I just purchased a 2017 Classic with 1000 miles. I’ve been riding about 30 years and I’ve owned several different bikes. This is my first RE. “It’s all about appreciating something with unique character. And this definitely has it”. Perfect summation.
I'm 30 and have owned a 2018 Classic 500 for a year now. My advice to anyone looking to purchase this bike as their main bike is that they will need to have as much character as the bike itself in order to enjoy it. It has great comfort, economy and although top speed isn't amazing, it has the torque so hills are never an issue. Vibrations are strong in the running in process but after that, they really smooth out. The only time you have strong vibrations is from hard accelerating or decelerating. I've fitted heated handlebar grips, usb charger, heel-toe shifter, slip on exhaust, dna air filter and iridium SP and it's so good to ride. Only thing I might add is a windscreen for winter/longer rides. If you have to use the highway on a regular, you can go up a tooth on the front sprocket to bring down engine revs but if you only do an hour here and there, it's not a problem at all. Only shit thing about the bike is quite a few of the screw/bolts that are used rust easily, so I would recommend doing some rust proofing and keep the bike covered.
I travel to India a few times a year and fell in love with the Classic and Bullet while there. I love the history of the oldest motorcycle brand still operating. I found one local to me, but has a few issues. Not sure it's worth a project, but a fun classic.
RE definitely has a cool history. The Bullet is the longest running production bike (longer than any Harley). If the issues on the one you saw aren't terrible and don't require an engine rebuild, I say go for it 👍
Ive got the original of those , 1980 350 bullet with wait for it 14 hp ! it sits at 50mph and just keeps going points, ignition no digital anything, all steel, drum brakes all round ! and Ill still be riding it 30 years from now ! same as the one u are restoring !
Actually there are four models of it in India. Classic 350 & Classic 500 and Standard 350 & Standard 500. Both 500cc are discontinued. And one more important thing why this bike is so basic is because the 1st model that was introduced by Royal Enfield was Standard 350 in 1931 and it is still available in India with only minor changes. And yeah this bike maybe cheap for U.S.A. market but in India it is a dream to cherish. I bought mine 500cc like 2 days ago yes it is used because it's discontinued but I am going to have a good time with it and not going sell even if I am 100 y/o 😅 That was the most honest review I saw of Classic 500. You got a new subscriber!
Thanks for watching and subscribing! Yes, you have a better selection for sure in India. You also still have the 350 Bullet that I’d love to buy. The 350 and 500 Bullets were also closely related to the 1955 and beyond models, although the original Bullet name was used back in 1931 as you said. I appreciate the comment and keep your 500 forever!
OMG! This review is 100% spot on. I have a 500 classic.. it's an older one.. it has the kicker but a rear drum brake and no ABS... I can definitely say the rear brake is NOT better than the front. I have the same exhaust on mine, it does sound much better, Hitchcock's is THE best place to buy accessories and parts for these bikes.. I've been able to get filters, gaskets and tools for mine. I have a DNA air filter on mine. I have had the bike up to 80MPH but it is not happy there. It's funny that you mentioned the Vespa.. I always wanted a Vespa.. I took the riders class to get an endorsement and the bikes were all small motorcycles.. I never thought I could figure the gears on a motorcycle but it was actually fun. I did buy the Vespa but the Vespa dealer was also the RE dealer.. I ended up buying a 500 classic as well! Just couldn't forget the fun of a clutch and gears.
Yeah, the older models had the rear drum brake. Definitely not as responsive as disk. Glad you got one! It’s always fun working a manual transmission. Thanks for watching and more reviews and content are on the way!
That is true that these bikes not like that high speed. Anything above 100 km/h is rattle city. Also I think you can source parts from Royal Enfield for conversion of rear drum to disk as most braking on these bikes is done via the rear one for some reason. Using only the front sort of unbalances the bike. But I am currently looking into solutions to fit something with a bit more bite in the front which means new rim, rotor caliper and the rest.
I bought the Pegasus version of this in 2017 and am still happily riding it. It's proved reliable and amazingly economical (90mpg imperial). The thing I love most is starting the thing up with the kick starter - you start the day off feeling like Marlon Brando. You have to accept people coming up to you to chat about the bike each time you park. You also have to accept that it's slow and that motorways (freeways) aren't their natural environment.
Hi from Scotland UK 😁 happened across your channel and really like it 👍 good Enfield content and enjoyed your iron barrel Enfield rebuild so far, be good to see you compare both Bullets once it’s done, i lusted after a bullet 500 for years but hesitant on so many build qualities in them, some real good some err quite bad!, a friend had bought a good one and sadly never wanted to sell it, the new Classic 350 was probably what I always wanted and real happy with mine I have had over a year now, anyhows hello and I will be back with good comments and thumbs up👍😁 Cheers Bruce
Thanks for watching and I appreciate the compliments! The old Bullet 500s definitely have some questionable quality issues, but they’re fun bikes with a ton of character. I’m hoping the upgraded parts I’m using will really sort this one out. And the Classic 350 is a great one. Enjoy it!
A great review! Nice to hear someone reviewing the bike for what it is and not trying to compare it with a Hayabusa or something equally insane. I cut my teeth on BSA C15 (250) back in the 70s so, your review chimed well with me. I'll look forward to some more of your reviews :)
NIce to see a fellow Angeleno here! Three of us got Royal Enfield Classic 350s last July and love them! Indeed it is a bike made for cruising and not the freeways or racing. At 61, I'm past the need to go fast - most of the time. And the 350's can do freeway jaunts, just not above 75 and for long. I got us all heated Gerbing 7v vests which have been great since we've been freezing here in LA this winter! Highly recommended for those cold days when you still need a ride to keep sane... The nice(r) thing about the 350 is they don't vibrate at all. Smooth fun in the sun. And before winter hit, I was getting close to 100MPG on mine. So far we've changed the exhaust and intake with DNA Stage 2 kits. Some new pegs helped comfort and likely we'll stay pretty much stock after that. Oh, I did put on the black touring seats on my Halcyon Grey Royal Enfield Classic 350. They look great, and add a little height. I'm 6'-4", 235lbs so at this point it's perfect and very comfortable. Look forward to more videos! Ride Safe 🙏🏼
@@Cyclingwithgasoline The reason is the Indian market. As the market is very concious about the fuel efficiency you get from these engines and that is the main reason why 500 went out of fashion. But currently they gone with a 650 twin in the intercecptor models and currently one 800 or 850 cc Himalayan is under testing phase. Lets see where it takes us. For the moment the market is content with having 350 in India.
