I have a Classic 350 and will be adding a Bear 650, so best of both worlds! If I didn't have the 350 already, I would be very tempted by the Classic 650. The 350 has the charm, but the 650 probably makes more sense on our roads over here in the US.
I was about to put a deposit on a Classic 350 order for next spring, but now I'm holding off. The teal Classic 650 is perfect for Canadian highways, hills, and traffic. But do I want to pay $12500 for one? I can get the Vulcan 650 brand new for $1300 less, or an Eliminator for $2300 less. I'm so torn.
The Bear is interesting because the Interceptor is a bike that lends itself really well to the Scrambler look. For me the Classic 650 has some slightly awkward looks to it and it comes across as a Super Meteor in a different dress but nothing more than that. I know Royal Enfield did make some twins back in the day but I think the Classic look and sound they are known for is a single cylinder.
I love the dynamics between you two. Wonderful to see a couple so into each other. Congratulations 🎊. The background scenery is beautiful! Some day I must see the UK.
I think the Bear looks very attractive and will appeal to many that like the street scrambler genre. The BSA could very quickly match that, even as a home build. I think RE have blown it with the Classic 650. It is way too heavy and the weight a lone will put off many older riders. That's why so many of us are riding 350s. RE could have lost a lot of weight with a low slung 2 into 1 exhaust as many 50s models had. BTW is that the top of the Malverns where you are walking.
With the additional suspension travel and ground clearance, 20+ kilo lighter weight, switchable ABS and increased torque, the bear 650 sounds like the riders' choice among the RE lineup, although the Shotgun 650 is so nice to see and has the cool modular rear seat. I'm 55 and comfort is more important these days, so I'll be waiting for the bear 650 to become available in my market.
The classic 650 looks great on line - look forward to seeing it in the flesh. So many new bikes to choose from at the moment Guerrilla 450, Bear & classic 650 , CFMoto MT450 & 800…….to name but a few
As a Classic 350 owner for the last 30 months I will not be switching to a 650 twin. The whole charm of the 350 is that j series single engine that just relaxes you as you ride. As good as the 650 twin engine is it’s a totally different beast, as for the weight ok on the move but would not be my idea of fun when moving around the garage etc. I am now 70 and stated when I got my Classic would be a keeper, that is still the case 30 months later. If BSA can produce a 650 single surely Royal Enfield could as well, not that I would buy one but for people that crave the extra speed, would be a good selling point 😊
I love my Classic 350. I don’t like that the 650 is a twin. If anything I would say the Guerrilla is a better bike for me than the Bear 650. I don’t think there’s a replacement for the Classic 350.
The new Royal Enfields look like more of the same to me. The BSA is much more interesting in my opinion. I think Suzie was right, the new Classic should have been a single.
The 243kg kerb weight of the Classic 650 is a real problem when you consider its target audience. The Bear looks bang on and it makes you wonder why it's taken so long to launch. Unless.....RE knows that multiple versions of the same base bike has resulted in them competing with themselves. I can't see why anyone would want an Interceptor and a Bear to be honest, as engine character is the heart and soul of any bike. I think a smaller capacity single cylinder street scrambler would make more sense for current 650 owners to add as a stable mate, and I agree with Suzie that current Classic 350 owners were probably hoping for a bigger capacity single to upgrade to, rather than a 243kg twin. But then what do I know 😂.
I have the 350 I wouldn’t want heavier and slightly less cool looking 650 classic. 350 classic It’s plenty quick for me. The coolest 650 is the shotgun I think and I like the seating position. They need to black it out and put some chrome on it for me.😊
Hi Guys, It always depends on what your intensions are on how your going to use the bike. To my understanding. the bear has the better suspension of the two. Also more weight as you pointed out. So for me, the bear would win between the two. But if I were going to get another R.E., I would go for the Guerrila 450 personally. Great to see you two out n about. Keep getting out Suzie. Have a great day! Cheerio!! Illinois, USA
I like em all, but being sensible the bear would be my choice but the BSA would be a close second or first if the bear had not arrived, great video lovely walk I have to made do with Morecambe promenade and the view across the bay, thank you again Ted Bay Bimbler
I have and love the 350 classic , I certainly won't be upgrading to either either of these two new bikes. Im more interested to see what the 350 Bantam BSA is like.
Well done suzie crunching the numbers and specs, the 650 classic looks to much like a different tank and bars on a super meteor,I’m with Will the Bear is something new and at 6’2” will fit me a treat but I’ll wait to many plans for the classic next year …… Pete🇫🇷
Very valid points raised by Soooz I am sure a 650 single would have made good sense for the classic. I feel the weight of it and the Meteor 650 is way to much for the engine capacity within imo . If you think of the engine unit in the new guerrilla that unit with water cooling must have good possibilities to become a 650 with little extra design work what say you guys ?. 👍
Nothing feels quite like a 650 single. Rotax make a reliable, economical and durable version of their tried and trusted engine for the BSA Goldstar. I'd say that bike is a keeper. That though might not be what your channel 'views' need. Perhaps go the comparison road with borrowed RE's and other bikes that interest you. Maybe even team up with other friendly bloggers to do those comparison. I enjoyed Suzie's energy; she is lively. Greetings to you both from The Netherlands.
