Don't go for guerrilla take a test ride before you purchase....i took a test ride and i didn't like rear suspension this thing vibrates like buzz on potholes... Himalayan on the other side has better suspension
I've always noticed that whenever Royal Enfield releases a bike, if the indian audience don't like it, the UK audience seem to like it and vice versa. I'm like uncle stu, i like all Royal Enfields😂
@siddharthkaley00 i think they don't really see it as something exotic but rather know you shouldn't be comparing something an interceptor and a Duke 390 😂.
The factors on which bikes are judged are vastly different at both places . In India if two bikes have similar price then people start comparing it , without even considering whether it's a naked , faired racer or gentle classic bike . That's why words of online commentators and the sales figures never match . While in many European countries users look for quality for riding pleasure . While in places like soth east asia , latin america , Africa and Indian subcontinent, bikes are seen as a mode of transportation and many other purposes . So small powered bikes with above average built and functions sales much higher . Whereas western countries search for better fit and finish in royal Enfield bikes . That's why when bikes like hunter350 gets launched it gets more praise from India and classic and bear 650 from western market .
I've asked myself is Royal Enfield the new " Honda" of this era of time? Everything they put out is a winner. The quality, finish, dependability, value for your money and the warranty they give you...When they come out with a 1,000cc bike it will probably be stand in line to get one and get a rain ticket. The other manufactures got to be watching them very closely I would think. Goodbye for now my friend.
Bear. Goldilocks. I see what you did there........ RE are really on point with design though - even that 2 into 1 looks neat & doesn't need aftermarket. Enjoy your porridge.
A few years ago, when RE introduced the Interceptor, I was in a dealership in Newcastle and alongside the ‘new’ interceptor they had the last of the old 500 Bullets, which were being discontinued. Among them, they had 2 of the ‘Trials Bullets’, one with a red frame and the other with a green frame and it was simply love at first sight! From that day, I have always yearned for that green framed trials bike and now it’s back with better everything than the old bullet version. The only other bike that could generate such desire would be if RE introduced a bigger version of the Classic 350, say a 500 or 650. Wait, what’s that you say, they just did!!! What a wonderful dilemma to have, thank you Royal Enfield.
If the number of scramblised interceptors on the road is anything to go by this will be a big seller. For most of us older guys a Scrambler that doesn't scramble is a better bet that a Cafe Racer that doesn't really race. Motorcycle/car names can seem a little odd when they first come out but most seem normal after a while. Maybe they think a Bear could beat a Tiger!
Nice, but I don't like having so much matte black paint everywhere. I prefer chrome and polished metal parts. Also, for me, a scrambler has to have a raised exhaust system.
Good video, thank you. A week ago I placed a preorder with my RE dealership for one in the Two Four Nine colour. It's going to be a long wait until February!
CHRONOLOGY: On 2006 Triumph brought back the Scrambler concept with the 900 cc air cooled. Around ten years after Ducati stole the name, and now, almost 20 years after, Royal Enfield brings this absolutely stunning beauty based on the original air cooled Triumph Scrambler 900 from 2006. I heard that the original Triumph Scrambler 900 designers are the responsible of the Interceptor, but I can’t certify this. In between, all the other brands tried their own Scramblers with different level of success. Thank you Triumph and thank you Royal Enfield.
We have been waiting for this since 2019!! Since then I've had a new Goldwing( which Covid ruined my plans for) then I sold that, after frustration bought a T100 triumph however went out for freezing cold ride to Bristol and back from Brighton then sold that bought an ST1300 which was great, however found myself travelling too fast!! So sold that and bought a Harley Dyna 1450 carb model, great bike but also sold my bullet 500 which I had just spent 6 months restoring! Now I see this, the Harley has to go, its what I think fits all my needs, not too quick, light enough to manoeuvre easily you can fit luggage a screen and heated grips, it's the perfect fit, the T100 was good but everybody's got one it seems and these Royal enfields do it better and you can service them yourself easily, a trick Triumph haven't learnt yet. You know this is going to be a winner. I'm glad you approve Stuart because your a trustworthy source of information. Thank you.
You have to hand it to Enfield, they sure know how to make the most of their engine range and they sure know their market. I expect this new model to fly out of the dealerships and Triumph and Ducati will be hit hard.
This Bear really looks like a fantastic fun bike, i'm in the process of getting the new 450 himalayan for more capable touring, i've put 35000 kms on my classic 350 this year and cannot fault it, This new Bear might be a better option than the 450, i will do a bit more research. Keep the great content coming.....
For me all other manufacturers seem to be on the edge of being samey if thats even a word but RE always seem to keep me on the edge of my seat , they don’t really do anything radical and they don’t bring out completely new bikes , they seem to keep the stuff that works and quietly get on with changing the things they need to change , the knock on effect is that the DNA is there in all the machines in the range and all the bits n bobs seem to work without the buyer paying a high price so if you like one of them you like something about all of them and thats me , i can never decide which is my favourite RE and i like them all for different reasons and as for the one i ride ! I have no criticism at all for it it has done one winter already and here we are in the second it still has no rust and nothings tarnished or fallen off even though i confess to not being a polisher and never making a real fuss of it cosmetically 😁👍
Off the charts cool 😎 factor with this bike! Royal Enfield and Uncle Stu get it spot on again! Not too hot or cold, just right! I almost can't decide which colour scheme looks best. I've just finished running in the Scram 411, and part of me is itching to trade it in for one of these! But I love the little Scram and how capable it is. The Bear, with its history, its looks, and design is very tempting!