Nice review. I have a Classic 500 and I just can't believe how much fun they are. It's reminded me of what drew me to mororcycling in the first place. Great handling bike as well. I ride out with my mates who have bigger bikes but I keep up with them on the country roads no problem. Where's the fun in riding straight highways for hours anyway?
Great review. I just got a 2013 bullet about 4 months ago and am loving it. Btw, just looked at Craig's near S.F. and there are about a half dozen for sale here right now. Unfortunately I have to ride the freeway for about 60 miles to meet friends before getting in some country riding, but found it was doable. At first I wasn't even keeping up with traffic in the slow lane out of fear of straining the engine going 55-60. But then found the bike actually purrs along nicely between 65-70 and I keep up. Also the addition of a very small clear screen has helped. But mostly I enjoy the back country roads at 45-50.
Thanks and that’s great about these bikes being available on Craigslist. They were hard to find when I got mine. 65-70mph is FAST for these. I rarely went over 55. I’m glad yours is handling the speed well. Enjoy the bike!
Hi from the UK 🇬🇧, great video 👍 I'm getting on in years now and a lifelong bike nut! Had a Royal Enfield Constellation back in the day, fast but temperamental! Ride a Softail custom now but in the market for new Interceptor. My buddy has a 500 Bullet and loves it, they're popular and cheap this side of the pond.
Very cool and never stop riding. The Harley Softails are great bikes! And the Bullets and Classic 500s are definitely more available (and popular) over there.
I was at a bike rally last year and met a 90 year old ex 'Ton up boy' on a 350 Bullet. He also had aTriton cafe racer but couldn't ride it any more but it had pride of place in his house. A real character like many old time bikers!
I hope you get a chance to ride a Ural at some point. I forgot to say, you did a great review and video. I’ve only ever ridden a basic Royal Enfield Bullet 350 in India and I loved it. $8 to rent for the day… best day out ever.
Great review! I ride my 2017 Classic 500 every day; at 1000 miles it was pretty much unrideable on the highway but now it's much smoother. Still not my first choice for a long trip but fine for a couple of hours. Great around town like you said. Not sure if it's the same on yours but on mine there was a wiring dongle in the headlight housing which bypassed the headlight switch, if you remove that you can have just the pilot lights. I might not ride like that but it looks good for photos. Looking forward to your Interceptor review!
Thanks! Yeah, I wouldn’t ride with just the pilot lights, but that’s good to know. There’s about a week of storms in LA right now, so you’ll see a couple videos about the Bullet 500 restoration soon. The 650 is coming when the weather clears - it’s also the Continental, not Interceptor. Both variants are great, though.
The engine on these gets smoother and smoother with each service. Their real enemy is riding them in long breaks. Other than that you only need to get some work done to the valves during service and all is epic with them.
I have two Classic 500s, one in Colorado and the other in Singapore. My first Bullet was in the early 90s in India, and I took that bike into almost every indian state. Hoping to ride my SG 500 back to UK.
I agree, they are getting hard to find. I have a 2020 Bullet 500 Trials Works Replica. I absolutely love it. It’s a great Tennessee backroads bike. I take it 45 miles to work occasionally,doing 65mph. It does ok. 55-60 is the sweet spot and mine runs the smoothest.
I've had this same model of RE (in Battle green) for a couple of weeks and it has really captured my heart. It's an honest, simple and downright charming reminder of what motorcycling used to be. I also ride a modern, state-of-the-art BMW R1200RT which does duty as a "get there quickly and with the greatest of agility and precision" ride. If "getting there" is the priority, then the BMW gets the call. If "enjoying the trip" is the priority, I'll fire up the RE. I took the long way to/from work the other day on the RE and was grinning the whole time. It's just a special little machine.
Very cool. They’re great bikes for the right rider and as I had said, best as a second (or third) bike. Fun in the right conditions, but often not best as an only bike. Very much a look back in time. Enjoy both bikes!
Ive got both a CanAm Daytona Spyder and my Royal Enfield Classic 500.. My RE has 15000km on it now.. I found by replacing a few bits makes it go nicer and vibrate less.. Change the standard pipe and air filter for a start.. Then replace the fuses and relays.. I also changed the lights in the speedo so I can see the indicator and neutral lights...
FYI as nice as this kickstarter is, if the battery is dead you can kick as much as you want it won’t start, also I’ve seen the ecu die cause of this. Then your statement of it has to be a second bike, well yes and no, along with mine I’ve had plenty other bikes that has come and gone, yet the enfield stays… I’ve done long distance gravel and tar in African conditions and it does it easily…. Love my RE!
I’ve seen these start with dead batteries. Kicking it a few times (generating the alternator) will get the EFI primed enough to start. As far as a second bike, it sounds like you’ve always had multiple bikes, but the RE never left, which is awesome. My point was for most, having the Classic 500 as an “only bike” likely won’t work out if they ride with friends, take the highway a lot, etc. That doesn’t mean it’s not a capable bike that can ride real distances. It just has limitations and those need to be understood.
On mine the battery died while riding, this generated all kinds of errors in the ecu one of which was a crank sensor. There are a few such errors which the ecu would not allow the engine to start so I guess it depends on what you get. As much as I miss my Ktm and Hondas, I ended up riding the enfield all the time so eventually sold them, but yes you’re correct , all my friends are enfield owners now so it works well. Good looking enfield you have there!
Did something to dampen down the vibration , got a good after market coil, new spark leads and cap and a quality spark plug, will Cruze at 70 mph on the freeway with out the horrific vibrations as before.
I hope you have found the Paul Henshaw, Performance Classics You Tube channel. He tunes Bullets of all varieties to great effect within a sensible budget.
