I have one of these as a daily. Little over 6,000 miles on it, with zero issues. I’ve upgraded to Ohlins rear shocks and Andreani front forks. Very solid bike. The shifting issue is either because it’s still not broken in, or the oil needs changed. I’ve found running 20w-50 holds up far better than the 10w-50 they recommend.
Bith any royal Enfield you have to upgrade all parts cuz even though the bike and engine are great the parts are low quality You just follow the rule of bigger the bettet for RE😌😂
Harley Davidson is great too.......but come on you are talking about world's oldest continuous bike manufacture here........... said that i only ever liked/ owned (GT 650 and interceptor 650 yep both😂 m kinda mad) these 2 bikes by RE...... All the other classic and bullet are not my taste
One of the best value propositions in motorcycling today. Royal Enfield really upped their game with the 650, but also offered something unique in the market. There are very few air/oil cooled twins on sale that are genuinely desirable and affordable, if any. It’s almost like buying an old Honda CB450 or Norton Commando that has modern metallurgy, injection and ignition. It has lots of vintage charm with few vintage niggles.
Love the bike reviews, you were right about there being a cross over between car and bike people, couldn't understand why the others thought there wasn't.
I don’t even like riding(dirt bikes are fun but cars make my thing hard) but I enjoy the bike content on here. It’s also kind of nice to see Matt slightly out of his element, something we don’t get much of since he stopped doing one takes in sketchy fan’s cars!
Bought a royal enfield as my first bike. It was really fun and a perfect bike to learn on.instead of a honda 250. Much cooler. More fun and a bit of a history lesson if you will. Thx for bringing enfield on to the map to your viewers
Old Bullets were great as ones first motorcycles. They had carburetors, They leaked oil, but were Metal machines. Like a 'hand me down car' from an older generation. Learn the purpose and mechanics of the transport before you go electric.
Ive got that Bike its a blast !! No issues , does what its suppose to. I also own a Cafe GL 1300 and a Busa . The RE is for just riding around enjoying the day & contemplating the meaning of life, the GL for two up , The Busa for when the Hooligan in me comes out . I'm a very happy man !!
You are leaning forward because it is not a cruiser, it is a Cafe racer. Along with the Bybre brakes it also has Bosch EFI, Bosch anti lock brake system, Gabrial front forks, Gabrial rear shocks, and Pirelli tires, When you add all that up with the Harris frame and the wonderful 648 cc twin engine that an awful lot of goodies for just six grand. No it will not outrun the sport bikes, but that's not what it's about. It's all about riding a motorcycle, not racing a motorcycle. It's all about enjoy the ride.
I was just going to say that, figured someone else would speak up before I commented. The parallel twin with the 270 degree crank configuration is my favorite sounding motorcycle engine, especially with some nice aftermarket pipes like Zard or SC Project.
I think I must be the target audience for it. I'm 52 and lived for bikes between ages 16 and 21. Owned over a dozen and although I've kept one or two in the intervening years nothing has really excited me enough to consider buying a new one in recent times except this. Lost my job in the aviation industry due to the handling of the flu or else I'd have had one this year.
Purchased on just recently and love it...only 500 miles on it so far...very good review and right on with your comments about positives and negatives. I have heard the gear box issue smooths out after the first oil change...it certainly gets a lot of looks....sounds great as well
The reason these don't sound like typical parallel twin weed wackers is the 270 degree crank. It's basically a V twin firing order in a parallel twin case. Love the review but would love it more if you switched the cameras (ie forward view as big shot)
Yea but the scrambler is rocking a 270 crank too and while it sounds better than the sewing machine bonnie, this sounds better than both of them. They really did a good job with the noise of this thing. Wayyyyyy better than the outgoing GT.
@@exutiku A conventional parallel twins runs a 180 degree crank. 360 is the british style twin. Loads of bikes run the 270 degree style now. MT-07, Africa Twin, KTM 790/890 just to name a few.
The gear box will break in and the issues you did not like will go away. By 3k and second oil change the gear box was fin. Also I am 6-2" 280lbs and have ridden this on the highway for 100 mile at 75mph with out issue. I have also topped the bike out at 98mph at my weight. I now have 8.k on my bike and love it.
Loved the review. I own the Interceptor 650, which has the same chassis and engine combo. I faced similar issues, such as the gear not slotting to Neutral, and the bike suddenly popping out of gear. However, after the first service around 500 KM in, the bike has been performing near perfect. Great machine, for anyone getting into the 600+ CC segment!
Great review. I've had my GT for around six months and no gearbox issues, although I found a couple of false neutrals. But the gearbox gets better with usage, and I would now consider the gearbox to be one of the highlights of the bike, it's really silky smooth. Greetings from Australia 👍🇦🇺
Had a 535 and a 650 Enfield Continental GT. It's really difficult to beat the value of the bike! Simple, classic design, and enough useable power for daily commuting.
So I've been listening to you talking about this on a few of your podcasts and am so stoked to get to see and hear it in motion. Thanks for ride along review. I want one so freaking bad now!
