Please remember, these are only my own personal views and opinions. You may achieve different results on your bike. Also please keep the comments civil, I have had to block some commenters already on this video! Insulting comments won't be tolerated. I think we are all able to use the English language to put our points across without resorting to insults to either myself or other commenters. Thanks VB.
@@sunyrj25I removed the Hitchcock's exhaust and fitted the standard factory exhaust, took the DNA filter off and refitted the standard one and the bike now has a lot more midrange torque. It still has the performance cam and the Fuel x lite, so will probable leave them as they are.
Done most of the mods on mine,DNA,decat pipe,fuel x,16 tooth gearbox sprocket,I noticed the hit on fuel,from 95 to 80 mpg,but it's a much happier engine with the fuel x,mine is definitely running cooler,steadier slower tick over,cleaner pick up,only paid 3.7 for it,old boy had bought it,never rode it! 0.8miles on the clock,put £200 worth of touring seats on it too,which looks better,but not especially comfortable,mines a red chrome,was also impressed with the build quality(apart from the crap battery,which has been replaced) thanks for your honest video,was thinking about the cam,but I'm not for revving the nuts of it,not that sort of bike, I'm late sixties and back riding after 45 years,loving every minute! take care my friend
@@GapBahnDirk tbh they did get it right at the factory but Euro 5 strangled it I don’t care about the peak power output I don’t have a DNA filter or intake , i have a home brewed one with a smooth radius into the filter ,i’m running a through pipe de cat on it and a modified tail pipe, but it runs much cooler and is a decent hill climber unlike it was as standard it feels remarkably similar engine wise to my pals 500 classic revs are not quite as low at higher speeds but not a great deal of difference and it doesn’t feel to different in peak power either we have swapped bikes doing a20 mile run half and half and we both agreed that they are different power wise but not by a huge margin
So glad at last somebody spoke out, I've been arguing with numpties for two years about these modifications which are purely placebo and until the ECU is re chipped no gains will be made. So well done and spot on.
@@johnrocker2986 the ultimate goal would be for plugging it in and re setting the parameters in the ECU , I don’t know about you but I feel a little insulted that we are not trusted to act like adults and these bikes and very soon all new vehicles in the uk are going to be restricted in the same way, thats going to put up the price of even old cars until ordinary people can no longer afford to drive and the insurance companies will double the prices on older cars using the excuse that they aren’t speed restricted but i think that is the long term plan anyway , they will sort out uk emissions and traffic issues by only allowing the rich to drive, sounds extreme I know but watch this space
@@johnrocker2986 can i say whilst im here that my reason for fitting a fuel optimiser had nothing to do with performance but to help the engine run cooler which it has , i was seriously bothered by the temperature that it was running at as standard especially in traffic and for that reason i am happy with it , as for performance I don’t need that if i did I wouldn’t have bought a J series bike
Thank you mate, recently bought a new bullet and seen all the mods for sale. To be honest I couldn't really understand why people would want to change it if they went in with their eyes open as to what they bought it for in the first place. Early days for me, but I feel confident thanks to people like you speaking up about such stuff. Ride safe and ride free!
I much appreciate your honest feddback and review. Thumb up for not trying to sugar coat it. I have accidentally found out, that one of the dealers not too far from where we live actually offers ECU tuning. They must have found the way to 'crack' it and promist to bring 5 hp more (and offer a measurement before and after). I do not know any more details (how the curves change and where), but I will definitely talk to them about that.
@@matusknives Poor fuel consumption will be the main downside. I have removed all the mods from my 350 and even back to standard, I can get better fuel consumption from my Classic 500! My honest advice would be, If you want more performance, save the money spent on the mods and buy a 500. (I still run a pair of classic 350's but the 500 is more powerful, a lot faster and more fuel efficient!)
@@Volcanicbrown1878 yes, that would be my expectiation too. The extra power does not come out of the air. Especially if one starts to use it regularly. As many have said - a 500 single with some 30-35 ps would be a great bike. I understand why RE decided otherwise, but we are allowed to have dreams :)
I have had totally different results on my Meteor to be honest i made my own air filter cover which is not as open as the DNA but better than standard i have a x light optimiser fitted and i have a de cat , but I wouldn’t let anybody else touch it and did the work myself I didn’t change the cam , the results for me have been a moderate increase in volume but a much nicer tone a major increase in usable torque straight from tick-over to flat out the restricted top end still cuts the power at 72 ish mph , so no difference at the top end , the engine does indeed run much cooler( tested) and my average fuel consumption is 89.3 mpg’s , i am climbing 3/4 gear hills standard in 4/5 with ease i live in Wales so that was the most noticeable improvement for me, i fitted a 16 tooth front sprocket for a 300 mile motorway trip and found that so long as i held on to 4th gear until around 55mph it would hold 65 mph even on hill sections unless they are trull mountain climbs , i returned around 220 /30 miles per fill though there is a small element of educated guess in that because of the notoriously twitchy fuel gauge near empty so rather than run out ( not a favoured plan ) i kept a tally and did the sums back at home , overall i am more than impressed with the meteor and the fuel x light and would seriously be considering that there may be another issue somewhere on your bike so maybe take off n test one mod at a time as i suspect the cam maybe the cause of your problems as it has much more duration than the pretty soft standard cam that i kept, the cam change is reckoned to give about 6/7 ponies but i was interested in the torque curve much more than the top speed because the ECU is going to stop you doing that anyway and in truth after seventy windy and tiring describes the ride so 60/65 is good anyway, i can on the meteor bypass the restriction and just south of ninety is possible but i think on the classic the speedo stops working if you mess with the wiring in the same way, or so im told anyway I can’t say from experience as i only tried it on a meteor but thats my bike , i don’t know why you expect flack People are probably interested , i do however suspect that the fuelx is not compatible with your cam and as i have no soot or starting issues after 2100 miles with the optimiser i would be inclined to take off the cam first and re test as my pipe isn’t burned and the only one i have ridden that was cammed up was bloody noisy and erratic , sorry for the essay and i hope you get it sorted
Hello Mr Brown. Thanks for your honest opinion. I bought my R.E Classic 350 2 years ago , after not riding for over 30 years. The bike is stock and the only mods I've done is remove the rear seat and put on a Hepco and Becker rear rack. The bikes done 7500 miles without any mechanical issues. I have been struggling with the decision to spend the money regarding the performance modifications and I think you have reinforced my decision to keep it stock. My bike sounds great and will do over 70 mph and no more as it is limited by R.E. Also fuel consumption is 80 to 90 plus mpg. If I want to increase its performance , a cheap way of enhancing the bikes power to weight ratio I could go on a diet and lose 20 lbs, as I'm not a skinny lad anymore. 😊 Thanks for your opinion. Carl.👍
Good call brother! All the bikes I have owned in past, I always end up going back to stock. Stock motors seem to go a longer, reliability is for me. Great video’s. Keep up the good work.
