this is underrated motorcycle. even though its a cruiser it handled well in the himalayas! me and wife, each rode out meteor into ladakh valley especially zanskar braving steep inclines/muddy/rocky jeep trails. it can take a lot of abuse too.
Just cleared 1,000 miles on mine, I have the exact same bike. The sweet spot is 45-55 MPH, but you can easily cruise at 65 MPH on the highway (no vibrations). Also, I’m 6’3 200 lbs and have been very comfortable (I have a 34 inch inseam). This bike is just FUN and looks fantastic
I have spoken to 2 owners in there late 60s early 70 s ...they absolutely love these bike s they are great for riders who have been there done that and just want an enjoyable ride ..no vibration to speak of and comfy ...great price with great breakdown cover as standard ...you can go anywhere with them !
What an apocalyptically gorgeous location to shoot a review! As a meteor owner myself, I would love to ride those country roads! I loved the weather as well.
I own one of these in Fireball Red and I love it. It's the bike I've been looking for for years. A couple of comments; the 387 miles that you thought was how far you could get with the petrol in the tank is in fact how many miles the bike has done in total. The ODO you can see on the display stands for odometer. The 101mpg figure is, in my experience, only possible at 40mph, as I found during the initial stage of running in (300miles @40mph). When I reached the second stage (1200miles @ 50mph), the mpg dropped to 87. Nevertheless, it's a great, relaxing bike to ride.
Darcy, great job! I think you gave a very balanced and honest review. You also provided that bike a fair chance for someone who might be entry level into riding. From a production viewpoint, I particularly enjoyed the passerby chat and the horse! Please keep up the good work!
I really don’t like cruisers, but from the large tank size, claimed 100mpg, and matte-black engine and exhaust- I’m seriously considering getting this over the Classic as the more-economical option!
Hi Mr Darcy, Good review. Saddened that you could not get a bike from RE until now, but I did offer you to test mine, as one of the first on the road in the UK. The Meteor is (according to MCN) the best selling retro in the UK. I believe that the top speed is electronically limited, but I could be wrong. I bought 3 motorcycles during lockdown and all were very fast, certainly compared to the Meteor. However, riding the Meteor around the Hertfordshire roads, it's an absolute peach! As you mentioned, it gives a lot of miles per gallon, but it provides hundreds of smiles per mile!
Thanks for the review. In the States here, looking at this or the 650 interceptor. I've got a 30+ year old Harley, and would like something I don't have to wrench on constantly before each ride, and have no interest in Japanese bikes anymore. Got that out of my system back in the eighties.
Awesome buddy, if you want something that still has plenty of guts for the real road then the interceptor would be a great choice. You want want something to pootle around on then the meteor or classic 350 would be a good choice.
I had the chance to ride one on a demo day here in Dallas/Ft. Worth. Like you said, 70 may be listed, but good luck getting there. I would definitely say for around town or an evening country cruiser full marks. Beyond that, the damn thing is just FUN !!!
I have no bother getting to 70 and because it's restricted to around 75, it's not revving hard at that speed and you can cruise at uk limit easily. Long inclines might bring you below occasionally but otherwise I never feel short of power.
Nice review and definitely considering this motorbike after I get my A2 license. Good catch on recognising the turn by turn navigation screen. I nearly laughed out loud when you first mentioned that the clock on the dash was designed by Google! 😉
Strong rumours of new versions of both the meteor (possibly called the hummingbird or shotgun?) and Himalayan with the 650 interceptor engine, in 2022/3. As a one time owner of a Yam xs650 twin, way back in the last millennium, sounds very promising and a bit more realistic for an all around single bike.
Yeah as an ex Reddich built RE 350 Bullet owner (way back in the day) I'm interested in this bike and I like it a lot, I've heard that they can be tuned too. Thanks for another great review
Another good review. Looks like a fun little bike, but not so much for me. Getting a Thruxton RS in a couple of months. I like how you guys put reviews together that are real world based. Always from the perspective of the real life experience of the bike. Who really cares about numbers and specs? I care about the sensation of riding, the personality of a bike. You guys don't lose your way in your reviews.
Well, thanks for that, Mr. Darcy. You just cost me a lot of money. Of course i had to buy this beautiful bike. A supernova brown. I am 64 years old, and it's time to get back in the saddle. Just waiting for the spring, here in Norway.
Nice review, and nice bike! Solid proposal by Royal Enfield. That stock navigator brings value to the bike. There are many models out there that cost twice this bike and don't even offer the nav as an option.
