This is the best and honest compairism of these bikes. RE is an innovative company, building good an cheep motorcycles but Triumph is much more premium and there for more expensive. However I love my T100 and this bike will stay in my garage for ever. Cheers from Germany 🇩🇪
I'd agree. But, when l was in Hunstanton a few weeks back there were plenty of Triumph's at the seaside park up but only 1 Interceptor and that RE was the only bike people were walking up to and looking at. They've nailed that look.
I have owned a couple of modern classic Triumphs. They are fine but in my opinion and it’s only my opinion! They look great but lack character. I currently own 3 Royal Enfield’s including an Interceptor. It’s obviously a more budget bike but has loads of character and makes me smile within a couple of minutes of riding
Excellent video. Refreshing to hear from an actual owner. Thank you. The RE Interceptor is very tempting. Beautiful bikes, but a bit tall for me and heavier than I realized. I own a 2022 T100 and I love it. I'm 73 and recently retired. Probably best to just stick with what I know and love. I did pick up a good used 2022 RE Classic 350. I have to say, while it is heavy for a 350, it sure is a lot easier to move around the garage than my T100. It is slow for sure. But, as I get older, maybe that is a good thing. The 350 is a lot of fun. I love going out to the garage and seeing the T-100, the Classic 350, and my other toy - a Honda S2000, sitting there begging to go our for a ride. I live in a gorgeous rural area in Vermont. I feel very fortunate. 😀
My Interceptor... in Ravishing Red.... is an excellent machine. I bought it for what it wasn't more so than what it was. Primarily the price difference will cover my summer riding adventures for years to come. Last summer I did a nearly 2000 mile solo.... cruised all day long at 75,mph.... and at the end of the day.. I didn't feel like I rode all day long at 75mph. 😎
Thanks for sharing your story, I like the concept of the "price difference covering your summer riding for years to come" I wish I had thought of that!
In America, the bottom line is, if you have lots of money, buy the Triumph. If you are on a budget, and only have half the money of a Triumph to spend, it's the Royal Enfield. Love my Interceptor. I will probably never afford to know what it's like to own a Triumph.
There's nothing wrong with Interceptors, I loved mine. I may even buy one again in the not too distant future. I've actually sold my T100 recently as I'm building a house and needed extra money. I might have to start small and work my way up with a new bike again as the cost of living in N.Z is tough at the moment. You should go take a T100 or T120 for a test ride, just for comparison sake.
I bought my T100 at a time when I was about to retire and after a lifetime of hard work, and good luck, I had accumulated enough to get the bike I wanted. Still, it was a tough choice between these two bikes for me. I could have gone either way. Yes, I am happy with my choice. But I am quite sure the RE would make me equally happy. Lovely bikes.
Biggest issue with Triumph to me is it is built in Thailand, but charges built in the UK prices. At least RE is honest with their pricing & it’s one of the best bargains in motorcycles today. The Triumph Trident is closer to a realistic price, but still several thousand more than a RE, even though it is produced in Asia as well. The triumphs are great bikes, I don’t begrudge them that. But when they moved production to Asia, the prices should have reflected the lower costs.
@@nielsmeerthe quality of the bike is not less because it’s built in Thailand. Have you actually sat on a triumph modern classic? It blows the RE out of the water in every aspect, including parts fit and finish.
@@cowmath77 Yes, I’ve ridden the Triumph & it is a good bike. But, if they have lower costs because of where it is produced it should be reflected in the price. The price didn’t change when they moved manufacturing from England to Thailand. It just made more profit for them. The RE is not to the same level of fit & finish as the Triumph, but the Triumph is also 60% more expensive. Even the MotoGuzzi V7 is produced in Italy for a very high quality and fun to ride bike that’s still >$2K cheaper than the Thai-built Triumph 100.
Absolutely brilliant video, so hard to find people reviewing motorcycles now on TH-cam that actually own them as they get buried just subscribed absolutely brilliant video and thanks for sharing from across the pond in the UK.
Two Great Bikes, we are in the new Golden age of Motorcycles 😊 i just liked the endfield from the moment i first saw it, the Continental GT has been so good with vary few personal modifications. The Torque hits like a classic 750cc.
I agree, we're living in the golden age of motorcycles right now. With EU emision rules hitting the industry, who knows what it'll look like in 15 years
Thanks very much as your reviews have led me to order a new T100. Great riding shots and I'm looking forward to riding the Bonnie through the Scottish Highlands. Cheers, Ian
Congrats, that's excellent news! Glad I could be of assistance in your buying decision. Couldn't be a more fitting location for a Bonnie then in Bonnie Scotland!
Good review! I owned an Interceptor for four years / 10,000 miles and it was 100% reliable with no issues. I now own a Super Meteor 650, which seems to be a step on in terms of build quality and finish and is very comfortable. I also have a 2024 T100 Bonnie which feels very similar to the Interceptor but with 30% more performance! In the UK Royal Enfield bikes come with a three year warranty whereas Triumph only offer two years.
Thanks for sharing, yes I’ve sat on the Super Meteor with touring seat and it may just have been the most comfortable bike I’ve sat on! I just can’t get used to the off centred speedo. You have a good taste in bikes 👌🏼
Great Review Wesley!! I really loved this and appreciated what you said about the community!! Your footage and scenery is phenomenal!! My only remaining question about these two bikes is weight - I thought about the Interceptor before I bought my Himmy. But it was SO heavy for me to just straighten up off the stand. And I've often wondered if the Triumph feels light or heavy. I think the weight is similar. Thanks for the review!
Hey Lindsay, good question! I think the T100 feels slightly lighter with the weight being lower, but both are relatively easy for a guy of my size to manoeuvre, you're right though, they're very similar weights
To be fair, the T100 has been refreshed since your 2018. It's brakes and forks were improved and the bike is 9lbs lighter. Great comparison vid, either are fantastic choices.
Yes, I realise mine was released 6 years ago now (wow!) but I tried my best to compare the two models using the models I had. I would love to try out a 2024 T100, or T120 ;)
Great video Wes, I couldn’t afford the latest T100 as my first bike. Weighed up the old 865 vs the Interceptor and went for the Interceptor, really happy with it. Maybe one day will get a T120 as well, but can’t see myself parting with the Interceptor as it’s easy to service at home and cheap to maintain.
I think I would have gone with the Interceptor too, the 865 doesn't really appeal to me. I'm about the looks just as much as the riding experience, and I think the Inty trumps the 865 in the looks department.
@@wesleyjames. Yes, my height is 6'2" and I was skeptical about the interceptor 650 as test ride time was very brief to get the ergonomics but you fairly explored this point. Thank you!
Awesome video mate, love the mainland scenery with great looking bikes. Another good comparison would be between the 865cc air cooled bonnie and the interceptor.
@wesleyjames. The 865 bonneville will feel a little bit different being a 360 crank, compared to the 270 degree crank on the 900 bonneville and interceptor. Scrambler is a good one to try (they have always rocked with the 270 degree crank iirc).
Very good review on both bikes as a long served Technician who has worked on both Triumph and Enfield at dealer level both are good options, Price does come into it and it seem Triumph have moved upmarket with the brand both in pricing and what they build these days. The only ideosyncracy I have found with Triumphs are the 270 degree twins I found that they ride better and respond better if when comparing to a Bonny you run one gear higher and load the engine up they seem to work better that way. The Enfield I rate along with the Kawasaki Z900 RS as the two best steering and useable modern retro bikes when it comes to ride manners both steer superbly and handle a treat despite all but the Limited edition Z 900 RS models with Ohlins and Brembos both could use better shocks and some fork mods. Enfields are screw and locknut valve adjustment so no shims needed and seem to hold clearances much better than say a Yamaha XV 650 which always need valves done every 5,000 kilometeres or they suffer a noticeable loss of torque fuel economy and hence must have valve clearances done every 5k and are much more fiddly to do than an Enfield
Excellent insight, thanks for sharing. I wish I had spoken to you prior to making the video. That's interesting about the steering comparison, good to know
Thanks for your comparison. All these time I thought they were two different class of bikes. At the age of 70 all of a sudden got the crave to buy a motorbike . Wanted to buy classic Triumph but none in the leaner range and hence thinking of interceptor 650. Had a look at the interceptor and it lacks the finish quality of other bikes. .
Great comparison Wes. I have owned a 2009 triumph t100 for almost 6 months now and love the bike. I paid almost $9000 Australian for it. It had 9000 on the clock so plenty of life in her yet.
A nice comparison. Driving down your scenic roads makes any bike enjoyable. A comparison with the Enfield Shotgun would be interesting as it does have some component improvements over the Interceptor.
Great review. I am an Interceptor owner. I have ridden 26,000 km on it and it is still going strong. At least here in Brazil, it is a real bargain for the price they charge. For comparison, it is cheaper than a Yamaha Xmax 250 (yes, they still sell it with 250 engine here), Kawasaki Versys X 300, and Sym 400i and bmw 310 Gs. I could not recommend it more. Save the money for customizations and gas.