I totally agree with you,a complete waste of money. I'm amazed at how many people have gone with this route of add one's to try an increase power on a bike that is speed limited to 71mph. If there was a part you could buy to bypass the speed limiter so it would do 85mph then that might be worth it.The other point is that without telling your insurance company you have effectively cancelled your cover! As you say just enjoy the bike as it is and use the £800 for funding some nice trips away 😊
@Volcanicbrown1878 the question is would you spend the money? I haven't and enjoy my meteor as it is (though the extra 10 mph would be nice to have in hand)
I enjoyed playing around with my 350 as early 2022 swapping stuff as it came out, no one really knew about these bikes if eu restricted etc and the last thing i fitted was the cam. I do love how my bike sounds but your right with your findings, its a relaxing bike to ride and should be ridden like that, my next Classic 350 will be left stock as £800 could pay for a lovely 2 week holiday for myself across to Normandy France for myself here in Scotland, or if your down south a 2 week tour of Scotland 😁👍 Cheers Bruce
@Coastriderscotland Hi Bruce! I know you have done all the mods to yours and like I said in the vid, what doesn't suit me may suit you! Oh, and thanks for not shooting me down in flames for my opinions!! Ride safe! VB
@@Volcanicbrown1878 the bike is indeed perfect in stock trim VB, i really should have spent the money going to Normandy 80th DDay instead 😜 my mate Bobs sand 350 is stock and he says if he wants more speed he will buy a bigger bike 🤣😁👍
honesty is so refreshing , think RE spent alot of time getting these bikes right from the start so why mess , your buying into a riding experience not a speed contest ,
Very honoust, thank you. I have the baby blue one and did all the upgrades like on your bike. Its very noicy but i like that, i get round 250 miles of the tank and really rev it a lot. The fuelx was indeed not worth the money. Up hill it is much more powerful. What i realy do not like is that the exhaust is backfiring a lot after the upgrades. Don't know if thats a good thing ha ha. Maybe i put it all back to standard like you, but i will first wait for the classic 650 if it ever comes. Thank you mr. Brown
Hello Mr Brown,really enjoying your videos,some quite educational,some funny,but also your insight has has been a inspiration,so much so i will definitely be purchasing a classic 350 ,to be honest it was on my radar but now its my target,MrBrown i was wondering if in future videos if you would consider making one on how you clean and protect and polish your bikes,particularly the chrome on your red classic 350 tank,their is so many products im confused at what purchase and best way to apply,thxs again Mr Brown and please keep them coming absolute barrel of laughes,😂
@MrClarkycn Funny you mention that as I was only thinking the other day that I should do a few servicing video's on the various models. I will include the cleaning and chrome care in one of them for you! Glad you like my slightly warped sense of humour!😁
My fuel x light has lowered the engine temperature considerably( tested ) and i am not using much more if any more at all fuel because I’m mostly in a higher gear for the same speed so i would say that ur bike is not typical and would also say that if you bought the bike already modified then i would take off the mods one at a time and find the culprit but i think its going to be the cam that is the issue because im running the 16 tooth sprocket and that was because of the extra available torque given via the fuel x so that is the one thing i would swear by, and yes my first thought was if its running richer then it will use more fuel and logically that still has to be true but my own calculations have proven that assumption to be wrong because im using a higher gear everywhere compared to standard and with normal riding and not being gentle im still averaging around 90 mpg 89.3 was my actual average i fill up at the last two bars on the gauge and always get around 250 ish miles per tank now she’s properly run in
@NoelRoots-t1u Didn't work for me! All the mods have now been removed and I have refitted a 16T gearbox sprocket, The bike is back to how it was when I bought it new. just perfect!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Its just my opinion but i think some people will just throw all the mods on that are available and hope for the best but then they have no baseline to work from i fitted a fuel x first as the fuelling was definitely lean especially at low revs having that on it allowed me to move on to the next problem so i then designed my own air box lid that would take some of the turbulence away from the mouth of the air box so now i was getting more air in allowed me to use a through mid pipe, but i tested and adjusted everything on my way through the process even having the ability to lengthen or shorten the mid pipe by 30 mm made a big difference to the hill climbing ability of the bike and the gearing its able to use but hey im a methodical bugger and spent a lot of years doing research engineering based mostly around air flow and turbulence both making it work for you and trying to eradicate it so i had a decent head-start but im glad you got your sparkly black little number how you like it 👍
I have the exact model and colour as you, had it now for over 2 years and is by far for me the best bike I have owned in over 54 years of riding. I fully agree with what you have said, about 6 months in I purchased and fitted a de cat pipe from Hitchcocks, did about 100 miles then re fitted the cat. For me the noise was not enjoyable as a deep resonance was in my helmet, so once cat re fitted back to the relaxing sound I liked, last engine mod I did. As you say why buy a relaxing bike then try to turn into a different type of bike, I owned a Triumph street triple for over 3 years that went like stink and handled on rails. In the end though I found the high revving nature wore me down, a great bike for what is was designed for but for me I just craved a more relaxing ride, hence why I love my Classic so much. If you want a fast bike buy a fast bike, if you want a relaxed economical ride buy a standard Classic. Keep up the great videos, also loved the dozer video 😊
@Peter234100 Hi Peter I think you have summed it up!....The Dozer vid got thrown in the bin. After the initial flurry of views, folks just stopped watching it completely!
Great review of something most people wouldn’t do 👏👍👌
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The RE enthusiast community has calmed down a lot now, so you don't have to be too concerned about sharing your opinion anymore. Now 2 years ago you would have been lambasted for sharing this ever so valid personal observation.. People want to believe this stuff all works, when the airbox, funny enough, works as designed and does not need to be fiddled with. I have seen the fuelx on a mates bike dropped the temperature around 50 celcius from the outside, which is a good difference but the engine still runs darn hot and will discolour those after market free flow exhausts just the same as without. I haven't seen the stock pipes discolour at all myself, they're quality.
Thinking about it it probably won’t help your fuel consumption that much but should help but definitely will improve the starting and running if you used a hotter spark plug for a better burn I feel you would notice the difference for sure as you know tuning is like dominos one thing effects many things but it sounds like the free exhaust and the high lift on the cam is preventing a good burn 👍
@user-rd7qu8kk6d The bad starting was eventually identified as a sooted up Lamda sensor. I cleaned that up and then removed the DNA air filter and put a standard one in. Then the freeflow exhaust and silencer came off and were replaced with the standard setup including the Cat. It still has the cam and the Fuel x lite. The results were that the low and mid range performance are considerably improved. I have now refitted the 16t gearbox sprocket and the economy is back to what it should be. I will probably leave it as it is now.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 im running a standard filter with a home made lid on it, i have ridden a cammed up Classic but i didn’t like it so didn’t go down that road
To be fair, you've got a Stainless steel front pipe on that bike, and they always discolour ❓ I've fitted a Fuel X Lite System on Both my Interceptor 650 and Hunter 350 No problems, but many people don't set them up right, Royal Enfield state in their own information, any changes to the intake to the engine, or exhaust, You are supposed to run the engine for 30 minutes on tick over, to acclimatise the ECU, the TH-camr "TigerNess" state's this one of his videos, Also Fuel X don't claim more power, they are meant to help the bike burn less lean, and they actually Do run cooler, which prelongs the life of the Engine and Oil 👍 That has been actually proven by Hitchcocks UK 👍 Cheers Paul 👍
If you want more power get a bigger one right !! I love all Royal Enfield's for what they are. My best wishes to you from the Philippines ❤️💪👍😉😀😁🏁🏍️🛺🐑🇵🇭🏴
Just listening to you & you right you spend 800 notes for not much improvement iv did this 🤔 I have managed to improve it but it was a lot of gigery pokey . With your baffles iv experimented and found the use of stainless steel perforated sheet rolled into a Swiss roll shape it is coiled & grips itself into the exhaust with one nut & bolt in tailpipe to stop it shooting out & making it about 5 to 6 inch long, it doesn’t restrict causing pressure waves, it decreases the sound level you need around 3 to 4 layers from centre . Slice a 😁pice of bar as a winder to make you roll up . well Up to you mate try it on one of your other bikes . Bit of a ramble hope it makes sense
I agree, I have resisted to mess around with mine and your experience with this bike is very informative. Thanks for the video. It would be good for you to do a follow up video when back to stock to see if everything is back to normal when riding it.
at last, someone who owns one and is honest enough to say it. Waste of money, waste of fuel, for a 20hp engine that's limited on speed. If you want a faster bike, buy one. Most engine mods will yield a few % in extra power, when you're talking a base line of 20 (claimed) it's rather pointless, unless you are racing them on the track.
@icedidi I thought this vid wouldn't do very well because it was full of negative stuff, but they are my bikes and if I don't like something I will say so!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Interesting. Thanks for this honest video. I had an order in for a bunch of this stuff including the cam to be sent to me here in the US. I just cancelled it. Great little bike. Love it. I have a 2022 Classic 350. But, I also have a T100 which has all the power I will ever need. No sense trying to turn this bike into something more powerful. I use this bike to tour around on the rural back roads near where I live in Vermont. Love it for that. It is a bit anemic up the hills which we have a lot of. But, I can live with that.
There's a guy on here (motomorten) who's put the 410 big bore kit on the bike. I'm interested to see how that goes. As standard though, the 350 classic makes some beating.
My uncle told me about 55 years ago,if it ain't broke don't fix it!! These companies spend millions of dollars to get these machines right,leave it alone!!! Great video!!! You can always plan a little longer trip on the two lane roads.I avoid the interstate roads as much as I can.
I agree with the type of road these bikes are best suited for ,on the motorway here I feel I'm holding people up as everyone nearly overtakes me, , even the heavy lorries , it's best suited to the A+ B roads here being a design from the late 50s I believe these fast monotonous roads didn't exist.
@@iandawson7723 There is nothing on these bikes that was designed in the 1950's apart from the casquette. Every thing is bang up to date, technology wise. Fuel injection, ABS, disc brakes, overhead cam etc The old cast iron Bullet's were designed in the 50's and there is no comparison between the two.
It's your bike and your choices. I just fail to see how your fuel consumption is so bad.... I've put a dna filter on mine and a decat. Haven't done the cam...im on the fence about it still... but the bike is still doing 95mpg and the "enhancements" have made it livelier. That one of yours must have a problem somewhere. Be interesting to hear if your mpg goes back up when you've put it back to standard
My classic350 is soon to be delivered. In the meanwhile I watched quite a bit of reviews on performance parts and noticed everything you add will change the long stroke performance to the worse or it's all placebo. I saw a fullt modded review and acceleration went from 16s/100kmh to 12.5s/100kmh and it is louder and more consumption. This is not where this RE shines IMO. The only engine mod I ordered is a belt drive and like some bags . Maybe alloy wheels if I cannot keep the originals in a decent state. Ceramic protection... nothing else I could come up with after viewing reviews for 4 months now. Hope you'll enjoy your classic soon. Last weekend I rode a demo like your's and it's color is amazing but I chose the red/chrome one. kr, Erik
I'm not fed up. I'm currently in the works of buying a classic 350 here in Canada, and have legit concerns being 6 feet tall, and 290lbs on a 20 hp bike. I'm mostly buying it to commute to work, but also ride on nice peaceful back country roads. Unfortunately to visit my Father I do need to ride a 100km/hr stretch of road for about 15 minutes, so a little extra top end might be a bonus. I appreciate all of the creators who post their 350's here as it's a great research tool, so thank you very much and I love your bike!