The headlight is usually the first upgrade most of us here in India do our classics. On mine the bulb had lost its power so even changing it to an led bulb it didnt help. But it being a round headlight there are so many different kinds you can get from fancy but bright enough headlights to eye melting led's. But one should check whether they are legal to run on the road. Other then that next upgrade we used to do was muffler to enhance the thumping sound of the engine but with government banning those we had to revert back to the normal ones. The pillion seat is not that great so I had to install a more comfortable one so that the person riding with me doesn't suffer. The biggest thing I am currently looking to change is to get a fuel gauge mostly retrofitting one from Royal Enfield's current line up. We did get abs brakes here in India. But these bikes are great fun to rumble along the road.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline check around you can get very nice ones nowadays just remember some of them might not be legal due to brightness level. Other mod that people do who live in quite remote and challenging areas is to have auxiliary lights installed as well. Other than that these things are solid, I have seen people transporting a med size cow on one. Don't know how but they sure were riding along me just fine.
Nice 1, I have is a 2018 "Redditch Model" in red, you're spot on with your comments, while the bike is set up for solo have you thought of removing the pillion foot pegs, saves a few pounds in weight (it all adds up) cheers Paul (oh am located in UK)
Very cool, I bet it looks great in red. I left the rear foot pegs on as I still have the rear seat and might use it one of these days. Although I probably should just remove them. Thanks for watching Paul!
2018 modal classic stalth black calor bs4 EFI the last bike of Indian Royal Enfield India me 2019 me close ho gaye the i have this bike hart bit bike i fitted the carbery palet inside the chain spocet oppne the cover and carberi plete fix and the vaibret is going and bullet is 100 cross but not rhe waibaret is going
Thanks for watching. If you just change the slip on and nothing else, you don’t need to do anything. For a full exhaust system and/or if you also change to a higher flow air filter, you’ll likely need a new map or something like a power commander.
The back brake better than the front? There’s something wrong with the front brake. Try degreasing the disc and a new pair of brake pads and then bleeding the front brake. Standard, the front brake is usually pretty good.
The front is fine and still works very well, but the rear just has a bit more bite to it. I’ve heard that this is the case with some of these 500s. Thanks for watching!
Hello! I have a 2020 tribute black. Awesome bike! One question, changing the exhaust without remapping the ecu can damage the bike? Have you tuned that? Thanks!
Just a change of the slip on doesn’t require a tune. A full exhaust change will. I kept the original header pipe, so no tune required. On the older iron barrel models, a carb rejet is generally recommended with a slip on change.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline thanks for the info! As far as i am concerned, less restrictive silencer = more airflow = motorbike runs lean = bad And that is what several posts say online, but as no general agreement shows Up, its a little bit confusing 🥴 I may install a long bottle exhaust! Thanks!!
@@optymus9933 I find that a higher flow silencer alone (without touching the air filter or header) doesn’t lean it out significantly. I’ve never had a problem or heard of anyone having issues. That said, always better to be safe than sorry 👍
Have you ridden a Kawasaki W800? They have character with a 360 degree crank air cooled twin just like the old BSA, Norton and Triumph bikes. They will cruise at 75mph all day. They have a long stroke engine with lots of low end torque. They are not sports bike fast but they have a torque delivery that makes them a joy to ride on normal roads and traffic. At 70 years old it is the perfect bike for the riding that I do and being a Kawasaki they have excellent build quality and reliability. It's an old school air cooled machine with just enough modern technology to make them easy to own. BJ
@@Bob-xc2us I have ridden it many times. Among the last of the modern “old school” bikes. Much different than a triumph bonneville, for example. The now retired Harley Evo Sportsters were also great examples of this. The new Royal Enfield singles and twins are also in the same ballpark, although I wish they maintained the kick starter.
I rode a '11 c5 for ten years, based on that I feel your bike was idling very high, especially at the fuel station; your choke didn't seem to be on so I think its a different problem
Every now and then it idles a little high, but sounds worse in the video. I’ve seen others do this as well, so I’m not worried about it. It otherwise runs perfectly.
I've been hankering a UCE 350 mostly because they have a kick starter and they're a bit cheaper than the new J series. Curiously I was just saying to my wife the other day that they're like the VW Bug of motorcycles. How has it been as far as reliability?
Swap out the indicator lamps with LED's. They will be VERY visible in daylight. It's cheap and easy. We're fortunate to have these as the 500 is no more. Money in the bank!
Great review. I have a chance to buy a 2019 500 Classic with 5000 miles on it. The seller claims light cosmetic issues: no right mirror , right from blinker discolored. He says bike runs great otherwise. It looks dirty and maybe abused from pictures, but think I can get it for less than $3000. What do you think?
I’d have to see it to know. I suggest seeing it in person and test riding it. You don’t want to buy a major maintenance headache. However, being such a recent bike, it’s likely easy to correct any issues. If it’s around $2,000 to $2,500 and you’re handy, it could be worth the risk.
@Cycling with Gasoline Thank you for the response. Well, it looks like someone else is going to buy it. So, I'm back to looking for a classic 500. Your real handy with tools, BTW.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline no one will notice when she is out shopping or something. Certainly he will not tell after the experience. Has he ever ridden with you?
i have the same bike same color but without ABS bought it in 2018 i have replaced my mirror with touring mirrors from RE, till 80kmph the shake is very nominal as compared to the stock ones, but they do vibrate post 80kmph and are unusable beyond that mark.
@@tusharx2008 That’s a low price for the bike and the mileage isn’t too bad. What kind of shape is it in overall? I would think there were some issues at just $1,000. If it’s a solid bike with no real problems, it’s a great deal for sure
@@Cyclingwithgasoline Its the reply I got when I asked why it rattled so much.. "its an old design" they said.. "Air cooled with pushrods.. Water cooled engines muffle out a lot of the engine noises" Anyhoo.. After 15,000km and a few changes to my bikes breathing and it rattles way less than when I bought it.. I have a CanAm Spyder too but always gravitate to the C500.. It takes me back 35 years to when I started riding.. I like how simple everything is on it...
Yes, if you have an EFI, a meaningful charge is necessary with the battery. Older bikes can be started without a battery (depending on either the rectifier/regulator or if it has a magneto).
@@Cyclingwithgasoline There was a guy with a Harley Davidson outside the Winn Dixie with a dead battery. I said no problem we'll get some guys to help you push start your bike. He said no it wouldn't work because of the fuel injection. He was waiting on a tow truck.