The weight is still a bit more than I'd care to deal with - my Classic 350 is borderline overweight. But it's likely the cost would go up as the weight goes down so I guess we'll have to deal with it. Oddly I find the color options for the Bear not all that appealing - the base white looks ok in the pictures they've released but I'll need to see these in metal. Good to know I'm not the only one underwhelmed by the 650 Classic - it just looks 'off', especially the tank, though the black/chrome looks much better than the other schemes. So far nothing from RE I'd give up my 350 for but good to see them expanding the model line with bikes that should sell well.
I've got a Classic 350 too (and a T120, but we'll not talk about that 😊). I did have a Super Meteor 650 for about two months last summer, but despite spending quite a bit on some fully adjustable Hagon shocks it remained very uncomfortable at the rear end. It was also a bit lardy (even heavier than my T120). My worry with the new Classic 650 is that it uses the same frame - with the same rear shock geometry as the SM and will be of very similar weight. I will test ride one though 😊
seems RE is wrapping the 650 engines in every motif to see what sticks.... The " Bear " looks to play the dirt bike part very well. I'll keep my Interceptor 😎
It does look nice. I have the scram 411. I like it because it's based on the himalayan. It will remain my do everything bike. But this is a beautifully styled road bike. Nice. Muz from oz.
Fuzzy biker has done an onboard riding review of this. It may be the bike I'm after... I thought it was going to be the classic 650 but I really don't like that bike now it's been released. It feels like what they did when they modernised the mini cooper. Anyway, my concerns with the Bear is its weight for a 'scrambler' and the naturally higher seat... my Jack Russel legs may not be happy. Great pre-review as ever.
Amide the oohs and ah's of the BSA, Himi 450 and the Classic 650...for me, I think the Bear will do it. Thank you Royal Enfield! Stu, I hope you are doing well!
For me it was the same: Bear released and I barely beat an eye at it. I was soo focused on 650 classic. Then 650 classic was unveiled at eicma and.... Nothing in the feel department plus a bitter taste after the 243kg figure was announced. Now I decided that I will make a choice after I will ride both of them and Himalayan back to back and I will let the pillion user to decide.
I’ve had two Interceptors and whilst I loved the look and concept from its initial launch day-to-day it has limitations, especially for touring and luggage. I think this (and the new BSA Scrambler) potentially look like great all-rounders as well as reasonably economical to own. Given the way the economy/market’s going I think if you are looking for an all-rounder these are both worth a look. Still enjoying the channel so thank you as I appreciate it’s a lot of work.
I now shifted for a modern looking kawazaki z650 which stule always pleased me (as well as the sv650) but to me, RE makes bikes the way i always saw them, beautiful engine and simple metal frame. This bike is very desirable but for daily ride i would swap the tires for standard, not knoobies. What a fantastic bike!
Spot on sir. An RE 650 conti is my daily driver/commuter and it’s perfect. I’ve had 1200s and 400s but 650 is indeed the sweet spot for performance and price. Couldn’t agree more about the suspension. I did the YSS fork upgrade kit (drill the holes lads) and despite some people knocking the stock brakes, I’ve found them more than adequate after the few hundred miles break in, even with slight hooligan riding. The Bear stylings are quite nice I must say , tempting to do a trade in…
The mud guards are metal and the frame has also been tweaked. I have already reserved one in the US and the mechanics were looking at adding some accessories but not a lot of stuff fits between the original Int 650 and the new Bear.
If I owned a motorcycle brand that started with T, I would be REALLY worried as the bikes year over year fill out more of what the market needs. We own a Bullet 500 (Pegasus), a Himalayan and previously a INT650 and I cant imagine looking at another brand for a neo retro or utilitarian bike. As I get older, I get more and more into rarer vintage models, but RE is a force to be reckoned with. It would be cool to see them come out with something like an even more approachable small displacement single along the lines of a CL/CB125.
I held off buying an Interceptor due to their long splayed out silencers, negative reports about the seat, foot peg position and iffy suspension. I ended up buying a SCRAM 411 which I modified to 'loosely' resemble the style of the Bear, and I'm pleased with the result, or was until the new Bear 650 appeared. The more I see, the more I'm tempted to buy one.
I think it's a winner. A good all rounder and sensible sized 'adventure' bike after a couple of bolt on bits. That'll go nicely in the garage alongside my classic 350, 500 bullet and Continental GT (I wish) :)
Went to my local dealer the other day to test ride a shotgun (which was ok, but the way to harsh suspension really put me off the bike) and while I was there I sat on an interceptor. I could just get my toes on the floor either side. Although I love the looks of the bear, I don't think I've got a hope of getting my feet down, no matter how much I like it.....