@@why3011 Hero, Bajaj and TVS motorcycles in commuters, KTM and Yamaha in low cc(200-300) naked and flared bikes and Royal Enfield in classic bikes....these are the best brands in their segments
I have owned this bike for nearly two years and, while I agree with most of your comments, I differ on your opinion that this is not a good highway bike. I have done several multi-day trips with distances on the thousands of km, and I must say that the bike cruised quite effortlessly at normal highway speeds and was not unduly tiring to ride. Mind you, I weigh slightly less than you at 150 lbs.
I don't know if you mentioned it or not? It also comes with 3 years warranty and breakdown cover. That along with the mpg and easy maintenance It's a no branner for all the practicalities of owning a motorbike. Then when you throw in the actual look and sound of these bikes. That's when the heart for me takes over.
The bike sounds like it does because of the cross-plane crankshaft with 270° ignition offset between the two cylinders. A major ease of maintenance feature is the screw-and-jamnut method of valve adjustment. The reason you're a little bent forward is because of the modified clip-on handle bars of the Continental GT, unlike the regular handle bars of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (called the "INT650" in the U.S.).
i have an interceptor and love it. never had a transmission problem. actually its what i love most is the smooth, effortless transmission. a ton of accessories from RE that are very inexpensive. plenty of power. i have a bonneville and a street twin but im always on the RE the most. great bike!
I have to say the more I see you standing on videos, the thinner you are. Well done on getting healthier Matt it shows, I bet you have more energy as well. The Royal Enfield Continental GT650 is a great value for money option for a classic bike enthusiast.
@@Jdmjunkie001 ih because in india it's known as the thar(a desert located in rajasthan india) But the indian version was more of cj2 with buff bodykit the 2020 one is the copy of newer one
Its the 270degree firing order that gives the sound ;) nothing at all to do with the exhaust. A 2 in 1 sports exhaust on the 650 still gives the exact same sound.
I rode two old classic Enfield 500s in India many years ago and although it was very nostalgic I never thought that one day I would consider buying one, oh and by the way that was a great test ride review of the gt 650 keep up the good work
Buy one, replace the budget parts, you’ll have a better bike than a Bonny and change for a few trips. If you want to sell it, turn it back to stock and keep the bits for your next project. Fun times.
Cool bike, and happy to see more bike content on TST! I probably would have bought one of these if they existed a few years ago when I bought my Bonnie. You really can't argue with the price tag. I also think something like this is so much more approachable to non-bike people than the typical sport bike or Harley.
I have a 2020 INT650 and have not had any issues with it popping out of gear at any speed. In a year of ownership, have had maybe a half dozen false neutrals between 1st and 2nd. Agree that it's not a highway commuter bike, but I live in the mountains and it loves the twisties. Great review!
99% sure I rode that exact bike last weekend 😂 Any shifter issues usually relegate themselves after the first oil change, 8k problem free miles on my Continental GT
So nice that they gave this adequate power now. There used to be absolutely no reason to get this bike because the bonnie was 7000 and a twin, more reliable, more parts, etc., and this was just a crappy 500 thumper that was slow. Now they got it much more competitive, the bonnie MSRP has skyrocketed in the meanwhile, and it sounds really good in those drive-by shots.
I've owned an Interceptor 650 for about three months and put in close to 2500miles. The gearbox settles down quite a bit after the break in. I rarely get any troubles with gear selection any more. I do occasionally get a second neutral between fourth and fifth gear
Matt, loving the motorcycle reviews, keep them coming! It would be great to see a separate playlist of just the bike reviews much how you have the cars organized by country. Keep it up!
Liked the review - with 300 miles on it the gearbox is going to take a little time to run in. I have no problems with my interceptor. Dont forget the 3 year unlimited warranty. No other manufacturer back their product like that. I trust you were keeping it under 4000 rpm as per running in procedure:) Cheers from Australia.
have a 2020 Interceptor 650 with 10000 kilometers on it. The bike is brilliant in every respect and I would highly recumbent it to anybody looking fo a new ride. David in Thailand
This has also been a fun customizing/upgrading project, with a good offering of both factory and aftermarket parts now available to improve the performance and to address some of the cosmetic shortcomings of this otherwise fun and solid bike.
I was really tempted by the Royal Enfield bikes, but I passed for a good deal on a new Kawasaki Z900RS. The value proposition is so good on the Enfields, but I spend too much time on the highway to justify it. There's really a renaissance of retro style bikes going on right now, and it's awesome.
FYI the parallel twin has a 270 degree crank angle which means the arrangement is similar to the MT-07 which means it’s one of the better sounding parallel twins!
I'm not making any suggestions, but I wonder if the chin mount below the helmet would be a nicer field of view since youd see the handlebars and the cockpit of the bike.
They'd been building military bikes for the British "forever." India ALSO had a factory making the world-famous Lee Enfield battle rifle and the Jungle Carbine. The engine of this thing was recently-designed in England, as was the FRAME, which was designed by Harris Performance, a firm which they'd recently acquired. In the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, people who remember the old Cafe Racer are scarfing these-up.