Great looking bike,classic looks and sound decent,cheap a chip and economical what’s not to like,once again Royal Enfield has got a winner.great video Darcy.👍🏻
Yes it's only a 350,but at my mid 60s it's light enough and fast enough for me and I can pick it up if it falls over! And the sound is so good i can just sit and listen to it 😊
Great review guys 👍 ... no nonsense, nicely filmed 😎👍... I tried a meteor earlier in the year and I was bowled over by its easy, chilled personality. Just waiting to try the new 350 Classic 👍
Excellent review. It will be interesting to see what reviewers make of the new 350 Classic when it comes to the UK. I wonder why they are not fitting the Meteor tank to the Classic. The extra capacity could come in handy. My gripe remains the 250 miles to my nearest dealer. Not much point in having a 3 year warranty the dealer is so far away.
Thank you for the review... I think it is a lovely motorcycle and great value for your money... I am interested to see the other Royal Enfield motorcycle range. Keep well bye Stuart 😊
Royal Enfield has become a great brand again and great designs. I prefer the cheaper version with no seat back and no windshield. It is very popular in India but has competition from the Honda CB350 Royal Highness that I would opt for if it was available in the UK.
Yes that’s the point Honda do nothing like it for the UK market, and if they did how much would it cost? not everyone wants a plastic futuristic super bike. I’ve loved Honda products in the past, but now own a Meteor, I’m loving it and it suits my 73 year old temperament perfectly.
I had also a Grom - it was an absolute blast but as you said, not enough for serious traffic. So I sold it, still missing it a bit, though. Now I am also interested in the Meteor but a bit unsure about it being good for taller riders like me. From what I saw on TH-cam, people rated the Meteor so far better than they did with the Himalayan. There are also some negative feedbacks on the Himalayan. I also prefer the Meteor by the looks. Will need to check both out in real at a dealer.
@@krasky I bought a 2021 Himalayan about two weeks ago. I chose it over the Meteor because of slightly higher horsepower, I preferred the looks, and the abundance of positive reviews. The Meteor looked a little bit “fat” in person and was only about 17 pounds lighter than the Himalayan (depending upon who’s specs you use). I only have 160 miles on the Himalayan so far, but I am disappointed. The bike is very cold blooded and stalls several times until warm, despite being fuel injected. None of my other fuel injected bikes have had starting or cold running issues. The bike idles at about 2300 rpm (the dealer said the would address that at the 300 mile service. I’m hoping that after the break in period things will improve. I’m surprised at my problems because none of the multiple reviews I watched mentioned any problems. Also, the switchgear/controls arre cheap. I realize it is an inexpensive bike and they have to cut costs somewhere. The fuel injection issue bothers me most. You have to reomve the tank to adjust the idle speed. Also, on page 3 of the owner’s manual it states that you should only use plain water to wash the Himalayan. Using cleaning agents may cause “discoloration “. Again, I’m hoping that things will improve as the miles increase. This is my first brand new bike in over 20 years.
@@jeffreyhurst9552 just ordered a yellow Fireball after a short ride on a red Fireball. I was amazed by the seating position. It felt straight like home. So comfortable, even with my 6.1 (185cm). On most Japanese bikes I felt cramped. Build quality seemed pretty good and sound was so smooth and sonorous - uff. I hope it will also proof its quality long term. But first it’s just about 4.000€ and second it has 3 years warranty. After having several bikes in the past which didn’t make me looking back on them and falling in love, I tried to achieve this time without going to much by facts/specs and deciding with the head. So this Meteor is a pure „guts decision“.
Looks better in the classic 350 livery. Except for a very few changes it’s the same platform but with the classic style. For me personally. I tried to like the meteor but got bored with the style after a bit.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan after riding both I think I like the blue supernova the best and especially for my crumbling spine issues my only real complain is that sorry ass windshield mount it’s absolutely crap but that’s what aftermarket is for. Maybe in the spring if all goes well I need a new bike I’ve plenty of old Asian boat anchors to ride I need a lightweight ride
Could I suggest a comparison in performance with a MAC Velocette. My 1954 is 160 kg and has the same top end. Very pleasant to drive around town and on long trips at 55-60 mph. If you try the sports version, the Viper, still at 350cc is a very high performance sports bike using the same frame, forks. It would be interesting on your comments on the changes in technology in the last 70 years and road tests.
I do love these modern classics . I love the Triumphs all that is needed now is Norton to bring out their commando. I would have my garage full of HD's and Triumphs and royal enfields all day long....Can i ask ...Are Triumph still doing the Thunderbird?
All your reviews are excellent. If you had to pick (as I do) between the classic 350 and the meteor, which would you pick and why? I like the looks of the Classic 350 much more, but from others I've heard speak on the comparison, it seems that they've favored the handling characteristics of the meteor. Any insight you could provide would be appreciated. Thanks from just a wee 50 miles south of Boston, Massachusetts.
