Enjoyed your observations and the honesty of it. So refreshing as most reviews are just glowing reports and don’t highlight the problem areas too. I don’t think you’ll have many problems with it.
Royal Enfield's are a piece of motorcycling history. I just recently acquired a new 2022 Continental 650. I have only put 94 miles on since purchase, been really busy lately. Like anything mechanical, maintenance is important. I have seen the videos on associated problems with the Enfield's regarding starting issues and cutting out while driving. Seems to be electrical relays being overpacked with dielectric grease. The Enfield Forums go on about this. Seems an easy fix with cleaning the Goop out and ensuring they are snug. Then again a lot of people never have any issues with their bikes performing poorly, go figure. This is my 13th bike I have owned, looking forward to long term use of this motorcycle. I really find my Continental in British Racing Green to be so appealing. Rode down through my town yesterday, and really love how the bike turns in so nicely. My other bike is a 1980 CSR-650 Kawasaki, I converted into a Cafe Racer many years ago, which I used to go to work everyday, with 13,000 miles on the ticker. Thanks for sharing your Interceptor review with us, really TOPS! 👍👍🏁
Thank you for your honest review on the Interceptor 650 twin. I have recently retired and have decided to return to motorcycling, I think they call it a mid-life crisis 😅. A friend who knew I was thinking about getting back into motorcycling offered me his RE Interceptor 2020 at mates rates, with only 1400 miles on the clock. It is factory spec except for the touring seat, which he put on for additional comfort. Can I just say that this bike is absolutely spot on for someone like me. No speed demon, just happy to cruise around, up to 70mph all day long without missing a beat. The power delivery is excellent, and the low-end torque makes this bike a joy to ride. Power is ample, with that little bit left over should you need it. I love the sound of the original exhaust system, and personally, I have had no issue with either the suspension or the stock tyres. I have a set of heated grips to fit and am just waiting on a set of wrap around crash bars. For me, in my mid 60's, this bike has rekindled my love for motorcycling, and wherever I go, it turns a few heads, not to mention the smile on my face. As far as rust is concerned, a bit of time cleaning and some ACF-50, you will have minimal issues. My bike is over wintering on my drive under a cover, and so far, so good 👍
No doubts you are happy with it. Because your bike is Euro 4 one. Me and "Bart Goodride" we both have Euro 5 model which completely s...cks. RE did no R&D at all to be Euro 5 compatible. They have just gone extra lean. So, you have a bike with extra lean air/fuel mixture + anti tamper software which does not allow you to change it. I have compared Euro 4 and Euro 5 Interceptors. The difference is very noticeable. Euro 4 bike goes and feels way let's say healthier.
Hey, thanks for your comment. I have heard about differences with Euro 4 and Euro 5 models, that's a shame RE didn't really do their due diligence on these differences.
@@danielkerr4100 booster plug and fuel X are like two birds a mouse and a frog. Totally different thing's. Yes, definitely you won't be able to find out the difference between stock E4 and stock E5 bikes. E5 bike is much more harder to tune while keeping it in E5 constraints to be able to pass annual technical check for example.
They do come with a Fender extension on, the numpty before you must have taken it off? Polishing the cases, doesn't require drills, Just sparing Solvol Autosol, two cloth's, one on, in circular motions, and the other to polish with, you'll find it will come up pretty good, I have the fly things on the forks, good idea, I've fitted a DNA air filter and a 16 tooth cog replacement, Good if you ride solo a lot, I'd recommend it, I have Reverse Cone Megas fitted, as well, mine is Orange Crush same age, I've been riding motorcycles for 49 years Cheers Paul 👏
A very fair review, I have a 2021 Continental GT with around the same mileage and feel that for the price these bikes are great value for money. I have replaced a few things including the air filter (DNA), the rear shocks (Hagon) and fitted a YSS front fork kit, but Avon Roadriders made the biggest single improvement to the bike’s handling and ride quality, and can thoroughly recommend them.