I have the same bike in same color and have been riding on it since 5 years. So the same bike with my own eyes only once or twice. Bust sadly the bike has lost its matt finish
@Cycling with Gasoline no right now, they are prioritizing 650cc for the future that is from the company. And if some sources are to be believed, they are planning more than 650 cc and may be 250 cc and 350 cc production(250 and 350 for indian Market) too. Do check the leaks from Tamil Nadu Royal enfield plant every new bike is test driven there and leak is out...even this super meteor 650 cc leak was out in 2020.
@@footballspiritual9702 Yeah, it’s definitely a new direction. I have the Continental GT 650 and it’s a great bike. And I heard that the 350 was more popular overseas than the 500, hence the decision for the 350 Reborn. I guess we’ll just have to shop for vintage bikes now.
@Cycling with Gasoline its a great bike 350 or 500 or 650. The only problem I have is the long wait for the bike. Up untill early 2000s, they were taking lose. I think when the new management took over, they didn't plan this level of success. They only have 3 manufacturing plant around the world, and all 3 are less than 100 KM from each other.
I also have 2018 Classic 500. Bought it new in 2018. Has the same muffler as yours, aftermarket saddle and my home made booster plug makes it even better. You can se my bike on my channel if you like. Thanks for a great video.
Very nice! I’ve always been a fan of that classic tank. I’m thinking about a booster plug for mine. You just got a new subscriber and thanks for watching!
I have a bought new 2013 RE B5 Bullet 500. It has been converted to a carburetor, and has an aftermarket exhaust. It really does look like it is straight out of the 1950s. But this thing most certainly does not. They did not make flat black bikes in the 1950s. This thing would be beautiful with bright shiny paint, and lots of chrome and polished aluminum. But as it is, it's drop dead ugly. I have no idea why anybody would buy such a hideous bike.
I love how minimalist the design of the bike is. There's something that's just so aesthetically pleasing about it.
It’s really great, especially for such a recent bike. Very classic design that you just don’t see today
I just purchased a 2017 Classic with 1000 miles. I’ve been riding about 30 years and I’ve owned several different bikes. This is my first RE. “It’s all about appreciating something with unique character. And this definitely has it”. Perfect summation.
Thanks for watching and enjoy the bike!
I'm 30 and have owned a 2018 Classic 500 for a year now. My advice to anyone looking to purchase this bike as their main bike is that they will need to have as much character as the bike itself in order to enjoy it. It has great comfort, economy and although top speed isn't amazing, it has the torque so hills are never an issue. Vibrations are strong in the running in process but after that, they really smooth out. The only time you have strong vibrations is from hard accelerating or decelerating. I've fitted heated handlebar grips, usb charger, heel-toe shifter, slip on exhaust, dna air filter and iridium SP and it's so good to ride. Only thing I might add is a windscreen for winter/longer rides. If you have to use the highway on a regular, you can go up a tooth on the front sprocket to bring down engine revs but if you only do an hour here and there, it's not a problem at all. Only shit thing about the bike is quite a few of the screw/bolts that are used rust easily, so I would recommend doing some rust proofing and keep the bike covered.
Very well said
I travel to India a few times a year and fell in love with the Classic and Bullet while there. I love the history of the oldest motorcycle brand still operating. I found one local to me, but has a few issues. Not sure it's worth a project, but a fun classic.
RE definitely has a cool history. The Bullet is the longest running production bike (longer than any Harley). If the issues on the one you saw aren't terrible and don't require an engine rebuild, I say go for it 👍
Just purchased a 2021 with minor front damage an easy repair, fork stantions, wheel rim and mudguard here In UK for $1800 absolute steal 😊
Nice and great price for sure!
Ive got the original of those , 1980 350 bullet with wait for it 14 hp ! it sits at 50mph and just keeps going points, ignition no digital anything, all steel, drum brakes all round ! and Ill still be riding it 30 years from now ! same as the one u are restoring !
Nice!
I still have the same 2018 stealth black 500 model. Great motorcycle in city and highway.
Nice! And great bikes for sure
Actually there are four models of it in India. Classic 350 & Classic 500 and Standard 350 & Standard 500. Both 500cc are discontinued. And one more important thing why this bike is so basic is because the 1st model that was introduced by Royal Enfield was Standard 350 in 1931 and it is still available in India with only minor changes. And yeah this bike maybe cheap for U.S.A. market but in India it is a dream to cherish. I bought mine 500cc like 2 days ago yes it is used because it's discontinued but I am going to have a good time with it and not going sell even if I am 100 y/o 😅 That was the most honest review I saw of Classic 500. You got a new subscriber!
Thanks for watching and subscribing! Yes, you have a better selection for sure in India. You also still have the 350 Bullet that I’d love to buy. The 350 and 500 Bullets were also closely related to the 1955 and beyond models, although the original Bullet name was used back in 1931 as you said. I appreciate the comment and keep your 500 forever!
OMG! This review is 100% spot on. I have a 500 classic.. it's an older one.. it has the kicker but a rear drum brake and no ABS... I can definitely say the rear brake is NOT better than the front. I have the same exhaust on mine, it does sound much better, Hitchcock's is THE best place to buy accessories and parts for these bikes.. I've been able to get filters, gaskets and tools for mine. I have a DNA air filter on mine. I have had the bike up to 80MPH but it is not happy there. It's funny that you mentioned the Vespa.. I always wanted a Vespa.. I took the riders class to get an endorsement and the bikes were all small motorcycles.. I never thought I could figure the gears on a motorcycle but it was actually fun. I did buy the Vespa but the Vespa dealer was also the RE dealer.. I ended up buying a 500 classic as well! Just couldn't forget the fun of a clutch and gears.
Yeah, the older models had the rear drum brake. Definitely not as responsive as disk. Glad you got one! It’s always fun working a manual transmission. Thanks for watching and more reviews and content are on the way!
That is true that these bikes not like that high speed. Anything above 100 km/h is rattle city. Also I think you can source parts from Royal Enfield for conversion of rear drum to disk as most braking on these bikes is done via the rear one for some reason. Using only the front sort of unbalances the bike. But I am currently looking into solutions to fit something with a bit more bite in the front which means new rim, rotor caliper and the rest.
Spot on review, I have the 2017 military version, great little plodder.