Those round tanks look serxy, raised bars a lot to like!! (not struck on the USD forks but I am old I guess) at least the clock is in the centre Hooray, Thanks for sharing Stuart.
Dear Mr. Fillingham, I think this is THE motorcycle lots of people were waiting for, it embodies the close and closer or step by step (by faster pace) indian actual spirit. Triumph (in my subjective opinion) can say good-bye to their 400, RE also will say so to lots of theirs (Himalayan included). One people will discover what a Scrambler means, it will be madness. Yours truly.
I went without a bike on the road for a decade and now am back out with a 78 Triumph and three more from the sixties and seventies going back together. I just enjoy the riding and hope to continue for as long as I can. Thirty years ago, I went through a dozen bikes to augment my income, of course now I wish I'd never sold them. I've had my niece living with me a couple months this past summer and got her into riding and am building an old 62 Triumph right now for her to ride along side when she comes down to visit me next month. It's leather jacket time here in eastern NC and we might even get a real winter this year.
Good afternoon Stu. Late to the party today. Another good video. I’m not so sure about the colour schemes but it looks a nice version of the Interceptor. I notice that they’ve placed the rectifier regulator in a position to get some airflow.
Still don't understand how Harley Davidson has not been producing this motorcycle for a decade. Air cooled 500/650 dirt track/ scrambler. Blows my mind. Wait, it would cost 20k dollars.... forgot the HD mark-up. Your right , it would not sell. 😂
@markymarknj can't tell me, even with Americans manufacturing that bike, they could sell it for less then 9k out the door. Which is over priced, as all analog speedo and bare knuckle feel, that bike would sell well to the American market and first time riders. I am not an HD fan, but I want to buy an old sportster, but if this came out and simple to work on like the old bikes. They would knock it out of the park. But I am an idiot, so what do I know.
@@BlakesPipes If they would remake an Old School shovelhead/pan head look alike but with the modern tech for road safety and minimal clocks in tye abot 900cc range as the entry level it would sell as hot cakes for the hipster, opd farts with bad knees, and the entry level bikers. On an 9.000-11.000€ range (hell even an 12k would still sel as their so called "stage 1" or that crap).
@@BlakesPipes I agree. H-D could produce a less expensive, more affordable bike; in fact, they've done so in the recent past. I guess H-D is still pursuing its wealthy, Baby Boomer buyers who are now dying off.
I love everything about this bike! I have an Interceptor 650 that I changed to a very capable Scrambler. I would much prefer the Bear. The new gages, wheels, seat, exhaust, turn signals, etc is perfect. I have no interest in the classic.
The only thing i think lets its looks down,and of course this is subjective is the black tail pipe as i think it makes the bike look like a Hunter,imho chrome would make it stand out a little more.
Sunny Sunday ride bike. Lovely looking bike but not practical for Commuting and annually Touring! Love your vids Mr Fillingham . Keep up your good work 💙
BEARS=British, European, American Motorcycle Racing (mainly 2-3 cilinders) As memory serves well, the predecessor of the Superbike class where John Britten, Ducati,BMW,Moto Guzzi ,Triumph and the Harley Davidson V1000 competed. I was lucky to see a race at Assen a few decades ago and the V1000 and britten are stunning IMO. This Bear650 could be interpreted as a clubracer later or a hint for competition or linked to the heritage you mentioned. kr, Erik
Great video. I sat on one of these bikes yesterday. My toes just touched the ground. I was so sad but hey at least I have my hunter. Will be waiting for continental gt450 if it ever comes.
That is a damn nice looking bike! A fat arse single seat would be the cherry on the top. How freaky that I referred to a bike you tested earlier this year as ‘Bear’, after the yoke and its fittings looked like a bears head, in certain lighting conditions. You need to swing your leg over a bear and get some roads testing done!
Yes, the Bear will be a very successful bike. A well designed, lovely machine and as You say, Stu, probably a perfect touring bike. I'll have a close look at it when it comes to my dealer shop.
I hope my local dealership gets these in soon. Being a Triumph, Ducati, and Moto Guzzi fan, I've never given RE the love they deserve. Never ridden one. I will be soon though!
Hello Sir - Thank you for making this video..I agree with you that the Bear 650 should have been the Interceptor...that was my thought when I looked at the Bear for the 1st time...
same here , wasnt ineterested in bear initially was looking forward for classic , but bear exceded my expections, and the classic 650 is a dissapointment, they should have used bear platform for classic 650, instead of that crusier chasis which is haunting since meteor 350.
Of course, after I've turned my own Interceptor into a scrambler the hard way! This bike will sell like crazy though, all the upgrades over the standard Interceptor are well worth the very slight price increase.
Looks like the interceptor has come of age , as you say this is what should have been , shame is no chrome tanks , that would nail it for me . The MK4 like you have always seemed just a bit grey , a good bike but not in the MK2 league , this Bear or dare we say MK5 version will sell like hot cakes I suspect.
You know, now that you mention it, I'm curious as to why RE hasn't brought out a scrambler version of the 650 until now. Why? Because I've seen used Interceptors for sale that had been modified as scramblers. That is, Interceptor owners were already doing this. Oh well, better late than never, right?