Well, I grew up in Mansfield, MA, about 30 miles or so south of Boston and now live in FL. What I can tell you is that I went into my RE dealer here fulling intending to purchase a Classic 350 (I used to own a Classic 500). However, after sitting and checking both out, I went for the Meteor and it wasn't close. I surprised myself! You cannot go wrong with either one!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan so true. Now to install a rack. What do you suggest? Enfield does not list the part. I think i saw one video where you did an installation! Thank you for all information
My dream was thunderbird when i was in college but due to increase in petrol prices in India... i am not sure i will get it now but it is my dream still.. i will ride one sometime.. nice bike
You won't get 387 miles from 3/4 of a tank if it holds 15 litres and does 101 MPG. Think that was the ODO reading you were looking at. Otherwise nice review of a good bike. I'm looking forward to the Classic 350 arrival.
Im a newbie bike rider. No experience except what I learned in my motorcycle class In California USA. Any recommendation on a motorcycle? Is 350cc fine? I like the Interceptor 650 also. Lol.
350cc meteor or classic would be a good start, bombproof and very easy to ride. Interceptor would also be a good first bike. Depends how confident you are, but the interceptor still isn’t too powerful.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan I appreciate the response! As far as confidence. I'd say fair. I am between the 2. But see that I can still grow into the Interceptor. Thanks from Sunny California!!!
Hey Mr Darcy & the Ol' Man, are you still enjoying the softtail standard ?? What are your thoughts on the new sportster S ?? Thanks for another great review
Absolutely love the softail standard, will be doing a long term review soon. We haven’t got the chance to ride the sportster s yet but we will certainly be reviewing it.
A beautiful motorcycle, classic looks and nice quality, on first glance. But clearly under-powered for the open road, limited for city roads and village life. I wouldn't mind to have one as a second ride, but we have an expensive compulsory insurance, per motorcycle, so no luck.
Had mine since July and once fully run in its capable of A road, Dual Carriageway and Motorwar riding. Did 40 miles on the motorway at 65 - 70 mph and it felt fine. Yes, it was buzzing at 70mph but by no means going flat out, also very smooth at these speeds. Ignore the figures, you need to ride one to appreciate its virtues and capability.👍
@@jonathandeeley6276 I had some limited experience riding a Suzuki DR250, circa 1989, with about the same power as the Enfield, and it was borderline suicide on the highways. I have a DR350 with 30 hp, and still, the open road feels like an elaborate punishment, I draw the line on 50 hp for such use. Yes, the motorcycle is capable, like my old kawa is capable of about 120 mph, but is it safe? When you have a halfwit truck driver on your tail, close enough to read the small print on the back of your helmet, can you evade his unwanted attention? Even a small car, hanging five feet behind you, puts you in a grave danger, and you can't add some throttle to pull away. Situations like this happen with big and powerful motorcycles, but the under-powered ones have it to extreme. Use the motorcycle as intended, even if it has some capability, it's like going off-road, the Enfield will take it, but eventually it will be damaged and the rider can be hurt.
Here in Austria (Germany the same) all the 350s from RE are unfortunately unusable for education. Because all A2-Bikes must have min. 250 cc (check) and min 20KW (nope). That's sad, but true. My Students would appreciate the fabulous handling of the Meteor.
What I don't get about Today's bikers is the big bike fast bike mind set.men ride R1s .women ride MT07 BULLSHIT Real bikers love bikes. Big singles multi cyl. Cafe racers I had a gs1000 yoshi..gixer750 tuned up then a 1978 Bonneville .Harley dynaglide. Bandit 600 Z650 hardtail chop. I love old brit bikes BSA PANTHERS Triumph Triton. Had a bsa 250 single. In tha 80s..I rode a 57 triumph 350..& an RDLC 250.PRODY racer....owned both at the same time...
dealer has ordered me one in the same brown colour.i am 72 had many big bikes over the years ,but am looking forward to it coming.
Fantastic my friend! 💯
You are a badass sir
this is underrated motorcycle. even though its a cruiser it handled well in the himalayas! me and wife, each rode out meteor into ladakh valley especially zanskar braving steep inclines/muddy/rocky jeep trails. it can take a lot of abuse too.
Yes I agree 💯
Hi friend, is it good in mountain roads and hills? Thakyou.
@@simodakir5990 yes i have taken it to high passes of himalayas. 16000+ feet high ones. and some challenging gradient roads with full luggage
@@SanketKambli thanks a lot i have ordered one yesterday. I will get it next week . Great bike . Thanks a lot.