Thanks for your comment Ross. Yes, great bikes as you say. I'm planning to do a follow up to this video as I've done more modifications in the last few months. Stay tuned!
Good one.. I do use same Buffing compound to buff chrome once in 3 months here in Mumbai India and works fine. Rest Bike is working fine and easy to maintain...
The Halcyon Classic bar end mirrors look so good on the Interceptor & worth you taking a look at (they do the Interceptor half moon fitting). Also to match your seat, Trip Machine do the brown leather handle wraps to finish the look. 👊😎👍
You'll notice a big difference if you put the dna air filter cover on. Standard restricts airflow. Ive done header pipes aswell and very pleased with results.
Ayup mate, i have a 2022 interceptor euro 5 and i was having problems with it cutting out randomly, the dealer flashed the ecu but that didn't work, ive put new relays in it still happened but the the last 2 rides it hasn't, fingers crossed, ive put a dna filter and bracket scorpion pipes,new indicators and rear light, black bars and leavers, i love the look of the bike and the way it rides just a bit weary of the cutting out, hopefully it's sorted now 👍🇬🇧🏍🙏
Ayup! That sounds weird, especially if the dealer is a bit stumped. I've not experienced anything like that myself, but hopefully with those additions the bike runs a bit smoother (and stays running!)
My Interceptor is 2019, just before the end of warranty I had the dreaded intermittent unexpected engine stall issue (disconcerting when you’re doing 70mph on a dual carriageway)! Bike was already booked in to dealer for service but they ignored the problem (I even suggested they clean the relay grease and check the tilt switch). I cleaned the relays and replaced the tilt switch (to be doubly safe), problem solved. No more dealer servicing for me.
Hey, just a quick one, I have had issues with Raw and Rugged posting to Ireland, I have been waiting since February for some parts to come as they keep getting stopped by customs and returned. I have been after side panel bags but don't want to have these same issues, so in the off chance you don't like them/won't use them and you want to move them on, do let me know! :) I have the GT650, and it has been great. You are right about the tyres, I changed to BT46's from Bridgestone and they transformed how the bike turns in. No real issues as such, apart from I think my speed sensor may be on the way out. Last few rides, the needle has "jumped". Have a new one on order from WeMoto. 9000km and just 12 months old - have put on Diablo indicators front and rear, a Baak rear round brake light, Diablo exhaust slip ons and have the single seat with cowl. Cheers! A
Hi Andrew, sorry for the delayed reply and I doubt you'll see this now, but I have actually taken the side bags off now and they're just sitting in a drawer so if you want them, get in touch!
Hi, great video totally with you on the rear shocks, I spend more time with my back side bouncing of the seat with them and they do feel ponderous. I would leave the air intake as it is I have experimented with this with the DNA cover fitted it feels better at lower speed pick up but at higher speed pick up it's flat and too much induction roar too much air getting in, for best results DNA and original air cover stronger pick up at higher speeds.
Thanks Philip, yes those stock shockers were a bit rubbish. And I have purchased one of those open air intake things so I'll give it a go when it arrives but if it's bad I'll probably put the original intake cover back on.
Yes , I have the K&N filter with open holder , aftermarket slip on's that sound awesome and I can feel quite a difference in performance , especially in mid to top end power . More open and feels smoother . My Interceptor is in Orange Crush as well ( see my channel ) from 2021 with only 3500km as it's not my main bike but when I get out on it , man ! it puts a smile on my dial every time , just love this bike . Thanks for posting .
Hi Brian, thanks for your comment. I agree the aftermarkets do add a lot - not just nicer looks and sound but definitley feels like there's more power too.