Thank you for this nice comment. We are indeed keeping the Goldstar regardless of what the new trend is... I will let the other channels buy these new bikes 🏍 😀
Hi, love the channel and the chemistry between you too. Just a couple of points. The styling that the classic 350 hankers back to is essentially the swingarm framed mid to late '50s generic Royal Enfield look of the Clipper/Crusader 250's, Bullet 350 & 500's, the 500 twin, the Meteor/Supermeteor 700 twins and hotter versions like the Constellation & Interceptor. It isn't the sole preserve of single cylinder machines. The new 250 learner limit of the early 1960's effectivley killed the 350 capacity in the Uk so effectively that the 350's and 500 singles were dropped in this country. The modern classic 350 version of the earlier Bullet & it's 500 stablemate resurected by the then Enfield India company from the 90's onwards doesn't have a monopoly on those mid '50s styling cues....so I see no problem apart from the skimpy mudguarding and gap over the rear tyre of applying that to a 650. A classic does not have to be a single!
Probably not going to move from my Classic 350 to 650. BUT if I win the lottery I would love to get a Classic 650 and bolt a sidecar on to it. Then get a garage to put my bikes in!
I'm in Canada and looked at my local dealer's website to pre-order a Bear 650, and the out the door, after taxes, fees, PDI, license etc, is $12600 CDN which I think is about $7100 BBP
243 kilos is way to heavy for me personally and again i don't like scramblers so my answer is neither. RE have certainly rung the neck out of that 650 twin engine and you must admire the way they have marketing it in so many variations. By the way i think Willie is now going for the 350 classic.
Enjoyed the walking video guys. Great scenery! I like the look of the 650 classic more than I like the bear, but personally I won’t be buying either. The bear for me doesn’t go far enough, it hasn’t got enough off road credentials, ie, not enough suspension travel plus I’d be concerned about its weight. I like the look of the classic, but again it’s not enough to tempt me. I think Suzie has a point about it needing a different engine. I’d love to see it with a functioning kick start which would take me back to my youth. Then I’d seriously consider one.
I like the look of the C650, I'm a bit of a sucker for a classic 350/500 but then again we all want that 650 RE single and I wish they would sort that out for us. Then again BSA would struggle if there was a 650 single I think. Yes it's heavy but I'm OK with that tbh. The bear will be intresting with its extra torque. I'm looking forward to seeing them. I like both but think the classic will be my bag... I think it could be a lovely ride 🎉
I own a Classic 350, I'd go with a Bear 650 over the Classic 650 for a number of reasons: 1. the Bear looks like a more realistic scrambler, whereas the Classic 650 looks like a poor attempt to continue on with "classic" appearance. 2. the Bear has everything I like about the Intercepter with improvements. 3. I always wanted a scrambler and the Bear fits the bill.
No one is seriously going off road on the Bear, it's an attractive styling exercise of a road bike. The modern equivalent would be an enduro bike like the Honda CRF450RL, not a 216kg heavyweight. The Classic 650 doesn't really do justice to the 350, it's more of a two wheel limousine. The Continental is still the best looking of the 650s. I reckon a 500 single would outsell all of them.
I think the classic 650 will come with a pillion seat included. I would like to upgrade my 350 to the 650 but worried about the 243kg. I will remain open minded for now.
Keep the BSA…. Yes, I know, doing that might stagnate your site 😱😉😊 This is not a criticism, but in a small way, this is why industry/commerce/trade will keep moving, possibly at the detriment to the planet. Don’t misunderstand, I like your videos.
The Bear is a road going scrambler styled bike, nothing more nothing less. Styling is spot on as for the Classic 650 the jury's still out. Personally I still favour the Gold Star Shadow Black 😮
Great vid guys. I agree with Suzie. As a Classic 350 owner I would have liked the Classic 650 to have been a single. Having just returned from Motorcycle Live like yourselves, if I were wanting a bigger cc bike, I would really consider the Goldstar because it's a single and it weighs 43 kg less than the Classic 650. It looks so much better in real life! I can't see me upgrading from the Classic 350 to the 650 but I'm tempted to take a test ride on the Goldstar. Sean, I like a centre stand. Have you ever missed not having one on the Goldstar? Thanks for the vids. Andy
Hi Andrew, if I were to go back to RE now it would be for a J series 350 engined bike, these are my favourite. With the centre stand I have been using a portable jack, its not ideal but not having a C stand hasn't been a deal breaker for me if that is any help... Sean
Both gonna be very popular in their own right, I feel. But for me, they are very heavy motorcycles compared to other motorcycles. Look forward to see seeing them in flesh. I remember seeing the Shotgun, and thinking I do like that. But the weight. Suz is correct, the New Classic and Bear should be a Single. With a totally new engine. Only my thoughts. Still be a good bike. Just gonna hold on to the Bumble.😊 Keep up the good work Sean.😊
RE have a history of making high capacity parallel twins, e.g. the Meteor & the 100 mph Super Meteor in the 1950s based on the Bullet 350 single, so I can't see a problem with them making a classic 650. I can appreciate why people might prefer a big single though.