Just cleared 1,000 miles on mine, I have the exact same bike. The sweet spot is 45-55 MPH, but you can easily cruise at 65 MPH on the highway (no vibrations).
Also, I’m 6’3 200 lbs and have been very comfortable (I have a 34 inch inseam).
This bike is just FUN and looks fantastic
picked up one the same colour 1 week ago love it. had many big bikes over the years ,now 72. just perfect.
Excellent! Enjoy the ride 👍🏼👍🏼
I think a Royal Enfield Meteor 20hp, 27nm, 350cc and some back roads would suit me perfectly! It looks fantastic!!! And the sound is also great!
It's a bike for now. I'm 66 and have always had monster cruisers. I would like one of these now.
Yes a smaller cc bike can make for a very enjoyable, stress free ride
@@MrDarcy-OlMan and ownership with the price of tyres. Good luck guys, thanks for your reply. 🇦🇺🇬🇧❄️
I have spoken to 2 owners in there late 60s early 70 s ...they absolutely love these bike s they are great for riders who have been there done that and just want an enjoyable ride ..no vibration to speak of and comfy ...great price with great breakdown cover as standard ...you can go anywhere with them !
@@willyrackham2957 absolutely would agree with that 👍🏼
@@willyrackham2957 👍
Nice that someone stopped to check you were ok.
Yes definitely 👍🏼👍🏼
The 650cc Meteor will be called Super Meteor and will be displayed at the EICMA show in Italy at the end of November.
Awesome! 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan I hope it will be worth all this hype ☺️
Yes 🤞🏼
What an apocalyptically gorgeous location to shoot a review! As a meteor owner myself, I would love to ride those country roads! I loved the weather as well.
You and your dad are a great one two punch. Your channel reviews continue to move the bar up.
Thank you, glad you think so!
Ordered a meteor back in mid august - still waiting for it ! but i have been told the wait is worth it !
Awesome! Hopefully it will come soon 👍🏼
I own one of these in Fireball Red and I love it. It's the bike I've been looking for for years. A couple of comments; the 387 miles that you thought was how far you could get with the petrol in the tank is in fact how many miles the bike has done in total. The ODO you can see on the display stands for odometer. The 101mpg figure is, in my experience, only possible at 40mph, as I found during the initial stage of running in (300miles @40mph). When I reached the second stage (1200miles @ 50mph), the mpg dropped to 87.
Nevertheless, it's a great, relaxing bike to ride.
This is yet another cracking, handsome bike from Royal Enfield. Thanks for your review!
The boys are back! Top notch work
Thank you!
I have bought one last month, my freinds asked me,, when its availlable to buy it, never...THIS BIKE IS PERFECT CRUISER
.
Darcy, great job! I think you gave a very balanced and honest review. You also provided that bike a fair chance for someone who might be entry level into riding. From a production viewpoint, I particularly enjoyed the passerby chat and the horse! Please keep up the good work!
Thank you buddy, much appreciated!
I really don’t like cruisers, but from the large tank size, claimed 100mpg, and matte-black engine and exhaust- I’m seriously considering getting this over the Classic as the more-economical option!
Hi Mr Darcy, Good review. Saddened that you could not get a bike from RE until now, but I did offer you to test mine, as one of the first on the road in the UK. The Meteor is (according to MCN) the best selling retro in the UK. I believe that the top speed is electronically limited, but I could be wrong. I bought 3 motorcycles during lockdown and all were very fast, certainly compared to the Meteor. However, riding the Meteor around the Hertfordshire roads, it's an absolute peach! As you mentioned, it gives a lot of miles per gallon, but it provides hundreds of smiles per mile!
Really lovely classic looking bike and very good video. I’m a Ducati rider but still love this machine!
Yes it’s a great little bike 👌🏼
Good Review. It's rare just you presenting solo, hope your dad is well and back soon!
He now lives in wales and I am in Rutland so we can only present occasionally together now
Nice that the car driver checked you were OK 👍🏻
Miss the classic 500 👊🏻
Yes he was very considerate. A quality that is hard to find these days 💯 We’re on the list for the new Classic!
I got a 2017 black classic chrome 500 and it is a beauty. A good 50 to 55 mph. The new classic should be a beauty too and a better bike.
@@flatcapcaferacer ❤️❤️❤️
Yes awesome 💯
Thanks for the review. In the States here, looking at this or the 650 interceptor. I've got a 30+ year old Harley, and would like something I don't have to wrench on constantly before each ride, and have no interest in Japanese bikes anymore. Got that out of my system back in the eighties.
Awesome buddy, if you want something that still has plenty of guts for the real road then the interceptor would be a great choice. You want want something to pootle around on then the meteor or classic 350 would be a good choice.