@TheSmokingTire This review was great, love the updated format! The mic was super clear but you can still hear the bike. One suggestion, maybe mirror one of the videos (maybe the rear-facing one so we still recognize the roads) so that the two videos "match" more. The leaning of the selfie video is opposite to the turn of the road since it faces the other way. Either way, love the motorcycle reviews!
Nice to see you on a bike -- anything with an engine (or a motor)! I just passed 4K on my RE Bullet 500 - it's a blast and has been problem-free. I had a hard time choosing between the 500 and the 650 interceptor. The Int may be a better fit. The RE gearboxes have a good reputation - I wonder if the issues you experienced are related to break-in or clutch-adjustment.
I've got one of these bikes. Agreed about the indicator switch, not good. I find that the slightest tendency to push the switch inwards while attempting to indicate right will mechanically lock the switch preventing me from indicating right. My gearbox is perfect, as alluded to it does have 6 speeds, I love it but I wish there was a 'which gear is selected' indicator beyond the N for neutral. Not mentioned in the review: ABS on both wheels by Bosch. Fuel injected (also by Bosch). The engine (designed by ex Triumph engineers) has a balance shaft that very effectively keeps vibration levels to near imperceptible. Being a short guy I find the saddle height a little high (TEC bike parts have a pair of adjustable length rear shocks that hopefully will fix that for me). There are 3rd party suppliers that will let you convert this bike from 650cc to 850cc if the 47hp is deemed insufficient. A performance camshaft and all sorts of customising bits can also be had from 3rd parties. The bike as it left the factory is more than powerful enough for me though. The frame was designed by a well respected British designer of racing motorbike frames, seems fine to me but I don't have the skills or inclination to ride hard enough to really evaluate that at the limit. Apart from anything else this is a gorgeous looking bike. Thank you for the review, I liked it a lot.
I have never had a problem with the gearbox on mine, in almost 18 months. Like you I am taller but I fitted some risers to the bars on my Interceptor, not Cafe which really makes it comfortable.
I'm from india and I have the interceptor 650 that is a more comfortable version of the continental GT, it's really good I mean it's more than enough for riding pleasure, my dad was a biker back in the day before I was born and he happen to have a lot of Enfields and he approved of this too, there's a new cruiser 650 coming out I might trade my bike for the cruiser 650 because that will be better with this engine
That gearbox issue is a worry. I would like one but I'll see if any other reviews mention it. Perhaps you got a bad one. Some of the comments suggest it's a new bike issue.
If you want to do an India show, then get good contacts from The North, West, East & South of the country. Because the attitude and culture are different. I am just painting broad strokes here but this is a correct starting point.
If you felt too leaned over maybe you should try the INT 650. You are the only one I've heard complain about the gear box. The switch gear is the same as many Hondas. For six grand I don't think you can beat the Royal Enfield.
Love the bike content. To be fair, any "cruiser" style bike won't do great at long highway stretches. I have a Rebel 300, which is every bit capable of hitting 90, and cruises at 75-80 well, but anything at 75+ really has so much drag.
Yeah. Didn't know this guy was into bikes. Like to see more and I'm sure there are plenty that agree. I think those coming out of gear issues would iron out with time/breakin.
Thank you. I hear you like scooters for their practical side. So, you dont seem biased for one kind of motorcycle or another. Here in Portugal, they have the Interceptor as well. I believe it is the same bike but with a more up right riding position. These are very interesting. Quite afordable. I will take a test drive. I do fear it is a bit tame... and I will get bored easily. Another 650 from Japan would be uglier, but faster and maybe better on the long run. Thank you again.
India - a place where They can make something out of nothing. And it works! This one looks like its a really good value for money. In Europe usually you get 125ccm in this price range.
This new English V2 250ccm 75hp 110kg bike, "Langen" might be the last 2 stroke bike in the history of Europe. Naturally bc of emissions. It costs around 30.000£!
Love when you do the bike reviews! Best part was when you were talking about an f800gs (my last bike) my wife was like "what's he mean sewing machine like" and I said well this ones got that two tone kind of helicopter like and made the sound and right after I made the sound you did the same one 😂 she says I've seen too many of your videos. Cheers!
@@RobVespa I didn't say it matters. Quite arrogant and presumptuous, aren't you? I don't need to Google anything, lad. But thanks for trying to 'educate' me.