Nice job. I bought a T-100 new in 2013. I’m 61 and it’s my first street bike. I hadn’t ridden any style bike since I was 14 years old until this one. I hope to ride it here in the states from Alabama to Maine starting in mid August. It just turned over 76,200 miles today. It’ll be close to 80k miles when I start that trip. It’s been an awesome bike so far so I believe it’s up to the challenge. Hopefully, I’ll reach 100k miles on it in a few years. Maybe I’ll buy a new bike then, probably not 😊 Thanks for sharing your thoughts on these bikes. I may buy a RE in the future. Nothing wrong with owning more than one bike 🤘🏻😎
I have had 6 Hinkley Triumphs and 5 Royal Enfields, I prefer the earlier versions to the later models, these include the Interceptor, the Street Twin and the Classic 350, I prefered the Himalayan to the modern Royal Enfields. My current two bikes are a 2001 Bonneville 790 and a 2015 RE Bullet 500 B5, both bikes are great and have different attractions. I like the quality and design of the Triumphs and I like the fact that you can drop the Royal Enfield Bullet without worrying about the consequences too much. If I compare the Interceptor to the Street Twin I think the Triumph wins, I found the Interceptor brakes, steering, balance and ergonomics not as good, I did have a T100 but prefer the carb Bonneville. Both are great manufacturers, in the unlikely event I am around in 25 years I would agree that I would still like the Bonneville in the garage. Nice video and good review, the roads in NZ look much better than UK. Tim.
Enjoyed the video. I have an Interceptor with S&S 865 kit, done over 10K, it has more power and torque than the T100 and I have money left over to customise. Here in Oz we have 10K service intervals. Thanks!
Nice review! Pretty fair I would say having done 43000km on the Interceptor touring all over Europe and having a go on a friends Bonneville.. I agree, in twenty years time I'd probably like to see the Triumph in my garage BUT the Interceptor is hugely capable with a few mods.. suspension, gearing, better chain.. I don't find the front brake bad at all but it's common to criticize the back. It is not in my opinion a learner bike ( no bike above 400cc is) and it's a bike that many owners won't part with irrespective of the price. The Triumph was really good but I remember saying to myself at the time..'this is good, very good... but not good enough to warrant changing'
@@clausentumsoton i love hearing stories of riders with loads of mileage on their RE’s. You should do a 50k km review when you hit that milestone. I think my argument was more leaning towards owning a second hand Triumph. I’m currently on the lookout for a new bike and have been eyeing up the Classic 350. I’ve been in love since I first rode one of the J series editions a couple years back.
Loved the Akaroa descent. Travelled 19000 klm in 6 months on that road and know every corner. Cost me $1.00 from Chch Hornby to Akaroa and if I turned the key off and coasted down hill it was $0.80 cents in 1978. At 100klm on the dot all the way took exactly 1 hour to and from work. Loved the comparison of the bikes but Im going for the T120
You forgot the fourth decision criterion longevity. There is a tube comparing a 20 year old triumph to a 10 year old RE. The Triumph came out without rust which could not be said from the RE. Nicely done though!
Good review mate, I’m currently tossing up between a T100 or another RE (had a GT a few years ago). Love that shot at 13:23 classic kiwi with the beer crate on the back of the 350. Love it.
Like you I have owned/ridden both bikes and like you if I was pushed I would reluctantly choose the Triumph. They are both very nice bikes to live with.
Great vid mate 🙌 loved your tacho graphics! My brother is currently looking at Interceptors for his first bike. Some are as low as $6500 up here in the north island at the moment.
Haha, yeah I was stoked with how they turned out, nice and simple explainer for the audience. I can't believe how cheap people are selling Interceptor's for these days, that is a bargain price for the bike!
Very good video, for me the best one it's the Guzzi V7, i test rode the t100 and the V7 850 and V7 felt better to me, I haven't tested the 650 Enfields yet
Yes the Triumph is a premium brand , but the accessories are priced at an even higher premium . on a recent trip to GB I found that the accessory market was much more competitive with "genuine" Triumph equipment selling for almost half of the prices that we are quoted in NZ ( exchange rate taken into account ).
Yes, we get a little rinsed down here in N.Z when it comes to Moto related parts and accessories. I'll do the same next time I'm over in the U.K, bring a bag back full of parts ha!
It's mainly that I found the 5th gear to be irrelevant, when shifting up to a higher pace you go straight to 6th gear on the motorway. The T100 revs way lower and only has 5 gears. Hope that makes sense
interceptor is tremendous value if one can live with occasional unexpected parts replacement and slightly under powered on freeways. but it has higher ground clearance and has the center stand.
I have both. A 2021 T100 and a 2022 Interceptor 650. I was enjoying the Interceptor but it has blown its gearbox. Thankfully it’s under warranty however it blew end of Feb and the Auckland Dealer took 6 weeks to give me an appointment to assess then getting parts in means it’s off the road until July. This has destroyed my faith in the brand and the bike. As soon as it’s repaired it will be sold. I just got the T100 and while it costs 1.5 times the Enfield it’s more than 1.5 times the bike in all areas including quality of components. You do get what you pay for. If you can afford a T100, get a T100 otherwise yes the RE650 is the next best thing.
what happened to gearbox? my intercepter 2021 also had faulty gearbox think teeth broke of and had to wait 5 months to get parts ..i love the bike and character is great but its tough to trust it after such a big fault. did here that the 3rd gear issue is common with 2021 production run …did you have any info to share ?
@@Alex-io6kyDealer said the cogs and teeth broke (3rd gear was like a neutral). They said it was a hardening issue for the 2021 and 2022. There’s a worldwide shortage of parts which is why you waited 5 months for parts and me 7 1/2 months. It should have been a recall.
I may prefer one make at any given time but I'm definitely not in to 'one make communities.' I enojy riding, looking at and talking about all makes and all types of bike. But I agree with your conclusion.😊
Hi Wesley I have always liked the triumph T100 sat on the Royal Enfield and it didn’t seem as nice I have not taken either out for a test ride I will wait for the shotgun to be released from Royal Enfield here in Australia before I decide. I currently have a Honda cb500x 2019 done 3 tours of Tanzania and also use to commute to work but only 5 kilometres I have owned the bike from new 4 years and my wife has the same bike.i am always looking at different bikes so much options out there T120 with cruise control would be preferred but not cheap. A retirement dream at 65 not long to wait. Malcolm and Diana Melbourne.
Thanks for the comment, I'm intrigued to see how the Shotgun feels too, might be a contender for me next bike. The heated grips & cruise control optios on the T120 are very tempting
There's a massive difference in price, at the end of the day it's your decision as to whether or not it's worth that extra and if you've got the money in the first place to buy it.
If you're quick on the draw, you can often find used T100's and T120's going for similar prices to new Interceptors. If you don't mind a used bike that is...
Video is great a thorough review of both motorcycles. Not agree with interceptor 5000 km service intervals if you read manufacturer manual its not mentioned liked this and most of the community following it. Can you elaborate about 5k km service intervals. Thanks for a great video
Super useful thoughts. I test rode an Interceptor at Experience last week and was really impressed. It felt like my old SR 400 with double the power and better suspension. The choice I'm looking at is really the Interceptor versus a used Scrambler 900, head says RE, heart says Triumph.
Take the 900 out for a test ride to compare the feel of the engine, it's the same as the T100. If it's a brand new bike with warranty you're after, the Inty will be a good choice. The new Interceptors have better grips and headlight then previous generations.
I've never thought much of the New Royal Enfield Interceptor as I have a 1976 Yamaha XS650 that, at 48 years old (I bought it new), is noticably stronger and better handling that the new Enfield I tested a few years back. I drove my Vintage Yamaha 650 to the shop for the test-ride so it was a real back to back experience. What attracted my attention that day was not the Enfield but a Triumph T120 on sale for $10,000 USD. After 4 years of ownership I have crowned the T120 the best bike Ive ever ridden (which includes the 100hp BMW F900 XR I bought for my son-in-law that same day). Apropos of the T100. I might add that if it's possible to beg, barrow or steal a few extra dollars (US, Canadian, Kiwi; any dollars you can come by) the T120 is a worth while upgrade of the T110. Pretty much the same bike in every way except for the bigger 1200cc engine, 6-speed box and beefed-up brakes. With from 25% to 30% more power and torque pulling the same weight, it's quite a rush.
Thanks for your insight, I've heard so many great things about the T120! If you watch my earliest T100 review I discuss my next bike will most likely be a T120, or 1200 Scrambler! Thanks for watching
Someone recently commented that it's been moved to slightly higher intervals here in N.Z, but I used to work at a RE dealership in Auckland and it was definitely 5000km intervals.
@@wesleyjames. No worries, I just thought that I should meniton that. Realisticaly most people will service it in yearly intervals anyway. Nevertheless great job on the video and editing, very well done✌
In terms of service intervalls here in germany you are a little wrong. The T100 has to be in service each 16.000km OR once per year - depends on what happens first. So if you want to have the warranty you have to take it once per year into service ;-). However thx for the Video. Thumbs up !.