I had the chance to ride one on a demo day here in Dallas/Ft. Worth. Like you said, 70 may be listed, but good luck getting there. I would definitely say for around town or an evening country cruiser full marks. Beyond that, the damn thing is just FUN !!!
That’s exactly it, not about going fast just about having fun!
I have no bother getting to 70 and because it's restricted to around 75, it's not revving hard at that speed and you can cruise at uk limit easily. Long inclines might bring you below occasionally but otherwise I never feel short of power.
I bought fireball
It is beautiful bike and great bike for cruising.
Sit start and enjoy
Awesome 👍🏼👍🏼
Nice review and definitely considering this motorbike after I get my A2 license.
Good catch on recognising the turn by turn navigation screen. I nearly laughed out loud when you first mentioned that the clock on the dash was designed by Google! 😉
Thanks buddy! 👍🏼👍🏼
Was going to comment this lol
A cool review indeed 👍 - I‘ll get My Meteor this week 😎 (and will certainly keep my Classic 500). I‘m excited 😊
Thanks buddy! Awesome 👍🏼👍🏼
Good to hear more RE bike reviews on the way.
Can't argue with the Meteor price although a little more ooomph would be nice. 👍
Yes it’s great value for money, I agree!
Strong rumours of new versions of both the meteor (possibly called the hummingbird or shotgun?) and Himalayan with the 650 interceptor engine, in 2022/3. As a one time owner of a Yam xs650 twin, way back in the last millennium, sounds very promising and a bit more realistic for an all around single bike.
@@Turnbull62 yes and now we are poised to get our hands on any new ones! 🙏
Yeah as an ex Reddich built RE 350 Bullet owner (way back in the day) I'm interested in this bike and I like it a lot, I've heard that they can be tuned too. Thanks for another great review
Thanks buddy, defo worth a try!
Nice one Darcy. Good to see you. It’s another winner from the RE team 👏
It certainly is, cheers buddy
Another good review. Looks like a fun little bike, but not so much for me. Getting a Thruxton RS in a couple of months. I like how you guys put reviews together that are real world based. Always from the perspective of the real life experience of the bike. Who really cares about numbers and specs? I care about the sensation of riding, the personality of a bike. You guys don't lose your way in your reviews.
Glad you think so, that’s what we try to convey. Anyone can read the specs from the website!
This bike is so good for its price,nothing to compare it with.
Very good review,thanks👍
Thanks, yes the value for money is remarkable.
Fantastic work bud all ways very enjoyable
Well, thanks for that, Mr. Darcy. You just cost me a lot of money. Of course i had to buy this beautiful bike. A supernova brown. I am 64 years old, and it's time to get back in the saddle. Just waiting for the spring, here in Norway.
Ahh awesome! A fine choice 👌🏼💯
Nice review, and nice bike! Solid proposal by Royal Enfield. That stock navigator brings value to the bike. There are many models out there that cost twice this bike and don't even offer the nav as an option.
It is remarkable really, very good value for money
Maybe the biggest rival of this bike is within it's own brand.
The Himalayan does the same but also offers some off road possibilities.
Yes good point. We’re reviewing the Himalayan again soon too 👍🏼
Great review. I'm a big fan of RE and look forward to seeing more reviews.
So are we, we can’t wait!
Great looking bike,classic looks and sound decent,cheap a chip and economical what’s not to like,once again Royal Enfield has got a winner.great video Darcy.👍🏻
Right on! Thanks buddy!
Nicely done! Good honest review. Keep up the goo work!
Good in depth review in pleasant countryside . As you say a good learners bike.
Thanks buddy, for sure!
looking for reviews on this, spent 5 mins finding your one to watch first!
ah fack where's the ol' man!? lol
what a friendly chap that came by to see if you were alright!
Thanks buddy. It’s a fabulous bike! 👍🏼👍🏼
Another excellent review. Well done from down under 👍🇦🇺
Thank you very much!
The best cruise bike under 5000. Will match any bike.
You didn't look too big at all for it which pleases me as I'm also 6' 1" :)
Whilst I was editing it I realised it didn’t look small at all, you’d be fine on it!
Great looking bike that. Well done RE
Very good looking
natural brown Meteor with a purple seat at 11:01
I'm hoping this is the sort of bike that will bring a lot of new young riders into motorcycling. Sure looks sweet.
I hope so too!
Good review, well done.
Hopefully you'll review the new Royal Enfield classic 350 when it comes in the spring.
Thanks bud. Yes most definitely 👍🏼
Great looking bike, and very well specced for the price. Would be perfect for commuting and occasional weekend blasts. I think it'll be a huge seller.
