Fantastic vid. Super helpful. I've been back and forth about this bike ever since I started my A-licence training. After this, the interceptor will be the first one I take out for a test :)
Trouble is it isn't an A category bike. You'll have to hire a bike to do the test. It would be great to ride on to get you to the test and beyond though.
Agreed Bob I'm likewise 68 and currently riding a Vulcan 900. If I do change going back to an old British style twin potter is very tempting to complete my circle of biking and the Enfield ticks the boxes for me.
I have been riding longer than most people have been alive and in all those years I have never enjoyed high speed riding on highways. A sustained 70 mph (117 KPH) is about as fast as I like to go. The slower back roads are where the fun and adventure is, with highway speeds up to 80 MPH only as an occasional necessity. In this regard, my Interceptor has all the performance I need and want. As a "first full size bike" for a young rider with all the basics down, the Interceptor is a good choice, as a "last full size bike" for an old geezer (like me), it's an excellent choice too.
I booked a new interceptor 650 on May 6,2022. I've been excited to receive it in 45 days. I am here to admit that I keep watching interceptor 650 videos. It's addictive. And your content is so addictive too. Love the videography so much. The sad part is I become impatient to recieve my bike when i see such a video. Ah every day seems like a month away.
It is pleased to see the blue one you got. Excellent choice. 47 hp is more than enough for a beginner rider. RE comes with lower displacement bikes as well like 350s. Great bike great value with lower maintenance cost and it sounds great.
I'm not a beginner and it's plenty for me. Sure, I'd have fun with more power too, but it's fine. I've tried to approach this level headed, not bias to the fact that I really love the RE brand and everything they are doing just now. The truth is, of all the bikes I've ridden, I've always owned bikes around this 47hp Mark, not deliberately either, just a coincidence.
G'day mate. Have just recently come across your channel and I reckon it's pretty bloody good. I'm 63, been on them since I was 13, and always owned one in the years between. Many brands,types(off/on road),styles and engine sizes. I have loved them all regardless of their faults. I currently ride a 2017 fjr1300 and it is brilliant in my opinion. I have test rode the Int650 for a day and thought it was a bloody great price for the simplistic feel and looks of this bike. Will be adding one to my garage in the not too distant future for my town rides. Great channel, all the best and subcribed from Australia.
Bloody awesome Brother ! , on the power , as you said 250cc bikes , hell my beautiful Wife rides a 2003 VTR250 Honda ,, 32hp 12k redline with ease and I love riding it , It is a close 2nd in sound when being ridden with heart to my Interceptor 650 because the VTR has a Scorpion exhaust and she sounds like a 900cc Ducati ! 47hp is an easy 55hp with a new exhaust and K&N air filter , cheep extra performance . Feeling the bike ,, hell I love , like you said I fell in love with mine the minute I seen it sitting in the show room ! , brought it 15 minutes later ,,, Bloody hell the first ride !!! ,,, love mine mate ! and its still strong . Centre stand ,, My old ( sadly stolen ) 1952 ES2 Norton had one and hell ,, I did not realise how much I missed one getting my Interceptor ,, a perfect accessory . $$$'s ,, I grabbed mine one Saturday in September 2021 when I went down to the local bike shop to buy a new pair of boots ,, ,, /\ see above ,, for $8000 AUD 2nd hand with 200km on the clock !!! FFS it does not get any better ! Thanks again Brother for another beauty .
Here in the U.S. we get a 60hp Interceptor by installing the WiseCo 83.5mm pistons; it yields around 60 hp; I have two 2012 Triumphs that have 67hp and the Royal Enfield with the "750cc" kit compares very favorably with an extra gear and 50 less pounds to lug around. The 650's are a bargain to begin with, add the full stainless-steel exhaust and the big bore kit and it is still less money than the current Triumph 900's. They are both very nice bikes, each to his/her own; that's the beauty 😍
The really big maintenance thing with the Interceptor is that she has tappets rather than horrible shims to adjust valve clearance. So much quicker. personally I found it was more time consuming to remove the tank, two bolts, fuel connections, breather pipe and lifting the tank to a safe place than actually setting the valves. Be sure to grease the rocker cover slot to stick the gasket on because otherwise the gasket slips and causes a oil leak. Bitter experience Lol.
brilliant video, any new or returning biker will really benefit from this , if they actually pay attention to what your saying. I know from personal experience how easily we can be swayed into desiring the wrong thing, 170BHP Yamaha that in my head was the perfect bike for me , but in reality scared the sh*t out of me the first time I opened the throttle coming off a roundabout, or lifted the front wheel every time i changed gear. No point in buying a bike if your too terrified or lack the skills to ride it. There are always going to be RE haters out there that have never ridden one but in "their opinion" is too slow, too underpowered etc, and that's fine, it's them that's missing out. Great stuff , looking forward to the next one.