I'm with Suzie, the classic 650 is a bridge too far, probably needs to be a bigger single . The bear is maybe another option of the 650 twin platform but perhaps one too many? 🤔
Hi there, although not related to this video I thought asking you about the Goldstar on the latest post would have more chance of you seeing it. I saw your earlier video about fitting the decat pipe to your Goldstar and that you had to remove the R&J crash bars to fit it. Did you get over this problem, or is it not possible to fit them with a decat pipe. Sorry for asking but I have the Hitchcock’s exhaust system and have just ordered the R&J crash protectors at the motorcycle shoe having been reassured that it will fit by the R&J stand and thinking should I cancel the order
Hello John, you will need to order some 110mm I think bolts and a 25mm by 45mm Alu Spacer. R&G will actually supply you with the bolts from another kit. They were very kind to help me...
I’ve got a 2016 classic chrome 500 and intend to add the classic chrome 650 to my stable of bikes. Will consider adding a Bear or Himalayan 450 after that. ❤RE
A First World Issue : I'll do a test ride with both of them and hope by then my 'in love' feeling will be toned down. If not then I am thinking of buying them both. The Bear to replace my recently sold T7 (too top heavy) and the Classic to replace my Kawa W800 and my Classic 350. I'll keep my Meteor 350 so I can keep enjoying that 350 thump.
Good plan, always better to wait on these things and let the hype and initial buzz die down so you can think with a clear head 😊. I almost got caught up in the excitement and bought a Himalayan 450 when that was all the rage!
Just on a height basis I prefer the bear but only ridden a 350 classic for an hr so maybe because was all new need more time in the saddle! P.s Going to the ABR on the bear would be fun! Nice scenery.
I literally just made the decision after EICMA 2025. I've ordered a Bullet 350. The Classic 650 looks very nice and I'm sure will be popular, as many feel the 350 is underpowered, but for me, although I would have dived upon a Classic 500 single Reborn, the Classic 650 is based upon the Shotgun and it shows - the classic styling is good, but a little 'off' - and for me the 650 twin is a great engine, but feels a bit modern and has much less character than the single. The Bear also looks great and will probably be popular, but I personally don't much like a scrambler. I totally get the idea of making the most of each platform and making different versions that might get more audience. I think that will work. It's just the 650 twin platform is not for me, not even the Classic, though I love the Classic/Bullet 350s.
bear of the pair , see what i did there? The sussers are showa and so will have quality, the travel shouldn't be compared the the bsa 650 etc - showa will perform a lot better with the same amount of travel
Great views for a cardiac walk. Agree bikes look good, agree Classic 650 might not be such a success with the traditionalists, agree the Bear is a coffee shop scrambler. I don’t think it needed the extra production costs to make it a real scrambler, they have other bikes for off road. Let’s face it, most Interceptor derivatives don’t do many miles. No disrespect, just looking at the demographic.
Ah yes...Continuity across multiple shared engine/frame platforms. Harley has done this for decades. It makes sense and cents. As for choosing between the Classic 650 and the Bear (goooooofy name) 650? They are both beautiful, traditionally styled motorbikes. Too bad RE cheaped out and shackled them both with cheapass bicycle wheels. I have difficulty with riding on the freeway with bicycle wheels. If I am to overcome my shear fear, hatred and pure unadulterated loathing of tubes in tire (tyres) it would only be due to the good looks of either motorbike. Witness the availability of the new Himmie 452 that can be ordered with spoke wheels laced to the outer rim of the rim to allow the fitting of tubeless tyres. Even the 1986 Honda 450 Rebel had tubeless spoke wheels. No one but a (portmanteau ALERT!) Trogluddite would want to try and break the bead on an otherwise modern wheel and get the old tube out and either replace it or repair it. "Sigh"...Weight is inconsequential as the bike carries the rider not the other way 'round. The Bear (SNIICKER!) is not going to see any real off road action. Like most such bikes, it will be used primarily for road travel with perhaps the occasional foray down what I think is called a "Green Lane" in England. I made a pair of portmanteaus of bAdventure and sAdventure to describe the reality of what taking the humongous creatures like the gnu GS1300 sAdventure off road. They bikes are the new "touring rigs" for those that bitch and moan about the weight of Gold wings and Harley Touring motorbikes. SUBs. Sport Utility Bikes. Nothing wrong with that but so many have begun to decry them just as they did with SUVs. And SUVs are still popular because they are useful. Ramblin' again. If I can overcome my pure loathing of cheapass tubed wheels then either the Classic 650 or the Yogi 650 will do looks-wise. I am the Shallow Hal of the motorbike world. Looks matter. I don't know if I can set aside my hatred for tubed wheels. 🙂 But most folk are clueless as to spoked wheels and tubes. A site devoted to the fugly (to ME!) BMW R18 has a thread wherein owners of the R18 let loose on BMW for putting tubed wheels on it. I shall have to say no to either Classic 650 or the Yogi 650. Keep putting the great back into Great Britain and the smiles on your viewers faces! SS in Hades but now with the Air Condition back on!