@@jimmyb4982 - "I didn't say it matters. Quite arrogant and presumptuous, aren't you? I don't need to Google anything, lad. But thanks for trying to 'educate' me." No, you didn't say that it doesn't matter. I said it doesn't matter. You inferred what I meant (or chose to put words into my mouth in a poor attempt to manipulate the narrative). Irony. The way you wrote is funny. You're falsely calling someone arrogant and presumptuous while using that tone. I wonder if this is intentional. Opening with the word "quite" and closing with "aren't you?" are nice touches. Adding "lad" at the end of the following sentence is also a wonderful flourish. A position of false superiority. Putting someone in their place. Talking down to them. Nice. Also, ridiculous. As is the next and final sentence, which refers to someone's failed attempt at teaching you. Well, the reason for this seems apparent. Well, it seems like you do need to research things (as does everyone), unless you don't care about being wrong. Considering your response, it seems like you do care. What is it you care about though? Perhaps it's less about discourse, learning and growing and more about something less savory, like being an a**? I don't care. If you choose not to do your due diligence before saying something that isn't true, that's your business *and* it'll be noticed. I wasn't trying to educate you. I corrected a false statement you made a year after I posted something. Instead of moving forward, you decided to respond in a way that doesn't reflect well on you. Consider returning to your bridge.
I like that you're doing bikes but IMHO it would be better if you switched the cameras like you do on cars, with the bigger frame showing the road and the smaller showing you
I own one, I got an ecu update done at RoyalEnfield for my bike as well and it does seem a smidge quicker than before. Also RE does restrict the performance till the first service to ensure the engine is broken in better. Could be any of these. Is this your bike ?
@@GazderVarun Yeah, I own one. Same colour scheme, too. I installed a BoosterPlug, DNA air filter (without the restrictor plate), and a set of S&S slip-ons. Those mods improved the throttle response and power delivery, not to mention the sound. All new bikes run lean from the factory to comply with stringent emissions standards, that's all. YSS suspension being installed front and rear in about 2 weeks, which should improve the riding experience and composure of the chassis. It's not an animal in the power department, but it will outpace most cars quite effortlessly if you ride enthusiastically, which the bike kinda encourages you to do. 0-100 km/h in about 5 seconds is good enough for the type of bike it is.
Wow ! That’s a lot of mods done , am sure your bike would be a hoot to ride. Just saw the video again, you and I both know that the gearbox is butter smooth and is a joy to use, does not just pop out of gear , Matt’s bike misses and pops out, so there is something amiss with his example. that’s all I am saying
I have one of these as a daily. Little over 6,000 miles on it, with zero issues. I’ve upgraded to Ohlins rear shocks and Andreani front forks. Very solid bike. The shifting issue is either because it’s still not broken in, or the oil needs changed. I’ve found running 20w-50 holds up far better than the 10w-50 they recommend.
Bith any royal Enfield you have to upgrade all parts cuz even though the bike and engine are great the parts are low quality
You just follow the rule of bigger the bettet for RE😌😂
Man, there is a simplicity, authenticity and just sense of smoothness and ease that this bike emanates. It's like the opposite of the Harley brand.
Harley Davidson is great too.......but come on you are talking about world's oldest continuous bike manufacture here........... said that i only ever liked/ owned (GT 650 and interceptor 650 yep both😂 m kinda mad) these 2 bikes by RE...... All the other classic and bullet are not my taste
do more bike stuff. I'm a car guy AND a bike guy. Your review style is what moto culture needs.
Yup - our moto culture needs both and Matt's has a friendly style.
Absolutely!
Testify!
One of the best value propositions in motorcycling today. Royal Enfield really upped their game with the 650, but also offered something unique in the market. There are very few air/oil cooled twins on sale that are genuinely desirable and affordable, if any. It’s almost like buying an old Honda CB450 or Norton Commando that has modern metallurgy, injection and ignition. It has lots of vintage charm with few vintage niggles.
This! You get it. Well put. Three years later this comment is still true.
Love the bike reviews, you were right about there being a cross over between car and bike people, couldn't understand why the others thought there wasn't.
I don’t even like riding(dirt bikes are fun but cars make my thing hard) but I enjoy the bike content on here. It’s also kind of nice to see Matt slightly out of his element, something we don’t get much of since he stopped doing one takes in sketchy fan’s cars!
@@bustaplz I like my electric scooter
Same. Glad to see him doing more bike videos. I'm both a car and a bike guy myself.
Another vote here (need to get the BSA going...)
Bought a royal enfield as my first bike. It was really fun and a perfect bike to learn on.instead of a honda 250. Much cooler. More fun and a bit of a history lesson if you will. Thx for bringing enfield on to the map to your viewers
Old Bullets were great as ones first motorcycles. They had carburetors, They leaked oil, but were Metal machines. Like a 'hand me down car' from an older generation. Learn the purpose and mechanics of the transport before you go electric.
Ive got that Bike its a blast !! No issues , does what its suppose to. I also own a Cafe GL 1300 and a Busa . The RE is for just riding around enjoying the day & contemplating the meaning of life, the GL for two up , The Busa for when the Hooligan in me comes out . I'm a very happy man !!
You are leaning forward because it is not a cruiser, it is a Cafe racer. Along with the Bybre brakes it also has Bosch EFI, Bosch anti lock brake system, Gabrial front forks, Gabrial rear shocks, and Pirelli tires, When you add all that up with the Harris frame and the wonderful 648 cc twin engine that an awful lot of goodies for just six grand.