E X C E L L E N T review and comparison!! (This should be the gold standard for bike reviews on TH-cam.) I am currently thinking about to swap my V-Strom 650 for a T100. This video helps a lot. Thank you! 👍
@@wesleyjames. Difficult to say what style of riding: Riding around town and some vacation trips. Offroad: 0,01%, more or less pure road driving. I think the T100 will be capable of doing this. Though I assume that it will take some time to come to a decision. Greetings from the other side of the planet (Germany). 😊
I chose the 650 over the Triumph rationalizing that with the $ saved I could also buy a Himmi. Interesting you have two bikes that are similar. I've got 4 bikes that couldn't be more different yet still feel I have 3 too many. Leads me to believe I must have 4 distinct personalities. For that reason alone, joining a club is out. 😄
Haha, I'm in the same predicament, I'm eyeing up the new Himmy's, but want a modern classic as well. I can't fit 2 bikes in my garage so thinking a 1200 Scrambler would tick both boxes...?
I am based out of India. RE machines are talk of the town here. There are equal number of haters. I own Interceptor myself & I have no complaints so far considering the price point. RE service in India is ordinary but that goes same with Triumph. Interceptor in my view point is the masterpiece RE has produced so far. It ticks all checkboxes for a practical tourer or a cruiser segment. Triumph on other hand comes with 3 times the price tag but with premium quality. Interceptor is a better bet for Indian market any day.
I have /had a 07 865cc T100 before a car wrote my Triumph and my right leg off. I have a long way to go before I will be able to ride again but ride I will and more than likely on a Triumph.
No RE Community in Hawkes Bay was a Dealership but went bust 2yrs ago.There's a great RE Community in Palmy. Hawkes Bay is Harley Country & Cruiser Central if see a Triumph 90% chance it's a Cruiser like a Americana, Speedmaster, Rocket 🚀 3. Lots of Japanese cruisers too but heaps of Harley's & not even a Harley Dealership in Hawkes Bay.
@@wesleyjames. Yeah don't buy a bike with Red in it up here🤣. Yes ADV scene is big up here but not as big as it should be.Dirt bikes for off-road & Dual sports bikes are popular & there is alot of gravel roads to explore if you know where to look & alot link together with a sealed road between them etc.A lot of ADV riders travel here to explore.The Gangs mainly ride V-Rods,Street-Rods🤣. Ultimately if you could afford it a road bike & a ADV a cheaper lighter one like new Himmy 452 coming out or Triumph Scrambler 400 be more than capable of gravel road exploring.There is R.A.T Riders Association of Triumph chapter in Hawkes Bay.
👍Excellent review, I love both bikes, I currently ride a Triumph T120 bobber but would seriously consider the Enfield Shotgun. Beautiful scenery well filmed. Best wishes From UK.🏍
Hey brother please respond to me asap I am in Auckland buying a continental GT 650 picking it up on saturday hopefully. The MR Clean version looks awesome with the SNS. I just want to ask you did you have insurance for your bike that was stolen and if so which insurance company? what happened did they pay market value for the bike? im confused as to what insurance company I should get. Thanks brother! Sorry to hear that it was stolen though
Royal enfield is an Indian company and so are made for India and Harsh Indian conditions my gt650 has clocked 41567kms in 3 years and not a single issue yet and that’s riding in -32°C to +48°C(-25.6°F to 118.5°F temperature varies a lot from state to state in India). also, the service interval is 10,000 Kms not 5000, 5000 is just a check service not majour oil change service, 5k check service is free in india.
@@wesleyjames. It is indeed baffling to hear such short service intervals, I really don’t understand it, usually harsher the conditions shorter the service period. Royal enfield needs to look into that because 5000 km Service is just unacceptable for a 650cc low revving 3.5L oil sump motorcycle. IT ADDS UP PRETTY QUICKLY , ALSO IN INDIA, IF YOU DON’T RIDE AS MUCH AS 10,000 KM IN ONE YEAR, THEY WILL EVEN POSTPONE THE OIL CHANGE TILL YOU HIT 10,000 KM.
Leave allegiance to HD riders. I have been a member of the Triumph Owners Club for a quarter of a century. I also own a Royal Enfield and have covered more than 8,000 miles on it. Great bike, is it better than my Triumph? Probably.
I'm in the US. Test rode both bikes in the last 2 weeks. I thought the RE was a very good engine that deserves better than what it's surrounded with. The orange peel on the tank paint, the cheap tires, it's bad low speed handling, the cases that are tarnished so bad sitting in the show room it would take the better part of a day to polish. It's just has an air of shabbiness. Even 250 cc's larger T100 they gets almost same MPG. The Triumph is just a better all-around bike that's much better built. Here in the US the first sevice on the RE is $500 and they don't want you doing it yourself. Triumph dealer says show the receipts and we'll mark your book. I went with the T100 in red and white.
It sounds like you may have ridden a dud. There's certain components that are understandably inferior as the bike's built to a price point. I agree though, the Triumph is the one to aim for :)
You can drive the T100 with A2 license! It's the best A2 bike you can get because the torque is untouched! You can drive it up to 5000 rpm with full power! 😉👍
Yes, it's a whole nother category of expense when entering the Triumph market. Damn, I love the Speed Twin. That perfect middle ground of modern mixed with a dash of retro, would love to take one for a test ride
Hi mate great review I have a question what brand are the tyres on your Bonnie I'm looking at putting two new tyres on my Bonnie are they good tyres in the wet and dry cheers Gary
Put an 865 big bore kit on a Royal Enfield and it's a much better bike. And then if that's not enough put a camshaft in it as well and you've got a real T120 beater!!
Tempting, but if you weigh up the cost of the parts and labour, you could probably just buy a second hand T120... but then it comes down to brand allegiance again haha
R. Enfield are priced about right perhaps a little over priced. Triumph is a far superior product all round. 140,000Km on my 2017 T100 Ive just stepped up to T120...Im loving it
What’s being missed is. Triumph is a closed source oem parts n repair info . On the newer t 120 no repair manuals or inner motor parts. You have to take it in. No big bore kits. One aftermarket cam profile. Add your personal bits n bobs n go! R. E. At least lets you have at it! I don’t think I would have bought my bonnie knowing all that now.
Bit sceptical about your range stats. The t100 has about a seven percent greater capacity tank and yet seems to have at least fifteen to twenty percent more range. So, it’s the more economical of the two on mpg , it would seem. Which I find surprising. Not saying you’re incorrect in your figures. I just find it surprising.
I recently took a 2 day trip with my mate (he was riding an Interceptor) and I was filling up far less than he was, I tended to have a spare 115km when his petrol light was coming on...
In the States, air cooled Bonnevilles from 2001-2015 are inexpensive and plentiful. A new Interceptor will run almost $7,000 USD "out the door- (delivery freight, setup, taxes, documents, inspection sticker)". But a Bonneville 2001- 2015 with less than 10,000 miles will cost $4,500 - $5,000, as many as you want to buy. I've even seen higher mile ones with like 34,000 miles sell for $2,500 a couple of times. There's no reason in the States to buy an Interceptor when you can get a better quality bike (Bonneville) in like-new condition for a lot less money!
@@wesleyjames. Its quite similar here in the Netherlands. For a secondhand Interceptor you still pay a 6000 EURO minimum, new ones go for 8000. Secondhand Bonnevilles from 2004 to 2016 go for between 5 and 8500 usually. And even in that, the Interceptor is still an interesting offer that I consider because its a very nice looking bike, its a tough choice. The newer Bonevilles are quite a lot more though, thats not really competing with a new Interceptor as its more like 12000 new for a T100.
Don’t know why you’d own both to be honest. In my view they aren’t competitors (huge price difference) but substitutes not sure why you’d buy the other if you had one. It would be like having a Yamaha R7 and an Aprilia RS660. I’d rather have two more different motorcycles but obviously you don’t feel the same way
I never had them in the garage at the same time. I’m into the particular style of bike, as well as gradually upgrading as I can afford to do so. I have the T120 in my crosshairs next…
I wrote off a Interceptor & broke both ankles,3 ribs,3 fingers,3 discs in back & a punctured lung on a skinny country road on bend with crest & over crest there was about 3inches of gravel probably dumped that morning by farm vehicle.Was doing about 75kmh & front wheel washed out & went off side of road & hit a concrete fence post which fence was really close to road.I couldn't breathe & Ambo's put a metal pipe in lung & that air rushing in was the best feeling but wasn't enough & died 3times.Twice waiting for helicopter & once when helicopter was lifting off. I was on group ride & guys behind me that called 111 were begging for helicopter but they wouldn't send one. Waited 15mins for Ambo & hearing Ambo gave adrenaline rush but then deflated hearing that I had to wait atleast another 20mins for Helicopter. I thought I faded out a few times but mates said I died but I was conscious on & off & hearing the chopper come in was the greatest feeling.The Ambo's couldn't find a vein for pain killers & was in pain for 40mins but when chopper team arrived got a vein straight away & got pain relief but they needed to Defibrillator 1 more time.I woke up in Palmy Hospital 9hrs later in a world 🌎 of pain & took months to heal & hospital stay.I was so lucky to survive & without chopper I was dead & got me thinking 🤔 how many people die waiting for Ambo's to ok the chopper waisting precious time.If I was on a farm in a bike accident they'd send chopper no Ambo's needed.I understand some accidents chopper not needed but I had a punctured lung & my mate had been with someone else in bike crash with punctured lung & knew what it was & told them that & was begging & frustrated & swearing for chopper.I had to wait longer too cause Hawke's Bay chopper on another call & I was lucky enough that Palmy chopper wasn't & I was just North of Danniverke.I was paid out by Insurance Company & bike was paid off so after 7months of healing I got me the lightest bike a Trident 🔱 660 to get back on a bike.I never be the same again stuffed my back & left ankle permanently but am stronger now & will get me T100 later in year.