I think that if they were ti redesign the classic 650 engine to be a single, it would cost so much that the BSA would be a no brainer. If the new Gold Star hadn't been developed I might agree with you.
The 650 classic should be a single. RE have slipped up a classic 650 single would have sold well amongst us older folk ha . The bear is a street bike if your going off road you need a proper off road bike . You always did 😂 . I'm a bit lost with RE they use the same engines and stick bits on them .
Good question to pose ... thumbs down for the Classic 650, agree with Susie, they need to step up and build a bigger single engine with more character not rehash a slightly boring twin engine.... BTW where are you - looks like the Malvern Hills from the backdrop...if Im right that would be top marks for a Sydneysider :)
At a slight tangent I now your other half thinks the bear should be a single i think the BSA should have been a twin they should have made the BSA rocket gold star replica the ultimately beautiful bsa they ever made
I do like RE but don't want SM650 or new Classic650. Maybe the new Bear, newHimi or Guerilla, or a used Conti or Inti. No shotgun ! Any that are heavy or look like a cruiser I don't want
I have a 350 Bullet and a chrome/red Interceptor. The Bear would be my choice, the Classic 650 looks a bit awkward and should be a single IMO, the 650 engine doesn't suit it.
The bear is good looking but heavy and low powered for how heavy it is so not great for off road ..think I would rather have 400x which is lighter, less maintenance, and better ground clearance, tubeless tires
I think RE have missed a trick here and I also think they’ve been lazy. The Bear is pretty meh - non descript and bland. The Classic 650 uses the wrong engine (slanted not vertical, a twin that is a good engine, but soulless - the RE twin is not a patch on the Triumph twins), the tank is a wrong shape, the mudguards are wrong the exhausts aren’t styled nicely (should be straight) and the seat stying doesn’t suit the classic style. Like you say, Suzy, it should be a vertical, single, maybe around 500cc/35-40hp (j-series development, surely). It would surely have been a lot lighter than 243kg (😳) 650!! I won’t be letting go of my 350 for either of these.
BSA ..no thanks R.E. 650 single ...no thanks.R.E. perhaps need to develop the water cooled variant models into the mid range capacity then they would be even harder to beat.
I agree, original poster let himself down with that one... shame this is in the mix with all the positive comments but he's probably had a bad day. Unlike us we've had a brilliant day as I've messaged you 😀 👍 P.s Suzie did most of the talking 😂😂
![[#2024MAMA] BIGBANG (빅뱅) - 뱅뱅뱅 (BANG BANG BANG) + FANTASTIC BABY | Mnet 241123 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EQsYfiPR9uM/mqdefault.jpg)
I have a Classic 350 and will be adding a Bear 650, so best of both worlds! If I didn't have the 350 already, I would be very tempted by the Classic 650. The 350 has the charm, but the 650 probably makes more sense on our roads over here in the US.
I was about to put a deposit on a Classic 350 order for next spring, but now I'm holding off. The teal Classic 650 is perfect for Canadian highways, hills, and traffic. But do I want to pay $12500 for one? I can get the Vulcan 650 brand new for $1300 less, or an Eliminator for $2300 less. I'm so torn.
The Bear is interesting because the Interceptor is a bike that lends itself really well to the Scrambler look. For me the Classic 650 has some slightly awkward looks to it and it comes across as a Super Meteor in a different dress but nothing more than that. I know Royal Enfield did make some twins back in the day but I think the Classic look and sound they are known for is a single cylinder.
i watch all your videos and Suzies presenting skills are shining through .
Yeah, make Suzie the star...that dude can walk backwards in front of her holding the camera !
Thanks John, we try and get Suzie in it as much as possible when she's well enough!
I love the dynamics between you two. Wonderful to see a couple so into each other. Congratulations 🎊. The background scenery is beautiful! Some day I must see the UK.