No it will not outrun the sport bikes, but that's not what it's about. It's all about riding a motorcycle, not racing a motorcycle. It's all about enjoy the ride.
Matt... The new cameras are good. looks like higher frame rate as well.
Thank you.
we are shooting in 4k / 60 now.
I assume the "WW2 aircraft sound" is more because of the 270 degree crankshaft, not the dual pipes. Nice review though.
I was just going to say that, figured someone else would speak up before I commented. The parallel twin with the 270 degree crank configuration is my favorite sounding motorcycle engine, especially with some nice aftermarket pipes like Zard or SC Project.
I think I must be the target audience for it.
I'm 52 and lived for bikes between ages 16 and 21.
Owned over a dozen and although I've kept one or two in the intervening years nothing has really excited me enough to consider buying a new one in recent times except this.
Lost my job in the aviation industry due to the handling of the flu or else I'd have had one this year.
Purchased on just recently and love it...only 500 miles on it so far...very good review and right on with your comments about positives and negatives. I have heard the gear box issue smooths out after the first oil change...it certainly gets a lot of looks....sounds great as well
How much did you pay for it?
Did the gearbox issue sort itself out with use?
As a car enthusiast & now bike enthusiast, I appreciate these moto one takes
The reason these don't sound like typical parallel twin weed wackers is the 270 degree crank. It's basically a V twin firing order in a parallel twin case.
Love the review but would love it more if you switched the cameras (ie forward view as big shot)
Yea but the scrambler is rocking a 270 crank too and while it sounds better than the sewing machine bonnie, this sounds better than both of them. They really did a good job with the noise of this thing. Wayyyyyy better than the outgoing GT.
One day I might own one of these and the first thing I would do is put a pair of open exhaust cans on it
Yamaha did the same with the TRX850, sounds and feels much better than a conventional parallel twin running a 360 degree crank.
@@exutiku More torquey down low, too.
@@exutiku A conventional parallel twins runs a 180 degree crank. 360 is the british style twin.
Loads of bikes run the 270 degree style now. MT-07, Africa Twin, KTM 790/890 just to name a few.
The gear box will break in and the issues you did not like will go away. By 3k and second oil change the gear box was fin. Also I am 6-2" 280lbs and have ridden this on the highway for 100 mile at 75mph with out issue. I have also topped the bike out at 98mph at my weight. I now have 8.k on my bike and love it.
Loved the review. I own the Interceptor 650, which has the same chassis and engine combo. I faced similar issues, such as the gear not slotting to Neutral, and the bike suddenly popping out of gear.
However, after the first service around 500 KM in, the bike has been performing near perfect.
Great machine, for anyone getting into the 600+ CC segment!
Great review. I've had my GT for around six months and no gearbox issues, although I found a couple of false neutrals. But the gearbox gets better with usage, and I would now consider the gearbox to be one of the highlights of the bike, it's really silky smooth. Greetings from Australia 👍🇦🇺
Had a 535 and a 650 Enfield Continental GT. It's really difficult to beat the value of the bike! Simple, classic design, and enough useable power for daily commuting.
And it comes with 3 year warranty and road side assistance...going to my local dealer to check it out this week👍
this motorcycle is built in England. Royal Enfield moved the factory specifically for this model and hired 3 former Triumph engineers
Just picked one up in the Bay Area around December in the white and blue. Brilliant first bike, enjoying the hell out of it.
So I've been listening to you talking about this on a few of your podcasts and am so stoked to get to see and hear it in motion. Thanks for ride along review. I want one so freaking bad now!
I can see a lot of Indian guys liking this vid... including me ✌🏾
Just out of curiosity, what are the most popular bikes over there?
@@why3011 Hero, Bajaj and TVS motorcycles in commuters, KTM and Yamaha in low cc(200-300) naked and flared bikes and Royal Enfield in classic bikes....these are the best brands in their segments
It's on the short list to come to India and go on a road trip. I've heard it's just insane.
@@TheSmokingTire Yes...the city riding is crazy. But highway riding is not that bad.
TheSmokingTire please do we would love to have you over here
that sound is due to the 270 degree crankshaft
Yes that sound and feel. It's like a vtwin
I got my GT650 a couple of days ago. And believe me the bike is a dream to ride.
I have owned this bike for nearly two years and, while I agree with most of your comments, I differ on your opinion that this is not a good highway bike. I have done several multi-day trips with distances on the thousands of km, and I must say that the bike cruised quite effortlessly at normal highway speeds and was not unduly tiring to ride. Mind you, I weigh slightly less than you at 150 lbs.
I don't know if you mentioned it or not? It also comes with 3 years warranty and breakdown cover. That along with the mpg and easy maintenance It's a no branner for all the practicalities of owning a motorbike. Then when you throw in the actual look and sound of these bikes. That's when the heart for me takes over.
The bike sounds like it does because of the cross-plane crankshaft with 270° ignition offset between the
two cylinders. A major ease of maintenance feature is the screw-and-jamnut method of valve adjustment.