Gee I thought my Insurance Premium was high cause I had a claim & lost my No Claims Bonus.After 2yrs my Premium returns to normal which is in September.I also use 2 Oxford chains & locks 1 silver 1 gold & a Oxford Gold Disc lock & get maximum security bonus & don't have a lockable garage no doors but also have a camera 🎥.
Ouch, glad you lived to tell the story. That sounds like a hectic crash! Really good to know regarding the air ambulance necessity with a punctured lung. Thanks for sharing your story, gravel can come out of nowhere. A bikers worst enemy
@@wesleyjames. Sometimes I see people riding in t-shirts or worse shorts as well & can almost taste blood in my mouth & cringe.I'm a big believer in always wearing the gear no matter how hot 🥵 & saved my life.I get jackets with back pads as already had bad back & this summer got me a Mesh jacket with a removable waterproof lining & back pad.Yes the Helicopter Crews a Fantastic & professional saved my life.To think 🤔 you won't go down is idiotic yes you may be good rider but doesn't stop someone driving into you or deep loose gravel or black ice oil spills so pays to be ready & have all the gear on.
The RE 650 is cheaper because it is chock full of cheap parts. The new Triumph has nothing to do with the old one . Bloor bought a name . He could have called it a BLOOR and had that on the tank. RE didn't have the Royal Enfield name for 50 years till they bought the name. Real British motorcycles are rebuidable forever ♾️. Made to be serviced by the owner not the dealership. One made in Thailand and the other one is made in India. Fake , acquired heritage. Buy a set of tank badges and put them on a Honda. You will have a more reliable and dependable motorcycle and it will be just as British as fried rice or curry. MyBSA 441 Shooting 🌠 Star is more of a Gold Star than that piece of Chinesiom built-in lndia. Nothing is made in England anymore and never will be again. Don't bring up Norton either. Let's see how long thats going to last this time. TVS to it's credit is providing motorcycles for all who got ripped off by the last owner who should have been boiled in oil for what he did. You Brits used to be so good at that. One of the things that made Merry ol England so merry in the old days like burning witches and lets not forget everyone's favorite feeding virgins to dragons. Who doesn't love to watch that?
Wow, haha that comment took a bit of a turn! I agree, they aren't authentically "British" anymore, but what is? Even the likes of Goldtop (authentic British branded clothing) is made in China. It's not going to hold me back buying them. If there was a modern classic made in N.Z I would probably buy it. I've been considering making a video on bikes that are still produced in their country of origin...
When John Bloor bought the rights to make Triumph motorcycles in 1983 the first bikes were built in the Hinckley factory, England. Although most production is now made in Triumphs factories in Thailand some are still built in a new factory in England where the design centre is. Triumph are an English company, the bikes are financed and designed and developed in England. Its not 1960 anymore, bikes are not built by hand by some bloke with a hammer in one hand and a cigarette in the other. Move with the times, my Japanese Nissan was built in England and its a great car just as my Triumph built in Thailand is a great bike.😂
@@splodge57 They auctioned off the production machines. They are done and gone. They are all made overseas now. I have had less mechanical issues with a 60 years old motorcycle than people with new ones. Paste union jacks all over the bike doesn't change where it is made. Onei disposable like an appliance. The other one is rebuidlable forever ♾️. It was also designed to be serviced and maintained by the rider.l change my oil and adjust the valves when required. I don't have any 1,500 pound service bill to deal with like you will have. People have more trouble with bikes made in Thailand than Meridian had in the 1960's. They like BSA were selling every motorcycle that they could build . Warranty claims were almost nothing during the 1960's.All my Triumph and BSA motorcycle were built in England. With English parts and labor. Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2 wheels. BMW are still made in Germany. Ducati and Moto Guzzi are made in Italy. I don't count little rebadged bikes like the small KTM,BMW,HD, and Triumph bikes made in China or India. Nissan makes 1 car in England and sells 10 built where ever. I have the real thing . I have had my Triumph Tr-6 with a hard tail and magneto for 40 years. None of today's motorcycles will be on the road in 60 years. They will all be recycled into beer cans for you to drink your warm beer from.
yes, all RE bikes have cheap quality parts. I have replaced those parts in first year which no other brand would require. but after that it was stable. Int650 is no1 in value for money and ideal city+highway tool. On long tours, I felt it a bit small and underpowered, specially when big horses overtook me and disappeared from sight in no time.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459I've enjoyed riding many makes of motorcycle from different countries for over 50 years. Still ride a 1959 BSA A10 (magneto) as well as a modern Triumph. I've never had any real problems with any of my bikes and feel lucky to have owned all of them. Keep on smiling, whatever it is you're choosing to ride.😊🤣🤣😊
Most people that have interceptor cant afford triumph, period, the interceptor feels heavy and underpowered, has no pride factor, i sold mine and i prefer triumph anyday. A lot of poor people will cope enfield are better lol
This is the best and honest compairism of these bikes. RE is an innovative company, building good an cheep motorcycles but Triumph is much more premium and there for more expensive. However I love my T100 and this bike will stay in my garage for ever. Cheers from Germany 🇩🇪
Thanks for the kind words, cool to know I have support in Germany. Ride safe on your T100!
I'd agree. But, when l was in Hunstanton a few weeks back there were plenty of Triumph's at the seaside park up but only 1 Interceptor and that RE was the only bike people were walking up to and looking at. They've nailed that look.
I have owned a couple of modern classic Triumphs. They are fine but in my opinion and it’s only my opinion! They look great but lack character. I currently own 3 Royal Enfield’s including an Interceptor. It’s obviously a more budget bike but has loads of character and makes me smile within a couple of minutes of riding
Excellent video. Refreshing to hear from an actual owner. Thank you. The RE Interceptor is very tempting. Beautiful bikes, but a bit tall for me and heavier than I realized. I own a 2022 T100 and I love it. I'm 73 and recently retired. Probably best to just stick with what I know and love. I did pick up a good used 2022 RE Classic 350. I have to say, while it is heavy for a 350, it sure is a lot easier to move around the garage than my T100. It is slow for sure. But, as I get older, maybe that is a good thing. The 350 is a lot of fun. I love going out to the garage and seeing the T-100, the Classic 350, and my other toy - a Honda S2000, sitting there begging to go our for a ride. I live in a gorgeous rural area in Vermont. I feel very fortunate. 😀
I am a big fan of the Classic 350, and couldn't think of better roads to enjoy it on than Vermont. Enjoy!
Here before this hits 200k views. Great comparison, nice visuals, good sound. 10/10. Thanks for sharing and taking the time to make this 🎉
Wow, thanks so much. I’m hoping for 20k views haha, your channel is amazing too! Big fan 🙌🏼
The service intervals on the RE 650 are every 5000kms up to 15,000kms then it goes to 10,000kms. At least thats what my dealer told me. Great review!
Good to know, all the more reason to put some good mileage on the bike, cheers!
They've done something to 650 platform as now it service mileages are 300, 7500, 15000. At least this is what my Super Meteor booklet says.
My Interceptor... in Ravishing Red.... is an excellent machine. I bought it for what it wasn't more so than what it was. Primarily the price difference will cover my summer riding adventures for years to come. Last summer I did a nearly 2000 mile solo.... cruised all day long at 75,mph.... and at the end of the day.. I didn't feel like I rode all day long at 75mph. 😎
Thanks for sharing your story, I like the concept of the "price difference covering your summer riding for years to come" I wish I had thought of that!
In America, the bottom line is, if you have lots of money, buy the Triumph. If you are on a budget, and only have half the money of a Triumph to spend, it's the Royal Enfield. Love my Interceptor. I will probably never afford to know what it's like to own a Triumph.
There's nothing wrong with Interceptors, I loved mine. I may even buy one again in the not too distant future. I've actually sold my T100 recently as I'm building a house and needed extra money. I might have to start small and work my way up with a new bike again as the cost of living in N.Z is tough at the moment. You should go take a T100 or T120 for a test ride, just for comparison sake.
I bought my T100 at a time when I was about to retire and after a lifetime of hard work, and good luck, I had accumulated enough to get the bike I wanted. Still, it was a tough choice between these two bikes for me. I could have gone either way. Yes, I am happy with my choice. But I am quite sure the RE would make me equally happy. Lovely bikes.
Biggest issue with Triumph to me is it is built in Thailand, but charges built in the UK prices. At least RE is honest with their pricing & it’s one of the best bargains in motorcycles today. The Triumph Trident is closer to a realistic price, but still several thousand more than a RE, even though it is produced in Asia as well. The triumphs are great bikes, I don’t begrudge them that. But when they moved production to Asia, the prices should have reflected the lower costs.
@@nielsmeerthe quality of the bike is not less because it’s built in Thailand. Have you actually sat on a triumph modern classic? It blows the RE out of the water in every aspect, including parts fit and finish.