Spot on mate! I'm a returning biker after a few years, and got my Int650 last year. Power is more than enough (and I'm not a slow rider!l ) and I Very rarely red line it
I can't agree more with you. The Interceptor is a top choice for new riders who have just passed their test. It's even better for us old guys as its lighter and easier for us to be able to move around. There is more than enough power to ride on long distances and always looks fabulous when parked up at a cafe. Thank for making a interesting video.
Great Vlog, i agree with everything you said, especially the mirrors. I am lucky enough to own an Interceptor 650, Gt 650, Classic 500 and the Continental GT 535. All have the standard mirrors and as you say i have pushed them forward and have a very wide field of vision behind me. They are in keeping with the 1970's look of the bikes, as are the indicators which people don't seem to like much either. I love the bikes pretty much as they come with a few minor tweaks to tidy up a few rough edges. My brother on the other hand has changed nearly everything on his Interceptor 650 and it looks great! but in my opinion no better! That is one bonus of a reasonable starting price. However in my opinion why mess with perfection! I have owned over 20 other bikes prior to my obsession with RE, Harley's Yamaha's with engines almost 3 times the size of the RE Interceptor Daytona 955. Kawasaki Z1 & Z100 etc but in my opinion it is a waste of very fine engineering. I found it rare to be using more than 25% of the potential power.... however on the very few occasions when opportunity allowed to open up the bikes potential the great thrills come at great risk.....who needs it! Too often i or a member of my family has been present where a rider has lost his life whilst having the time of his life. Cant stop loving those bikes though. Sorry to go on so long. Great Vlog, well made and full of sensible advice, keep up the good work.
my GT650 is my BBFL, but I love the bike segments these REs actually fill, so it's a no brainer to me..... my next bike is most likely going to be a classic 350 for putting around on, after that I am going for an Interceptor with sidecar so my wife will go out on rides with me
A great little video and well explained. Being a newish old rider (49) I passed my test a couple of years ago and had a BMW G310r, quickly went to a Honda CB500X and now am looking for an Interceptor. Having test ridden one, it's great, I wasn't after speed and this will suit the laid back riding I want to do. It wasn't made to break land speed records and as the advert says, Easy Got Back. I guess it all depends how you want to ride.
@@Fergutron It has to be Blue, there is alot of orange ones about, but the Blue is a fantastic colour , Im in no hurry so will probably get one towards the end of the year. Only have to save a little as just spent what I had saved for my sons Car.LOL
Prob be my choice! But test n visit to garage needed. Prob gonna book my DAS for Sept, few more big rides out and have a long hard think whether am rdy. P.s Am still considering the 350 classic.
Excellent video and I think you're right on the mark. The Interceptor would make an excellent first bike. The Interceptor got me back into biking after many years of not owning a bike. Definitely not a midlife crisis, if I was going to have one of those I'd have bought a Ducati or something. I bought the Interceptor because it looks, sounds and feels like the bikes I used to own. For me it's about little things like, a ride to the coast for an ice cream, long lazy ride's around the Northumberland or Yorkshire countryside. I'll admit that I've done a heck of a lot of performance mods to my Interceptor but that's because I enjoy working on the bike, straight out of the box, the Interceptor provides a perfect balance between fun and practically. Ride safe.
Thanks Paul! I was born in the 80s, so there's no reason I should be nostalgic about classic bikes from the 60s and 70s, but for some reason, it speaks to me in a nostalgic way. I remember when I was a young kid, I had very little interest in sports bikes and crossers that everyone round our way had, but there was one guy with an orange classic Kawasaki that I just thought was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. First time I saw the orange interceptor, the wee boy in me was activated! My action man had a hand me down motorbike from an older family member, that I'm pretty sure was a WW2 bullet. Maybe it's little things like that. Or maybe I'm just an old soul lol. Either way, it does have a charm that appeals beyond logic. But it's alsoa very logical choice too. So a perfect combo in my eyes. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! Ride safe mate
@@Fergutron In the eighties there was still a lot of bikes from the sixties and seventies on the road, bikes that look a lot like the Interceptor. I found a picture of me as a young man, posing on my Honda CB750 four, and re created it sitting on the Interceptor, stitched the two pictures side by side. It never fails to make people laugh. Someone once actually said, "wow, you've still got it" Ride safe mate.