The reason you're a little bent forward is because of the modified clip-on handle bars of the Continental GT,
unlike the regular handle bars of the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (called the "INT650" in the U.S.).
i have an interceptor and love it. never had a transmission problem. actually its what i love most is the smooth, effortless transmission. a ton of accessories from RE that are very inexpensive. plenty of power. i have a bonneville and a street twin but im always on the RE the most. great bike!
Matt Farah finally reviews a vehicle I own
The Stig rides a Royal Enfield?
Fit a short screen, and you can cruise all day at 80mph with no wind buffeting.
I have to say the more I see you standing on videos, the thinner you are. Well done on getting healthier Matt it shows, I bet you have more energy as well.
The Royal Enfield Continental GT650 is a great value for money option for a classic bike enthusiast.
Keeping with the India theme, Matt should review a Mahindra Roxor!
Mahindra roxor?
@@sabyasachiroy7482 It is a Jeep CJ3 replica made in India under licensing. They sell them in the states as off road only vehicles.
@@Jdmjunkie001 ih because in india it's known as the thar(a desert located in rajasthan india)
But the indian version was more of cj2 with buff bodykit the 2020 one is the copy of newer one
@@Jdmjunkie001 the Roxor is made in the US according to Wikipedia, but the manufacturer is Indian
Is that an of roader?
In my life I never thought you would review this continental!
Its the 270degree firing order that gives the sound ;) nothing at all to do with the exhaust.
A 2 in 1 sports exhaust on the 650 still gives the exact same sound.
I rode two old classic Enfield 500s in India many years ago and although it was very nostalgic I never thought that one day I would consider buying one, oh and by the way that was a great test ride review of the gt 650 keep up the good work
Buy one, replace the budget parts, you’ll have a better bike than a Bonny and change for a few trips. If you want to sell it, turn it back to stock and keep the bits for your next project. Fun times.
Great to see another bike One Take!
I also miss Zack's One Takes
It's a classic bike it attracts old school vintage riders I love royal Enfield it's affordable and the value is there. Great video
price of RE bikes are increasing every year.....maybe price factor will go away after some years
Cool bike, and happy to see more bike content on TST! I probably would have bought one of these if they existed a few years ago when I bought my Bonnie. You really can't argue with the price tag. I also think something like this is so much more approachable to non-bike people than the typical sport bike or Harley.
Love this review!!! As a Triumph T 120 owner, I think there is a lot of value here. I'd definitely consider one of these. Thanks man
I have a 2020 INT650 and have not had any issues with it popping out of gear at any speed. In a year of ownership, have had maybe a half dozen false neutrals between 1st and 2nd. Agree that it's not a highway commuter bike, but I live in the mountains and it loves the twisties. Great review!
very relaxing mid range sound from this engine
I think your gearbox problems are specific to your machine. I absolutely love mine and it is one of the sweetest shifting bikes I have ever ridden.
99% sure I rode that exact bike last weekend 😂
Any shifter issues usually relegate themselves after the first oil change, 8k problem free miles on my Continental GT
So nice that they gave this adequate power now. There used to be absolutely no reason to get this bike because the bonnie was 7000 and a twin, more reliable, more parts, etc., and this was just a crappy 500 thumper that was slow. Now they got it much more competitive, the bonnie MSRP has skyrocketed in the meanwhile, and it sounds really good in those drive-by shots.
Matt, I love that you’re doing more bikes
I've owned an Interceptor 650 for about three months and put in close to 2500miles. The gearbox settles down quite a bit after the break in. I rarely get any troubles with gear selection any more. I do occasionally get a second neutral between fourth and fifth gear
Matt, loving the motorcycle reviews, keep them coming! It would be great to see a separate playlist of just the bike reviews much how you have the cars organized by country. Keep it up!
Awesome! Love the old style, similar to the inexpensive MUTT bikes we have here in the UK
what is mutt bro
@@starscream1457 here :) muttmotorcycles.com/
Liked the review - with 300 miles on it the gearbox is going to take a little time to run in. I have no problems with my interceptor. Dont forget the 3 year unlimited warranty. No other manufacturer back their product like that. I trust you were keeping it under 4000 rpm as per running in procedure:) Cheers from Australia.
have a 2020 Interceptor 650 with 10000 kilometers on it. The bike is brilliant in every respect and I would highly recumbent it to anybody looking fo a new ride. David in Thailand
Loving the bike vids Matt!
This has also been a fun customizing/upgrading project, with a good offering of both factory and aftermarket parts now available to improve the performance and to address some of the cosmetic shortcomings of this otherwise fun and solid bike.
Very happy you're reviewing bikes!
Loving these bike reviews!!!
I think the 650s are good competition to a brand new street twin!
I was really tempted by the Royal Enfield bikes, but I passed for a good deal on a new Kawasaki Z900RS. The value proposition is so good on the Enfields, but I spend too much time on the highway to justify it. There's really a renaissance of retro style bikes going on right now, and it's awesome.
You could just buy both.