@@cowmath77 Yes, I’ve ridden the Triumph & it is a good bike. But, if they have lower costs because of where it is produced it should be reflected in the price. The price didn’t change when they moved manufacturing from England to Thailand. It just made more profit for them. The RE is not to the same level of fit & finish as the Triumph, but the Triumph is also 60% more expensive. Even the MotoGuzzi V7 is produced in Italy for a very high quality and fun to ride bike that’s still >$2K cheaper than the Thai-built Triumph 100.
Absolutely brilliant video, so hard to find people reviewing motorcycles now on TH-cam that actually own them as they get buried just subscribed absolutely brilliant video and thanks for sharing from across the pond in the UK.
Thanks for the positive feedback! Inspires me to keep going at it :D
Best comparison on the internet.
I'm a hard core RE guy but I can see how 80 ft/lb might be fun.
It's a game changer, thanks for watching!
Two Great Bikes,
we are in the new Golden age of Motorcycles 😊
i just liked the endfield from the moment i first saw it, the Continental GT has been so good with vary few personal modifications.
The Torque hits like a classic 750cc.
I agree, we're living in the golden age of motorcycles right now. With EU emision rules hitting the industry, who knows what it'll look like in 15 years
As an owner of both brands…that is how to review, great work 💥
Cheers mate!
This was a wonderful breakdown. You had subjective and objective feedback. Clear and concise. Earned the sub! Well done mate!
Cheers Shane, yes I try not to be too biased with my reviews, and like to give the viewers my honest thoughts :)
Thanks very much as your reviews have led me to order a new T100. Great riding shots and I'm looking forward to riding the Bonnie through the Scottish Highlands. Cheers, Ian
Congrats, that's excellent news! Glad I could be of assistance in your buying decision. Couldn't be a more fitting location for a Bonnie then in Bonnie Scotland!
Top notch review thanks
@@claytonhenderson366 thanks for watching
Thanks for doing this I was on the fence of getting one new or finding one used. This video has helped me a lot cheers from the US
@@ahmadjavedaj you’re welcome, let me know when you get your Triumph
What a well rounded review good for you
Thanks Mark !
Good review! I owned an Interceptor for four years / 10,000 miles and it was 100% reliable with no issues. I now own a Super Meteor 650, which seems to be a step on in terms of build quality and finish and is very comfortable. I also have a 2024 T100 Bonnie which feels very similar to the Interceptor but with 30% more performance! In the UK Royal Enfield bikes come with a three year warranty whereas Triumph only offer two years.
Thanks for sharing, yes I’ve sat on the Super Meteor with touring seat and it may just have been the most comfortable bike I’ve sat on! I just can’t get used to the off centred speedo. You have a good taste in bikes 👌🏼
Great Review Wesley!! I really loved this and appreciated what you said about the community!! Your footage and scenery is phenomenal!! My only remaining question about these two bikes is weight - I thought about the Interceptor before I bought my Himmy. But it was SO heavy for me to just straighten up off the stand. And I've often wondered if the Triumph feels light or heavy. I think the weight is similar. Thanks for the review!
Hey Lindsay, good question! I think the T100 feels slightly lighter with the weight being lower, but both are relatively easy for a guy of my size to manoeuvre, you're right though, they're very similar weights
Great video and comparison.
The countryside is unmistakable Canty, NZ. 😊
Spot on! Thanks for watching
To be fair, the T100 has been refreshed since your 2018. It's brakes and forks were improved and the bike is 9lbs lighter. Great comparison vid, either are fantastic choices.
Yes, I realise mine was released 6 years ago now (wow!) but I tried my best to compare the two models using the models I had. I would love to try out a 2024 T100, or T120 ;)
Great video Wes, I couldn’t afford the latest T100 as my first bike. Weighed up the old 865 vs the Interceptor and went for the Interceptor, really happy with it. Maybe one day will get a T120 as well, but can’t see myself parting with the Interceptor as it’s easy to service at home and cheap to maintain.
I think I would have gone with the Interceptor too, the 865 doesn't really appeal to me. I'm about the looks just as much as the riding experience, and I think the Inty trumps the 865 in the looks department.
so nice and detailed points you made! subd!
Thanks bud, glad you enjoyed it
@@wesleyjames. Yes, my height is 6'2" and I was skeptical about the interceptor 650 as test ride time was very brief to get the ergonomics but you fairly explored this point. Thank you!
Thanks alot for this comparison.. I was exactly looking for these two motorcycles being compared.... Hi from 50 KMs north from New Delhi 😄
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed it
Nice review, clear, crisp and to the point. How is the vibration between the bikes, at what speed vibration kicks in both the bikes?
Both bikes are very smooth, I never noticed vibration on either
Awesome video mate, love the mainland scenery with great looking bikes. Another good comparison would be between the 865cc air cooled bonnie and the interceptor.
Thanks mate, I've never ridden an 865, but would love to get my hands on one one day, or one of the older Scrambler 900's :)
@wesleyjames. The 865 bonneville will feel a little bit different being a 360 crank, compared to the 270 degree crank on the 900 bonneville and interceptor. Scrambler is a good one to try (they have always rocked with the 270 degree crank iirc).
Very good review on both bikes as a long served Technician who has worked on both Triumph and Enfield at dealer level both are good options, Price does come into it and it seem Triumph have moved upmarket with the brand both in pricing and what they build these days.
The only ideosyncracy I have found with Triumphs are the 270 degree twins I found that they ride better and respond better if when comparing to a Bonny you run one gear higher and load the engine up they seem to work better that way.
The Enfield I rate along with the Kawasaki Z900 RS as the two best steering and useable modern retro bikes when it comes to ride manners both steer superbly and handle a treat despite all but the Limited edition Z 900 RS models with Ohlins and Brembos both could use better shocks and some fork mods.
Enfields are screw and locknut valve adjustment so no shims needed and seem to hold clearances much better than say a Yamaha XV 650 which always need valves done every 5,000 kilometeres or they suffer a noticeable loss of torque fuel economy and hence must have valve clearances done every 5k and are much more fiddly to do than an Enfield
Excellent insight, thanks for sharing. I wish I had spoken to you prior to making the video. That's interesting about the steering comparison, good to know
Thanks for your comparison. All these time I thought they were two different class of bikes. At the age of 70 all of a sudden got the crave to buy a motorbike . Wanted to buy classic Triumph but none in the leaner range and hence thinking of interceptor 650. Had a look at the interceptor and it lacks the finish quality of other bikes. .
Check the Triumph Speed 400. It's a beauty!
Maybe a Classic 350 or Bullet 350 would be a good choice to ease you back onto 2 wheels?
@@wesleyjames. Thanks. Had a look at them also .
@@NoFrictionZone Had a look but it lacks the classic look. Wish Honda GB 350 had the Triumph badge
Great comparison Wes. I have owned a 2009 triumph t100 for almost 6 months now and love the bike. I paid almost $9000 Australian for it. It had 9000 on the clock so plenty of life in her yet.
Great stuff, they're brilliant bikes
A nice comparison. Driving down your scenic roads makes any bike enjoyable. A comparison with the Enfield Shotgun would be interesting as it does have some component improvements over the Interceptor.
Thanks, I’d love to get my hands on a Shotgun, the ergonomics look great for taller riders
great review that few cover all aspects
Thanks Stanley
Absolutely honest. I've a supermeteor 650.
Great bike that, probably one of the comfiest bikes I've sat on
you got a hot rod,, the people wanted it, Royen Enfield made it 🤠
What an amazing quality vid , cheers mate!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good review. The torque and the craftsmanship on the T100 is better.
Thanks mate, yes the craftsmanship is second to none on the Triumphs
Great review. I am an Interceptor owner. I have ridden 26,000 km on it and it is still going strong. At least here in Brazil, it is a real bargain for the price they charge. For comparison, it is cheaper than a Yamaha Xmax 250 (yes, they still sell it with 250 engine here), Kawasaki Versys X 300, and Sym 400i and bmw 310 Gs.
I could not recommend it more. Save the money for customizations and gas.
Glad you enjoyed the video, the Interceptor is a great basis for customisation
Nice job. I bought a T-100 new in 2013. I’m 61 and it’s my first street bike. I hadn’t ridden any style bike since I was 14 years old until this one. I hope to ride it here in the states from Alabama to Maine starting in mid August. It just turned over 76,200 miles today. It’ll be close to 80k miles when I start that trip. It’s been an awesome bike so far so I believe it’s up to the challenge. Hopefully, I’ll reach 100k miles on it in a few years. Maybe I’ll buy a new bike then, probably not 😊
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on these bikes. I may buy a RE in the future. Nothing wrong with owning more than one bike 🤘🏻😎
Thanks for sharing your story, I would love to put that kind of mileage on my bike. So many memories. Don't sell it!
I have had 6 Hinkley Triumphs and 5 Royal Enfields, I prefer the earlier versions to the later models, these include the Interceptor, the Street Twin and the Classic 350, I prefered the Himalayan to the modern Royal Enfields. My current two bikes are a 2001 Bonneville 790 and a 2015 RE Bullet 500 B5, both bikes are great and have different attractions. I like the quality and design of the Triumphs and I like the fact that you can drop the Royal Enfield Bullet without worrying about the consequences too much.
If I compare the Interceptor to the Street Twin I think the Triumph wins, I found the Interceptor brakes, steering, balance and ergonomics not as good, I did have a T100 but prefer the carb Bonneville.