Absolutely 💯
It already is! 🤣
A2 compliant, as are every bike in the Royal Enfield range, a purposeful marketing point I'd say 😉
Certainly!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan and not a bad idea at that 👍🏻
Yes it's only a 350,but at my mid 60s it's light enough and fast enough for me and I can pick it up if it falls over! And the sound is so good i can just sit and listen to it 😊
Great review guys 👍 ... no nonsense, nicely filmed 😎👍... I tried a meteor earlier in the year and I was bowled over by its easy, chilled personality. Just waiting to try the new 350 Classic 👍
Thanks buddy. Yes indeed! We’re looking forward to seeing it too 💯
Meteor 650 coming in a few months.
Can’t wait 👍🏼
Not meteor it's super meteor...
Good review,no bullshit 👍 regards from India
Thank you!
Price is 125 money,thats a proper bargain👍
Excellent review. It will be interesting to see what reviewers make of the new 350 Classic when it comes to the UK.
I wonder why they are not fitting the Meteor tank to the Classic. The extra capacity could come in handy.
My gripe remains the 250 miles to my nearest dealer. Not much point in having a 3 year warranty the dealer is so far away.
Same with me. It's almost 300 miles to the closest dealership.
Thanks buddy. Interesting points. 🤔
👍🏼🤔
Already booked mine here in India , looking forward for the delivery by December end 🔥❤️
Excellent! 💯👍🏼
Great review 👍
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
Excellent review, glad to see you enjoyed a lesser cc bike, top job👍
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼 It was superb
Thank you for the review... I think it is a lovely motorcycle and great value for your money... I am interested to see the other Royal Enfield motorcycle range.
Keep well bye Stuart 😊
It’s great value for money, many more of the range to come!
Royal Enfield has become a great brand again and great designs.
I prefer the cheaper version with no seat back and no windshield.
It is very popular in India but has competition from the Honda CB350 Royal Highness that I would opt for if it was available in the UK.
Yes they’re making some great bikes, I prefer the ones without the screen too.
Yes that’s the point Honda do nothing like it for the UK market, and if they did how much would it cost? not everyone wants a plastic futuristic super bike. I’ve loved Honda products in the past, but now own a Meteor, I’m loving it and it suits my 73 year old temperament perfectly.
Thanks folks, great vid! Looks like I'll be down to the dealership the minute I get my licence.
Thanks buddy. Sounds like a good plan 👍🏼👍🏼
I liked my Grom, but it was too slow for my local traffic. I like the classic retro look. I just can’t decide between the Meteor or the Himalayan.
Two very different bikes, depends what you want it for really?
Depends how tall you are as they are quite tiny…at 6’4” I chose the Himi…
I had also a Grom - it was an absolute blast but as you said, not enough for serious traffic. So I sold it, still missing it a bit, though.
Now I am also interested in the Meteor but a bit unsure about it being good for taller riders like me. From what I saw on TH-cam, people rated the Meteor so far better than they did with the Himalayan. There are also some negative feedbacks on the Himalayan. I also prefer the Meteor by the looks. Will need to check both out in real at a dealer.
@@krasky I bought a 2021 Himalayan about two weeks ago. I chose it over the Meteor because of slightly higher horsepower, I preferred the looks, and the abundance of positive reviews. The Meteor looked a little bit “fat” in person and was only about 17 pounds lighter than the Himalayan (depending upon who’s specs you use). I only have 160 miles on the Himalayan so far, but I am disappointed. The bike is very cold blooded and stalls several times until warm, despite being fuel injected. None of my other fuel injected bikes have had starting or cold running issues. The bike idles at about 2300 rpm (the dealer said the would address that at the 300 mile service. I’m hoping that after the break in period things will improve. I’m surprised at my problems because none of the multiple reviews I watched mentioned any problems. Also, the switchgear/controls arre cheap. I realize it is an inexpensive bike and they have to cut costs somewhere. The fuel injection issue bothers me most. You have to reomve the tank to adjust the idle speed. Also, on page 3 of the owner’s manual it states that you should only use plain water to wash the Himalayan. Using cleaning agents may cause “discoloration “. Again, I’m hoping that things will improve as the miles increase. This is my first brand new bike in over 20 years.
@@jeffreyhurst9552 just ordered a yellow Fireball after a short ride on a red Fireball. I was amazed by the seating position. It felt straight like home. So comfortable, even with my 6.1 (185cm). On most Japanese bikes I felt cramped.
Build quality seemed pretty good and sound was so smooth and sonorous - uff.
I hope it will also proof its quality long term. But first it’s just about 4.000€ and second it has 3 years warranty.