@jjstuartonwriting8150 Well if it's any help, I'm 6ft 6ins and weigh 231lbs and I'm good for 200+ miles at a sitting with no probs on this little 350! It's very comfortable for me.
@@christopherpekel6096 Plus there are so many options to make the classic 350 unique and really retro. I want to make mine in homage to my time in the military.
Just did the dna filter, it's livelier, yes also a bit louder. Haven't bothered with anything else, as it takes away some of it's gentle charm, done about 2,ooo mls, very content. 👍
@Rob-lj3kf Yes, bar end mirrors are one option, Mirror stalk extenders are another. RE made two different lengths of mirror stalks for the old Bullets. Personaly, I'm not a huge fan of bar end ones as they are a bit vulnerable being wider than the handlebars, although that being said, I have bar ends on my classic 500 (Only because it wouldn't fit in my van with the original mirrors!)
Well said ! My Signals 350 has clocked 2500 miles and is standard and is perfect for my needs. Lazy engine allows you to slow life down and appreciate the present moment.
Thanks for a no nonsense honest opinion I almost bought one but opted for the Interceptor instead due to all the reviews that said the bike is under powered I am now thinking about getting a reborn but want to find one that’s completely bone stock and the used market is getting larger here in Florida and my eyes are now wide open and looking for that garage queen Thanks for your input And regards from Florida
Good to have honest feedback from a fellow Classic 350 enthusiast. I have the Fuelx lite and decat pipe fitted to my bike but neither were for performance as the bike is a 350 single after all and not a super bike. Sticking with Fuelx on my bike as it does smooth out snatchiness on my bike and there is also less back firing or popping now. Also sticking with decat pipe mainly due to weight saving and in my opinion a nicer exhaust note so again not a performance boost. Had considered using the Hitchcock’s open air filter cover (with standard air filter) but after trying it found that all it did was increase unwelcome induction roar. Won’t be using DNA filters as I consider the claims to be marketing hype - lots of riders have tried them and returned to stock which must say something. It’s good to have different views but the main thing is that we all agree how good the Classic 350 is in these days of computer designed plastic futuristic styled bikes. Royal Enfield are keeping it real and building bikes that the reasonably competent home mechanic can look after themselves without the need to take it to a dealer to plug in and “service” for owners.
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Hello, Keith, in my opinion I'd say you have the perfect set up. I've said for awhile if you're only going to do one thing, get the decat. If you want to do two, get the fuelx lite. If really need to do 3, reconsider.
You summed it up in one, if you want a higher performance bike, don't buy the RE350; simple. I think it's beautiful machine, but the reason I wouldn't buy one is I'd want a little bit more oomph, otherwise I'd have been off to a Royal Enfield dealer like a rat up a drainpipe. Still thinking about the Interceptor though, but a bigger classic is in the factory wings perhaps...? Great video as usual. Thanks Mr. Brown.
I saw the RE 350 as a nice little addition to my stable to compliment my bigger more powerful bike (T-100). But, what is happening is that at age 73 I am riding the 350 all the time because it is so much lighter and easier to push around the garage. Also, it is a lot easier to handle even when out riding. A lot less stress compared to the Bonneville. Although, I do love the Bonneville as well. 😀
I’ve always said don’t modify royal Enfield bikes waste of time if you do you have the results higher fuel consumption people think they know better let them waste there money RE restrict them for a good reason 👍🏍️
This is my first time at your channel so the mods are all new to me. I've dithered for ages on my meteor about spending money on the upgrades you've done and this is very helpful. The only thing that would be better is if you and tigerness (another youtuber) got together and rode each others classics as he's done pretty similar mods and seems very happy. 👍 The only reason I'd like a bit more oomph is for the occasional overtakes where my meteor can feel pretty flat at times plus those occasions into strong headwinds, otherwise I'm enjoying it more than seems reasonable for a 20bhp bike.
Its silly to go fast on a motorbike. High drag co-efficient spoils the fuel consumption. The only mod I'd make to this bike is make it some classic legshields
I found the FuelX lite smoothed out a snatchy throttle when cold, and the dna definitely helped it breathe and it felt better. I’ve got the rest of the mods but don’t feel the need to install them as, for me, the bike is perfect as is. Nice video and generally agree with you, Enfield got it right 😊
I have a Classic 350 which I like just as it is. I've watched a few videos covering these various mods, the benefits seem to be marginal, at the expense of noise and some loss of refinement. You've been very honest about the reality of going down this path. I think we'd all love a little more poke from this charming machine. A new Classic 500 doesn't seem to be in the pipeline. One interesting possibility is a 410cc big bore kit for the J-platform 350, available from India. There is at least one review on You Tube. This seems like a good route to improving performance overall without increased noise and peakiness. I am hoping that this kit, or something similar, will be marketed by Hitchcocks in the near future, thereby offering some quality assurance.
Rode the Meteor and thought what a lovely little engine.. Pulled lovely..If anything it kind of suddenly lost power at around 70mph..Felt like it was fitted with a limiter to me…Mentioned it to the dealer and he told me they were…Weather there’s any truth in that I don’t know.. Certainly felt like it to me..Agree, stick it back to stock set up..👍ATB
@DickieMintCycles Yes, they have two limiters, a rev limiter and a speed limiter driven by the ABS. Even if you take the ABS fuse out, they still limit the bike to around 73mph. I think the Hunter doesn't have the speed limiter fitted as I watched a video of a guy in the States riding a Hunter and it was showing 90mph on the speedo!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Interesting…You’ve taught me something ..Which is what it’s all about.. I’d be keeping my eyes peeled for a hunter ECU perhaps ..If it’s feasible and would work …Can’t see Enfield changing too much between the motors if anything..You might then get rid of the speed limiter maybe?Agreed,put the mechanicals back to standard..Enjoy your day! 👍
Well said Mr Brown. If you want more performance you need a different bike. Indeed. As if Royal Enfield are a bunch of idiots who couldn't make a decent bike. No. I am sure the standard bike has the right balance of power and pleasurable riding. I had a 390 KTM with 40 hp and it went like stink nothing wrong with it . However, it was not a 'nice' bike to ride. It was urgent and harsh and determined to hurry me along - like being pulled by a big dog that keeps looking back as if saying "Come on", "come on". Lovely bike Mr Brown.
The best things about these bikes is adequate performance, reasonable handling and comfort plus 100 mpg and cheap maintenance. Mine does everything I ask of it. All the touring add-ons are binned and apart from a fly screen and rack it is totally standard. My only gripe is the rear suspension is a bit harsh even on the softest setting but that is not a deal killer. Thanks for showing the go-faster mods up for what they are. You have probably stopped a lot of folk buying stuff they only imagine they'll need.
For somebody who can appreciate big twins to a Raleigh Runabout, I reckon your opinions on this 350 single are worth listening to. It's not a bike for someone with things to prove, but in its own back lane domain it's a belter. Mine sips E5 fuel, probably the most economical bike since my Honda 90.
Well, well! Like I was thinking myself,mine is stock,I like it that way, people stop giving your hard earned money to Hitchcock, is there a big window in that shop......or what??
Morning MrB, I'm with you on this one. We regularly get customers ask our opinion on fitting performance cams to modern RE singles, we always tell them the juice isn't worth the squeaze. If you want more performance you have probably bought the wrong bike, we recently fitted a fuel-x lite a free flow exhaust system & a DNA filter to a customers 350 all parts supplied by him from MrH at a cost of over £500 ! Will the bike be any better ? I doubt it !
I like to keep any bike I have standard as far as the engine is concerned. Looks like you have unearthed a bit of red herring with these so called engine upgrades for these bikes. Yes, each to his own, we all have our own opinions. The cost would put me off in the first place! All the best JI 😊👍🏍
@rodneygunn788 I binned the D8 vid cause it stopped getting any views at all! Not really surprising on a bike channel! Good to hear from a fellow Plant man. TC Fella!
I own a meteor 350, and to me, the bike is a modern MZ 250. It is cheap and reliable to own and run but not fast. If I was buying another one new, the only mods I would be replacing the OE chain and the tyres otherwise if I wanted faster I would have chosen a different buke.
Yes, I am considering some more aggressive tires because I do ride on quite a few dirt roads around here. But, I am even questioning that mod. I'll consider it again after the stock tires are toast.
I see the supervisor and the inspector were checking out the yardwork. No doubt the mousing habitat has changed a bit , they may not approve of your yard or the 350 modifications . Re the 350 , DNA type filter passes more air ,makes more noise and filters less dirt . I don't see them on equipment that operates in dusty conditions , so for what they cost , in my opinion for everyday use , just an expensive joke . The cam should work if the fuelling could be altered . With a carb you could rejet it , but " computer says no " . So you are b*ggered before you start . Setting up a small engine for increased power is a trade off and some of these bolt on go faster bits won't work together . Maybe some "porting" would help. Even in the old days , pepping up an engine made it more peaky . Aunty Enfield knows best sonny . Another thing that you should remove is that silly peak on the headlight , an intensely annoying chunk of avoirdupois .😂
@dungspreader Yeah, that peak was the first thing to go on the classic 500! (Tin tat at it's finest!) The Fuel x is supposed to take care of the fueling, but I have my doubts on that too. This afternoon whilst this video was percolating, I whipped the Lambda sensor out and it's very sooty. Can only really be the Fuel x.