FYI the parallel twin has a 270 degree crank angle which means the arrangement is similar to the MT-07 which means it’s one of the better sounding parallel twins!
this bike it's emotion!
I'm not making any suggestions, but I wonder if the chin mount below the helmet would be a nicer field of view since youd see the handlebars and the cockpit of the bike.
Yes! Yes! Yes! This is awesome Matt, more motorcycle reviews! I have been watching your car reviews for 8 years, but I didn’t know you rode bikes.
This is why he’s the greatest reviewer. The man said it right.
They'd been building military bikes for the British "forever." India ALSO had a factory making the world-famous Lee Enfield battle rifle and the Jungle Carbine. The engine of this thing was recently-designed in England, as was the FRAME, which was designed by Harris Performance, a firm which they'd recently acquired. In the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, people who remember the old Cafe Racer are scarfing these-up.
@TheSmokingTire This review was great, love the updated format! The mic was super clear but you can still hear the bike. One suggestion, maybe mirror one of the videos (maybe the rear-facing one so we still recognize the roads) so that the two videos "match" more. The leaning of the selfie video is opposite to the turn of the road since it faces the other way. Either way, love the motorcycle reviews!
Nice to see you on a bike -- anything with an engine (or a motor)!
I just passed 4K on my RE Bullet 500 - it's a blast and has been problem-free. I had a hard time choosing between the 500 and the 650 interceptor. The Int may be a better fit. The RE gearboxes have a good reputation - I wonder if the issues you experienced are related to break-in or clutch-adjustment.
Yeah break in. I had them too but once I went past 1000km, all good.
I've got one of these bikes. Agreed about the indicator switch, not good. I find that the slightest tendency to push the switch inwards while attempting to indicate right will mechanically lock the switch preventing me from indicating right.
My gearbox is perfect, as alluded to it does have 6 speeds, I love it but I wish there was a 'which gear is selected' indicator beyond the N for neutral.
Not mentioned in the review: ABS on both wheels by Bosch. Fuel injected (also by Bosch). The engine (designed by ex Triumph engineers) has a balance shaft that very effectively keeps vibration levels to near imperceptible.
Being a short guy I find the saddle height a little high (TEC bike parts have a pair of adjustable length rear shocks that hopefully will fix that for me). There are 3rd party suppliers that will let you convert this bike from 650cc to 850cc if the 47hp is deemed insufficient. A performance camshaft and all sorts of customising bits can also be had from 3rd parties. The bike as it left the factory is more than powerful enough for me though.
The frame was designed by a well respected British designer of racing motorbike frames, seems fine to me but I don't have the skills or inclination to ride hard enough to really evaluate that at the limit.
Apart from anything else this is a gorgeous looking bike.
Thank you for the review, I liked it a lot.
Good to see Matt bac k out on two wheels!
These 650 cc twins sell like hot cakes in india...❤️From🇮🇳
How is the quality compared to other brands?
I have never had a problem with the gearbox on mine, in almost 18 months. Like you I am taller but I fitted some risers to the bars on my Interceptor, not Cafe which really makes it comfortable.
im about 6' maybe 6'1, shorter legs for my height (32) but a heavier build. You think I could fit on this bike?
Awesome that you do both bike and car stuff
I'm from india and I have the interceptor 650 that is a more comfortable version of the continental GT, it's really good I mean it's more than enough for riding pleasure, my dad was a biker back in the day before I was born and he happen to have a lot of Enfields and he approved of this too, there's a new cruiser 650 coming out I might trade my bike for the cruiser 650 because that will be better with this engine
Matt lost some weight man! And the bears is on point. Good job dude
Fantastic review, hope to see more bike stuff! The production and the new cameras are excellent.
That gearbox issue is a worry. I would like one but I'll see if any other reviews mention it. Perhaps you got a bad one. Some of the comments suggest it's a new bike issue.
If you want to do an India show, then get good contacts from The North, West, East & South of the country. Because the attitude and culture are different. I am just painting broad strokes here but this is a correct starting point.
Omg! Motorcycle Review video?? Hell yeah! 👍🏼
If you felt too leaned over maybe you should try the INT 650. You are the only one I've heard complain about the gear box. The switch gear is the same as many Hondas. For six grand I don't think you can beat the Royal Enfield.
Love the bike content. To be fair, any "cruiser" style bike won't do great at long highway stretches. I have a Rebel 300, which is every bit capable of hitting 90, and cruises at 75-80 well, but anything at 75+ really has so much drag.
You can install a windshield.
@@jareknowak8712 yes you certainly could, I just mean out of the box, stock for stock, another bike would face the same issue.
there are millions of Royal Enfields all over India - they are pretty bullet proof.
I’m Batman.
Much love, your friends at Rev Media!!
No I'm Batman lol
My Mom is Batman.
It's the 270 degree crank that's responsible for the characterful 'British' engine sound and torque. :)
Yeah. Didn't know this guy was into bikes. Like to see more and I'm sure there are plenty that agree. I think those coming out of gear issues would iron out with time/breakin.