I can't wait for you to get a loaner, and do a review. This may turn out to be the best yet. I am surprised that I have only heard about the Bear in the past 3 or 4 weeks, Baxter Cycle here in the US has already received several of them. I think that they are considered to be a premier dealer by Royal Enfield, and tend to get bikes early. Fuzzy Biker has already ridden one, and has purchased a 249 edition based on that first ride. He is actually receiving the bike today. One thing he noticed was a significant improvement in low end grunt, and that 2 into 1 exhaust sounds fantastic. The US price is in line with the other new 650 models.
The Bear makes more practical sense than the Interceptor in countries like Australia where, once you are away from the East coast strip a lot of roads are dirt and gravel. Where I live a lot of long dstance tourers come through town and they are never on pure road bikes which just don't have the capability to cope with our rural roads.
Thanks for the content❤️ Love the Bear so much! RE nailed it in so many ways, I think. Infact i would have hit the Pre-Order button on the Black one if it didn't have gold forks... Not a fan of gold as a color, get it, but a maybe if i could live with it? 🤔 Still thinking.... Interesting though, i have spoken to someone who has taken delivery of his new 650 Bear in the US. Loves it! 100% Identitfying the torque build quality, looks and ride as amazing!!! However, has already identified unfortunately the rear suspension is still way to hard and is already looking for options. Also commented that for riding miles he would rather the Super Meteor (he aslo replaced rear suspension), but as purely a beautiful bike the Bear ticks the boxes of a beautiful fun motorcycle that is more satisfying than the Interceptor and Super Meteor. I have owned the Super Meteor for a year and as a daily commuter and weekend explorer ride have had no issues witht the rear suspension. And yet, Royal Enfields rear suspension keeps coming back as often the only negative across many models through to the new releases i am finding...🤔 What do you think... With so many riders loving much about Royal Enfields, with so much feedback of motorcyclists not loving the rear suspension, what are they missing or how?
650cc, simple, aircooled bikes are 100% the goldylocks size but if we bought bikes with are heads we would all ride Honda Dull-villes, unfortumatly we buy with are hearts (Generaly) For me, the BEAR is the coolest thing on the road and me mates Brando, McQueen and Fonzy would agree 😊
Hey! GT535 Owner here!
It's an amazing bike as you know Stuart. That engine is a beating heart full of joy that makes me smile in every ride
I have an Interceptor, only ever owned one bike at a time. I can't see myself getting rid of the Inty but I really want a GT535!
Bugger! I was about to take the plunge on the new 450 Guerrilla but this thing looks ace.
I was the same, no competition, Bear ordered.
It does doesn't it 😊.
Don't go for guerrilla take a test ride before you purchase....i took a test ride and i didn't like rear suspension this thing vibrates like buzz on potholes... Himalayan on the other side has better suspension
Same here it looks the business
Same here😂
I've always noticed that whenever Royal Enfield releases a bike, if the indian audience don't like it, the UK audience seem to like it and vice versa. I'm like uncle stu, i like all Royal Enfields😂
It's because we see a lot of REs in India. So we don't get amazed by it but outside India they are looked at as Exotic.
@siddharthkaley00 i think they don't really see it as something exotic but rather know you shouldn't be comparing something an interceptor and a Duke 390 😂.
@vkrishna0612 Yes that too.
The factors on which bikes are judged are vastly different at both places .
In India if two bikes have similar price then people start comparing it , without even considering whether it's a naked , faired racer or gentle classic bike . That's why words of online commentators and the sales figures never match .
While in many European countries users look for quality for riding pleasure . While in places like soth east asia , latin america , Africa and Indian subcontinent, bikes are seen as a mode of transportation and many other purposes .
So small powered bikes with above average built and functions sales much higher .
Whereas western countries search for better fit and finish in royal Enfield bikes .
That's why when bikes like hunter350 gets launched it gets more praise from India and classic and bear 650 from western market .
Totally agreed ❤ Indians are not so high on Guerilla but in the U.K. they love it 💯
I've asked myself is Royal Enfield the new " Honda" of this era of time? Everything they put out is a winner. The quality, finish, dependability, value for your money and the warranty they give you...When they come out with a 1,000cc bike it will probably be stand in line to get one and get a rain ticket. The other manufactures got to be watching them very closely I would think. Goodbye for now my friend.
Bear. Goldilocks. I see what you did there........
RE are really on point with design though - even that 2 into 1 looks neat & doesn't need aftermarket.
Enjoy your porridge.
A few years ago, when RE introduced the Interceptor, I was in a dealership in Newcastle and alongside the ‘new’ interceptor they had the last of the old 500 Bullets, which were being discontinued. Among them, they had 2 of the ‘Trials Bullets’, one with a red frame and the other with a green frame and it was simply love at first sight! From that day, I have always yearned for that green framed trials bike and now it’s back with better everything than the old bullet version. The only other bike that could generate such desire would be if RE introduced a bigger version of the Classic 350, say a 500 or 650. Wait, what’s that you say, they just did!!! What a wonderful dilemma to have, thank you Royal Enfield.