Both are great manufacturers, in the unlikely event I am around in 25 years I would agree that I would still like the Bonneville in the garage. Nice video and good review, the roads in NZ look much better than UK. Tim.
Thanks for your insights, I'd love to have a ride on the Hinkley models some day to compare. Did you own the older generation Himalayan?
Thank you for your honest review. I prefer T100 too, also Speed Twin 900, but I haven't enough bucks for it today. Perhaps someday ✌️
I didn’t buy the T100 outright, it took me 5 bikes to get there, saving up and slowly upgrading
Will go for royal enfield gt650
I love the GT!
Enjoyed the video. I have an Interceptor with S&S 865 kit, done over 10K, it has more power and torque than the T100 and I have money left over to customise. Here in Oz we have 10K service intervals. Thanks!
Nice, I’d love to ride an 865 Interceptor one day. Did it cost much to modify in the end?
Nice review! Pretty fair I would say having done 43000km on the Interceptor touring all over Europe and having a go on a friends Bonneville.. I agree, in twenty years time I'd probably like to see the Triumph in my garage BUT the Interceptor is hugely capable with a few mods.. suspension, gearing, better chain.. I don't find the front brake bad at all but it's common to criticize the back. It is not in my opinion a learner bike ( no bike above 400cc is) and it's a bike that many owners won't part with irrespective of the price. The Triumph was really good but I remember saying to myself at the time..'this is good, very good... but not good enough to warrant changing'
@@clausentumsoton i love hearing stories of riders with loads of mileage on their RE’s. You should do a 50k km review when you hit that milestone. I think my argument was more leaning towards owning a second hand Triumph. I’m currently on the lookout for a new bike and have been eyeing up the Classic 350. I’ve been in love since I first rode one of the J series editions a couple years back.
Loved the Akaroa descent. Travelled 19000 klm in 6 months on that road and know every corner. Cost me $1.00 from Chch Hornby to Akaroa and if I turned the key off and coasted down hill it was $0.80 cents in 1978. At 100klm on the dot all the way took exactly 1 hour to and from work. Loved the comparison of the bikes but Im going for the T120
I should say I rode a Honda CB400T
Sounds like an unforgettable commute, in biker heaven country. Love the cost saving down the hill, haha
Hi, what tires are you using for the T100?😊
I have a video on my custom parts on the T100, check it out ;)
You forgot the fourth decision criterion longevity. There is a tube comparing a 20 year old triumph to a 10 year old RE. The Triumph came out without rust which could not be said from the RE. Nicely done though!
I'll do that next time, thanks
Good review mate, I’m currently tossing up between a T100 or another RE (had a GT a few years ago). Love that shot at 13:23 classic kiwi with the beer crate on the back of the 350. Love it.
Thanks mate, I’d keep my eyes peeled for a used T100, but if it was brand new you wanted then an Interceptor will definitely be a great option
Great review. With the T100 suspension, do you think it’s rear shock or forks, or both that are lacking ? Roads are terrible in uk right now ☹️
Like you I have owned/ridden both bikes and like you if I was pushed I would reluctantly choose the Triumph. They are both very nice bikes to live with.
Well said!
Great vid mate 🙌 loved your tacho graphics! My brother is currently looking at Interceptors for his first bike. Some are as low as $6500 up here in the north island at the moment.
Haha, yeah I was stoked with how they turned out, nice and simple explainer for the audience. I can't believe how cheap people are selling Interceptor's for these days, that is a bargain price for the bike!
Very good video, for me the best one it's the Guzzi V7, i test rode the t100 and the V7 850 and V7 felt better to me, I haven't tested the 650 Enfields yet
Thanks mate, I have been tempted by a V7 for a long time... possibly my next bike?? Every now and then you can find them going quite cheap here in N.Z
Very nice video 👍 saludos desde México ✌️
Gracias! 😊
Yes the Triumph is a premium brand , but the accessories are priced at an even higher premium . on a recent trip to GB I found that the accessory market was much more competitive with "genuine" Triumph equipment selling for almost half of the prices that we are quoted in NZ ( exchange rate taken into account ).
Yes, we get a little rinsed down here in N.Z when it comes to Moto related parts and accessories. I'll do the same next time I'm over in the U.K, bring a bag back full of parts ha!
Great comparison, I only not understood the fact that a 6 speed on interceptor being a negative point?
It's mainly that I found the 5th gear to be irrelevant, when shifting up to a higher pace you go straight to 6th gear on the motorway. The T100 revs way lower and only has 5 gears. Hope that makes sense
Nice video and local too, keep them coming 😊
Will do, cheers!
interceptor is tremendous value if one can live with occasional unexpected parts replacement and slightly under powered on freeways. but it has higher ground clearance and has the center stand.
Spot on, and you’re spoilt for choice with custom parts too
I have both. A 2021 T100 and a 2022 Interceptor 650. I was enjoying the Interceptor but it has blown its gearbox. Thankfully it’s under warranty however it blew end of Feb and the Auckland Dealer took 6 weeks to give me an appointment to assess then getting parts in means it’s off the road until July. This has destroyed my faith in the brand and the bike. As soon as it’s repaired it will be sold. I just got the T100 and while it costs 1.5 times the Enfield it’s more than 1.5 times the bike in all areas including quality of components. You do get what you pay for. If you can afford a T100, get a T100 otherwise yes the RE650 is the next best thing.
I agree, if you can afford a Triumph, don't hesitate! You do get what you pay for
what happened to gearbox? my intercepter 2021 also had faulty gearbox think teeth broke of and had to wait 5 months to get parts ..i love the bike and character is great but its tough to trust it after such a big fault. did here that the 3rd gear issue is common with 2021 production run …did you have any info to share ?
@@Alex-io6kyDealer said the cogs and teeth broke (3rd gear was like a neutral). They said it was a hardening issue for the 2021 and 2022. There’s a worldwide shortage of parts which is why you waited 5 months for parts and me 7 1/2 months. It should have been a recall.
Here in Brazil Triumph's T100 costs almost two Interceptor 650.
Wow that’s crazy!
I may prefer one make at any given time but I'm definitely not in to 'one make communities.' I enojy riding, looking at and talking about all makes and all types of bike. But I agree with your conclusion.😊
Cool honest video, mate.
Love my interceptor, but both bikes are fantastic, you can't go wrong with any of them.
Cheers from Brazil.
Thanks for watching!
Great vid mate
Glad you enjoyed
Thank you for another top quality review Wes. Fantastic video footage of Akaroa.
Cheers bro, glad you enjoyed the video. Hopefully it didn’t make you miss NZ too much 😉
Hi Wesley I have always liked the triumph T100 sat on the Royal Enfield and it didn’t seem as nice I have not taken either out for a test ride I will wait for the shotgun to be released from Royal Enfield here in Australia before I decide. I currently have a Honda cb500x 2019 done 3 tours of Tanzania and also use to commute to work but only 5 kilometres I have owned the bike from new 4 years and my wife has the same bike.i am always looking at different bikes so much options out there T120 with cruise control would be preferred but not cheap. A retirement dream at 65 not long to wait. Malcolm and Diana Melbourne.
Thanks for the comment, I'm intrigued to see how the Shotgun feels too, might be a contender for me next bike. The heated grips & cruise control optios on the T120 are very tempting
There's a massive difference in price, at the end of the day it's your decision as to whether or not it's worth that extra and if you've got the money in the first place to buy it.
If you're quick on the draw, you can often find used T100's and T120's going for similar prices to new Interceptors. If you don't mind a used bike that is...
Video is great a thorough review of both motorcycles. Not agree with interceptor 5000 km service intervals if you read manufacturer manual its not mentioned liked this and most of the community following it. Can you elaborate about 5k km service intervals. Thanks for a great video
I worked at the RE dealership in N.Z, and here in Australasia it has 5000km intervals. But I believe this may have changed recently...
Can you share the yellow gloves brand that you wear?
Hi, sure, Biltwell yellow gloves, and for winter I'm wearing a pair of yellow gardening gloves from Temu 😅seriously
Super useful thoughts. I test rode an Interceptor at Experience last week and was really impressed. It felt like my old SR 400 with double the power and better suspension. The choice I'm looking at is really the Interceptor versus a used Scrambler 900, head says RE, heart says Triumph.
Take the 900 out for a test ride to compare the feel of the engine, it's the same as the T100. If it's a brand new bike with warranty you're after, the Inty will be a good choice. The new Interceptors have better grips and headlight then previous generations.
I've never thought much of the New Royal Enfield Interceptor as I have a 1976 Yamaha XS650 that, at 48 years old (I bought it new), is noticably stronger and better handling that the new Enfield I tested a few years back. I drove my Vintage Yamaha 650 to the shop for the test-ride so it was a real back to back experience. What attracted my attention that day was not the Enfield but a Triumph T120 on sale for $10,000 USD. After 4 years of ownership I have crowned the T120 the best bike Ive ever ridden (which includes the 100hp BMW F900 XR I bought for my son-in-law that same day). Apropos of the T100. I might add that if it's possible to beg, barrow or steal a few extra dollars (US, Canadian, Kiwi; any dollars you can come by) the T120 is a worth while upgrade of the T110. Pretty much the same bike in every way except for the bigger 1200cc engine, 6-speed box and beefed-up brakes. With from 25% to 30% more power and torque pulling the same weight, it's quite a rush.