Great video, you covered pretty much all the points a novice rider should think about on choosing the first 'biggish' bike. However, it should be said that an experienced rider can get a lot out of this bike, it's not that much lacking on the twisties in the real world.. in the right hands. I'm in a position now that I quite like the idea of getting a Guzzi 850 or a Triumph T120, and can afford one, but I'm not convinced.. for the not inconsiderable extra dosh needed.. that a huge difference will make it worth it. I'll stick with the Interceptor.
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback and you are so right. Too many look at numbers and write bikes off. My Dad has a Himalayan and it's far more fun and capable than the numbers on paper would have you think. Even with its 24HP, it can do everything a bike needs to do, within the limits of the law.
I was in the same position as you, I was looking into bonnevilles, but wasn't convinced the money was worth it, I hadn't heard RE was up and running in the states at that point. When I tested the RE GT650 I was hooked. mt local dealer is inside a Harley dealer, so of course they tried to get me on a Harley instead, I lol'd at them and bluntly let them know that I was leaving on the RE or I was just leaving, I left with my '22 Dux Deluxe GT650 that day..... RE is a product worth buying into (IMHO)
Absolutely brilliant video Motocal! I think you covered just about everything lol! I fell in love with the interceptor the moment I clapped my eyes on it & is the reason why I’ve taken up riding (just wish I did it years ago) I looked at loads of bikes & yes there are som great bikes out there but the RE Interceptor just pulled me right in! Can’t wait now to pass my test(I have a very good reliable Honda CB125F) Got to say I like the colour of your bike it’s growing on me look forward to more of your videos Ride Safe Dude!
Thank you John. I really appreciate the kind words mate. I didn't pass my test until I was 34, but was shopping for bikes at 17 and toyed with it all the time. My Dad (also a biker, and the guy on the Himalayan in this vid) asked me to get my drivers license first and come back to bikes when I had a few years driving under my belt. Wise advice of course, but it took me ages to finally come back. Started riding 125s when I was 30 for commuting and finally got my license a few years later! It's a bit of hassle and money these days, but it's so worth it. You're right, you just wish you'd done it sooner!!! Ride safe buddy and thanks again
First big bike nightmare cbr600 f ,,at 52 was a very bad idea,,,dont even like sport bikes,,,,,,was talked in to buy local garage, he gave me 300pounds and took my very well looked after mutt sabbath,,,,lesson Learned,,,,great vid only 6 months late ,,lol,,,,,,
For the cost, the question is not "Would I rather have a new Interceptor or a four year old Street Twin?". The question is "Four years from now, would I rather have a four year old Interceptor or an eight year old Street Twin?". For me, the answer is the Street Twin.
I was tracking with you right up to the last sentence buddy!! Lol. But I do see your point, I don't think I'd make the same decision. Truthfully, I'm far more of a sell after 2 years kinda person anyway!!
Fair review, but UK motorcycle licencing laws are SO complex and costly now compared to the sensible "Learners up to 250cc, pass test, and then ride whatever" system in place when I lived there in the '70s. Nowadays you basically need a slide rule calculator and Excel spreadsheet to know just what bike you can ride with which licence. Frankly, it all seems to me like a huge expensive boondoggle for the certifications and testing industry--just a heaping overabundance of "Nanny State" bullshit. Here in the States, where we have a single "ride anything you like" motorcycle endorsement, with some states having recently added a separate additional certification for sidecars or 3-wheelers for the crop of newer riders just climbing into the saddle, it's hardly ideal either. In no way is it a sound notion for a novice rider with their licence still warm from the lamination machine to be able to stroll into a dealership, hop onto a Hayabusa or some other race-bred "Organ Donor Special" crotch rocket, and launch themselves directly from the showroom into The Hereafter. I'd instead suggest it would be sensible for a novice rider to spend a year bashing around on a nice little sub-500cc "beater", say an old but well-kept Honda Rebel 250 or 300 single or its like. Assuming they survive a year of that, THEN I would agree that one of Enfield's new 650 twins would be perfectly appropriate as a good balanced "all 'round bike". In fact, for oldsters like me, or perhaps "returning riders", who just want a little something to thump around dodging those butterflies on a sunny weekend day, I'd suggest also taking a close look at Enfield's new J-Engine 350 singles, like their Meteor or pleasantly retro-looking "Classic"--If those Motorways or Interstates are something you'd prefer to avoid anyhow, are happy mostly just cruising in the 50s or 60s, one of those might scratch that itch just fine. In fact, in a few years, when those little 350s start popping up in the used market, my hunch is for many they may become that "first beater bike" they simply never bother "upgrading" from.