Nice video.. Could you kindly do a video on - HOW TO INSPECT A PREOWNED USED INT 650. Kindly cover all the points 360° For all necessary checkpoints needed while buying a used one. It'll be highly helpful & popular. $ you already have bought a pre-owned one. Thx
Just bought a 2019 interceptor in Thailand with 15,000kms on the clock. Ridden it for 2 weeks and 500 kms. I agree that it’s a blank canvas. For me , Bars nearer, better seat and the oem tyres that are nearly gone will be replaced with Michelin road classics or whatever is available. Hopefully not the oem Pirellis …..horrible for me
Thanks for your comment, and congrats on the bike. I will need to replace the tires on mine in the near future I think and the first MOT is due in early 2024...but so far so good, no issues with it whatsoever. Cracking bikes for the money and endlessly customisable
In the US they can't tie warranty to requiring paid dealer service. Not legal. If they try to deny coverage they would have to be willing to prove in court that your service caused the problem.
It’s actually the same here, for both cars and bikes, as long as you service/get it serviced competently to the manufacturers specifications, they have to honour the warranty. Obviously a lot of dealers say they have to do the service to maintain the warranty. I wonder why? 🤔
Interested in your comment about maintaining warranty which requires dealer servicing. More than most, RE seem very clear in their handbook that this is required (which of course they can do with the law on their side). Presumably you are also undertaking annual services and oil changes even before the mileage has accrued? They seem very clear about that requirement as well. Sadly, the accumulation of mileage and annual services, particularly on a low mileage ownership, really is paying through the nose and actually makes the bike far less of a bargain than it's touted to be.
Hi, yes if I'm honest I'm probably a bit too OTT with the maintenance and servicing. I regularly change the oil and filter and I'm forever cleaning the thing...so yes I'm probably overdoing it but just want to keep RE happy in case anything does go wrong. Thanks for your comment.
The K&N filter might allow 42% more air to flow at a particular air differential either side of it but that in itself is meaningless. You engine won’t use anymore if it is physically unable to. As for the snorkel delete, people will believe anything, if that simple piece of plastic made any difference in power the manufacturer would of had it put on a Dyno and stated the power increase in its marketing material. Why would you not? Nicer induction roar, maybe.
What happened to ER500 didn't see that in video about royal Enfield Tom. I had a test ride on new gold star, nice bike don't have to mess with valves until 24,000 miles. Also had test ride on z900rs nice bike. But! BSA GOLD STAR IS THE ONE FOR ME.😊
Hi John, the ER5 was the bike I had immediatley before the Royal Enfield...back when I was a single bike guy 😅 The BSA does look like a cracking bike, but I'm a sucker for twin exhausts so I think I'll be keeping the Enfield for a while.
I'm afraid you have it wrong about the service intervals, First major Tappet adjustment (which you are allowed to do all oil and filter your self, as long as you keep receipts and use genuine filters, and approved oil's,) The law has changed, dealers have to honour Warranties, as long as you do this, And you only have to change the oil and filter once every 3000 miles after the first service, or once a year, which ever comes up first, Ok 👌 Cheers Paul 👏
I have one. Stock standard. No issues. I love it. The sound of accelerating…
Over 34,000 miles on mine here in southern California. Runs impeccably from sea level to 10,232 ft and allthe way up to 115 fahrenheit
Enjoyed your observations and the honesty of it. So refreshing as most reviews are just glowing reports and don’t highlight the problem areas too. I don’t think you’ll have many problems with it.
Thanks for watching Andrew.
Royal Enfield's are a piece of motorcycling history. I just recently acquired a new 2022 Continental 650. I have only put 94 miles on since purchase, been really busy lately. Like anything mechanical, maintenance is important. I have seen the videos on associated problems with the Enfield's regarding starting issues and cutting out while driving. Seems to be electrical relays being overpacked with dielectric grease. The Enfield Forums go on about this. Seems an easy fix with cleaning the Goop out and ensuring they are snug. Then again a lot of people never have any issues with their bikes performing poorly, go figure. This is my 13th bike I have owned, looking forward to long term use of this motorcycle. I really find my Continental in British Racing Green to be so appealing. Rode down through my town yesterday, and really love how the bike turns in so nicely. My other bike is a 1980 CSR-650 Kawasaki, I converted into a Cafe Racer many years ago, which I used to go to work everyday, with 13,000 miles on the ticker. Thanks for sharing your Interceptor review with us, really TOPS! 👍👍🏁
Thank you for your honest review on the Interceptor 650 twin.