Thanks for your insight, I've heard so many great things about the T120! If you watch my earliest T100 review I discuss my next bike will most likely be a T120, or 1200 Scrambler! Thanks for watching
Marvellous 😊
Thanks TAYM! Love your work too
Service intervals in India for the interceptor is 10000 kms or 1 year. Are you sure that it is 5000km in NZ?
Someone recently commented that it's been moved to slightly higher intervals here in N.Z, but I used to work at a RE dealership in Auckland and it was definitely 5000km intervals.
Facelifted RE 650s with LED headlamp have service interval prolonged to 7500km 😉
Oh no way, I didn’t realise! That makes a big difference 👌🏼
@@wesleyjames. No worries, I just thought that I should meniton that. Realisticaly most people will service it in yearly intervals anyway. Nevertheless great job on the video and editing, very well done✌
In terms of service intervalls here in germany you are a little wrong. The T100 has to be in service each 16.000km OR once per year - depends on what happens first. So if you want to have the warranty you have to take it once per year into service ;-). However thx for the Video. Thumbs up !.
It's the same in N.Z, did I say 17000, I must have meant 16000, thanks for letting me know
Great review, mate. Good indepth look at both bikes and just stunning drone and bike riding footage. After one ride, I'm hooked on the T100 now. 😁
Thanks Ian, yes your T100 is beautiful. Glad you’re hooked!
E X C E L L E N T review and comparison!!
(This should be the gold standard for bike reviews on TH-cam.)
I am currently thinking about to swap my V-Strom 650 for a T100.
This video helps a lot.
Thank you! 👍
Thanks so much! What style of riding are you into? Did you do much off road riding on the Vstrom? The T100 would be a nice change I think 😎
@@wesleyjames. Difficult to say what style of riding: Riding around town and some vacation trips. Offroad: 0,01%, more or less pure road driving. I think the T100 will be capable of doing this.
Though I assume that it will take some time to come to a decision.
Greetings from the other side of the planet (Germany).
😊
I chose the 650 over the Triumph rationalizing that with the $ saved I could also buy a Himmi. Interesting you have two bikes that are similar. I've got 4 bikes that couldn't be more different yet still feel I have 3 too many. Leads me to believe I must have 4 distinct personalities. For that reason alone, joining a club is out. 😄
Haha, I'm in the same predicament, I'm eyeing up the new Himmy's, but want a modern classic as well. I can't fit 2 bikes in my garage so thinking a 1200 Scrambler would tick both boxes...?
I am based out of India. RE machines are talk of the town here. There are equal number of haters. I own Interceptor myself & I have no complaints so far considering the price point. RE service in India is ordinary but that goes same with Triumph. Interceptor in my view point is the masterpiece RE has produced so far. It ticks all checkboxes for a practical tourer or a cruiser segment. Triumph on other hand comes with 3 times the price tag but with premium quality. Interceptor is a better bet for Indian market any day.
I believe you! And I agree, the Interceptor is the gems of their lineup (and the Classic 350)
I have /had a 07 865cc T100 before a car wrote my Triumph and my right leg off. I have a long way to go before I will be able to ride again but ride I will and more than likely on a Triumph.
Sorry to hear that, hope you'll be back in two wheels soon!
No RE Community in Hawkes Bay was a Dealership but went bust 2yrs ago.There's a great RE Community in Palmy.
Hawkes Bay is Harley Country & Cruiser Central if see a Triumph 90% chance it's a Cruiser like a Americana, Speedmaster, Rocket 🚀 3.
Lots of Japanese cruisers too but heaps of Harley's & not even a Harley Dealership in Hawkes Bay.
It might have to do with the gang influence. Who knows? I thought there was quite a prevalent ADV scene on the East coast?
@@wesleyjames. Yeah don't buy a bike with Red in it up here🤣.
Yes ADV scene is big up here but not as big as it should be.Dirt bikes for off-road & Dual sports bikes are popular & there is alot of gravel roads to explore if you know where to look & alot link together with a sealed road between them etc.A lot of ADV riders travel here to explore.The Gangs mainly ride V-Rods,Street-Rods🤣.
Ultimately if you could afford it
a road bike & a ADV a cheaper lighter one like new Himmy 452 coming out or Triumph Scrambler 400 be more than capable of gravel road exploring.There is R.A.T Riders Association of Triumph chapter in Hawkes Bay.
👍Excellent review, I love both bikes, I currently ride a Triumph T120 bobber but would seriously consider the Enfield Shotgun. Beautiful scenery well filmed. Best wishes From UK.🏍
Thanks! I’ve always wanted to ride a bobber, they’re such staunch looking bikes. Super unique in their field
Hey brother please respond to me asap I am in Auckland buying a continental GT 650 picking it up on saturday hopefully. The MR Clean version looks awesome with the SNS. I just want to ask you did you have insurance for your bike that was stolen and if so which insurance company? what happened did they pay market value for the bike? im confused as to what insurance company I should get. Thanks brother! Sorry to hear that it was stolen though
No worries, use Swann insurance. Highly recommend! Good luck
Royal enfield is an Indian company and so are made for India and Harsh Indian conditions my gt650 has clocked 41567kms in 3 years and not a single issue yet and that’s riding in -32°C to +48°C(-25.6°F to 118.5°F temperature varies a lot from state to state in India).
also, the service interval is 10,000 Kms not 5000, 5000 is just a check service not majour oil change service, 5k check service is free in india.
It’s different in the Australian and NZ market. You guys are lucky over in India 😅
@@wesleyjames. It is indeed baffling to hear such short service intervals, I really don’t understand it, usually harsher the conditions shorter the service period. Royal enfield needs to look into that because 5000 km Service is just unacceptable for a 650cc low revving 3.5L oil sump motorcycle.
IT ADDS UP PRETTY QUICKLY , ALSO IN INDIA, IF YOU DON’T RIDE AS MUCH AS 10,000 KM IN ONE YEAR, THEY WILL EVEN POSTPONE THE OIL CHANGE TILL YOU HIT 10,000 KM.
wahts your favorite betwewen the gt and the int?
I used to say Interceptor all the way, but if I had to get another I’d probably get a GT. They’re unique in the category and look so damn good!
No real bad choices here.
Sums it up perfectly
Leave allegiance to HD riders. I have been a member of the Triumph Owners Club for a quarter of a century. I also own a Royal Enfield and have covered more than 8,000 miles on it. Great bike, is it better than my Triumph? Probably.
Nice, which RE model do you own?
I'm in the US. Test rode both bikes in the last 2 weeks. I thought the RE was a very good engine that deserves better than what it's surrounded with. The orange peel on the tank paint, the cheap tires, it's bad low speed handling, the cases that are tarnished so bad sitting in the show room it would take the better part of a day to polish. It's just has an air of shabbiness. Even 250 cc's larger T100 they gets almost same MPG. The Triumph is just a better all-around bike that's much better built. Here in the US the first sevice on the RE is $500 and they don't want you doing it yourself. Triumph dealer says show the receipts and we'll mark your book. I went with the T100 in red and white.
It sounds like you may have ridden a dud. There's certain components that are understandably inferior as the bike's built to a price point. I agree though, the Triumph is the one to aim for :)
You can drive the T100 with A2 license!
It's the best A2 bike you can get because the torque is untouched!
You can drive it up to 5000 rpm with full power! 😉👍
Nice, yeah you guys are lucky over in the UK. It's solely a full license restricted bike here in N.Z
Thanks! I have a 2022 Speed Twin 1200. Remapped, shorties exhausts (6 speed box)!! Nice relaxed bike but expensive compared to the RE.
Yes, it's a whole nother category of expense when entering the Triumph market. Damn, I love the Speed Twin. That perfect middle ground of modern mixed with a dash of retro, would love to take one for a test ride
Tried both bikes and the T100 is better by far. The problem is that the Triumph costs two times the RE. Overall, the Interceptor is far superior.
Hi mate great review I have a question what brand are the tyres on your Bonnie I'm looking at putting two new tyres on my Bonnie are they good tyres in the wet and dry cheers
Gary
Sure, check out my custom parts video to find out the tyres 🤓
Put an 865 big bore kit on a Royal Enfield and it's a much better bike. And then if that's not enough put a camshaft in it as well and you've got a real T120 beater!!
Have you done this ? And how much would it cost in total? Thanks
Tempting, but if you weigh up the cost of the parts and labour, you could probably just buy a second hand T120... but then it comes down to brand allegiance again haha
R. Enfield are priced about right perhaps a little over priced. Triumph is a far superior product all round. 140,000Km on my 2017 T100 Ive just stepped up to T120...Im loving it
That’s some impressive mileage! How are you finding your T120?
What’s being missed is.
Triumph is a closed source oem parts n repair info . On the newer t 120 no repair manuals or inner motor parts. You have to take it in.
No big bore kits. One aftermarket cam profile. Add your personal bits n bobs n go!
R. E. At least lets you have at it!
I don’t think I would have bought my bonnie knowing all that now.
Bit sceptical about your range stats. The t100 has about a seven percent greater capacity tank and yet seems to have at least fifteen to twenty percent more range. So, it’s the more economical of the two on mpg , it would seem. Which I find surprising. Not saying you’re incorrect in your figures. I just find it surprising.