How cam you say the the CB650R is a 'direct competitor' to the RE? The CB has exactly twice the hp (94) of the RE. You can't even ride it under your ridiculous licensing scheme. A 47hp limit (who came up with that number and how was it determined?) means your 2nd bike should be in the 450 - 500cc range. You keep calling the RE650 a 'big' bike and it is not unless you are only talking engine size and weight. 47hp is not a big bike. In the US posted highway speeds are 75 - 80 mph, the RE650 is not going to handle that well. Love the looks but they missed the mark. 60hp and 6 speed gear box is what it should have.
You are wrong. The interceptor cruises at 80mph very happily. Do you want video evidence? It'll cruise up to 90 happily. At 90, you don't have much roll on power for overtakes.... But you shouldn't be riding at 90mph anyway, never mind overtaking other vehicles at that speed. All middleweight bikes are in direct competition with each other. You are overly obsessed with power. I didn't make the licensing rules, they're not mine, and I don't know who did. It's a big bike to a new rider I think I addressed your points, but let me know. Thanks again.
@@Fergutron Cruises at 80mph? With a claimed top speed of 175kph that is not cruising, that's topped out at 80 mph. The legal speed limit in Texas is 85mph, that's 136 kph. So passing at 90 is a real thing.
@@hazcat640 Your maths is flawed. 108mph roughly is the top speed. 80mph is using about 75% of total power. Not quite topping out as you suggest. You know that nobody is trying to force you to buy one, right?
The amount of time you spend on explaining and apologizing for the fact that the RE650 is severely underpowered highlights this shortcoming. As someone who has been riding for 50 + years I can tell you that a good general rule is for every 100cc you should get 10hp. That is the sweet spot. The RE650 should be in the 60 hp range. As it is a rider is going to be bored and disappointed in the RE in about a year. You're going to want to take that 1000 + mile journey to some vacation spot and you will find that 47hp with that amount of weight will be sorely lacking on a modern highway.
I think I did the opposite. I spent time talking about the fact that some bikes can be considered underpowered, but I think 47hp here is just right. Acknowledging the fact that even if you do get bored, that's okay, you can always progress if you feel the need to. I disagree that this bike would leave you desperate for more power, but that is obviously a matter of opinion, not fact. Each to their own, I can only present mine! Thanks for watching 👍
47 hp is more than enough has a claimed top speed of around 175kph if thats what you're into, beauty engine and exhaust note from the 270 degree crank,you can tour on any bike from a puch maxi to a zx10,ive got a ktm superduke GT and a classic 500...havent ridden the ktm in months ive been to busy having the time of my life on the 27 hp 500,im actually thinking about selling the ktm and getting an interceptor i liked it so much when test riding 👌 great video
@@marcjohnson7734 thank you very much Marc. It's clearly something that divides a lot of bikers. I think the fact you've got a very balanced opinion, based on experience, given your own personal bike choices. Big bikes are fun, wee bikes are fun. Crazy fast bikes are fun, slower bikes are fun. Bikes are awesome. That's the only conclusion I can come to! Thanks again for watching mate 👍
Did 6000km last summer going to Poland and Croatia.. yes, I tried to avoid motorways when possible.. it needed a bit more without revving it to death... answer... go fro a 15 to a 16 tooth front sprocket, no real drawbacks but now it cruises very comfortably at 120/130kmh with 'loads 'to spare
Fantastic vid. Super helpful. I've been back and forth about this bike ever since I started my A-licence training. After this, the interceptor will be the first one I take out for a test :)
Thank you! I'm glad you liked the video bud. Definitely worth a test ride. Good luck with your training!!
Trouble is it isn't an A category bike. You'll have to hire a bike to do the test. It would be great to ride on to get you to the test and beyond though.
It also makes a good last first new bike at 68 my wife bought me a2021 intersepter mk2 for our 40 wedding anniversary
Lucky man!!! Thanks for watching mate and ride safe
Agreed Bob
I'm likewise 68 and currently riding a Vulcan 900.
If I do change going back to an old British style twin potter is very tempting to complete my circle of biking and the Enfield ticks the boxes for me.
Happy Riding 😊
I have been riding longer than most people have been alive and in all those years I have never enjoyed high speed riding on highways. A sustained 70 mph (117 KPH) is about as fast as I like to go. The slower back roads are where the fun and adventure is, with highway speeds up to 80 MPH only as an occasional necessity. In this regard, my Interceptor has all the performance I need and want. As a "first full size bike" for a young rider with all the basics down, the Interceptor is a good choice, as a "last full size bike" for an old geezer (like me), it's an excellent choice too.