Your bike videos are always so interesting and original! Watching them is a real pleasure and learning experience!
I think the Bear looks very attractive and will appeal to many that like the street scrambler genre.
The BSA could very quickly match that, even as a home build.
I think RE have blown it with the Classic 650. It is way too heavy and the weight a lone will put off many older riders. That's why so many of us are riding 350s.
RE could have lost a lot of weight with a low slung 2 into 1 exhaust as many 50s models had.
BTW is that the top of the Malverns where you are walking.
With the additional suspension travel and ground clearance, 20+ kilo lighter weight, switchable ABS and increased torque, the bear 650 sounds like the riders' choice among the RE lineup, although the Shotgun 650 is so nice to see and has the cool modular rear seat. I'm 55 and comfort is more important these days, so I'll be waiting for the bear 650 to become available in my market.
The classic 650 looks great on line - look forward to seeing it in the flesh. So many new bikes to choose from at the moment Guerrilla 450, Bear & classic 650 , CFMoto MT450 & 800…….to name but a few
As a Classic 350 owner for the last 30 months I will not be switching to a 650 twin. The whole charm of the 350 is that j series single engine that just relaxes you as you ride. As good as the 650 twin engine is it’s a totally different beast, as for the weight ok on the move but would not be my idea of fun when moving around the garage etc. I am now 70 and stated when I got my Classic would be a keeper, that is still the case 30 months later. If BSA can produce a 650 single surely Royal Enfield could as well, not that I would buy one but for people that crave the extra speed, would be a good selling point 😊
I love my Classic 350. I don’t like that the 650 is a twin. If anything I would say the Guerrilla is a better bike for me than the Bear 650. I don’t think there’s a replacement for the Classic 350.
The new Royal Enfields look like more of the same to me. The BSA is much more interesting in my opinion. I think Suzie was right, the new Classic should have been a single.
Got to be the stunning Classic 650! Beautiful twin!
The 243kg kerb weight of the Classic 650 is a real problem when you consider its target audience. The Bear looks bang on and it makes you wonder why it's taken so long to launch. Unless.....RE knows that multiple versions of the same base bike has resulted in them competing with themselves. I can't see why anyone would want an Interceptor and a Bear to be honest, as engine character is the heart and soul of any bike. I think a smaller capacity single cylinder street scrambler would make more sense for current 650 owners to add as a stable mate, and I agree with Suzie that current Classic 350 owners were probably hoping for a bigger capacity single to upgrade to, rather than a 243kg twin. But then what do I know 😂.
FYI… 2 pipes joined together = Siamesed pipes. Cheers! 👍😎❤️✅
I have the 350 I wouldn’t want heavier and slightly less cool looking 650 classic.
350 classic It’s plenty quick for me. The coolest 650 is the shotgun I think and I like the seating position. They need to black it out and put some chrome on it for me.😊
Hi Guys, It always depends on what your intensions are on how your going to use the bike. To my understanding. the bear has the better suspension of the two. Also more weight as you pointed out. So for me, the bear would win between the two. But if I were going to get another R.E., I would go for the Guerrila 450 personally. Great to see you two out n about. Keep getting out Suzie. Have a great day! Cheerio!! Illinois, USA
I like em all, but being sensible the bear would be my choice but the BSA would be a close second or first if the bear had not arrived, great video lovely walk I have to made do with Morecambe promenade and the view across the bay, thank you again Ted Bay Bimbler
I have and love the 350 classic , I certainly won't be upgrading to either either of these two new bikes. Im more interested to see what the 350 Bantam BSA is like.
Well done suzie crunching the numbers and specs, the 650 classic looks to much like a different tank and bars on a super meteor,I’m with Will the Bear is something new and at 6’2” will fit me a treat but I’ll wait to many plans for the classic next year …… Pete🇫🇷
Very valid points raised by Soooz I am sure a 650 single would have made good sense for the classic. I feel the weight of it and the Meteor 650 is way to much for the engine capacity within imo . If you think of the engine unit in the new guerrilla that unit with water cooling must have good possibilities to become a 650 with little extra design work what say you guys ?. 👍
Nothing feels quite like a 650 single. Rotax make a reliable, economical and durable version of their tried and trusted engine for the BSA Goldstar. I'd say that bike is a keeper.
That though might not be what your channel 'views' need. Perhaps go the comparison road with borrowed RE's and other bikes that interest you.
Maybe even team up with other friendly bloggers to do those comparison.
I enjoyed Suzie's energy; she is lively.
Greetings to you both from The Netherlands.
Thank you for this nice comment. We are indeed keeping the Goldstar regardless of what the new trend is... I will let the other channels buy these new bikes 🏍 😀
Hi, love the channel and the chemistry between you too. Just a couple of points.