@@Volcanicbrown1878Sorry if you misunderstood my comment, I wont bother with any of the mods that were made to your bike it's fine as std for me. If I want to go faster ill crack out the 1200 Bandit Regards MimeN
@@Volcanicbrown1878 I've been wondering how the 350 would cope with longer rides. I'm glad to hear about your longer runs went ok. I would like to take a 2 to 3 week trip into France but wondered how the 350 would cope. I'm a big believer in horses for courses, but I really like the 350 ride, and am reluctant to use the Bandit Cos I'm 71, and it's a lump. What do you think? One tank full at a time and then rest it for a couple of hours? Or press on regardless? Regards Mike N
Just wondering what sort of an affect could this power increase have on the big end, I would imagine it could cause premature failure over a period of time another thing what about the warrenty? Would it still be valid?
If you want to put performance mods on a classic 350,you probably don't get the whole point of the classic350 in the first place ,if you need more performance, there are other Royal Enfield models to fit the bill!,good video Mr Brown, hopefully you've saved some people some money!
I'm with you VB. I can't see much point trying to make a 350 go faster either 👌👍 I personally don't get fed up of you talking about this bike BTW . Some would do well to take heed but then again a certain type never BL**DY listens.😳
I sold my 350classic. Nice but prefer my 500classic. Hunter in garage at moment. Actually a courtesy bike. I prefer it to the 350classic but it's a little cramped for me. Lighter. Bit quicker, better ride and much more lively steering. Alloy wheels and plastic guards is a big reduction in unsprung weight.
@thepipesmokingbeekeeper8917 Exactly my thoughts! Even with all the mods, my cast iron 500 bullet will run rings around this 350! The J series engine will never go as well as a 500. There is no replacement for displacement!
I generally agree with this. But, some (me) would like the lightness of the 350 which just a bit more push going up hills at around 50/60 mph. This bike does bother me on that score a little. But, the whole package is lovely and I'm not selling it on any time soon. One thing I was considering was the new Triumph Street 400 which is both lighter and more powerful. But, in the end, I value character. That Triumph lacks character. The RE 350 has the character thing down in spades.
Leave the K&N Filter just put the stock cover on it. They are a good product puts less stress on the intake cycle and are lifetime. The open cover is for noise only. The exhaust mod is lighter and makes the thing run cooler so not a bad thing. Fuel X is the biggest no no... maybe.
Any person with some background in petrol engines knows the more air in and out the more power. Decat and DNA is all that's required. As/per the noise? I contend it will sound closer to the original bullet 350. To each their own obviously.
Videos about the Classic 350 seem to have gone in 3 stages. 1) New bike, very nice, wish it had a bit more performance. 2) I've found a number of mods that will boost the performance. 3) The mods weren't worth it, might keep the air filter but dump the rest. You are spot-on, if you want more performance, you should have bought something else. For what it's worth, if I had one a Classic 350, I would probably do exactly the same as you.
Really sorry these mods haven't worked out for you, very strange. Are they worth the cost of the install, no. In my situation it's a big improvement, Cam swap, decat, dna filter, fast flow filter housing. Only thing I reverted back to was removing the fast flow filter housing, far to much induction noise for me. I've not got the Fuel x or a straight through exhaust system though. Still get 200 miles per tank, although the light starts flashing at around 170-180. Hope you enjoy it when it's returned to stock, enjoyment is paramount when riding these, so crack on & make yourself happy with it. 👍👍
I hope that none of the “Royal Enfield got it right” crowd have changed or added a single thing to their bikes. If you want a bike with a rear rack you should bought one. If you want panniers buy a bike with panniers. No tank pads or upgrades in suspension either. I don’t even know why an aftermarket exists. Why would anyone dream of trying to alter this perfect machine, gifted to us by the mighty gods at RE?
@@Volcanicbrown1878 all I’ve changed on mine is the gearing. Should I have bought a different bike instead? If I wanted a smoother top end I should have bought a GS I suppose. I’m all for leaving bikes stock. But I also don’t fault people for making tweaks to suit their riding style. If any bike was perfect the aftermarket wouldn’t exist.
@@paulsilson2148 Like I said in the video, I went half way round the M25 and the whole length of the M3 twice on that bike with zero issues. They are perfectly capable of motorways!
The fuel ex stops it running lean that it needs to pass the Euro 5 pollution requirements. More fuel means that the engine runs cooler as it runs and that means it doesn't cook the oil and so the oil lubricates the engine better and so it will last longer. I would rather have longer engine life and cooler running then extreme gas mileage with it running hot as Hades
@@Volcanicbrown1878 don't single wall exhaust pipes blue just as a matter of course. I just meant that fuel injected bike to set so super lean to pass stupid regulations that they cook their oil to death within 300 miles. I thought those devices made them run cooler in order to make them last longer.
Please remember, these are only my own personal views and opinions. You may achieve different results on your bike. Also please keep the comments civil, I have had to block some commenters already on this video! Insulting comments won't be tolerated. I think we are all able to use the English language to put our points across without resorting to insults to either myself or other commenters. Thanks VB.
I think you accurately made your points, loss of torque, no real gain in speed, loss of gas mileage. if you want more but the 650 😊
Just leave the exhaust pipe and take all mods off.
@@sunyrj25I removed the Hitchcock's exhaust and fitted the standard factory exhaust, took the DNA filter off and refitted the standard one and the bike now has a lot more midrange torque. It still has the performance cam and the Fuel x lite, so will probable leave them as they are.
Done most of the mods on mine,DNA,decat pipe,fuel x,16 tooth gearbox sprocket,I noticed the hit on fuel,from 95 to 80 mpg,but it's a much happier engine with the fuel x,mine is definitely running cooler,steadier slower tick over,cleaner pick up,only paid 3.7 for it,old boy had bought it,never rode it! 0.8miles on the clock,put £200 worth of touring seats on it too,which looks better,but not especially comfortable,mines a red chrome,was also impressed with the build quality(apart from the crap battery,which has been replaced) thanks for your honest video,was thinking about the cam,but I'm not for revving the nuts of it,not that sort of bike, I'm late sixties and back riding after 45 years,loving every minute! take care my friend
So, Royal Enfield got the design right in the first place 👍👍.
@@GapBahnDirk tbh they did get it right at the factory but Euro 5 strangled it I don’t care about the peak power output I don’t have a DNA filter or intake , i have a home brewed one with a smooth radius into the filter ,i’m running a through pipe de cat on it and a modified tail pipe, but it runs much cooler and is a decent hill climber unlike it was as standard it feels remarkably similar engine wise to my pals 500 classic revs are not quite as low at higher speeds but not a great deal of difference and it doesn’t feel to different in peak power either we have swapped bikes doing a20 mile run half and half and we both agreed that they are different power wise but not by a huge margin
This video saved me a h….l of a lot of money, I’ll leave it as standard, but I will fit a rev counter, I miss that one.
So glad at last somebody spoke out, I've been arguing with numpties for two years about these modifications which are purely placebo and until the ECU is re chipped no gains will be made. So well done and spot on.
@@johnrocker2986 the ultimate goal would be for plugging it in and re setting the parameters in the ECU , I don’t know about you but I feel a little insulted that we are not trusted to act like adults and these bikes and very soon all new vehicles in the uk are going to be restricted in the same way, thats going to put up the price of even old cars until ordinary people can no longer afford to drive and the insurance companies will double the prices on older cars using the excuse that they aren’t speed restricted but i think that is the long term plan anyway , they will sort out uk emissions and traffic issues by only allowing the rich to drive, sounds extreme I know but watch this space
@@johnrocker2986 can i say whilst im here that my reason for fitting a fuel optimiser had nothing to do with performance but to help the engine run cooler which it has , i was seriously bothered by the temperature that it was running at as standard especially in traffic and for that reason i am happy with it , as for performance I don’t need that if i did I wouldn’t have bought a J series bike
You just need that exhaust pipe...that can make the difference.
@@sunyrj25 In my case it didn't.
Thank you mate, recently bought a new bullet and seen all the mods for sale. To be honest I couldn't really understand why people would want to change it if they went in with their eyes open as to what they bought it for in the first place. Early days for me, but I feel confident thanks to people like you speaking up about such stuff.
Ride safe and ride free!
@Mark-m1g it comes down to, if you want a more powerful bike, buy a bigger one!
I much appreciate your honest feddback and review. Thumb up for not trying to sugar coat it.
I have accidentally found out, that one of the dealers not too far from where we live actually offers ECU tuning. They must have found the way to 'crack' it and promist to bring 5 hp more (and offer a measurement before and after). I do not know any more details (how the curves change and where), but I will definitely talk to them about that.
@matusknives I didn't think it would be long before someone started to do remaps for the 350's!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 the million dollar question is - what are the downsides in the longer run ...