Great advice, I'm 51 now have had sports bikes and a cafe racer, but I am loving my interceptor 650 it just works.
I booked a new interceptor 650 on May 6,2022. I've been excited to receive it in 45 days. I am here to admit that I keep watching interceptor 650 videos. It's addictive. And your content is so addictive too. Love the videography so much. The sad part is I become impatient to recieve my bike when i see such a video. Ah every day seems like a month away.
Brought Continental GT Rocker Red as my first bike and I freaking love it 🙂...
It is pleased to see the blue one you got. Excellent choice. 47 hp is more than enough for a beginner rider. RE comes with lower displacement bikes as well like 350s. Great bike great value with lower maintenance cost and it sounds great.
I'm not a beginner and it's plenty for me. Sure, I'd have fun with more power too, but it's fine. I've tried to approach this level headed, not bias to the fact that I really love the RE brand and everything they are doing just now. The truth is, of all the bikes I've ridden, I've always owned bikes around this 47hp Mark, not deliberately either, just a coincidence.
G'day mate. Have just recently come across your channel and I reckon it's pretty bloody good. I'm 63, been on them since I was 13, and always owned one in the years between. Many brands,types(off/on road),styles and engine sizes. I have loved them all regardless of their faults. I currently ride a 2017 fjr1300 and it is brilliant in my opinion. I have test rode the Int650 for a day and thought it was a bloody great price for the simplistic feel and looks of this bike. Will be adding one to my garage in the not too distant future for my town rides. Great channel, all the best and subcribed from Australia.
Thank you Andy! Very much appreciated mate. As you say, at the end of the day, what not to enjoy when you're riding a motorbike!!
@@Fergutron Spot on brother.
Bloody awesome Brother ! , on the power , as you said 250cc bikes , hell my beautiful Wife rides a 2003 VTR250 Honda ,, 32hp 12k redline with ease and I love riding it , It is a close 2nd in sound when being ridden with heart to my Interceptor 650 because the VTR has a Scorpion exhaust and she sounds like a 900cc Ducati !
47hp is an easy 55hp with a new exhaust and K&N air filter , cheep extra performance .
Feeling the bike ,, hell I love , like you said I fell in love with mine the minute I seen it sitting in the show room ! , brought it 15 minutes later ,,, Bloody hell the first ride !!! ,,, love mine mate ! and its still strong .
Centre stand ,, My old ( sadly stolen ) 1952 ES2 Norton had one and hell ,, I did not realise how much I missed one getting my Interceptor ,, a perfect accessory .
$$$'s ,, I grabbed mine one Saturday in September 2021 when I went down to the local bike shop to buy a new pair of boots ,, ,, /\ see above ,, for $8000 AUD 2nd hand with 200km on the clock !!! FFS it does not get any better !
Thanks again Brother for another beauty .
Here in the U.S. we get a 60hp Interceptor by installing the WiseCo 83.5mm pistons; it yields around 60 hp; I have two 2012 Triumphs that have 67hp and the Royal Enfield with the "750cc" kit compares very favorably with an extra gear and 50 less pounds to lug around. The 650's are a bargain to begin with, add the full stainless-steel exhaust and the big bore kit and it is still less money than the current Triumph 900's.
They are both very nice bikes, each to his/her own; that's the beauty 😍
The really big maintenance thing with the Interceptor is that she has tappets rather than horrible shims to adjust valve clearance. So much quicker. personally I found it was more time consuming to remove the tank, two bolts, fuel connections, breather pipe and lifting the tank to a safe place than actually setting the valves.
Be sure to grease the rocker cover slot to stick the gasket on because otherwise the gasket slips and causes a oil leak. Bitter experience Lol.
Great vid, I’ve owned my Interceptor for 3 years and I still Love going out for a ride on her, I can highly recommend 😀👍
brilliant video, any new or returning biker will really benefit from this , if they actually pay attention to what your saying. I know from personal experience how easily we can be swayed into desiring the wrong thing, 170BHP Yamaha that in my head was the perfect bike for me , but in reality scared the sh*t out of me the first time I opened the throttle coming off a roundabout, or lifted the front wheel every time i changed gear. No point in buying a bike if your too terrified or lack the skills to ride it. There are always going to be RE haters out there that have never ridden one but in "their opinion" is too slow, too underpowered etc, and that's fine, it's them that's missing out. Great stuff , looking forward to the next one.