The styling that the classic 350 hankers back to is essentially the swingarm framed mid to late '50s generic Royal Enfield look of the Clipper/Crusader 250's, Bullet 350 & 500's, the 500 twin, the Meteor/Supermeteor 700 twins and hotter versions like the Constellation & Interceptor. It isn't the sole preserve of single cylinder machines. The new 250 learner limit of the early 1960's effectivley killed the 350 capacity in the Uk so effectively that the 350's and 500 singles were dropped in this country.
The modern classic 350 version of the earlier Bullet & it's 500 stablemate resurected by the then Enfield India company from the 90's onwards doesn't have a monopoly on those mid '50s styling cues....so I see no problem apart from the skimpy mudguarding and gap over the rear tyre of applying that to a 650.
A classic does not have to be a single!
Probably not going to move from my Classic 350 to 650.
BUT if I win the lottery I would love to get a Classic 650 and bolt a sidecar on to it.
Then get a garage to put my bikes in!
I'm in Canada and looked at my local dealer's website to pre-order a Bear 650, and the out the door, after taxes, fees, PDI, license etc, is $12600 CDN which I think is about $7100 BBP
243 kilos is way to heavy for me personally and again i don't like scramblers so my answer is neither. RE have certainly rung the neck out of that 650 twin engine and you must admire the way they have marketing it in so many variations. By the way i think Willie is now going for the 350 classic.
Agree.
Enjoyed the walking video guys. Great scenery! I like the look of the 650 classic more than I like the bear, but personally I won’t be buying either. The bear for me doesn’t go far enough, it hasn’t got enough off road credentials, ie, not enough suspension travel plus I’d be concerned about its weight. I like the look of the classic, but again it’s not enough to tempt me. I think Suzie has a point about it needing a different engine. I’d love to see it with a functioning kick start which would take me back to my youth. Then I’d seriously consider one.
Enjoyable video...agree with all your points although I think Willie is going for the Classic 350
I like the look of the C650, I'm a bit of a sucker for a classic 350/500 but then again we all want that 650 RE single and I wish they would sort that out for us.
Then again BSA would struggle if there was a 650 single I think.
Yes it's heavy but I'm OK with that tbh.
The bear will be intresting with its extra torque. I'm looking forward to seeing them. I like both but think the classic will be my bag... I think it could be a lovely ride 🎉
I own a Classic 350, I'd go with a Bear 650 over the Classic 650 for a number of reasons: 1. the Bear looks like a more realistic scrambler, whereas the Classic 650 looks like a poor attempt to continue on with "classic" appearance. 2. the Bear has everything I like about the Intercepter with improvements. 3. I always wanted a scrambler and the Bear fits the bill.
I agree, I've just seen both bikes in the metal and the bear to be honest wins
No one is seriously going off road on the Bear, it's an attractive styling exercise of a road bike. The modern equivalent would be an enduro bike like the Honda CRF450RL, not a 216kg heavyweight. The Classic 650 doesn't really do justice to the 350, it's more of a two wheel limousine. The Continental is still the best looking of the 650s. I reckon a 500 single would outsell all of them.
I think the classic 650 will come with a pillion seat included. I would like to upgrade my 350 to the 650 but worried about the 243kg. I will remain open minded for now.
Just seen the bsa scrambler, it has to be your next bike, I think it will be mine, singles rock
Singles do rock, the Scramber mind you isn't quite different enough from my Goldstar.... hmmmm food for thought 🤔
Keep the BSA…. Yes, I know, doing that might stagnate your site 😱😉😊 This is not a criticism, but in a small way, this is why industry/commerce/trade will keep moving, possibly at the detriment to the planet. Don’t misunderstand, I like your videos.
We had exactly this conversation at dinner tonight about consumerism. We are keeping the BSA and there's no bike really which can replace it for us 😀
The Bear is a road going scrambler styled bike, nothing more nothing less. Styling is spot on as for the Classic 650 the jury's still out. Personally I still favour the Gold Star Shadow Black 😮
Great vid guys. I agree with Suzie. As a Classic 350 owner I would have liked the Classic 650 to have been a single. Having just returned from Motorcycle Live like yourselves, if I were wanting a bigger cc bike, I would really consider the Goldstar because it's a single and it weighs 43 kg less than the Classic 650. It looks so much better in real life! I can't see me upgrading from the Classic 350 to the 650 but I'm tempted to take a test ride on the Goldstar. Sean, I like a centre stand. Have you ever missed not having one on the Goldstar? Thanks for the vids. Andy
Hi Andrew, if I were to go back to RE now it would be for a J series 350 engined bike, these are my favourite. With the centre stand I have been using a portable jack, its not ideal but not having a C stand hasn't been a deal breaker for me if that is any help... Sean
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Thanks Sean.
Both gonna be very popular in their own right, I feel.
But for me, they are very heavy motorcycles compared to other motorcycles.
Look forward to see seeing them in flesh.