Good coverage great bike , who would ever thought Royal Enfield would become a world leader
If the number of scramblised interceptors on the road is anything to go by this will be a big seller. For most of us older guys a Scrambler that doesn't scramble is a better bet that a Cafe Racer that doesn't really race. Motorcycle/car names can seem a little odd when they first come out but most seem normal after a while. Maybe they think a Bear could beat a Tiger!
It's named after an old race rider.
Nice, but I don't like having so much matte black paint everywhere. I prefer chrome and polished metal parts. Also, for me, a scrambler has to have a raised exhaust system.
Thank you Stuart, I’ve been waiting for this bike to come along, and I think Bear is a great name.
I never liked the looks of interceptor but this looks beautiful. This and continental GT.❤
I just hit the Like button even before I watch your video...that's the kind of love and respect you command...
Ditto.
Blind followers
Good lad that Stuart 👍
@@1234fazermannwhy are you here then ....lost your white stick.
@@tonymarchant9083
But I need it when I get off my bike!
The white green 249 isa killer looking motorcycle
Good video, thank you. A week ago I placed a preorder with my RE dealership for one in the Two Four Nine colour. It's going to be a long wait until February!
I ordered my Himalayan months before I got it. Worth the wait, though. Patience is a virtue, I understand.
CHRONOLOGY:
On 2006 Triumph brought back the Scrambler concept with the 900 cc air cooled. Around ten years after Ducati stole the name, and now, almost 20 years after, Royal Enfield brings this absolutely stunning beauty based on the original air cooled Triumph Scrambler 900 from 2006. I heard that the original Triumph Scrambler 900 designers are the responsible of the Interceptor, but I can’t certify this. In between, all the other brands tried their own Scramblers with different level of success. Thank you Triumph and thank you Royal Enfield.
BTW Ducati used the scrambler name back in the 60s, they didn't steal the name from triumph.
First RE that made me say "Wow" I do like a scrambler :)
We have been waiting for this since 2019!! Since then I've had a new Goldwing( which Covid ruined my plans for) then I sold that, after frustration bought a T100 triumph however went out for freezing cold ride to Bristol and back from Brighton then sold that bought an ST1300 which was great, however found myself travelling too fast!! So sold that and bought a Harley Dyna 1450 carb model, great bike but also sold my bullet 500 which I had just spent 6 months restoring! Now I see this, the Harley has to go, its what I think fits all my needs, not too quick, light enough to manoeuvre easily you can fit luggage a screen and heated grips, it's the perfect fit, the T100 was good but everybody's got one it seems and these Royal enfields do it better and you can service them yourself easily, a trick Triumph haven't learnt yet.
You know this is going to be a winner. I'm glad you approve Stuart because your a trustworthy source of information. Thank you.
You have to hand it to Enfield, they sure know how to make the most of their engine range and they sure know their market. I expect this new model to fly out of the dealerships and Triumph and Ducati will be hit hard.
Great stuff as usual, Stu. Looking forward to your review once you've ridden it. Cheers.
off to NEC tomorrow for a closer look, think i need a bigger garage
For me and my pals,Not going to the NEC bike shows anymore pure rip off! But have a great day .
This Bear really looks like a fantastic fun bike, i'm in the process of getting the new 450 himalayan for more capable touring, i've put 35000 kms on my classic 350 this year and cannot fault it, This new Bear might be a better option than the 450, i will do a bit more research. Keep the great content coming.....
For me all other manufacturers seem to be on the edge of being samey if thats even a word but RE always seem to keep me on the edge of my seat , they don’t really do anything radical and they don’t bring out completely new bikes , they seem to keep the stuff that works and quietly get on with changing the things they need to change , the knock on effect is that the DNA is there in all the machines in the range and all the bits n bobs seem to work without the buyer paying a high price so if you like one of them you like something about all of them and thats me , i can never decide which is my favourite RE and i like them all for different reasons and as for the one i ride ! I have no criticism at all for it it has done one winter already and here we are in the second it still has no rust and nothings tarnished or fallen off even though i confess to not being a polisher and never making a real fuss of it cosmetically 😁👍
Off the charts cool 😎 factor with this bike! Royal Enfield and Uncle Stu get it spot on again! Not too hot or cold, just right! I almost can't decide which colour scheme looks best. I've just finished running in the Scram 411, and part of me is itching to trade it in for one of these! But I love the little Scram and how capable it is. The Bear, with its history, its looks, and design is very tempting!
The weight is still a bit more than I'd care to deal with - my Classic 350 is borderline overweight. But it's likely the cost would go up as the weight goes down so I guess we'll have to deal with it. Oddly I find the color options for the Bear not all that appealing - the base white looks ok in the pictures they've released but I'll need to see these in metal. Good to know I'm not the only one underwhelmed by the 650 Classic - it just looks 'off', especially the tank, though the black/chrome looks much better than the other schemes. So far nothing from RE I'd give up my 350 for but good to see them expanding the model line with bikes that should sell well.