I recently took a 2 day trip with my mate (he was riding an Interceptor) and I was filling up far less than he was, I tended to have a spare 115km when his petrol light was coming on...
In the States, air cooled Bonnevilles from 2001-2015 are inexpensive and plentiful. A new Interceptor will run almost $7,000 USD "out the door- (delivery freight, setup, taxes, documents, inspection sticker)". But a Bonneville 2001- 2015 with less than 10,000 miles will cost $4,500 - $5,000, as many as you want to buy. I've even seen higher mile ones with like 34,000 miles sell for $2,500 a couple of times. There's no reason in the States to buy an Interceptor when you can get a better quality bike (Bonneville) in like-new condition for a lot less money!
Totally agree, that’s why I got my T100. Thanks for sharing the info
@@wesleyjames. Its quite similar here in the Netherlands. For a secondhand Interceptor you still pay a 6000 EURO minimum, new ones go for 8000. Secondhand Bonnevilles from 2004 to 2016 go for between 5 and 8500 usually. And even in that, the Interceptor is still an interesting offer that I consider because its a very nice looking bike, its a tough choice. The newer Bonevilles are quite a lot more though, thats not really competing with a new Interceptor as its more like 12000 new for a T100.
Don’t know why you’d own both to be honest. In my view they aren’t competitors (huge price difference) but substitutes not sure why you’d buy the other if you had one. It would be like having a Yamaha R7 and an Aprilia RS660. I’d rather have two more different motorcycles but obviously you don’t feel the same way
I never had them in the garage at the same time. I’m into the particular style of bike, as well as gradually upgrading as I can afford to do so. I have the T120 in my crosshairs next…
@@wesleyjames. ah that makes more sense! The SpeedTwin 1200 is quite a weapon too
I wrote off a Interceptor & broke both ankles,3 ribs,3 fingers,3 discs in back & a punctured lung on a skinny country road on bend with crest & over crest there was about 3inches of gravel probably dumped that morning by farm vehicle.Was doing about 75kmh & front wheel washed out & went off side of road & hit a concrete fence post which fence was really close to road.I couldn't breathe & Ambo's put a metal pipe in lung & that air rushing in was the best feeling but wasn't enough & died 3times.Twice waiting for helicopter & once when helicopter was lifting off.
I was on group ride & guys behind me that called 111 were begging for helicopter but they wouldn't send one.
Waited 15mins for Ambo & hearing Ambo gave adrenaline rush but then deflated hearing that I had to wait atleast another 20mins for Helicopter.
I thought I faded out a few times but mates said I died but I was conscious on & off & hearing the chopper come in was the greatest feeling.The Ambo's couldn't find a vein for pain killers & was in pain for 40mins but when chopper team arrived got a vein straight away & got pain relief but they needed to Defibrillator 1 more time.I woke up in Palmy Hospital 9hrs later in a world 🌎 of pain & took months to heal & hospital stay.I was so lucky to survive & without chopper I was dead & got me thinking 🤔 how many people die waiting for Ambo's to ok the chopper waisting precious time.If I was on a farm in a bike accident they'd send chopper no Ambo's needed.I understand some accidents chopper not needed but I had a punctured lung & my mate had been with someone else in bike crash with punctured lung & knew what it was & told them that & was begging & frustrated & swearing for chopper.I had to wait longer too cause Hawke's Bay chopper on another call & I was lucky enough that Palmy chopper wasn't & I was just North of Danniverke.I was paid out by Insurance Company & bike was paid off so after 7months of healing I got me the lightest bike a Trident 🔱 660 to get back on a bike.I never be the same again stuffed my back & left ankle permanently but am stronger now & will get me T100 later in year.
Gee I thought my Insurance Premium was high cause I had a claim & lost my No Claims Bonus.After 2yrs my Premium returns to normal which is in September.I also use 2 Oxford chains & locks 1 silver 1 gold & a Oxford Gold Disc lock & get maximum security bonus & don't have a lockable garage no doors but also have a camera 🎥.
Ouch, glad you lived to tell the story. That sounds like a hectic crash! Really good to know regarding the air ambulance necessity with a punctured lung. Thanks for sharing your story, gravel can come out of nowhere. A bikers worst enemy
@@wesleyjames. Sometimes I see people riding in t-shirts or worse shorts as well & can almost taste blood in my mouth & cringe.I'm a big believer in always wearing the gear no matter how hot 🥵 & saved my life.I get jackets with back pads as already had bad back & this summer got me a Mesh jacket with a removable waterproof lining & back pad.Yes the Helicopter Crews a Fantastic & professional saved my life.To think 🤔 you won't go down is idiotic yes you may be good rider but doesn't stop someone driving into you or deep loose gravel or black ice oil spills so pays to be ready & have all the gear on.
I think if Royal enfield made a 900 twin there wouldn't be much in it.
Mainly just build quality I guess. But wouldn’t that be great if they did!
New Zealand dollaridoos? I bet the coins have sheep on them.
Haha!
The RE 650 is cheaper because it is chock full of cheap parts. The new Triumph has nothing to do with the old one . Bloor bought a name . He could have called it a BLOOR and had that on the tank. RE didn't have the Royal Enfield name for 50 years till they bought the name. Real British motorcycles are rebuidable forever ♾️. Made to be serviced by the owner not the dealership. One made in Thailand and the other one is made in India. Fake , acquired heritage. Buy a set of tank badges and put them on a Honda. You will have a more reliable and dependable motorcycle and it will be just as British as fried rice or curry. MyBSA 441 Shooting 🌠 Star is more of a Gold Star than that piece of Chinesiom built-in lndia. Nothing is made in England anymore and never will be again. Don't bring up Norton either. Let's see how long thats going to last this time. TVS to it's credit is providing motorcycles for all who got ripped off by the last owner who should have been boiled in oil for what he did. You Brits used to be so good at that. One of the things that made Merry ol England so merry in the old days like burning witches and lets not forget everyone's favorite feeding virgins to dragons. Who doesn't love to watch that?
Wow, haha that comment took a bit of a turn! I agree, they aren't authentically "British" anymore, but what is? Even the likes of Goldtop (authentic British branded clothing) is made in China. It's not going to hold me back buying them. If there was a modern classic made in N.Z I would probably buy it. I've been considering making a video on bikes that are still produced in their country of origin...
When John Bloor bought the rights to make Triumph motorcycles in 1983 the first bikes were built in the Hinckley factory, England. Although most production is now made in Triumphs factories in Thailand some are still built in a new factory in England where the design centre is. Triumph are an English company, the bikes are financed and designed and developed in England. Its not 1960 anymore, bikes are not built by hand by some bloke with a hammer in one hand and a cigarette in the other. Move with the times, my Japanese Nissan was built in England and its a great car just as my Triumph built in Thailand is a great bike.😂
@@splodge57 They auctioned off the production machines. They are done and gone. They are all made overseas now. I have had less mechanical issues with a 60 years old motorcycle than people with new ones. Paste union jacks all over the bike doesn't change where it is made. Onei disposable like an appliance. The other one is rebuidlable forever ♾️. It was also designed to be serviced and maintained by the rider.l change my oil and adjust the valves when required. I don't have any 1,500 pound service bill to deal with like you will have. People have more trouble with bikes made in Thailand than Meridian had in the 1960's. They like BSA were selling every motorcycle that they could build . Warranty claims were almost nothing during the 1960's.All my Triumph and BSA motorcycle were built in England. With English parts and labor. Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2 wheels. BMW are still made in Germany. Ducati and Moto Guzzi are made in Italy. I don't count little rebadged bikes like the small KTM,BMW,HD, and Triumph bikes made in China or India. Nissan makes 1 car in England and sells 10 built where ever. I have the real thing . I have had my Triumph Tr-6 with a hard tail and magneto for 40 years. None of today's motorcycles will be on the road in 60 years. They will all be recycled into beer cans for you to drink your warm beer from.
yes, all RE bikes have cheap quality parts. I have replaced those parts in first year which no other brand would require. but after that it was stable. Int650 is no1 in value for money and ideal city+highway tool. On long tours, I felt it a bit small and underpowered, specially when big horses overtook me and disappeared from sight in no time.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459I've enjoyed riding many makes of motorcycle from different countries for over 50 years. Still ride a 1959 BSA A10 (magneto) as well as a modern Triumph. I've never had any real problems with any of my bikes and feel lucky to have owned all of them. Keep on smiling, whatever it is you're choosing to ride.😊🤣🤣😊
Most people that have interceptor cant afford triumph, period, the interceptor feels heavy and underpowered, has no pride factor, i sold mine and i prefer triumph anyday. A lot of poor people will cope enfield are better lol
A second hand T100 can be found for a similar price to a new Interceptor in N.Z, if not cheaper
Good , but i think you shouldn't compare triumph with this cheap, bastardized indo-brit brand. RE is no way compares to the great Triumph.
Ok mate
Triumph is for 'the elderly'...
Do explain?
Comparing a beautiful Chrome alloy Enfield with a lump of coal...unfair ...especially when the T100 is drop dead gorgeous in Chrome and alloy livery
You don’t have to polish coal 😅