I remember seeing the Shotgun, and thinking I do like that. But the weight.
Suz is correct, the New Classic and Bear should be a Single. With a totally new engine.
Only my thoughts. Still be a good bike.
Just gonna hold on to the Bumble.😊
Keep up the good work Sean.😊
My 2001 BMW F650 GS. Weighs only 421pounds wet with a 17.5 litre fuel tank under the seat
RE have a history of making high capacity parallel twins, e.g. the Meteor & the 100 mph Super Meteor in the 1950s based on the Bullet 350 single, so I can't see a problem with them making a classic 650. I can appreciate why people might prefer a big single though.
I'm with Suzie, the classic 650 is a bridge too far, probably needs to be a bigger single . The bear is maybe another option of the 650 twin platform but perhaps one too many? 🤔
Bear 650.... or Shotgun 650 are my choices for best Royal Enfield new 'Retro' classic motorbikes.
Hi! I love the quality of this video. Could you please let me know what camera you’re using? Thanks!
Hello, this is just a DJI action cam 😀
Hi there, although not related to this video I thought asking you about the Goldstar on the latest post would have more chance of you seeing it. I saw your earlier video about fitting the decat pipe to your Goldstar and that you had to remove the R&J crash bars to fit it. Did you get over this problem, or is it not possible to fit them with a decat pipe. Sorry for asking but I have the Hitchcock’s exhaust system and have just ordered the R&J crash protectors at the motorcycle shoe having been reassured that it will fit by the R&J stand and thinking should I cancel the order
Hello John, you will need to order some 110mm I think bolts and a 25mm by 45mm Alu Spacer. R&G will actually supply you with the bolts from another kit. They were very kind to help me...
I’ve got a 2016 classic chrome 500 and intend to add the classic chrome 650 to my stable of bikes. Will consider adding a Bear or Himalayan 450 after that. ❤RE
Great video guys!! SAS (sean & suze) DO IT BEST!! 😘
Get rid of that dude! Only Suzie!
A First World Issue :
I'll do a test ride with both of them and hope by then my 'in love' feeling will be toned down.
If not then I am thinking of buying them both.
The Bear to replace my recently sold T7 (too top heavy) and the Classic to replace my Kawa W800 and my Classic 350.
I'll keep my Meteor 350 so I can keep enjoying that 350 thump.
Good plan, always better to wait on these things and let the hype and initial buzz die down so you can think with a clear head 😊. I almost got caught up in the excitement and bought a Himalayan 450 when that was all the rage!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist those marketing boys and girls sure know how to play us.
You should see the bear, it's so nice up close... but I won't fall for it 🤣🤣
Just on a height basis I prefer the bear but only ridden a 350 classic for an hr so maybe because was all new need more time in the saddle!
P.s Going to the ABR on the bear would be fun!
Nice scenery.
Defo the Bear👍
I literally just made the decision after EICMA 2025.
I've ordered a Bullet 350.
The Classic 650 looks very nice and I'm sure will be popular, as many feel the 350 is underpowered, but for me, although I would have dived upon a Classic 500 single Reborn, the Classic 650 is based upon the Shotgun and it shows - the classic styling is good, but a little 'off' - and for me the 650 twin is a great engine, but feels a bit modern and has much less character than the single.
The Bear also looks great and will probably be popular, but I personally don't much like a scrambler.
I totally get the idea of making the most of each platform and making different versions that might get more audience. I think that will work. It's just the 650 twin platform is not for me, not even the Classic, though I love the Classic/Bullet 350s.
Go for the Bear, think it will suit you 👍
When is the bear coming to Enfield dealers in the Uk, I feel the bear will take sales away from the other twins.
bear of the pair , see what i did there?
The sussers are showa and so will have quality, the travel shouldn't be compared the the bsa 650 etc - showa will perform a lot better with the same amount of travel
Bear 650 👍
Great views for a cardiac walk. Agree bikes look good, agree Classic 650 might not be such a success with the traditionalists, agree the Bear is a coffee shop scrambler. I don’t think it needed the extra production costs to make it a real scrambler, they have other bikes for off road. Let’s face it, most Interceptor derivatives don’t do many miles. No disrespect, just looking at the demographic.
Ah yes...Continuity across multiple shared engine/frame platforms. Harley has done this for decades. It makes sense and cents. As for choosing between the Classic 650 and the Bear (goooooofy name) 650?
They are both beautiful, traditionally styled motorbikes. Too bad RE cheaped out and shackled them both with cheapass bicycle wheels. I have difficulty with riding on the freeway with bicycle wheels. If I am to overcome my shear fear, hatred and pure unadulterated loathing of tubes in tire (tyres) it would only be due to the good looks of either motorbike.