Thanks and yes, great bikes
I bought the Pegasus version of this in 2017 and am still happily riding it. It's proved reliable and amazingly economical (90mpg imperial). The thing I love most is starting the thing up with the kick starter - you start the day off feeling like Marlon Brando. You have to accept people coming up to you to chat about the bike each time you park. You also have to accept that it's slow and that motorways (freeways) aren't their natural environment.
You’re right on every point here. And it’s a huge shame that the newest models don’t have a Kickstarter. A bad decision by RE
Hi from Scotland UK 😁 happened across your channel and really like it 👍 good Enfield content and enjoyed your iron barrel Enfield rebuild so far, be good to see you compare both Bullets once it’s done, i lusted after a bullet 500 for years but hesitant on so many build qualities in them, some real good some err quite bad!, a friend had bought a good one and sadly never wanted to sell it, the new Classic 350 was probably what I always wanted and real happy with mine I have had over a year now, anyhows hello and I will be back with good comments and thumbs up👍😁
Cheers Bruce
Thanks for watching and I appreciate the compliments! The old Bullet 500s definitely have some questionable quality issues, but they’re fun bikes with a ton of character. I’m hoping the upgraded parts I’m using will really sort this one out. And the Classic 350 is a great one. Enjoy it!
A great review! Nice to hear someone reviewing the bike for what it is and not trying to compare it with a Hayabusa or something equally insane. I cut my teeth on BSA C15 (250) back in the 70s so, your review chimed well with me. I'll look forward to some more of your reviews :)
Thanks! I agree that it should be seen on its own without out of place comparisons. Great reviews and content are coming up
NIce to see a fellow Angeleno here! Three of us got Royal Enfield Classic 350s last July and love them! Indeed it is a bike made for cruising and not the freeways or racing. At 61, I'm past the need to go fast - most of the time. And the 350's can do freeway jaunts, just not above 75 and for long.
I got us all heated Gerbing 7v vests which have been great since we've been freezing here in LA this winter! Highly recommended for those cold days when you still need a ride to keep sane...
The nice(r) thing about the 350 is they don't vibrate at all. Smooth fun in the sun. And before winter hit, I was getting close to 100MPG on mine.
So far we've changed the exhaust and intake with DNA Stage 2 kits. Some new pegs helped comfort and likely we'll stay pretty much stock after that.
Oh, I did put on the black touring seats on my Halcyon Grey Royal Enfield Classic 350. They look great, and add a little height. I'm 6'-4", 235lbs so at this point it's perfect and very comfortable.
Look forward to more videos!
Ride Safe 🙏🏼
Thanks and very cool! And yes, the new 350s are much smoother. Keep riding and stay safe!
I don’t think there are any plans, but I sure wish they would make a 500 cc version of the current single. 27 hp would be plenty.
Yeah I think they’re set on 350 for awhile
@@Cyclingwithgasoline The reason is the Indian market. As the market is very concious about the fuel efficiency you get from these engines and that is the main reason why 500 went out of fashion. But currently they gone with a 650 twin in the intercecptor models and currently one 800 or 850 cc Himalayan is under testing phase. Lets see where it takes us. For the moment the market is content with having 350 in India.
@@sucharsharma5725 the 350 is still a great bike
@@Cyclingwithgasoline very much so, my cousin has one and on daily usage it's much more agile due to the weight.
Classic 650 is being tested, lets see when we can see them at dealers.
Nice review. I have a Classic 500 and I just can't believe how much fun they are. It's reminded me of what drew me to mororcycling in the first place. Great handling bike as well. I ride out with my mates who have bigger bikes but I keep up with them on the country roads no problem. Where's the fun in riding straight highways for hours anyway?
Very cool! And these are definitely fun bikes
I love the channel and can't wait to see more. I hear ya on the high beam used as the standard light. I did that all the time on my '58 Vespa.
Thanks! Yeah the stock headlight isn’t great. You have a great channel!
Great review. I just got a 2013 bullet about 4 months ago and am loving it. Btw, just looked at Craig's near S.F. and there are about a half dozen for sale here right now. Unfortunately I have to ride the freeway for about 60 miles to meet friends before getting in some country riding, but found it was doable. At first I wasn't even keeping up with traffic in the slow lane out of fear of straining the engine going 55-60. But then found the bike actually purrs along nicely between 65-70 and I keep up. Also the addition of a very small clear screen has helped. But mostly I enjoy the back country roads at 45-50.
Thanks and that’s great about these bikes being available on Craigslist. They were hard to find when I got mine. 65-70mph is FAST for these. I rarely went over 55. I’m glad yours is handling the speed well. Enjoy the bike!
Superb video of our very own RE Classic 500 bike. Best wishes for the road ahead from India.
Thanks! I really appreciate it.
Hi from the UK 🇬🇧, great video 👍 I'm getting on in years now and a lifelong bike nut! Had a Royal Enfield Constellation back in the day, fast but temperamental! Ride a Softail custom now but in the market for new Interceptor. My buddy has a 500 Bullet and loves it, they're popular and cheap this side of the pond.
Very cool and never stop riding. The Harley Softails are great bikes! And the Bullets and Classic 500s are definitely more available (and popular) over there.
I was at a bike rally last year and met a 90 year old ex 'Ton up boy' on a 350 Bullet. He also had aTriton cafe racer but couldn't ride it any more but it had pride of place in his house. A real character like many old time bikers!
Lovely video, well filmed and presented. How about loading the Enfield up and heading out on an adventure?
Thanks! And that could happen 🤔
You got a perfect description 7:05 that I love you for expressing so candidly...
Thanks!
Try a Ural… it makes the Royal Enfield look like a technical marvel. Seriously a Ural Classic iCombination is huge fun.
I’ve never ridden one. I’ve seen a M70, but that’s about it. Would definitely like to ride one
I hope you get a chance to ride a Ural at some point. I forgot to say, you did a great review and video. I’ve only ever ridden a basic Royal Enfield Bullet 350 in India and I loved it. $8 to rent for the day… best day out ever.
Good luck buddy. Keep these coming.
Thanks!
Great review! I ride my 2017 Classic 500 every day; at 1000 miles it was pretty much unrideable on the highway but now it's much smoother. Still not my first choice for a long trip but fine for a couple of hours. Great around town like you said. Not sure if it's the same on yours but on mine there was a wiring dongle in the headlight housing which bypassed the headlight switch, if you remove that you can have just the pilot lights. I might not ride like that but it looks good for photos. Looking forward to your Interceptor review!