@@matusknives Poor fuel consumption will be the main downside. I have removed all the mods from my 350 and even back to standard, I can get better fuel consumption from my Classic 500! My honest advice would be, If you want more performance, save the money spent on the mods and buy a 500. (I still run a pair of classic 350's but the 500 is more powerful, a lot faster and more fuel efficient!)
@@Volcanicbrown1878 yes, that would be my expectiation too. The extra power does not come out of the air. Especially if one starts to use it regularly. As many have said - a 500 single with some 30-35 ps would be a great bike. I understand why RE decided otherwise, but we are allowed to have dreams :)
I have had totally different results on my Meteor to be honest i made my own air filter cover which is not as open as the DNA but better than standard i have a x light optimiser fitted and i have a de cat , but I wouldn’t let anybody else touch it and did the work myself I didn’t change the cam , the results for me have been a moderate increase in volume but a much nicer tone a major increase in usable torque straight from tick-over to flat out the restricted top end still cuts the power at 72 ish mph , so no difference at the top end , the engine does indeed run much cooler( tested) and my average fuel consumption is 89.3 mpg’s , i am climbing 3/4 gear hills standard in 4/5 with ease i live in Wales so that was the most noticeable improvement for me, i fitted a 16 tooth front sprocket for a 300 mile motorway trip and found that so long as i held on to 4th gear until around 55mph it would hold 65 mph even on hill sections unless they are trull mountain climbs , i returned around 220 /30 miles per fill though there is a small element of educated guess in that because of the notoriously twitchy fuel gauge near empty so rather than run out ( not a favoured plan ) i kept a tally and did the sums back at home , overall i am more than impressed with the meteor and the fuel x light and would seriously be considering that there may be another issue somewhere on your bike so maybe take off n test one mod at a time as i suspect the cam maybe the cause of your problems as it has much more duration than the pretty soft standard cam that i kept, the cam change is reckoned to give about 6/7 ponies but i was interested in the torque curve much more than the top speed because the ECU is going to stop you doing that anyway and in truth after seventy windy and tiring describes the ride so 60/65 is good anyway, i can on the meteor bypass the restriction and just south of ninety is possible but i think on the classic the speedo stops working if you mess with the wiring in the same way, or so im told anyway I can’t say from experience as i only tried it on a meteor but thats my bike , i don’t know why you expect flack People are probably interested , i do however suspect that the fuelx is not compatible with your cam and as i have no soot or starting issues after 2100 miles with the optimiser i would be inclined to take off the cam first and re test as my pipe isn’t burned and the only one i have ridden that was cammed up was bloody noisy and erratic , sorry for the essay and i hope you get it sorted
Same in the car world,usually have been set to perform at their optimum best, for all situations. Lovely looking bike to be enjoyed 😉
@thewonderer8315 I have to agree on that!
Several good points, very well made. I have left my 350 Signals completely standard. And hearing this from you Sir, I'm very glad I did.
Hello Mr Brown. Thanks for your honest opinion. I bought my R.E Classic 350 2 years ago , after not riding for over 30 years. The bike is stock and the only mods I've done is remove the rear seat and put on a Hepco and Becker rear rack. The bikes done 7500 miles without any mechanical issues. I have been struggling with the decision to spend the money regarding the performance modifications and I think you have reinforced my decision to keep it stock. My bike sounds great and will do over 70 mph and no more as it is limited by R.E. Also fuel consumption is 80 to 90 plus mpg. If I want to increase its performance , a cheap way of enhancing the bikes power to weight ratio I could go on a diet and lose 20 lbs, as I'm not a skinny lad anymore. 😊 Thanks for your opinion. Carl.👍
Good call brother! All the bikes I have owned in past, I always end up going back to stock. Stock motors seem to go a longer, reliability is for me.
Great video’s. Keep up the good work.
All I did was change to dna filter and I’m super happy with that mod definitely hear a more rubbly exhaust
I totally agree with you,a complete waste of money. I'm amazed at how many people have gone with this route of add one's to try an increase power on a bike that is speed limited to 71mph. If there was a part you could buy to bypass the speed limiter so it would do 85mph then that might be worth it.The other point is that without telling your insurance company you have effectively cancelled your cover! As you say just enjoy the bike as it is and use the £800 for funding some nice trips away 😊
The HNTR throttle body if fitted will bypass the limiter, and you will get about 85 mph. They cost about £200.
@johnludmon7419 £143 is the cheapest new one I can find!
@Volcanicbrown1878 the question is would you spend the money? I haven't and enjoy my meteor as it is (though the extra 10 mph would be nice to have in hand)
I enjoyed playing around with my 350 as early 2022 swapping stuff as it came out, no one really knew about these bikes if eu restricted etc and the last thing i fitted was the cam. I do love how my bike sounds but your right with your findings, its a relaxing bike to ride and should be ridden like that,
my next Classic 350 will be left stock as £800 could pay for a lovely 2 week holiday for myself across to Normandy France for myself here in Scotland, or if your down south a 2 week tour of Scotland 😁👍
Cheers Bruce
@Coastriderscotland Hi Bruce! I know you have done all the mods to yours and like I said in the vid, what doesn't suit me may suit you! Oh, and thanks for not shooting me down in flames for my opinions!! Ride safe! VB
@@Volcanicbrown1878 the bike is indeed perfect in stock trim VB, i really should have spent the money going to Normandy 80th DDay instead 😜
my mate Bobs sand 350 is stock and he says if he wants more speed he will buy a bigger bike 🤣😁👍
A good and honest review, refreshing. Thank you.
@whitbyflyer Thankyou!
Maybe try it without the cam but keep DNA and decat its a nice ride with just them.
Good points there if I buy a classic 350 I think that I would leave it stock because it would be for everyday plodding around and taking it easy .
honesty is so refreshing , think RE spent alot of time getting these bikes right from the start so why mess , your buying into a riding experience not a speed contest ,
I agree 100%. I have had three J series 350's and spent ££ on all the mods, and to be frank a waste of money!
@stevieneilson2451 Totaly!!
Very honoust, thank you. I have the baby blue one and did all the upgrades like on your bike. Its very noicy but i like that, i get round 250 miles of the tank and really rev it a lot. The fuelx was indeed not worth the money. Up hill it is much more powerful.
What i realy do not like is that the exhaust is backfiring a lot after the upgrades. Don't know if thats a good thing ha ha.
Maybe i put it all back to standard like you, but i will first wait for the classic 650 if it ever comes.
Thank you mr. Brown
I found this video helpful as I was considering modifications. Thanks.
Honest video with honest tell. What else?
Hello Mr Brown,really enjoying your videos,some quite educational,some funny,but also your insight has has been a inspiration,so much so i will definitely be purchasing a classic 350 ,to be honest it was on my radar but now its my target,MrBrown i was wondering if in future videos if you would consider making one on how you clean and protect and polish your bikes,particularly the chrome on your red classic 350 tank,their is so many products im confused at what purchase and best way to apply,thxs again Mr Brown and please keep them coming absolute barrel of laughes,😂
@MrClarkycn Funny you mention that as I was only thinking the other day that I should do a few servicing video's on the various models. I will include the cleaning and chrome care in one of them for you! Glad you like my slightly warped sense of humour!😁
Thankyou Mr Brown,and yes you have a great wit and a classic wit one lost in times gone by,will look out for the upload.
My instincts say: Just do the breathing (air intake and exhaust) and leave the internals alone.
Good call, it worked on mine. No heavy restrictive cat or covid HOAX mask, bike feels healthy and free now.😄
My fuel x light has lowered the engine temperature considerably( tested ) and i am not using much more if any more at all fuel because I’m mostly in a higher gear for the same speed so i would say that ur bike is not typical and would also say that if you bought the bike already modified then i would take off the mods one at a time and find the culprit but i think its going to be the cam that is the issue because im running the 16 tooth sprocket and that was because of the extra available torque given via the fuel x so that is the one thing i would swear by, and yes my first thought was if its running richer then it will use more fuel and logically that still has to be true but my own calculations have proven that assumption to be wrong because im using a higher gear everywhere compared to standard and with normal riding and not being gentle im still averaging around 90 mpg 89.3 was my actual average i fill up at the last two bars on the gauge and always get around 250 ish miles per tank now she’s properly run in
@NoelRoots-t1u Didn't work for me! All the mods have now been removed and I have refitted a 16T gearbox sprocket, The bike is back to how it was when I bought it new. just perfect!
@@Volcanicbrown1878
Its just my opinion but i think some people will just throw all the mods on that are available and hope for the best but then they have no baseline to work from i fitted a fuel x first as the fuelling was definitely lean especially at low revs having that on it allowed me to move on to the next problem so i then designed my own air box lid that would take some of the turbulence away from the mouth of the air box so now i was getting more air in allowed me to use a through mid pipe, but i tested and adjusted everything on my way through the process even having the ability to lengthen or shorten the mid pipe by 30 mm made a big difference to the hill climbing ability of the bike and the gearing its able to use but hey im a methodical bugger and spent a lot of years doing research engineering based mostly around air flow and turbulence both making it work for you and trying to eradicate it so i had a decent head-start but im glad you got your sparkly black little number how you like it 👍
I have the exact model and colour as you, had it now for over 2 years and is by far for me the best bike I have owned in over 54 years of riding. I fully agree with what you have said, about 6 months in I purchased and fitted a de cat pipe from Hitchcocks, did about 100 miles then re fitted the cat. For me the noise was not enjoyable as a deep resonance was in my helmet, so once cat re fitted back to the relaxing sound I liked, last engine mod I did. As you say why buy a relaxing bike then try to turn into a different type of bike, I owned a Triumph street triple for over 3 years that went like stink and handled on rails. In the end though I found the high revving nature wore me down, a great bike for what is was designed for but for me I just craved a more relaxing ride, hence why I love my Classic so much. If you want a fast bike buy a fast bike, if you want a relaxed economical ride buy a standard Classic. Keep up the great videos, also loved the dozer video 😊
@Peter234100 Hi Peter I think you have summed it up!....The Dozer vid got thrown in the bin. After the initial flurry of views, folks just stopped watching it completely!