I've got a Classic 350 too (and a T120, but we'll not talk about that 😊). I did have a Super Meteor 650 for about two months last summer, but despite spending quite a bit on some fully adjustable Hagon shocks it remained very uncomfortable at the rear end. It was also a bit lardy (even heavier than my T120). My worry with the new Classic 650 is that it uses the same frame - with the same rear shock geometry as the SM and will be of very similar weight. I will test ride one though 😊
Brilliant video as always Stuart and the bear 650 is a mighty fine looking bike - I want one 😊👍🏻
seems RE is wrapping the 650 engines in every motif to see what sticks.... The " Bear " looks to play the dirt bike part very well. I'll keep my Interceptor 😎
It does look nice.
I have the scram 411.
I like it because it's based on the himalayan. It will remain my do everything bike.
But this is a beautifully styled road bike. Nice.
Muz from oz.
Fuzzy biker has done an onboard riding review of this. It may be the bike I'm after... I thought it was going to be the classic 650 but I really don't like that bike now it's been released. It feels like what they did when they modernised the mini cooper. Anyway, my concerns with the Bear is its weight for a 'scrambler' and the naturally higher seat... my Jack Russel legs may not be happy. Great pre-review as ever.
Amide the oohs and ah's of the BSA, Himi 450 and the Classic 650...for me, I think the Bear will do it. Thank you Royal Enfield! Stu, I hope you are doing well!
For me it was the same: Bear released and I barely beat an eye at it. I was soo focused on 650 classic. Then 650 classic was unveiled at eicma and.... Nothing in the feel department plus a bitter taste after the 243kg figure was announced. Now I decided that I will make a choice after I will ride both of them and Himalayan back to back and I will let the pillion user to decide.
You Sir, are a gem. Another great video with that great background music. Your production values are first rate.
I’ve had two Interceptors and whilst I loved the look and concept from its initial launch day-to-day it has limitations, especially for touring and luggage. I think this (and the new BSA Scrambler) potentially look like great all-rounders as well as reasonably economical to own. Given the way the economy/market’s going I think if you are looking for an all-rounder these are both worth a look. Still enjoying the channel so thank you as I appreciate it’s a lot of work.
Yes, a 650cc hits the sweet spot....has large bike stability/power, but isn't too much of a handful to manoeuvre.
I now shifted for a modern looking kawazaki z650 which stule always pleased me (as well as the sv650) but to me, RE makes bikes the way i always saw them, beautiful engine and simple metal frame. This bike is very desirable but for daily ride i would swap the tires for standard, not knoobies. What a fantastic bike!
Spot on sir. An RE 650 conti is my daily driver/commuter and it’s perfect. I’ve had 1200s and 400s but 650 is indeed the sweet spot for performance and price.
Couldn’t agree more about the suspension. I did the YSS fork upgrade kit (drill the holes lads) and despite some people knocking the stock brakes, I’ve found them more than adequate after the few hundred miles break in, even with slight hooligan riding.
The Bear stylings are quite nice I must say , tempting to do a trade in…
Happily the garage is full with Ural outfit, Hunter, Bullet...nice bike. Maybe the lawnmower out and other things...
The mud guards are metal and the frame has also been tweaked. I have already reserved one in the US and the mechanics were looking at adding some accessories but not a lot of stuff fits between the original Int 650 and the new Bear.
I really needed it to have a centre stand.
If I owned a motorcycle brand that started with T, I would be REALLY worried as the bikes year over year fill out more of what the market needs. We own a Bullet 500 (Pegasus), a Himalayan and previously a INT650 and I cant imagine looking at another brand for a neo retro or utilitarian bike. As I get older, I get more and more into rarer vintage models, but RE is a force to be reckoned with. It would be cool to see them come out with something like an even more approachable small displacement single along the lines of a CL/CB125.
I held off buying an Interceptor due to their long splayed out silencers, negative reports about the seat, foot peg position and iffy suspension. I ended up buying a SCRAM 411 which I modified to 'loosely' resemble the style of the Bear, and I'm pleased with the result, or was until the new Bear 650 appeared. The more I see, the more I'm tempted to buy one.
Always love stopping by the channel, have a blessed week my friend.
Nice. Very nice. My friend sitting next to me had to be restrained to stop him drooling over my keyboard.
I think it's a winner. A good all rounder and sensible sized 'adventure' bike after a couple of bolt on bits. That'll go nicely in the garage alongside my classic 350, 500 bullet and Continental GT (I wish) :)
Went to my local dealer the other day to test ride a shotgun (which was ok, but the way to harsh suspension really put me off the bike) and while I was there I sat on an interceptor. I could just get my toes on the floor either side. Although I love the looks of the bear, I don't think I've got a hope of getting my feet down, no matter how much I like it.....
That's why i liked the shotgun. Bought a triumph bobber instead lol.
Those round tanks look serxy, raised bars a lot to like!! (not struck on the USD forks but I am old I guess) at least the clock is in the centre Hooray, Thanks for sharing Stuart.