Thanks! Yeah, I wouldn’t ride with just the pilot lights, but that’s good to know. There’s about a week of storms in LA right now, so you’ll see a couple videos about the Bullet 500 restoration soon. The 650 is coming when the weather clears - it’s also the Continental, not Interceptor. Both variants are great, though.
The engine on these gets smoother and smoother with each service. Their real enemy is riding them in long breaks. Other than that you only need to get some work done to the valves during service and all is epic with them.
I own one here in Brazil. Just love it. The riding is the fun about it.
@@thiagogatti4511 Very cool! They’re great bikes for sure 👍
I have two Classic 500s, one in Colorado and the other in Singapore. My first Bullet was in the early 90s in India, and I took that bike into almost every indian state. Hoping to ride my SG 500 back to UK.
Very cool! 🏍️
Great first post!
Thanks!
I agree, they are getting hard to find. I have a 2020 Bullet 500 Trials Works Replica. I absolutely love it. It’s a great Tennessee backroads bike. I take it 45 miles to work occasionally,doing 65mph. It does ok. 55-60 is the sweet spot and mine runs the smoothest.
Yeah, definitely hard to find these days. And 60 and below is definitely how it likes to run
I've had this same model of RE (in Battle green) for a couple of weeks and it has really captured my heart. It's an honest, simple and downright charming reminder of what motorcycling used to be. I also ride a modern, state-of-the-art BMW R1200RT which does duty as a "get there quickly and with the greatest of agility and precision" ride. If "getting there" is the priority, then the BMW gets the call. If "enjoying the trip" is the priority, I'll fire up the RE. I took the long way to/from work the other day on the RE and was grinning the whole time. It's just a special little machine.
Very cool. They’re great bikes for the right rider and as I had said, best as a second (or third) bike. Fun in the right conditions, but often not best as an only bike. Very much a look back in time. Enjoy both bikes!
I like the British Avon tyres.
great beginning. keep it up!
Thanks Marc
Great honest reviews 👌 enjoyed the ride and information 👍 Thank you 😊
Thanks for watching! More to come
Ive got both a CanAm Daytona Spyder and my Royal Enfield Classic 500..
My RE has 15000km on it now.. I found by replacing a few bits makes it go nicer and vibrate less.. Change the standard pipe and air filter for a start.. Then replace the fuses and relays.. I also changed the lights in the speedo so I can see the indicator and neutral lights...
You’ve got a couple of cool rides!
Hi !
I agree… this bike is a “Bug on 2 wheels”, … I have both : 1300cc and a Classic 350
👍🏻
FYI as nice as this kickstarter is, if the battery is dead you can kick as much as you want it won’t start, also I’ve seen the ecu die cause of this. Then your statement of it has to be a second bike, well yes and no, along with mine I’ve had plenty other bikes that has come and gone, yet the enfield stays… I’ve done long distance gravel and tar in African conditions and it does it easily…. Love my RE!
I’ve seen these start with dead batteries. Kicking it a few times (generating the alternator) will get the EFI primed enough to start. As far as a second bike, it sounds like you’ve always had multiple bikes, but the RE never left, which is awesome. My point was for most, having the Classic 500 as an “only bike” likely won’t work out if they ride with friends, take the highway a lot, etc. That doesn’t mean it’s not a capable bike that can ride real distances. It just has limitations and those need to be understood.
On mine the battery died while riding, this generated all kinds of errors in the ecu one of which was a crank sensor. There are a few such errors which the ecu would not allow the engine to start so I guess it depends on what you get. As much as I miss my Ktm and Hondas, I ended up riding the enfield all the time so eventually sold them, but yes you’re correct , all my friends are enfield owners now so it works well. Good looking enfield you have there!
@@MyRoyalEnfieldTravels Thanks. I have very fast bikes like a Kawasaki ZH2, but I still ride this little Enfield all the time. Just a fun, chill bike.
FYI for reducing vibs change gears at high rpm and cruise at 80 km/h on 5 the gear
Did something to dampen down the vibration , got a good after market coil, new spark leads and cap and a quality spark plug, will Cruze at 70 mph on the freeway with out the horrific vibrations as before.
Nice! Thanks for the heads up
That's a nice bike, i have the Tribute black final version registered in 2021 here in the Uk.
Thanks and that’s a nice bike! I haven’t seen one in the US
When I heard the siren I thought you were going to outrun them.
Perfect bike for it 😂
I hope you have found the Paul Henshaw, Performance Classics You Tube channel. He tunes Bullets of all varieties to great effect within a sensible budget.
@@John900C Yes, he has a great channel for sure!
I had an in the flesh look at the new Enfields at a dealer. They were pretty cool.
The company has come a LONG way. The current bikes are very cool and well built
The headlight is usually the first upgrade most of us here in India do our classics. On mine the bulb had lost its power so even changing it to an led bulb it didnt help. But it being a round headlight there are so many different kinds you can get from fancy but bright enough headlights to eye melting led's. But one should check whether they are legal to run on the road. Other then that next upgrade we used to do was muffler to enhance the thumping sound of the engine but with government banning those we had to revert back to the normal ones. The pillion seat is not that great so I had to install a more comfortable one so that the person riding with me doesn't suffer. The biggest thing I am currently looking to change is to get a fuel gauge mostly retrofitting one from Royal Enfield's current line up. We did get abs brakes here in India. But these bikes are great fun to rumble along the road.
Yes, the headlight would definitely need to be upgraded.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline check around you can get very nice ones nowadays just remember some of them might not be legal due to brightness level. Other mod that people do who live in quite remote and challenging areas is to have auxiliary lights installed as well. Other than that these things are solid, I have seen people transporting a med size cow on one. Don't know how but they sure were riding along me just fine.
@@sucharsharma5725 Riding with a cow would be interesting 🐄
Hello there! What's the name of the exhaust you're using? Looks slim and beautiful with a decent sound.
@@valeriandikakhawlhring3519 The header is stock and the silencer is an old new stock high flow RE part from India that I had ceramic coated black
I am from India great video
Thanks!
Looking forward to renting one of these near me soon. I love my INT650 and this will even further the connection with it I think :)
I think you’ll really like it. Very traditional compared to the modern twins
Back to the roots of motorcycling !😊
@@helenatyukodi5227 Definitely 👍
Regarding the dull display I put led bulbs in there that brightened it up on the classic 500 I owned.