After having several bikes in the past which didn’t make me looking back on them and falling in love, I tried to achieve this time without going to much by facts/specs and deciding with the head. So this Meteor is a pure „guts decision“.
Looks lovely, already owning a lower CC bike I will wait to see if they make the 650 version of this bike.
Yes fingers crossed 👍🏼👍🏼
Tis coming. Will have the 650 twin. There's already leaked pictures from India where its expected either later this year or next 👍
Useful review, and useful motorbike.
Thanks, certainly is!
Great review. Seems a good value bike too.
Thanks, it certainly is!
Good solo review Darcy👍
Cheers buddy!
Very short 1st gear but I love mine
Like to know what the ole man would think about it . I like it
I think it would be a bit too small for him, we’ll have to try and get him to ride one at some point 👍🏻
Thanks for reviewing an indian 🇮🇳bike.❤️ This bike has less vibration bro
Looks better in the classic 350 livery. Except for a very few changes it’s the same platform but with the classic style. For me personally. I tried to like the meteor but got bored with the style after a bit.
Ahh ok. Yes hopefully we will be reviewing the Classic soon!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan after riding both I think I like the blue supernova the best and especially for my crumbling spine issues my only real complain is that sorry ass windshield mount it’s absolutely crap but that’s what aftermarket is for. Maybe in the spring if all goes well I need a new bike I’ve plenty of old Asian boat anchors to ride I need a lightweight ride
Love your videos! What's it like having a dad who looks like Zeus?
Thanks buddy, pretty cool I think!
Great review Darcy and a lovely looking bike. The dashboard looks really nice and up to date 👍
Thanks, yes was a lovely display
Could I suggest a comparison in performance with a MAC Velocette. My 1954 is 160 kg and has the same top end. Very pleasant to drive around town and on long trips at 55-60 mph. If you try the sports version, the Viper, still at 350cc is a very high performance sports bike using the same frame, forks. It would be interesting on your comments on the changes in technology in the last 70 years and road tests.
Yes it would certainly be interesting 🤔👍🏼👍🏼
I do love these modern classics . I love the Triumphs all that is needed now is Norton to bring out their commando. I would have my garage full of HD's and Triumphs and royal enfields all day long....Can i ask ...Are Triumph still doing the Thunderbird?
Yes agreed. No they don’t currently. I have no idea if they plan to 🤔
Nice bike for ..go camping...do France on the secondary roads...
Yes absolutely 👍🏼
You'll be pleased to know I've ordered one today.
Awesome enjoy 😉
Great review. Well done!
Thanks very much 👍🏼👍🏼
It is a good looking bike hopefully they will release a 650 version of this 😛
Nice review as usual 👌
A 650 version would be awesome! Thanks
As your wish, so may it be, welcome to the 650 Super meteor coming 22 😉
RE known for affordable and reliable
Yes indeed 💯
All your reviews are excellent. If you had to pick (as I do) between the classic 350 and the meteor, which would you pick and why? I like the looks of the Classic 350 much more, but from others I've heard speak on the comparison, it seems that they've favored the handling characteristics of the meteor. Any insight you could provide would be appreciated. Thanks from just a wee 50 miles south of Boston, Massachusetts.
We’d go for the Classic. Both bikes are mechanically very similar but the looks of the Classic are spot on 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks very much. That settles it for me. The Classic is just that, a classic, and it’s just a gorgeous bike.
Well, I grew up in Mansfield, MA, about 30 miles or so south of Boston and now live in FL. What I can tell you is that I went into my RE dealer here fulling intending to purchase a Classic 350 (I used to own a Classic 500). However, after sitting and checking both out, I went for the Meteor and it wasn't close. I surprised myself! You cannot go wrong with either one!
@@chuckvt5196 awesome 👍🏼👍🏼
Love mine. 375 miles and got it 7/5. Not fast but i really don't care
Excellent! Yes it doesn’t need to be fast to be fun 💯
@@MrDarcy-OlMan so true. Now to install a rack. What do you suggest? Enfield does not list the part. I think i saw one video where you did an installation! Thank you for all information
@@stephenfricke9298 not sure tbh. Try TEC bike parts. They have a TH-cam channel
My dream was thunderbird when i was in college but due to increase in petrol prices in India... i am not sure i will get it now but it is my dream still.. i will ride one sometime.. nice bike
Awesome! Yes petrol is getting very expensive here too!
If you can afford RE you can buy petrol too... otherwise get a 100 cc moped
@@DHS562 oh you are an eye opener thank you
You won't get 387 miles from 3/4 of a tank if it holds 15 litres and does 101 MPG. Think that was the ODO reading you were looking at. Otherwise nice review of a good bike. I'm looking forward to the Classic 350 arrival.