I’ve never been a scrambler type of guy but I like this! Recently bought a place with a large oval gravel driveway, maybe I need a Bear 650…
Dear Mr. Fillingham, I think this is THE motorcycle lots of people were waiting for, it embodies the close and closer or step by step (by faster pace) indian actual spirit. Triumph (in my subjective opinion) can say good-bye to their 400, RE also will say so to lots of theirs (Himalayan included). One people will discover what a Scrambler means, it will be madness. Yours truly.
Instead of "one people" please read "once people" ...for some reason I can't edit my own comment, th YT! (...I.)
It's beautiful, I just find the lack of a high-pipe an odd choice for their vintage-inspired scrambler.
I’ll wait till Stu’s actually riding review for a nuts and bolts appraisal 😎👌
Thanks
Thank You Clive.
Needs two analog gauges like the jntercepter
Nice video thanks
I went without a bike on the road for a decade and now am back out with a 78 Triumph and three more from the sixties and seventies going back together. I just enjoy the riding and hope to continue for as long as I can. Thirty years ago, I went through a dozen bikes to augment my income, of course now I wish I'd never sold them. I've had my niece living with me a couple months this past summer and got her into riding and am building an old 62 Triumph right now for her to ride along side when she comes down to visit me next month. It's leather jacket time here in eastern NC and we might even get a real winter this year.
Good afternoon Stu. Late to the party today. Another good video. I’m not so sure about the colour schemes but it looks a nice version of the Interceptor. I notice that they’ve placed the rectifier regulator in a position to get some airflow.
Great to hear your thoughts on the Bear - This may be the Royal Enfield that should have been build, but no-one expected!
Still don't understand how Harley Davidson has not been producing this motorcycle for a decade. Air cooled 500/650 dirt track/ scrambler. Blows my mind. Wait, it would cost 20k dollars.... forgot the HD mark-up. Your right , it would not sell. 😂
Forget the HD markup indeed! Their cheapest model is now the new liquid cooled Sportster selling for $14K...
@markymarknj can't tell me, even with Americans manufacturing that bike, they could sell it for less then 9k out the door. Which is over priced, as all analog speedo and bare knuckle feel, that bike would sell well to the American market and first time riders. I am not an HD fan, but I want to buy an old sportster, but if this came out and simple to work on like the old bikes. They would knock it out of the park. But I am an idiot, so what do I know.
@@BlakesPipes If they would remake an Old School shovelhead/pan head look alike but with the modern tech for road safety and minimal clocks in tye abot 900cc range as the entry level it would sell as hot cakes for the hipster, opd farts with bad knees, and the entry level bikers. On an 9.000-11.000€ range (hell even an 12k would still sel as their so called "stage 1" or that crap).
@@BlakesPipes I agree. H-D could produce a less expensive, more affordable bike; in fact, they've done so in the recent past. I guess H-D is still pursuing its wealthy, Baby Boomer buyers who are now dying off.
@@BlakesPipes
After Harley Davidson screwed over Eric Buell and all the employees that worked for Buell, you couldn't give me a Harley Davidson.
I love everything about this bike! I have an Interceptor 650 that I changed to a very capable Scrambler. I would much prefer the Bear. The new gages, wheels, seat, exhaust, turn signals, etc is perfect. I have no interest in the classic.
At this point i think i should buy every 650 model but only one with an engine.
Clip ons and slip ons.
Quick release engine and wheels.
You're definitely onto something.
Looks like RE took a look at the UK roads and built something for the future.
@@theodavies8754 Probably my greatest business idea so far 😂
Oooh, that's the one ok. Nice.
The only thing i think lets its looks down,and of course this is subjective is the black tail pipe as i think it makes the bike look like a Hunter,imho chrome would make it stand out a little more.
Cracking review as usual!
Great looking bikes! Looks nimble and fun! Thanks for the review Stuart
It certainly is a lovely looking bike👍
Looks interesting. Hopefully I'll get a closer look at the NEC next week.
Sunny Sunday ride bike. Lovely looking bike but not practical for Commuting and annually Touring! Love your vids Mr Fillingham . Keep up your good work 💙
BEARS=British, European, American Motorcycle Racing (mainly 2-3 cilinders)
As memory serves well, the predecessor of the Superbike class where John Britten, Ducati,BMW,Moto Guzzi ,Triumph and the Harley Davidson V1000 competed. I was lucky to see a race at Assen a few decades ago and the V1000 and britten are stunning IMO.
This Bear650 could be interpreted as a clubracer later or a hint for competition or linked to the heritage you mentioned.
kr, Erik
I agree; thanks for sharing your point of view.
Another cool bike classic design
Great video. I sat on one of these bikes yesterday. My toes just touched the ground. I was so sad but hey at least I have my hunter. Will be waiting for continental gt450 if it ever comes.
This is definitely the one for me ❤
That is a damn nice looking bike! A fat arse single seat would be the cherry on the top. How freaky that I referred to a bike you tested earlier this year as ‘Bear’, after the yoke and its fittings looked like a bears head, in certain lighting conditions. You need to swing your leg over a bear and get some roads testing done!
Yes, the Bear will be a very successful bike. A well designed, lovely machine and as You say, Stu, probably a perfect touring bike. I'll have a close look at it when it comes to my dealer shop.