Witness the availability of the new Himmie 452 that can be ordered with spoke wheels laced to the outer rim of the rim to allow the fitting of tubeless tyres. Even the 1986 Honda 450 Rebel had tubeless spoke wheels. No one but a (portmanteau ALERT!) Trogluddite would want to try and break the bead on an otherwise modern wheel and get the old tube out and either replace it or repair it.
"Sigh"...Weight is inconsequential as the bike carries the rider not the other way 'round. The Bear (SNIICKER!) is not going to see any real off road action. Like most such bikes, it will be used primarily for road travel with perhaps the occasional foray down what I think is called a "Green Lane" in England.
I made a pair of portmanteaus of bAdventure and sAdventure to describe the reality of what taking the humongous creatures like the gnu GS1300 sAdventure off road. They bikes are the new "touring rigs" for those that bitch and moan about the weight of Gold wings and Harley Touring motorbikes. SUBs.
Sport Utility Bikes. Nothing wrong with that but so many have begun to decry them just as they did with SUVs. And SUVs are still popular because they are useful. Ramblin' again.
If I can overcome my pure loathing of cheapass tubed wheels then either the Classic 650 or the Yogi 650 will do looks-wise. I am the Shallow Hal of the motorbike world. Looks matter.
I don't know if I can set aside my hatred for tubed wheels. 🙂 But most folk are clueless as to spoked wheels and tubes. A site devoted to the fugly (to ME!) BMW R18 has a thread wherein owners of the R18 let loose on BMW for putting tubed wheels on it.
I shall have to say no to either Classic 650 or the Yogi 650. Keep putting the great back into Great Britain and the smiles on your viewers faces!
SS in Hades but now with the Air Condition back on!
Classic 650? Or The Bear?
Easy. My Honda VT1300X 'Fury'
I think that if they were ti redesign the classic 650 engine to be a single, it would cost so much that the BSA would be a no brainer. If the new Gold Star hadn't been developed I might agree with you.
Certainly cost implications yes and that's why they've made all these new machines on the 650 platform...
For you I think the Bear will make some sense, but not much compared to your current bike.
... or both!
The 650 classic should be a single. RE have slipped up a classic 650 single would have sold well amongst us older folk ha . The bear is a street bike if your going off road you need a proper off road bike . You always did 😂 . I'm a bit lost with RE they use the same engines and stick bits on them .
Good question to pose ... thumbs down for the Classic 650, agree with Susie, they need to step up and build a bigger single engine with more character not rehash a slightly boring twin engine.... BTW where are you - looks like the Malvern Hills from the backdrop...if Im right that would be top marks for a Sydneysider :)
Bear I think.
The Bear, but it's only a poor man's Yamaha SCR950, which I've already got.
At a slight tangent I now your other half thinks the bear should be a single i think the BSA should have been a twin they should have made the BSA rocket gold star replica the ultimately beautiful bsa they ever made
I do like RE but don't want SM650 or new Classic650. Maybe the new Bear, newHimi or Guerilla, or a used Conti or Inti. No shotgun ! Any that are heavy or look like a cruiser I don't want
I have a 350 Bullet and a chrome/red Interceptor. The Bear would be my choice, the Classic 650 looks a bit awkward and should be a single IMO, the 650 engine doesn't suit it.
The bear is stunning up close, very very nice...
Bear
the continental was the 2 nd bike ;;
The bear is good looking but heavy and low powered for how heavy it is so not great for off road ..think I would rather have 400x which is lighter, less maintenance, and better ground clearance, tubeless tires
I agree about the 400x or even better a DR-Z4 if you can live with it not being retro...
I think RE have missed a trick here and I also think they’ve been lazy. The Bear is pretty meh - non descript and bland. The Classic 650 uses the wrong engine (slanted not vertical, a twin that is a good engine, but soulless - the RE twin is not a patch on the Triumph twins), the tank is a wrong shape, the mudguards are wrong the exhausts aren’t styled nicely (should be straight) and the seat stying doesn’t suit the classic style. Like you say, Suzy, it should be a vertical, single, maybe around 500cc/35-40hp (j-series development, surely). It would surely have been a lot lighter than 243kg (😳) 650!! I won’t be letting go of my 350 for either of these.
The unfair Bear, only $7000 in the US.
:)
BSA ..no thanks R.E. 650 single ...no thanks.R.E. perhaps need to develop the water cooled variant models into the mid range capacity then they would be even harder to beat.
I can see who's the boss in your relationship..
One of the FEW videos that Suze does most of the talking and that makes her the boss in their relationship?!? Wow!! What does 1955 feel like?! 😂😂😂
I agree, original poster let himself down with that one... shame this is in the mix with all the positive comments but he's probably had a bad day. Unlike us we've had a brilliant day as I've messaged you 😀 👍 P.s Suzie did most of the talking 😂😂
stop worrying about bsa and enfield and buy a harley fatboy or deuce ;;