Looks weird out in the dessert.. needs a twisty leafy lane and a nice cosy pub for a pint and a pie ...
You know this dude is huge cuz he's sitting upright on a cafe racer
Love the SmokingTire moto reviews. These are neat little bikes with a nice Msrp and warranty. Been looking at these for a while.
Thanks for the video. I own a 2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT650 in Rocker Red. I think that it is beautiful.
Thank you.
I hear you like scooters for their practical side. So, you dont seem biased for one kind of motorcycle or another.
Here in Portugal, they have the Interceptor as well. I believe it is the same bike but with a more up right riding position.
These are very interesting. Quite afordable. I will take a test drive.
I do fear it is a bit tame... and I will get bored easily.
Another 650 from Japan would be uglier, but faster and maybe better on the long run.
Thank you again.
Best bang for the buck
Great video btw. Does the engine gets hot and makes the rider uncomfortable?
I’d love to see matt review an r1 or panigale v4 lmao. Love the bike reviews!
India - a place where They can make something out of nothing.
And it works!
This one looks like its a really good value for money.
In Europe usually you get 125ccm in this price range.
labour cost buddy .
@@samudrakumarbarman1979 yep, i know.
That bike looks way better than the modern Triumph twins in my opinion.
That's not entry level. BYBRE means BY BREMBO. It's a subsidiary of BREMBO. The callipers and break shoes are brembo originals. Rest is made by BYBRE
This new English V2 250ccm 75hp 110kg bike, "Langen" might be the last 2 stroke bike in the history of Europe.
Naturally bc of emissions.
It costs around 30.000£!
Love when you do the bike reviews! Best part was when you were talking about an f800gs (my last bike) my wife was like "what's he mean sewing machine like" and I said well this ones got that two tone kind of helicopter like and made the sound and right after I made the sound you did the same one 😂 she says I've seen too many of your videos. Cheers!
REs are now also designed/made in England.
They're not made in England.
@@RobVespa I didn't say it matters. Quite arrogant and presumptuous, aren't you? I don't need to Google anything, lad. But thanks for trying to 'educate' me.
@@jimmyb4982 - "I didn't say it matters. Quite arrogant and presumptuous, aren't you? I don't need to Google anything, lad. But thanks for trying to 'educate' me."
No, you didn't say that it doesn't matter. I said it doesn't matter. You inferred what I meant (or chose to put words into my mouth in a poor attempt to manipulate the narrative).
Irony. The way you wrote is funny. You're falsely calling someone arrogant and presumptuous while using that tone. I wonder if this is intentional.
Opening with the word "quite" and closing with "aren't you?" are nice touches. Adding "lad" at the end of the following sentence is also a wonderful flourish. A position of false superiority. Putting someone in their place. Talking down to them. Nice. Also, ridiculous. As is the next and final sentence, which refers to someone's failed attempt at teaching you. Well, the reason for this seems apparent.
Well, it seems like you do need to research things (as does everyone), unless you don't care about being wrong. Considering your response, it seems like you do care.
What is it you care about though? Perhaps it's less about discourse, learning and growing and more about something less savory, like being an a**? I don't care.
If you choose not to do your due diligence before saying something that isn't true, that's your business *and* it'll be noticed.
I wasn't trying to educate you. I corrected a false statement you made a year after I posted something.
Instead of moving forward, you decided to respond in a way that doesn't reflect well on you.
Consider returning to your bridge.
@@RobVespa You have issues. I wish you well. I guess the VIN on my Royal Enfield is wrong. Wrong factory.
I like that you're doing bikes but IMHO it would be better if you switched the cameras like you do on cars, with the bigger frame showing the road and the smaller showing you
True.
Do you thing is a good bike for beginners?
Noticed something odd,
The bike was not pulling like it should, something seemed off about it, like it was straining way way more than it should.
It's in your head.
I own one, I got an ecu update done at RoyalEnfield for my bike as well and it does seem a smidge quicker than before. Also RE does restrict the performance till the first service to ensure the engine is broken in better. Could be any of these. Is this your bike ?
@@GazderVarun Yeah, I own one. Same colour scheme, too. I installed a BoosterPlug, DNA air filter (without the restrictor plate), and a set of S&S slip-ons. Those mods improved the throttle response and power delivery, not to mention the sound. All new bikes run lean from the factory to comply with stringent emissions standards, that's all. YSS suspension being installed front and rear in about 2 weeks, which should improve the riding experience and composure of the chassis. It's not an animal in the power department, but it will outpace most cars quite effortlessly if you ride enthusiastically, which the bike kinda encourages you to do. 0-100 km/h in about 5 seconds is good enough for the type of bike it is.
Wow ! That’s a lot of mods done , am sure your bike would be a hoot to ride. Just saw the video again, you and I both know that the gearbox is butter smooth and is a joy to use, does not just pop out of gear , Matt’s bike misses and pops out, so there is something amiss with his example. that’s all I am saying
@@GazderVarun Yeah, I think it's his bike. I've had mine 15 months and not a problem, touch wood.