Nice 1, I have is a 2018 "Redditch Model" in red, you're spot on with your comments, while the bike is set up for solo have you thought of removing the pillion foot pegs, saves a few pounds in weight (it all adds up) cheers Paul (oh am located in UK)
Very cool, I bet it looks great in red. I left the rear foot pegs on as I still have the rear seat and might use it one of these days. Although I probably should just remove them. Thanks for watching Paul!
2018 modal classic stalth black calor bs4 EFI the last bike of Indian Royal Enfield India me 2019 me close ho gaye the i have this bike hart bit bike i fitted the carbery palet inside the chain spocet oppne the cover and carberi plete fix and the vaibret is going and bullet is 100 cross but not rhe waibaret is going
Sir, it seems like your idle rpm too high. Reduce to the normal and it will surely reduce your vibration.
The idle is set well, but it sometimes idles a bit high when I stop, then goes back down. And I inevitably caught it at the higher idle on camera.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline oo the same happens to my thunderbird 500, I thought there was something wrong with my bike.
I really enjoy riding my Classic 500. I have 2019 model with EFI and thinking of changing the muffler, do we need ECU remapping for that?
Thanks for watching. If you just change the slip on and nothing else, you don’t need to do anything. For a full exhaust system and/or if you also change to a higher flow air filter, you’ll likely need a new map or something like a power commander.
Great video! Just curious, is that an aftermarket or stock exhaust?
Thanks! And stock header, aftermarket slip-on
The back brake better than the front? There’s something wrong with the front brake. Try degreasing the disc and a new pair of brake pads and then bleeding the front brake. Standard, the front brake is usually pretty good.
The front is fine and still works very well, but the rear just has a bit more bite to it. I’ve heard that this is the case with some of these 500s. Thanks for watching!
Hello! I have a 2020 tribute black. Awesome bike!
One question, changing the exhaust without remapping the ecu can damage the bike? Have you tuned that?
Thanks!
Just a change of the slip on doesn’t require a tune. A full exhaust change will. I kept the original header pipe, so no tune required. On the older iron barrel models, a carb rejet is generally recommended with a slip on change.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline thanks for the info!
As far as i am concerned, less restrictive silencer = more airflow = motorbike runs lean = bad
And that is what several posts say online, but as no general agreement shows Up, its a little bit confusing 🥴
I may install a long bottle exhaust! Thanks!!
@@optymus9933 I find that a higher flow silencer alone (without touching the air filter or header) doesn’t lean it out significantly. I’ve never had a problem or heard of anyone having issues. That said, always better to be safe than sorry 👍
@@Cyclingwithgasoline thanks mate!
Have you ridden a Kawasaki W800? They have character with a 360 degree crank air cooled twin just like the old BSA, Norton and Triumph bikes. They will cruise at 75mph all day. They have a long stroke engine with lots of low end torque. They are not sports bike fast but they have a torque delivery that makes them a joy to ride on normal roads and traffic. At 70 years old it is the perfect bike for the riding that I do and being a Kawasaki they have excellent build quality and reliability. It's an old school air cooled machine with just enough modern technology to make them easy to own.
BJ
@@Bob-xc2us I have ridden it many times. Among the last of the modern “old school” bikes. Much different than a triumph bonneville, for example. The now retired Harley Evo Sportsters were also great examples of this. The new Royal Enfield singles and twins are also in the same ballpark, although I wish they maintained the kick starter.
Welcome to my club 👌🏻❤️
RE is not for racing and all its a heavy duty bike.... Like for carrying heavy stuff it was mainly designed for army
Kind of like an old Jeep M38
Get an "Indori" silencer by asking any of your Indian friends, those silencers are really good to hear.
Hey there, do you still have this bike? I'm looking to get a late model Classic 500 also in CA so just wanted to check!
I unfortunately traded it towards a new bike 😩
Gotcha! Safe riding!
Its not the fastest bike but its definitely the coolest bike ✌️
It’s cool for sure
I wish my teenager would finish his homework.
Btw, nice bike.
Ps, a ride back from Missouri would have made a great vid.
@@c.d.3485 Unfortunately, he was just acting 😂. And that would’ve made for a great vid, but I was lazy and had it transported 😎
Nice video thanks. But, I have two and I ride them to the rev limiter in each gear and cruise at 75+ on the motorway no problem😁
I rode a '11 c5 for ten years, based on that I feel your bike was idling very high, especially at the fuel station; your choke didn't seem to be on so I think its a different problem
Every now and then it idles a little high, but sounds worse in the video. I’ve seen others do this as well, so I’m not worried about it. It otherwise runs perfectly.
I've been hankering a UCE 350 mostly because they have a kick starter and they're a bit cheaper than the new J series. Curiously I was just saying to my wife the other day that they're like the VW Bug of motorcycles. How has it been as far as reliability?
@@mattjones5817 Reliability has been surprisingly good. It’s very simple and easy to work on.
Beautiful bike
@@5150show Thanks 👍
Swap out the indicator lamps with LED's. They will be VERY visible in daylight. It's cheap and easy. We're fortunate to have these as the 500 is no more. Money in the bank!
@@briand4000 LEDs are definitely better, but I like the old school bulbs 👍
Great review. I have a chance to buy a 2019 500 Classic with 5000 miles on it. The seller claims light cosmetic issues: no right mirror , right from blinker discolored. He says bike runs great otherwise. It looks dirty and maybe abused from pictures, but think I can get it for less than $3000. What do you think?
I’d have to see it to know. I suggest seeing it in person and test riding it. You don’t want to buy a major maintenance headache. However, being such a recent bike, it’s likely easy to correct any issues. If it’s around $2,000 to $2,500 and you’re handy, it could be worth the risk.
@Cycling with Gasoline Thank you for the response. Well, it looks like someone else is going to buy it. So, I'm back to looking for a classic 500. Your real handy with tools, BTW.
@@doctorprepper5196 Keep looking, you’ll find one. And thanks, I’ve been tinkering with bikes since I’m 10
Mesmerizing
You can't kickstart a bike with electronic injection when the batterie is dead because you have no fuel pressure due to the electric fuel pump.