I’m looking forward to that too, perhaps I was misreading it then 🤔
Great review! And even as a single it doesn't sound that bad.
No it doesn’t sound too bad, cheers buddy
Awesome Royal Enfield Motorcycle! Looking Cool….
Im a newbie bike rider. No experience except what I learned in my motorcycle class In California USA.
Any recommendation on a motorcycle?
Is 350cc fine?
I like the Interceptor 650 also. Lol.
350cc meteor or classic would be a good start, bombproof and very easy to ride. Interceptor would also be a good first bike. Depends how confident you are, but the interceptor still isn’t too powerful.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan I appreciate the response!
As far as confidence. I'd say fair. I am between the 2. But see that I can still grow into the Interceptor.
Thanks from Sunny California!!!
check out the scram 450
Hey Mr Darcy & the Ol' Man, are you still enjoying the softtail standard ?? What are your thoughts on the new sportster S ??
Thanks for another great review
Absolutely love the softail standard, will be doing a long term review soon. We haven’t got the chance to ride the sportster s yet but we will certainly be reviewing it.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan thanks for your reply. Looking forward to your upcoming videos
Nice little steed bud 👌🏻
Thanks buddy yes indeed 👍🏼
Can you do a review on the Honda rebel 1100
We will try again.
A beautiful motorcycle, classic looks and nice quality, on first glance. But clearly under-powered for the open road, limited for city roads and village life.
I wouldn't mind to have one as a second ride, but we have an expensive compulsory insurance, per motorcycle, so no luck.
Yes indeed. It’s definitely a nice little town or countryside ride or commuter but not for long motorway rides. Insurance is a terrible thing
Had mine since July and once fully run in its capable of A road, Dual Carriageway and Motorwar riding. Did 40 miles on the motorway at 65 - 70 mph and it felt fine. Yes, it was buzzing at 70mph but by no means going flat out, also very smooth at these speeds. Ignore the figures, you need to ride one to appreciate its virtues and capability.👍
@@jonathandeeley6276 I had some limited experience riding a Suzuki DR250, circa 1989, with about the same power as the Enfield, and it was borderline suicide on the highways. I have a DR350 with 30 hp, and still, the open road feels like an elaborate punishment, I draw the line on 50 hp for such use.
Yes, the motorcycle is capable, like my old kawa is capable of about 120 mph, but is it safe? When you have a halfwit truck driver on your tail, close enough to read the small print on the back of your helmet, can you evade his unwanted attention? Even a small car, hanging five feet behind you, puts you in a grave danger, and you can't add some throttle to pull away. Situations like this happen with big and powerful motorcycles, but the under-powered ones have it to extreme.
Use the motorcycle as intended, even if it has some capability, it's like going off-road, the Enfield will take it, but eventually it will be damaged and the rider can be hurt.
Is it better than classic 350, I mean for pleasure driving?
Very similar really 👍🏼
Great presentation
Thanks very much 👍🏼
Great review. 100+ mpg is amazing . A lot bike for your money 👍
Thanks, certainly is!
If I squint my eyes hard enough, I see a Harley Davidson.
There’s certainly some similarities 👍🏼👍🏼
I have to disagree, the meteor isn’t covered in crap pointless chrome and there isn’t a fat bastard in gay leathers riding it in this review !!!
Squeeze it harder and every bicycle will look like an Harley.
@@rejuvenatingsoul3498 I could just shut my eyes.
Here in Austria (Germany the same) all the 350s from RE are unfortunately unusable for education. Because all A2-Bikes must have min. 250 cc (check) and min 20KW (nope).
That's sad, but true. My Students would appreciate the fabulous handling of the Meteor.
Yes that is one massive flaw of the laws. Same here I believe.
Can you do a comparison between this and the rocket III?
Hah yes we could
What I don't get about
Today's bikers is the big bike fast bike mind set.men ride R1s .women ride MT07 BULLSHIT
Real bikers love bikes.
Big singles multi cyl.
Cafe racers I had a gs1000 yoshi..gixer750 tuned up then a 1978
Bonneville .Harley dynaglide. Bandit 600
Z650 hardtail chop.
I love old brit bikes
BSA PANTHERS
Triumph Triton.
Had a bsa 250 single.
In tha 80s..I rode a 57 triumph 350..& an RDLC 250.PRODY racer....owned both at the same time...
Yea with you there! We love so many different bikes. Least of all to be honest, sports bikes etc. Too fast too dangerous!
❤️ from India
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
Think this would have been my perfect first bike as bit more oompf than my 125. Could have kept it for years...oh well.
Great stuff👍
Yes it makes an ideal first bike 💯
I really like the color. 👍