Spot on mate! I'm a returning biker after a few years, and got my Int650 last year. Power is more than enough (and I'm not a slow rider!l ) and I Very rarely red line it
I can't agree more with you. The Interceptor is a top choice for new riders who have just passed their test. It's even better for us old guys as its lighter and easier for us to be able to move around. There is more than enough power to ride on long distances and always looks fabulous when parked up at a cafe. Thank for making a interesting video.
Great Vlog, i agree with everything you said, especially the mirrors. I am lucky enough to own an Interceptor 650, Gt 650, Classic 500 and the Continental GT 535. All have the standard mirrors and as you say i have pushed them forward and have a very wide field of vision behind me. They are in keeping with the 1970's look of the bikes, as are the indicators which people don't seem to like much either. I love the bikes pretty much as they come with a few minor tweaks to tidy up a few rough edges. My brother on the other hand has changed nearly everything on his Interceptor 650 and it looks great! but in my opinion no better! That is one bonus of a reasonable starting price. However in my opinion why mess with perfection! I have owned over 20 other bikes prior to my obsession with RE, Harley's Yamaha's with engines almost 3 times the size of the RE Interceptor Daytona 955. Kawasaki Z1 & Z100 etc but in my opinion it is a waste of very fine engineering. I found it rare to be using more than 25% of the potential power.... however on the very few occasions when opportunity allowed to open up the bikes potential the great thrills come at great risk.....who needs it! Too often i or a member of my family has been present where a rider has lost his life whilst having the time of his life. Cant stop loving those bikes though. Sorry to go on so long. Great Vlog, well made and full of sensible advice, keep up the good work.
my GT650 is my BBFL, but I love the bike segments these REs actually fill, so it's a no brainer to me..... my next bike is most likely going to be a classic 350 for putting around on, after that I am going for an Interceptor with sidecar so my wife will go out on rides with me
A great little video and well explained. Being a newish old rider (49) I passed my test a couple of years ago and had a BMW G310r, quickly went to a Honda CB500X and now am looking for an Interceptor. Having test ridden one, it's great, I wasn't after speed and this will suit the laid back riding I want to do. It wasn't made to break land speed records and as the advert says, Easy Got Back. I guess it all depends how you want to ride.
Couldn't have said it better Jay! It's a great bike - happy searching. Super important question: What colour are you going for?
Safe riding mate!
@@Fergutron It has to be Blue, there is alot of orange ones about, but the Blue is a fantastic colour , Im in no hurry so will probably get one towards the end of the year. Only have to save a little as just spent what I had saved for my sons Car.LOL
Prob be my choice! But test n visit to garage needed. Prob gonna book my DAS for Sept, few more big rides out and have a long hard think whether am rdy.
P.s Am still considering the 350 classic.
Excellent video and I think you're right on the mark.
The Interceptor would make an excellent first bike.
The Interceptor got me back into biking after many years of not owning a bike. Definitely not a midlife crisis, if I was going to have one of those I'd have bought a Ducati or something.
I bought the Interceptor because it looks, sounds and feels like the bikes I used to own. For me it's about little things like, a ride to the coast for an ice cream, long lazy ride's around the Northumberland or Yorkshire countryside. I'll admit that I've done a heck of a lot of performance mods to my Interceptor but that's because I enjoy working on the bike, straight out of the box, the Interceptor provides a perfect balance between fun and practically.
Ride safe.
Thanks Paul! I was born in the 80s, so there's no reason I should be nostalgic about classic bikes from the 60s and 70s, but for some reason, it speaks to me in a nostalgic way. I remember when I was a young kid, I had very little interest in sports bikes and crossers that everyone round our way had, but there was one guy with an orange classic Kawasaki that I just thought was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. First time I saw the orange interceptor, the wee boy in me was activated! My action man had a hand me down motorbike from an older family member, that I'm pretty sure was a WW2 bullet. Maybe it's little things like that. Or maybe I'm just an old soul lol. Either way, it does have a charm that appeals beyond logic. But it's alsoa very logical choice too. So a perfect combo in my eyes. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! Ride safe mate
@@Fergutron In the eighties there was still a lot of bikes from the sixties and seventies on the road, bikes that look a lot like the Interceptor. I found a picture of me as a young man, posing on my Honda CB750 four, and re created it sitting on the Interceptor, stitched the two pictures side by side. It never fails to make people laugh. Someone once actually said, "wow, you've still got it"
Ride safe mate.