If the bike has a magneto and proper rectifier, it’s possible
Take your kid out on the classic those rumbles will sure make him watch the videos.
His mom’s not into it 😂
@@Cyclingwithgasoline no one will notice when she is out shopping or something. Certainly he will not tell after the experience. Has he ever ridden with you?
Great Looking forward to the next ones
Thanks!
i have the same bike same color but without ABS bought it in 2018 i have replaced my mirror with touring mirrors from RE, till 80kmph the shake is very nominal as compared to the stock ones, but they do vibrate post 80kmph and are unusable beyond that mark.
@@Bijay.Kumar.Behera Yeah, the bike vibrates a lot and is a little rough around the edges, but it’s worth it for such an old school experience
Bro im getting same bike 2018 for $1000 20000km driven should i buy it ?
@@tusharx2008 That’s a low price for the bike and the mileage isn’t too bad. What kind of shape is it in overall? I would think there were some issues at just $1,000. If it’s a solid bike with no real problems, it’s a great deal for sure
The idling sounds a little bit high on RPM
It’s at the upper end, but not too high
where did u get that headlight black ring?
That came standard on the black bike
You're riding a new 70 year old bike... Thats what a guy from Hitchcocks in Reditch in England told me...
The Classic 500 not so much. My 2006 Bullet 500, definitely a 70 year old “recent” bike
@@Cyclingwithgasoline
Its the reply I got when I asked why it rattled so much.. "its an old design" they said.. "Air cooled with pushrods.. Water cooled engines muffle out a lot of the engine noises"
Anyhoo.. After 15,000km and a few changes to my bikes breathing and it rattles way less than when I bought it..
I have a CanAm Spyder too but always gravitate to the C500.. It takes me back 35 years to when I started riding.. I like how simple everything is on it...
The URAL side car outfit has a Kickstarter. If your battery is dead even with a kicker with EFI you can't start the bike.😢
Yes, if you have an EFI, a meaningful charge is necessary with the battery. Older bikes can be started without a battery (depending on either the rectifier/regulator or if it has a magneto).
@@Cyclingwithgasoline There was a guy with a Harley Davidson outside the Winn Dixie with a dead battery. I said no problem we'll get some guys to help you push start your bike. He said no it wouldn't work because of the fuel injection. He was waiting on a tow truck.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Some things were just better back in the day 😂
I have the same bike in same color and have been riding on it since 5 years. So the same bike with my own eyes only once or twice. Bust sadly the bike has lost its matt finish
It's a great bike for sure. The paint isn't the best quality, but has fortunately held up well on mine. Thanks for watching
i have this exact bike classic 500 stealth black
Nice! I think it’s the best color
@@Cyclingwithgasoline they have stopped selling these even in india, its a very rare motorcycle
@@crescentmoon256 Yes, these are very hard to find now
They stopped 500cc production, now only 350cc and 650 cc!
Yes, but maybe a 500 will be back in the future
@Cycling with Gasoline no right now, they are prioritizing 650cc for the future that is from the company. And if some sources are to be believed, they are planning more than 650 cc and may be 250 cc and 350 cc production(250 and 350 for indian Market) too. Do check the leaks from Tamil Nadu Royal enfield plant every new bike is test driven there and leak is out...even this super meteor 650 cc leak was out in 2020.
@@Cyclingwithgasoline
th-cam.com/users/shortssY1kTEZaPJM?feature=share this leak was 2 years back about super meteor 650cc
@@footballspiritual9702 Yeah, it’s definitely a new direction. I have the Continental GT 650 and it’s a great bike. And I heard that the 350 was more popular overseas than the 500, hence the decision for the 350 Reborn. I guess we’ll just have to shop for vintage bikes now.
@Cycling with Gasoline
its a great bike 350 or 500 or 650. The only problem I have is the long wait for the bike. Up untill early 2000s, they were taking lose. I think when the new management took over, they didn't plan this level of success. They only have 3 manufacturing plant around the world, and all 3 are less than 100 KM from each other.
I also have 2018 Classic 500. Bought it new in 2018. Has the same muffler as yours, aftermarket saddle and my home made booster plug makes it even better. You can se my bike on my channel if you like. Thanks for a great video.
Very nice! I’ve always been a fan of that classic tank. I’m thinking about a booster plug for mine. You just got a new subscriber and thanks for watching!
@@Cyclingwithgasoline Thank you very much and you got a new subscriber to.🙂
@@tompas11A3n52KkX Thanks!
this dsnt look like stock handle bars
They’re stock
Nice bike.
@@davidinghram2494 Thanks!
I have a bought new 2013 RE B5 Bullet 500. It has been converted to a carburetor, and has an aftermarket exhaust. It really does look like it is straight out of the 1950s. But this thing most certainly does not. They did not make flat black bikes in the 1950s. This thing would be beautiful with bright shiny paint, and lots of chrome and polished aluminum. But as it is, it's drop dead ugly. I have no idea why anybody would buy such a hideous bike.
As they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder 😂
Am in love with COCO 👃🤘💖
Tiny correction it not 499cc, it 411cc engine.
Thanks for watching! And you’re thinking of the Scram or Himalayan with the 411cc engine. The Classic 500 is 499cc (hence the 500 designation)
Rock.....singer
Good at ride
Go up 1 or 2 teeth on the front sprocket. Hitchcock's UK.
@@leehart1498 Yes, there’s a lot to be done 👍
This is a old gen classic try a new gen classic
I have a Continental GT 650
Well meaning people in my comments try to tell be how to ride my Bullet 500 as though it were a Hayabusa or Ninja.😂 It's more like a rotary tiller.
@@MrMomo182 It’s a very different concept. You can’t drive a VW Bug like a Dodge Challenger 😂
The pilot lights (tiger eyes) used to be indicators
They were never used as indicators, although it's possible some owners converted them.
Those mirrors 😂
@@dodibenabba525 They get the job done 😂
Royal Enfield bullet 535
Thanks to Big Nose
Couldn’t find a better sponsor 😎
@@Cyclingwithgasoline
Bikes cars .. money youtube timtok or other 운동 .. 헬스장 ㅅㅂ
This bike looks sooo beautiful my god Royal Enfield should re launch this bike .
It’s really nice. The new generation of bikes isn’t bad at all, though