate and safe riding.
True. One of the criteria I had set for this purchase was that the bike couldn’t be Japanese. Not because they are bad or anything, they just tend to lack character- they do look and feel like a mass produced product.
I enjoy this review, and the visdom behind it. I belive this is why Royal Enfield has succes.
Other brands could enjoy the same succes, if they went back to basics and estethics.
A Yamaha MT-07 is probably a great bike, but its just ugly, like other new naked bikes with small 17” front wheels, and exposed frame and unpractical rear seats.
One of the criteria on my list of requirements for the bike was that it had to be naked but not look like a robot insect!
RE is killing it when it comes to making bikes like they used to and that's why Im a fan.
It looks like a proper bike unlike the new machines which look horrible.
I agree. Not sure what look the new crop of naked bikes are going for, but they've succeeded in looking completely awful.
Did you trade in the Himalayan? Do you still have the Super Cub?
I sold the Himalayan and traded the SuperCub for GT.
Do you like that bike then?. I liked your film
I am hoping next Jun/July That I will have one of these I did same thing I took all the bikes I liked and I'm like what are my needs
1. It looks good it has character
2. It can cover all roads I may ride on
I keep coming back to the GT to point of how I want to set it up
I'm going on being 40 this Nov so I am way past being an idiot on the road I wanted something that I can take to work ride home and on my days off just go get lost
It's definitely the type of bike you get when you're done screwing around. Be sure to check out my "nitpicking" video as it's not a buy and forget type bike, it is a bit old school requiring the owner to be hands on with the upkeep. It's great for people who do their own maintenance but off putting to people who aren't into that sort of thing.
I have the real thing. l have had my Triumph Tr-6 1965 for 40 years with a hard tail and magneto. My bikes have a forever ♾️ home 🏠. The original is always better than a copy just like a movie. When newer bikes get older their electronics will fail expensively. Old vintage bikes are rebuidable for ever.