@@paulstoker7650 love the CB750 four. Those headers 😍
Great video, you covered pretty much all the points a novice rider should think about on choosing the first 'biggish' bike. However, it should be said that an experienced rider can get a lot out of this bike, it's not that much lacking on the twisties in the real world.. in the right hands. I'm in a position now that I quite like the idea of getting a Guzzi 850 or a Triumph T120, and can afford one, but I'm not convinced.. for the not inconsiderable extra dosh needed.. that a huge difference will make it worth it. I'll stick with the Interceptor.
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback and you are so right. Too many look at numbers and write bikes off. My Dad has a Himalayan and it's far more fun and capable than the numbers on paper would have you think. Even with its 24HP, it can do everything a bike needs to do, within the limits of the law.
I was in the same position as you, I was looking into bonnevilles, but wasn't convinced the money was worth it, I hadn't heard RE was up and running in the states at that point. When I tested the RE GT650 I was hooked. mt local dealer is inside a Harley dealer, so of course they tried to get me on a Harley instead, I lol'd at them and bluntly let them know that I was leaving on the RE or I was just leaving, I left with my '22 Dux Deluxe GT650 that day..... RE is a product worth buying into (IMHO)
Absolutely brilliant video Motocal! I think you covered just about everything lol! I fell in love with the interceptor the moment I clapped my eyes on it & is the reason why I’ve taken up riding (just wish I did it years ago) I looked at loads of bikes & yes there are som great bikes out there but the RE Interceptor just pulled me right in! Can’t wait now to pass my test(I have a very good reliable Honda CB125F) Got to say I like the colour of your bike it’s growing on me look forward to more of your videos Ride Safe Dude!
Thank you John. I really appreciate the kind words mate. I didn't pass my test until I was 34, but was shopping for bikes at 17 and toyed with it all the time. My Dad (also a biker, and the guy on the Himalayan in this vid) asked me to get my drivers license first and come back to bikes when I had a few years driving under my belt. Wise advice of course, but it took me ages to finally come back. Started riding 125s when I was 30 for commuting and finally got my license a few years later! It's a bit of hassle and money these days, but it's so worth it. You're right, you just wish you'd done it sooner!!! Ride safe buddy and thanks again
@@Fergutron Thank you
First big bike nightmare cbr600 f ,,at 52 was a very bad idea,,,dont even like sport bikes,,,,,,was talked in to buy local garage, he gave me 300pounds and took my very well looked after mutt sabbath,,,,lesson Learned,,,,great vid only 6 months late ,,lol,,,,,,
well said Cal,,,good points
Perfect advice sir.
For the cost, the question is not "Would I rather have a new Interceptor or a four year old Street Twin?". The question is "Four years from now, would I rather have a four year old Interceptor or an eight year old Street Twin?". For me, the answer is the Street Twin.
I was tracking with you right up to the last sentence buddy!! Lol. But I do see your point, I don't think I'd make the same decision. Truthfully, I'm far more of a sell after 2 years kinda person anyway!!
Fair review, but UK motorcycle licencing laws are SO complex and costly now compared to the sensible "Learners up to 250cc, pass test, and then ride whatever" system in place when I lived there in the '70s. Nowadays you basically need a slide rule calculator and Excel spreadsheet to know just what bike you can ride with which licence. Frankly, it all seems to me like a huge expensive boondoggle for the certifications and testing industry--just a heaping overabundance of "Nanny State" bullshit. Here in the States, where we have a single "ride anything you like" motorcycle endorsement, with some states having recently added a separate additional certification for sidecars or 3-wheelers for the crop of newer riders just climbing into the saddle, it's hardly ideal either. In no way is it a sound notion for a novice rider with their licence still warm from the lamination machine to be able to stroll into a dealership, hop onto a Hayabusa or some other race-bred "Organ Donor Special" crotch rocket, and launch themselves directly from the showroom into The Hereafter. I'd instead suggest it would be sensible for a novice rider to spend a year bashing around on a nice little sub-500cc "beater", say an old but well-kept Honda Rebel 250 or 300 single or its like. Assuming they survive a year of that, THEN I would agree that one of Enfield's new 650 twins would be perfectly appropriate as a good balanced "all 'round bike". In fact, for oldsters like me, or perhaps "returning riders", who just want a little something to thump around dodging those butterflies on a sunny weekend day, I'd suggest also taking a close look at Enfield's new J-Engine 350 singles, like their Meteor or pleasantly retro-looking "Classic"--If those Motorways or Interstates are something you'd prefer to avoid anyhow, are happy mostly just cruising in the 50s or 60s, one of those might scratch that itch just fine. In fact, in a few years, when those little 350s start popping up in the used market, my hunch is for many they may become that "first beater bike" they simply never bother "upgrading" from.