Great review of something most people wouldn’t do 👏👍👌
The RE enthusiast community has calmed down a lot now, so you don't have to be too concerned about sharing your opinion anymore. Now 2 years ago you would have been lambasted for sharing this ever so valid personal observation.. People want to believe this stuff all works, when the airbox, funny enough, works as designed and does not need to be fiddled with. I have seen the fuelx on a mates bike dropped the temperature around 50 celcius from the outside, which is a good difference but the engine still runs darn hot and will discolour those after market free flow exhausts just the same as without. I haven't seen the stock pipes discolour at all myself, they're quality.
• 10 hours ago The stock pipes don't discolour because they are twin walled.
Thinking about it it probably won’t help your fuel consumption that much but should help but definitely will improve the starting and running if you used a hotter spark plug for a better burn I feel you would notice the difference for sure as you know tuning is like dominos one thing effects many things but it sounds like the free exhaust and the high lift on the cam is preventing a good burn 👍
@user-rd7qu8kk6d The bad starting was eventually identified as a sooted up Lamda sensor. I cleaned that up and then removed the DNA air filter and put a standard one in. Then the freeflow exhaust and silencer came off and were replaced with the standard setup including the Cat. It still has the cam and the Fuel x lite. The results were that the low and mid range performance are considerably improved. I have now refitted the 16t gearbox sprocket and the economy is back to what it should be. I will probably leave it as it is now.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 im running a standard filter with a home made lid on it, i have ridden a cammed up Classic but i didn’t like it so didn’t go down that road
To be fair, you've got a Stainless steel front pipe on that bike, and they always discolour ❓
I've fitted a Fuel X Lite System on Both my Interceptor 650 and Hunter 350
No problems, but many people don't set them up right, Royal Enfield state in their own information, any changes to the intake to the engine, or exhaust,
You are supposed to run the engine for 30 minutes on tick over, to acclimatise the ECU,
the TH-camr "TigerNess" state's this one of his videos,
Also Fuel X don't claim more power, they are meant to help the bike burn less lean, and they actually Do run cooler, which prelongs the life of the Engine and Oil 👍
That has been actually proven by Hitchcocks UK 👍
Cheers Paul 👍
Very honest review....nice!
If you want more power get a bigger one right !! I love all Royal Enfield's for what they are. My best wishes to you from the Philippines ❤️💪👍😉😀😁🏁🏍️🛺🐑🇵🇭🏴
Just listening to you & you right you spend 800 notes for not much improvement iv did this 🤔
I have managed to improve it but it was a lot of gigery pokey .
With your baffles iv experimented and found the use of stainless steel perforated sheet rolled into a Swiss roll shape it is coiled & grips itself into the exhaust with one nut & bolt in tailpipe to stop it shooting out & making it about 5 to 6 inch long, it doesn’t restrict causing pressure waves, it decreases the sound level you need around 3 to 4 layers from centre . Slice a 😁pice of bar as a winder to make you roll up .
well Up to you mate try it on one of your other bikes . Bit of a ramble hope it makes sense
@user-mu5xy9nr8d Il have to try it, yes it does make sense!
That's my favourite colour for the 350....looks classic ....do like the military looking ones though
I wonder if that particular fuelxlite is functioning correctly?
I agree with your opinion about the cam.
I agree, I have resisted to mess around with mine and your experience with this bike is very informative. Thanks for the video. It would be good for you to do a follow up video when back to stock to see if everything is back to normal when riding it.
@chrisrobinson8980 No problem, will do! 👍
at last, someone who owns one and is honest enough to say it. Waste of money, waste of fuel, for a 20hp engine that's limited on speed. If you want a faster bike, buy one. Most engine mods will yield a few % in extra power, when you're talking a base line of 20 (claimed) it's rather pointless, unless you are racing them on the track.
@icedidi I thought this vid wouldn't do very well because it was full of negative stuff, but they are my bikes and if I don't like something I will say so!
Totally agree, why buy a pony and then try to force it to be a race horse , crazy..
The low MPG is a big red flag to me, look forward to seeing what your results are in a future post
@markhinde6187 I have taken all the mods off and the fuel consumption is back to what it was. 200 miles per tank full.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Interesting. Thanks for this honest video. I had an order in for a bunch of this stuff including the cam to be sent to me here in the US. I just cancelled it. Great little bike. Love it. I have a 2022 Classic 350. But, I also have a T100 which has all the power I will ever need. No sense trying to turn this bike into something more powerful. I use this bike to tour around on the rural back roads near where I live in Vermont. Love it for that. It is a bit anemic up the hills which we have a lot of. But, I can live with that.
I’m leaving mine as is! If I need to go faster I’ll just ride my 750 Honda!! BTW mine is the Crome and Bronze!
@davidkolb1942 IMHO, They are better standard. There is a new variant coming out soon, chrome and emerald green!
There's a guy on here (motomorten) who's put the 410 big bore kit on the bike. I'm interested to see how that goes. As standard though, the 350 classic makes some beating.
Don't see the point of that ,? Might as well bought a 500 .
@@iandawson7723 Can you tell me where they sell brand new classic 500's?
Cheers VB, that was genuinely helpful as I'm picking up a second hand classic (all standard) on Fri morning, thanks 👍
@marktorbay
Enjoy!
My uncle told me about 55 years ago,if it ain't broke don't fix it!! These companies spend millions of dollars to get these machines right,leave it alone!!! Great video!!! You can always plan a little longer trip on the two lane roads.I avoid the interstate roads as much as I can.
@user-ts1fp4nm9y How right he was!
I agree with the type of road these bikes are best suited for ,on the motorway here I feel I'm holding people up as everyone nearly overtakes me, , even the heavy lorries , it's best suited to the A+ B roads here being a design from the late 50s I believe these fast monotonous roads didn't exist.
@@iandawson7723 There is nothing on these bikes that was designed in the 1950's apart from the casquette. Every thing is bang up to date, technology wise. Fuel injection, ABS, disc brakes, overhead cam etc The old cast iron Bullet's were designed in the 50's and there is no comparison between the two.
Thanks for saving me a pile of cash!
It's your bike and your choices. I just fail to see how your fuel consumption is so bad.... I've put a dna filter on mine and a decat. Haven't done the cam...im on the fence about it still... but the bike is still doing 95mpg and the "enhancements" have made it livelier. That one of yours must have a problem somewhere. Be interesting to hear if your mpg goes back up when you've put it back to standard
@widephil I'l keep you posted!
My classic350 is soon to be delivered. In the meanwhile I watched quite a bit of reviews on performance parts and noticed everything you add will change the long stroke performance to the worse or it's all placebo. I saw a fullt modded review and acceleration went from 16s/100kmh to 12.5s/100kmh and it is louder and more consumption. This is not where this RE shines IMO.
The only engine mod I ordered is a belt drive and like some bags . Maybe alloy wheels if I cannot keep the originals in a decent state. Ceramic protection... nothing else I could come up with after viewing reviews for 4 months now.
Hope you'll enjoy your classic soon. Last weekend I rode a demo like your's and it's color is amazing but I chose the red/chrome one.
kr, Erik
@electrobob1 A great comment! Thankyou for taking the time to post it!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 I like those Hagon closed rear shocks as well😅
I'm not fed up. I'm currently in the works of buying a classic 350 here in Canada, and have legit concerns being 6 feet tall, and 290lbs on a 20 hp bike. I'm mostly buying it to commute to work, but also ride on nice peaceful back country roads. Unfortunately to visit my Father I do need to ride a 100km/hr stretch of road for about 15 minutes, so a little extra top end might be a bonus. I appreciate all of the creators who post their 350's here as it's a great research tool, so thank you very much and I love your bike!
@jjstuartonwriting8150 Well if it's any help, I'm 6ft 6ins and weigh 231lbs and I'm good for 200+ miles at a sitting with no probs on this little 350! It's very comfortable for me.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Thank you! Now I just have to decide on the classic 350 or the meteor 350...so many hard choices!
@@jjstuartonwriting8150classic will be better due to your height. Your legs will be too high on a meteor. Just IMO
@@christopherpekel6096 Plus there are so many options to make the classic 350 unique and really retro. I want to make mine in homage to my time in the military.
Just did the dna filter, it's livelier, yes also a bit louder. Haven't bothered with anything else, as it takes away some of it's gentle charm, done about 2,ooo mls, very content. 👍
Would you consider going with bar end mirrors? I have trouble seeing around my shoulders.