I hope my local dealership gets these in soon. Being a Triumph, Ducati, and Moto Guzzi fan, I've never given RE the love they deserve. Never ridden one. I will be soon though!
Hello Sir - Thank you for making this video..I agree with you that the Bear 650 should have been the Interceptor...that was my thought when I looked at the Bear for the 1st time...
It’s beautiful! In my opinion it would look even better on knobby tires!
Thank you. This RE is interesting and I am shure you will test it for us on the roads 😃👍🏼
Saw these at Motorcycle live. They do look the part. Seats comfy too!
Cracking bike!
Just watched it again and like the look of the green frame white tank combination.
Already given you a thumbs up, but have another! 👍
same here , wasnt ineterested in bear initially was looking forward for classic , but bear exceded my expections, and the classic 650 is a dissapointment, they should have used bear platform for classic 650, instead of that crusier chasis which is haunting since meteor 350.
I’m digging the 249 version.. I’ve ridden with Eddie Mulder, long since retired from racing but the dude is still fast!!
I think i agree with all your observations and comments. Cheers. Nuff said.
Of course, after I've turned my own Interceptor into a scrambler the hard way! This bike will sell like crazy though, all the upgrades over the standard Interceptor are well worth the very slight price increase.
Looks like the interceptor has come of age , as you say this is what should have been , shame is no chrome tanks , that would nail it for me . The MK4 like you have always seemed just a bit grey , a good bike but not in the MK2 league , this Bear or dare we say MK5 version will sell like hot cakes I suspect.
You know, now that you mention it, I'm curious as to why RE hasn't brought out a scrambler version of the 650 until now. Why? Because I've seen used Interceptors for sale that had been modified as scramblers. That is, Interceptor owners were already doing this. Oh well, better late than never, right?
I can't wait for you to get a loaner, and do a review. This may turn out to be the best yet.
I am surprised that I have only heard about the Bear in the past 3 or 4 weeks, Baxter Cycle here in the US has already received several of them. I think that they are considered to be a premier dealer by Royal Enfield, and tend to get bikes early.
Fuzzy Biker has already ridden one, and has purchased a 249 edition based on that first ride. He is actually receiving the bike today. One thing he noticed was a significant improvement in low end grunt, and that 2 into 1 exhaust sounds fantastic.
The US price is in line with the other new 650 models.
I'm looking forward to seeing the Classic 650 but now that I'm seeing this bike I'm having second thoughts. It looks very nice.
Very interesting and informative - thanks for sharing.
110,000 motorcycles sold in one month! Amazing! Beautiful looking, reliable motorcycles modestly priced! What a crazy business plan!
....and serviceable buy th home mechanic
Be nicer if the wheels were tubeless, that will be a consideration for those that might choose the Triumph over this. The Bear is pretty though.
And have cast wheels
I'm actually looking for a simple bike to ride around Australia, with a few mods this may be the one...
Looks awesome 🤓
This one looks really good. Going to order one ❤
The Bear makes more practical sense than the Interceptor in countries like Australia where, once you are away from the East coast strip a lot of roads are dirt and gravel. Where I live a lot of long dstance tourers come through town and they are never on pure road bikes which just don't have the capability to cope with our rural roads.
Thanks for the content❤️
Love the Bear so much! RE nailed it in so many ways, I think.
Infact i would have hit the Pre-Order button on the Black one if it didn't have gold forks... Not a fan of gold as a color, get it, but a maybe if i could live with it? 🤔 Still thinking....
Interesting though, i have spoken to someone who has taken delivery of his new 650 Bear in the US. Loves it! 100% Identitfying the torque build quality, looks and ride as amazing!!!
However, has already identified unfortunately the rear suspension is still way to hard and is already looking for options. Also commented that for riding miles he would rather the Super Meteor (he aslo replaced rear suspension), but as purely a beautiful bike the Bear ticks the boxes of a beautiful fun motorcycle that is more satisfying than the Interceptor and Super Meteor.
I have owned the Super Meteor for a year and as a daily commuter and weekend explorer ride have had no issues witht the rear suspension. And yet, Royal Enfields rear suspension keeps coming back as often the only negative across many models through to the new releases i am finding...🤔
What do you think... With so many riders loving much about Royal Enfields, with so much feedback of motorcyclists not loving the rear suspension, what are they missing or how?
Big Bear Run 1960: "Fast Eddie" Mulder
Apparently that's why it's called Bear.
I saw this at ECMA it looks even better in the flesh
Its a novel idea , making bikes people want .
Thank you Stuart
Thank You mr Dragon!
And...they moved the rectifier up under the oil cooler....maybe they will have fitted better relays too....fingers crossed...
650cc, simple, aircooled bikes are 100% the goldylocks size but if we bought bikes with are heads we would all ride Honda Dull-villes, unfortumatly we buy with are hearts (Generaly) For me, the BEAR is the coolest thing on the road and me mates Brando, McQueen and Fonzy would agree 😊
Another great insight into REs latest release. Do you know if there will be a tubeless/spoked rim option? That would be a deal breaker for me.