I have recently retired and have decided to return to motorcycling, I think they call it a mid-life crisis 😅. A friend who knew I was thinking about getting back into motorcycling offered me his RE Interceptor 2020 at mates rates, with only 1400 miles on the clock. It is factory spec except for the touring seat, which he put on for additional comfort. Can I just say that this bike is absolutely spot on for someone like me. No speed demon, just happy to cruise around, up to 70mph all day long without missing a beat. The power delivery is excellent, and the low-end torque makes this bike a joy to ride. Power is ample, with that little bit left over should you need it. I love the sound of the original exhaust system, and personally, I have had no issue with either the suspension or the stock tyres. I have a set of heated grips to fit and am just waiting on a set of wrap around crash bars.
For me, in my mid 60's, this bike has rekindled my love for motorcycling, and wherever I go, it turns a few heads, not to mention the smile on my face. As far as rust is concerned, a bit of time cleaning and some ACF-50, you will have minimal issues. My bike is over wintering on my drive under a cover, and so far, so good 👍
What a great story - glad you're enjoying the Interceptor, I don't think I'll ever part withy mine!
This is my dream first bike and these are super helpful notes. Thank you 🎉
Glad it was helpful!
No doubts you are happy with it. Because your bike is Euro 4 one. Me and "Bart Goodride" we both have Euro 5 model which completely s...cks. RE did no R&D at all to be Euro 5 compatible. They have just gone extra lean. So, you have a bike with extra lean air/fuel mixture + anti tamper software which does not allow you to change it. I have compared Euro 4 and Euro 5 Interceptors. The difference is very noticeable. Euro 4 bike goes and feels way let's say healthier.
Hey, thanks for your comment. I have heard about differences with Euro 4 and Euro 5 models, that's a shame RE didn't really do their due diligence on these differences.
@@danielkerr4100 booster plug and fuel X are like two birds a mouse and a frog. Totally different thing's. Yes, definitely you won't be able to find out the difference between stock E4 and stock E5 bikes. E5 bike is much more harder to tune while keeping it in E5 constraints to be able to pass annual technical check for example.
They do come with a Fender extension on, the numpty before you must have taken it off?
Polishing the cases, doesn't require drills,
Just sparing Solvol Autosol, two cloth's, one on, in circular motions, and the other to polish with, you'll find it will come up pretty good,
I have the fly things on the forks, good idea,
I've fitted a DNA air filter and a 16 tooth cog replacement,
Good if you ride solo a lot, I'd recommend it,
I have Reverse Cone Megas fitted, as well, mine is Orange Crush same age,
I've been riding motorcycles for 49 years
Cheers Paul 👏
Yeah I did think it weird there was no extender as all the others I saw had them!
A very fair review, I have a 2021 Continental GT with around the same mileage and feel that for the price these bikes are great value for money. I have replaced a few things including the air filter (DNA), the rear shocks (Hagon) and fitted a YSS front fork kit, but Avon Roadriders made the biggest single improvement to the bike’s handling and ride quality, and can thoroughly recommend them.
Thanks for your comment Ross. Yes, great bikes as you say. I'm planning to do a follow up to this video as I've done more modifications in the last few months. Stay tuned!
Good one.. I do use same Buffing compound to buff chrome once in 3 months here in Mumbai India and works fine. Rest Bike is working fine and easy to maintain...
Good to hear it. I think mine needs doing again soon...
The Halcyon Classic bar end mirrors look so good on the Interceptor & worth you taking a look at (they do the Interceptor half moon fitting).
Also to match your seat, Trip Machine do the brown leather handle wraps to finish the look.
👊😎👍
Hi Tom, nice upload, thank you.
Thanks for watching and commenting :)
You'll notice a big difference if you put the dna air filter cover on. Standard restricts airflow. Ive done header pipes aswell and very pleased with results.