@Rob-lj3kf Yes, bar end mirrors are one option, Mirror stalk extenders are another. RE made two different lengths of mirror stalks for the old Bullets. Personaly, I'm not a huge fan of bar end ones as they are a bit vulnerable being wider than the handlebars, although that being said, I have bar ends on my classic 500 (Only because it wouldn't fit in my van with the original mirrors!)
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Thank for your suggestions. I will check on them.
Well said ! My Signals 350 has clocked 2500 miles and is standard and is perfect for my needs. Lazy engine allows you to slow life down and appreciate the present moment.
@aircooledtwin8 Well said!
Beautiful bike
This makes me glad I just did the DNA air filter. I didn’t notice any downside with it just a bit more mid and upper range power
Thanks for a no nonsense honest opinion
I almost bought one but opted for the Interceptor instead due to all the reviews that said the bike is under powered
I am now thinking about getting a reborn but want to find one that’s completely bone stock and the used market is getting larger here in Florida and my eyes are now wide open and looking for that garage queen
Thanks for your input
And regards from Florida
I recently picked up a very low mileage 2022 Classic 350. Lovely economical bike that compliments my T100 well.
Thank you for the video comparing the two 350s. I have one (green.. lovely!) and am happy with how it goes in standard form.
Good to have honest feedback from a fellow Classic 350 enthusiast. I have the Fuelx lite and decat pipe fitted to my bike but neither were for performance as the bike is a 350 single after all and not a super bike. Sticking with Fuelx on my bike as it does smooth out snatchiness on my bike and there is also less back firing or popping now. Also sticking with decat pipe mainly due to weight saving and in my opinion a nicer exhaust note so again not a performance boost. Had considered using the Hitchcock’s open air filter cover (with standard air filter) but after trying it found that all it did was increase unwelcome induction roar. Won’t be using DNA filters as I consider the claims to be marketing hype - lots of riders have tried them and returned to stock which must say something.
It’s good to have different views but the main thing is that we all agree how good the Classic 350 is in these days of computer designed plastic futuristic styled bikes. Royal Enfield are keeping it real and building bikes that the reasonably competent home mechanic can look after themselves without the need to take it to a dealer to plug in and “service” for owners.
Hello, Keith, in my opinion I'd say you have the perfect set up. I've said for awhile if you're only going to do one thing, get the decat. If you want to do two, get the fuelx lite. If really need to do 3, reconsider.
You summed it up in one, if you want a higher performance bike, don't buy the RE350; simple. I think it's beautiful machine, but the reason I wouldn't buy one is I'd want a little bit more oomph, otherwise I'd have been off to a Royal Enfield dealer like a rat up a drainpipe. Still thinking about the Interceptor though, but a bigger classic is in the factory wings perhaps...? Great video as usual. Thanks Mr. Brown.
I saw the RE 350 as a nice little addition to my stable to compliment my bigger more powerful bike (T-100). But, what is happening is that at age 73 I am riding the 350 all the time because it is so much lighter and easier to push around the garage. Also, it is a lot easier to handle even when out riding. A lot less stress compared to the Bonneville. Although, I do love the Bonneville as well. 😀
I’ve always said don’t modify royal Enfield bikes waste of time if you do you have the results higher fuel consumption people think they know better let them waste there money RE restrict them for a good reason 👍🏍️
@SOLOMOTOUK Dead right!
This is my first time at your channel so the mods are all new to me. I've dithered for ages on my meteor about spending money on the upgrades you've done and this is very helpful. The only thing that would be better is if you and tigerness (another youtuber) got together and rode each others classics as he's done pretty similar mods and seems very happy. 👍
The only reason I'd like a bit more oomph is for the occasional overtakes where my meteor can feel pretty flat at times plus those occasions into strong headwinds, otherwise I'm enjoying it more than seems reasonable for a 20bhp bike.
@walt7518 If it's your first time at this channel, you probably haven't watched this! th-cam.com/video/8vIb2ImwTjs/w-d-xo.html
I have the bike and have done the additions apart from cam. Really considering going back to stock.
Its silly to go fast on a motorbike. High drag co-efficient spoils the fuel consumption. The only mod I'd make to this bike is make it some classic legshields
I found the FuelX lite smoothed out a snatchy throttle when cold, and the dna definitely helped it breathe and it felt better. I’ve got the rest of the mods but don’t feel the need to install them as, for me, the bike is perfect as is.
Nice video and generally agree with you, Enfield got it right 😊
Since this is the mod bike Put a nitrous bottle in it 😁🤠💥
@DANTHETUBEMAN Well, that would be the end of the economy, chain and rear tyre for sure!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 it's a good looking little bike. Back to stock, will be great. 🤠
@@DANTHETUBEMAN That's the plan!
I have a Classic 350 which I like just as it is. I've watched a few videos covering these various mods, the benefits seem to be marginal, at the expense of noise and some loss of refinement. You've been very honest about the reality of going down this path. I think we'd all love a little more poke from this charming machine. A new Classic 500 doesn't seem to be in the pipeline. One interesting possibility is a 410cc big bore kit for the J-platform 350, available from India. There is at least one review on You Tube. This seems like a good route to improving performance overall without increased noise and peakiness. I am hoping that this kit, or something similar, will be marketed by Hitchcocks in the near future, thereby offering some quality assurance.
@roverchap The big problem with Hitchcock's marketing a big bore kit is that it will be 4 times the price.
Didn’t realise that one was green until this video and it looks amazing!!
Rode the Meteor and thought what a lovely little engine.. Pulled lovely..If anything it kind of suddenly lost power at around 70mph..Felt like it was fitted with a limiter to me…Mentioned it to the dealer and he told me they were…Weather there’s any truth in that I don’t know.. Certainly felt like it to me..Agree, stick it back to stock set up..👍ATB
@DickieMintCycles Yes, they have two limiters, a rev limiter and a speed limiter driven by the ABS. Even if you take the ABS fuse out, they still limit the bike to around 73mph. I think the Hunter doesn't have the speed limiter fitted as I watched a video of a guy in the States riding a Hunter and it was showing 90mph on the speedo!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Interesting…You’ve taught me something ..Which is what it’s all about.. I’d be keeping my eyes peeled for a hunter ECU perhaps ..If it’s feasible and would work …Can’t see Enfield changing too much between the motors if anything..You might then get rid of the speed limiter maybe?Agreed,put the mechanicals back to standard..Enjoy your day! 👍
Well said Mr Brown. If you want more performance you need a different bike. Indeed. As if Royal Enfield are a bunch of idiots who couldn't make a decent bike. No. I am sure the standard bike has the right balance of power and pleasurable riding. I had a 390 KTM with 40 hp and it went like stink nothing wrong with it . However, it was not a 'nice' bike to ride. It was urgent and harsh and determined to hurry me along - like being pulled by a big dog that keeps looking back as if saying "Come on", "come on". Lovely bike Mr Brown.
only thing worthi is the DNA air filter, last much more and is clenable and re usable , the rest is useless without a remapping of ecu
@nonsononessunooko4066 That is what the Fuel X is supposed to do!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 yeah but it dosent🤣
I like my stock 350, have no issues with the way it putters along
The best things about these bikes is adequate performance, reasonable handling and comfort plus 100 mpg and cheap maintenance. Mine does everything I ask of it. All the touring add-ons are binned and apart from a fly screen and rack it is totally standard. My only gripe is the rear suspension is a bit harsh even on the softest setting but that is not a deal killer. Thanks for showing the go-faster mods up for what they are. You have probably stopped a lot of folk buying stuff they only imagine they'll need.
Opinions are like A$$holes… everyone has one some are just stinkier than others😂😂😂 do what you like, but she’s still a beautiful machine❤
Nah leave it and ride it please do a video after you take off the after market stuff i like it better stock...
Thanks. Well said, in this world of more and more, when less is more.
@petercallaghan4718 Yes, that's it, More or less!!
I always appreciate your honest integrity with your content. Keep doing exactly what you’re doing, my friend.
@johnc6165 I appreciate that!
For somebody who can appreciate big twins to a Raleigh Runabout, I reckon your opinions on this 350 single are worth listening to. It's not a bike for someone with things to prove, but in its own back lane domain it's a belter. Mine sips E5 fuel, probably the most economical bike since my Honda 90.
Well, well! Like I was thinking myself,mine is stock,I like it that way, people stop giving your hard earned money to Hitchcock, is there a big window in that shop......or what??
Morning MrB, I'm with you on this one. We regularly get customers ask our opinion on fitting performance cams to modern RE singles, we always tell them the juice isn't worth the squeaze. If you want more performance you have probably bought the wrong bike, we recently fitted a fuel-x lite a free flow exhaust system & a DNA filter to a customers 350 all parts supplied by him from MrH at a cost of over £500 ! Will the bike be any better ? I doubt it !
I like to keep any bike I have standard as far as the engine is concerned. Looks like you have unearthed a bit of red herring with these so called engine upgrades for these bikes. Yes, each to his own, we all have our own opinions. The cost would put me off in the first place!