I am such a new rider and just passed my DAS with only 5 days of rider on my belt. You think me putting my name down on a interceptor 650 is ok ?
100%. And congratulations!! Ride safe mate 👍
Try and get a test ride before buying.Dont depend on other people's views.Regard them as a guide only.
@@jimmymac9388 to be fair, he did ask what I 'think'. But you're absolutely right, it's all opinion and test rides are the best way to form one!
With respect to power all and I mean all bikes have enough.
What gloves are you wearing?
Hey, they are actually just some cheap ones I found on amazon mate but they're pretty decent actually.
Excuse me for my ignorance, but are you Scottish? I love the accent.
Yes! Thank you :)
How cam you say the the CB650R is a 'direct competitor' to the RE? The CB has exactly twice the hp (94) of the RE. You can't even ride it under your ridiculous licensing scheme. A 47hp limit (who came up with that number and how was it determined?) means your 2nd bike should be in the 450 - 500cc range. You keep calling the RE650 a 'big' bike and it is not unless you are only talking engine size and weight. 47hp is not a big bike. In the US posted highway speeds are 75 - 80 mph, the RE650 is not going to handle that well.
Love the looks but they missed the mark. 60hp and 6 speed gear box is what it should have.
You are wrong. The interceptor cruises at 80mph very happily. Do you want video evidence? It'll cruise up to 90 happily. At 90, you don't have much roll on power for overtakes.... But you shouldn't be riding at 90mph anyway, never mind overtaking other vehicles at that speed.
All middleweight bikes are in direct competition with each other.
You are overly obsessed with power.
I didn't make the licensing rules, they're not mine, and I don't know who did.
It's a big bike to a new rider
I think I addressed your points, but let me know.
Thanks again.
True the bike could do with a bit more horsepower but it's still more than capable of highway speeds, and the bike has a six speed gearbox...
@@henryhartley9993 that's a really good way to put it Henry! I wouldn't complain if it had more power...but it isn't sorely missed.
@@Fergutron Cruises at 80mph? With a claimed top speed of 175kph that is not cruising, that's topped out at 80 mph. The legal speed limit in Texas is 85mph, that's 136 kph. So passing at 90 is a real thing.
@@hazcat640 Your maths is flawed. 108mph roughly is the top speed. 80mph is using about 75% of total power. Not quite topping out as you suggest. You know that nobody is trying to force you to buy one, right?
2:16 "bakers"
😂😂
They like those powerful ovens
The only people that use a motorcycle at full or nearly full power are TT riders , no thanks .
The amount of time you spend on explaining and apologizing for the fact that the RE650 is severely underpowered highlights this shortcoming. As someone who has been riding for 50 + years I can tell you that a good general rule is for every 100cc you should get 10hp. That is the sweet spot. The RE650 should be in the 60 hp range. As it is a rider is going to be bored and disappointed in the RE in about a year. You're going to want to take that 1000 + mile journey to some vacation spot and you will find that 47hp with that amount of weight will be sorely lacking on a modern highway.
I think I did the opposite. I spent time talking about the fact that some bikes can be considered underpowered, but I think 47hp here is just right. Acknowledging the fact that even if you do get bored, that's okay, you can always progress if you feel the need to. I disagree that this bike would leave you desperate for more power, but that is obviously a matter of opinion, not fact. Each to their own, I can only present mine! Thanks for watching 👍
47 hp is more than enough has a claimed top speed of around 175kph if thats what you're into, beauty engine and exhaust note from the 270 degree crank,you can tour on any bike from a puch maxi to a zx10,ive got a ktm superduke GT and a classic 500...havent ridden the ktm in months ive been to busy having the time of my life on the 27 hp 500,im actually thinking about selling the ktm and getting an interceptor i liked it so much when test riding 👌 great video
@@marcjohnson7734 thank you very much Marc. It's clearly something that divides a lot of bikers. I think the fact you've got a very balanced opinion, based on experience, given your own personal bike choices. Big bikes are fun, wee bikes are fun. Crazy fast bikes are fun, slower bikes are fun. Bikes are awesome. That's the only conclusion I can come to! Thanks again for watching mate 👍
@@marcjohnson7734 175 kph. That's 109 mph for 47hp. I call BS unless it's downhill with a tail wind.
Did 6000km last summer going to Poland and Croatia.. yes, I tried to avoid motorways when possible.. it needed a bit more without revving it to death... answer... go fro a 15 to a 16 tooth front sprocket, no real drawbacks but now it cruises very comfortably at 120/130kmh with 'loads 'to spare