Thanks Tim, I've actually just bought one since I did this video and I'm waiting for the header pipes to come back in stock...100% a purchase from me!
Ayup mate, i have a 2022 interceptor euro 5 and i was having problems with it cutting out randomly, the dealer flashed the ecu but that didn't work, ive put new relays in it still happened but the the last 2 rides it hasn't, fingers crossed, ive put a dna filter and bracket scorpion pipes,new indicators and rear light, black bars and leavers, i love the look of the bike and the way it rides just a bit weary of the cutting out, hopefully it's sorted now 👍🇬🇧🏍🙏
Ayup! That sounds weird, especially if the dealer is a bit stumped. I've not experienced anything like that myself, but hopefully with those additions the bike runs a bit smoother (and stays running!)
My Interceptor is 2019, just before the end of warranty I had the dreaded intermittent unexpected engine stall issue (disconcerting when you’re doing 70mph on a dual carriageway)! Bike was already booked in to dealer for service but they ignored the problem (I even suggested they clean the relay grease and check the tilt switch). I cleaned the relays and replaced the tilt switch (to be doubly safe), problem solved. No more dealer servicing for me.
Hey, just a quick one, I have had issues with Raw and Rugged posting to Ireland, I have been waiting since February for some parts to come as they keep getting stopped by customs and returned. I have been after side panel bags but don't want to have these same issues, so in the off chance you don't like them/won't use them and you want to move them on, do let me know! :)
I have the GT650, and it has been great. You are right about the tyres, I changed to BT46's from Bridgestone and they transformed how the bike turns in.
No real issues as such, apart from I think my speed sensor may be on the way out. Last few rides, the needle has "jumped". Have a new one on order from WeMoto.
9000km and just 12 months old - have put on Diablo indicators front and rear, a Baak rear round brake light, Diablo exhaust slip ons and have the single seat with cowl.
Cheers! A
Hi Andrew, sorry for the delayed reply and I doubt you'll see this now, but I have actually taken the side bags off now and they're just sitting in a drawer so if you want them, get in touch!
Hi, great video totally with you on the rear shocks, I spend more time with my back side bouncing of the seat with them and they do feel ponderous. I would leave the air intake as it is I have experimented with this with the DNA cover fitted it feels better at lower speed pick up but at higher speed pick up it's flat and too much induction roar too much air getting in, for best results DNA and original air cover stronger pick up at higher speeds.
Thanks Philip, yes those stock shockers were a bit rubbish. And I have purchased one of those open air intake things so I'll give it a go when it arrives but if it's bad I'll probably put the original intake cover back on.
The standard spokes rust over winter in the uk. Lots of people have them changed for stainless.
That's interesting. Mine haven't rusted yet but I'll keep an eye on that.
@@thomascharnock 650 spokes ARE stainless. Thats why they are still good. More internet BS!
Yes , I have the K&N filter with open holder , aftermarket slip on's that sound awesome and I can feel quite a difference in performance , especially in mid to top end power . More open and feels smoother .
My Interceptor is in Orange Crush as well ( see my channel ) from 2021 with only 3500km as it's not my main bike but when I get out on it , man ! it puts a smile on my dial every time , just love this bike .
Thanks for posting .
Hi Brian, thanks for your comment. I agree the aftermarkets do add a lot - not just nicer looks and sound but definitley feels like there's more power too.
Nice video..
Could you kindly do a video on -
HOW TO INSPECT A PREOWNED USED INT 650.
Kindly cover all the points 360° For all necessary checkpoints needed while buying a used one.
It'll be highly helpful & popular. $ you already have bought a pre-owned one.
Thx
That's a great idea, I'll see what I can do!
Very Nice Vlog
Thank you 😊
I want one. I love the color. Reminds me of an orange tootsie pop.