All the best JI 😊👍🏍
Honest opinion u agree ps used to be in plant driving business 38 rob rb d8 with box plus vibromat behind 953 regards rod
@rodneygunn788 I binned the D8 vid cause it stopped getting any views at all! Not really surprising on a bike channel! Good to hear from a fellow Plant man. TC Fella!
I own a meteor 350, and to me, the bike is a modern MZ 250. It is cheap and reliable to own and run but not fast. If I was buying another one new, the only mods I would be replacing the OE chain and the tyres otherwise if I wanted faster I would have chosen a different buke.
Yes, I am considering some more aggressive tires because I do ride on quite a few dirt roads around here. But, I am even questioning that mod. I'll consider it again after the stock tires are toast.
I see the supervisor and the inspector were checking out the yardwork. No doubt the mousing habitat has changed a bit , they may not approve of your yard or the 350 modifications .
Re the 350 , DNA type filter passes more air ,makes more noise and filters less dirt . I don't see them on equipment that operates in dusty conditions , so for what they cost , in my opinion for everyday use , just an expensive joke .
The cam should work if the fuelling could be altered . With a carb you could rejet it , but " computer says no " .
So you are b*ggered before you start . Setting up a small engine for increased power is a trade off and some of these bolt on go faster bits won't work together .
Maybe some "porting" would help.
Even in the old days , pepping up an engine made it more peaky .
Aunty Enfield knows best sonny .
Another thing that you should remove is that silly peak on the headlight , an intensely annoying chunk of avoirdupois .😂
@dungspreader Yeah, that peak was the first thing to go on the classic 500! (Tin tat at it's finest!) The Fuel x is supposed to take care of the fueling, but I have my doubts on that too. This afternoon whilst this video was percolating, I whipped the Lambda sensor out and it's very sooty. Can only really be the Fuel x.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 . Yep over rich .
@dungspreader I wish I was over rich!
Thanks for your honesty.
I wont bother.
Regards
MikeN
@michaelnicholson5218 Won't bother with what??
@@Volcanicbrown1878Sorry if you misunderstood my comment,
I wont bother with any of the mods that were made to your bike it's fine as std for me.
If I want to go faster ill crack out the 1200 Bandit
Regards
MimeN
@michaelnicholson5218 I thought you meant that you won't bother with a comment!! There you go! a 1200 Bandit makes up the difference!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 I've been wondering how the 350 would cope with longer rides.
I'm glad to hear about your longer runs went ok.
I would like to take a 2 to 3 week trip into France but wondered how the 350 would cope.
I'm a big believer in horses for courses, but I really like the 350 ride, and am reluctant to use the Bandit
Cos I'm 71, and it's a lump.
What do you think? One tank full at a time and then rest it for a couple of hours? Or press on regardless?
Regards Mike N
@michaelnicholson5218 On my longer trips I tend to just stop for fuel and press on (200 miles)
Just wondering what sort of an affect could this power increase have on the big end, I would imagine it could cause premature failure over a period of time another thing what about the warrenty? Would it still be valid?
@alanjones32 The amount of extra power the kit adds in very small, I don't think the big end would take any notice on such a small increase.
If you want to put performance mods on a classic 350,you probably don't get the whole point of the classic350 in the first place ,if you need more performance, there are other Royal Enfield models to fit the bill!,good video Mr Brown, hopefully you've saved some people some money!
I'm with you VB. I can't see much point trying to make a 350 go faster either 👌👍
I personally don't get fed up of you talking about this bike BTW . Some would do well to take heed but then again a certain type never BL**DY listens.😳
Imagine that!!!! The motorcycle was perfect as it was designed!!
And for what it was designed to be.
👍for me. Standard bike is better. I miss my classic .. I am going to test ride the hunter soon.
I sold my 350classic. Nice but prefer my 500classic. Hunter in garage at moment. Actually a courtesy bike. I prefer it to the 350classic but it's a little cramped for me. Lighter. Bit quicker, better ride and much more lively steering. Alloy wheels and plastic guards is a big reduction in unsprung weight.
Don't apologise for being honest, you sharing your opinion could save somebody a lot of money, and spare them all the disappointment.
Ta.
@stuartmarshall4470 A well known supplier is going to love me!!
I just don't get it people buy a 350 then try to make it perform like a 500 buy a 500
@thepipesmokingbeekeeper8917 Exactly my thoughts! Even with all the mods, my cast iron 500 bullet will run rings around this 350! The J series engine will never go as well as a 500. There is no replacement for displacement!
Shame they don't make a new 500 single.😊
I generally agree with this. But, some (me) would like the lightness of the 350 which just a bit more push going up hills at around 50/60 mph. This bike does bother me on that score a little. But, the whole package is lovely and I'm not selling it on any time soon. One thing I was considering was the new Triumph Street 400 which is both lighter and more powerful. But, in the end, I value character. That Triumph lacks character. The RE 350 has the character thing down in spades.
Leave the K&N Filter just put the stock cover on it. They are a good product puts less stress on the intake cycle and are lifetime. The open cover is for noise only. The exhaust mod is lighter and makes the thing run cooler so not a bad thing. Fuel X is the biggest no no... maybe.
I'm looking forward to seeing how this bike performs when it is back to standard. Please dont keep us in suspenders.
@splodge5714 It will be just as I bought it new...I hope!
Any person with some background in petrol engines knows the more air in and out the more power. Decat and DNA is all that's required. As/per the noise? I contend it will sound closer to the original bullet 350. To each their own obviously.
@nicholasfox3670 I learned that 50 years ago Bubba.
@@nicholasfox3670 I learned that physics 50 years ago bubba. 😉
Videos about the Classic 350 seem to have gone in 3 stages. 1) New bike, very nice, wish it had a bit more performance. 2) I've found a number of mods that will boost the performance. 3) The mods weren't worth it, might keep the air filter but dump the rest. You are spot-on, if you want more performance, you should have bought something else. For what it's worth, if I had one a Classic 350, I would probably do exactly the same as you.
@williamnethercott4364 I totally agree!
Really sorry these mods haven't worked out for you, very strange. Are they worth the cost of the install, no. In my situation it's a big improvement, Cam swap, decat, dna filter, fast flow filter housing. Only thing I reverted back to was removing the fast flow filter housing, far to much induction noise for me. I've not got the Fuel x or a straight through exhaust system though. Still get 200 miles per tank, although the light starts flashing at around 170-180. Hope you enjoy it when it's returned to stock, enjoyment is paramount when riding these, so crack on & make yourself happy with it. 👍👍
@stevegresty4181Judging by the comments, it seems to liven up some bikes and not others!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 Mmmm, maybe so, very odd.
Throw away you're chainlube and oil your chain with gear oil .
80W90 and you just tuned you're bike
@marinusk67 And that is exactly what I do on all my bikes!
I hope that none of the “Royal Enfield got it right” crowd have changed or added a single thing to their bikes. If you want a bike with a rear rack you should bought one. If you want panniers buy a bike with panniers. No tank pads or upgrades in suspension either. I don’t even know why an aftermarket exists. Why would anyone dream of trying to alter this perfect machine, gifted to us by the mighty gods at RE?
@elwood62 It's human nature to try and make something better when there is no need to!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 all I’ve changed on mine is the gearing. Should I have bought a different bike instead? If I wanted a smoother top end I should have bought a GS I suppose. I’m all for leaving bikes stock. But I also don’t fault people for making tweaks to suit their riding style. If any bike was perfect the aftermarket wouldn’t exist.
you are right, hunting for top end power on this bike is not the way to go.
Why bother with all those additions when what should have been bought was the Classic 500 EFI, mine pulls 70 uphill and into a headwind no bother,
@dozerblade So do all of my 500's! The 350's will never match the 500's for torque.
How much does that 500 weight wet?
It's a backyard beryl machine for small lanes local riding
@paulsilson2148 I have done plenty of motorway work with mine.
@@Volcanicbrown1878 is it a motorway bike?
@@paulsilson2148 Like I said in the video, I went half way round the M25 and the whole length of the M3 twice on that bike with zero issues. They are perfectly capable of motorways!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 no good for the motorways over here though, in the U S
@@paulsilson2148 No ,probably not! Seems like everyone drives at warp speed on the Interstates!
A classic 650 would be nice as an alternative.
I have seen a video where they put another cam in a re350 and found no increase in speed because it has a electronic limiter
@peteduch2151 Putting a cam in the 350 will not increase the top speed! I did say that in the video!
The fuel ex stops it running lean that it needs to pass the Euro 5 pollution requirements. More fuel means that the engine runs cooler as it runs and that means it doesn't cook the oil and so the oil lubricates the engine better and so it will last longer. I would rather have longer engine life and cooler running then extreme gas mileage with it running hot as Hades
@frankmarkovcijr5459 The theory is good but the reality is that it runs just as hot as it did standard. It blued the exhaust pipe!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 don't single wall exhaust pipes blue just as a matter of course. I just meant that fuel injected bike to set so super lean to pass stupid regulations that they cook their oil to death within 300 miles. I thought those devices made them run cooler in order to make them last longer.
@frankmarkovcijr5459 They are supposed to Frank, but this one doesn't seem very good at it!
@@Volcanicbrown1878 sorry to hear that