Haha! Yes it does stand out with the orange tank :)
Just bought a 2019 interceptor in Thailand with 15,000kms on the clock. Ridden it for 2 weeks and 500 kms. I agree that it’s a blank canvas. For me , Bars nearer, better seat and the oem tyres that are nearly gone will be replaced with Michelin road classics or whatever is available. Hopefully not the oem Pirellis …..horrible for me
Thanks for your comment, and congrats on the bike. I will need to replace the tires on mine in the near future I think and the first MOT is due in early 2024...but so far so good, no issues with it whatsoever. Cracking bikes for the money and endlessly customisable
In the US they can't tie warranty to requiring paid dealer service. Not legal. If they try to deny coverage they would have to be willing to prove in court that your service caused the problem.
It’s actually the same here, for both cars and bikes, as long as you service/get it serviced competently to the manufacturers specifications, they have to honour the warranty.
Obviously a lot of dealers say they have to do the service to maintain the warranty.
I wonder why? 🤔
Interested in your comment about maintaining warranty which requires dealer servicing. More than most, RE seem very clear in their handbook that this is required (which of course they can do with the law on their side). Presumably you are also undertaking annual services and oil changes even before the mileage has accrued? They seem very clear about that requirement as well. Sadly, the accumulation of mileage and annual services, particularly on a low mileage ownership, really is paying through the nose and actually makes the bike far less of a bargain than it's touted to be.
Hi, yes if I'm honest I'm probably a bit too OTT with the maintenance and servicing. I regularly change the oil and filter and I'm forever cleaning the thing...so yes I'm probably overdoing it but just want to keep RE happy in case anything does go wrong. Thanks for your comment.
"it's rusting prematurely" ... "I love it, it's great" - hmmmmm lol
😂 Yep, I am the king of the oxymoron!
Nice review. Thanks mate, from Tasmania.
Thanks for watching :)
The K&N filter might allow 42% more air to flow at a particular air differential either side of it but that in itself is meaningless. You engine won’t use anymore if it is physically unable to. As for the snorkel delete, people will believe anything, if that simple piece of plastic made any difference in power the manufacturer would of had it put on a Dyno and stated the power increase in its marketing material. Why would you not? Nicer induction roar, maybe.
Yeah good point, I don't know if it has actually changed anything if I'm honest!
What happened to ER500 didn't see that in video about royal Enfield Tom. I had a test ride on new gold star, nice bike don't have to mess with valves until 24,000 miles. Also had test ride on z900rs nice bike. But! BSA GOLD STAR IS THE ONE FOR ME.😊
Hi John, the ER5 was the bike I had immediatley before the Royal Enfield...back when I was a single bike guy 😅 The BSA does look like a cracking bike, but I'm a sucker for twin exhausts so I think I'll be keeping the Enfield for a while.
Hello.....
This vid reminds me of that episode with trigger in old fools and horses where he's talking about his broom hahahahaha
Trigger speaks way more sense than I ever could mate 😅
have you had a flat tire ?
No, but I've got new tires on now.
Read your service book, the service intervals are not short.
How so?
Valves every 6000 miles. Oil change every 3000! I checked my valves at 6k and they didn’t need any adjustment so i wouldn’t bother doing
@@Mjbiker83 Oil change every 6,000 mls valve clearances every 6,000 mls also.
no tubles tyers
I'm afraid you have it wrong about the service intervals,
First major Tappet adjustment (which you are allowed to do all oil and filter your self, as long as you keep receipts and use genuine filters, and approved oil's,)
The law has changed, dealers have to honour Warranties, as long as you do this,
And you only have to change the oil and filter once every 3000 miles after the first service, or once a year, which ever comes up first,
Ok 👌
Cheers Paul 👏
Yes, I meant to add 6000 miles
Until you need to check the Tappet adjustment after the first service,
Then every 6000 miles after that.
Cool, thanks for the info. I'm just going off what the service manual says but once I've had it for a few years I'll start doing it myself
Look at ADV TRIBE rad guard. Avoid Avons. They crack.
Cheers for the advice
The ugly black wheels on the new ones...not a cheap bike if you have to change everything! Wheels tires exhaust seat bigi bore kit...I'll pass...
Fair comment!