I bought a new Classic 500 in Battlefield Green about 8 months and 4000km ago. It's not hard to make little tweaks to this bike that make a big difference in performance and ride. The simple, cheap weekend jobs I'd recommend are: 1. Dump the standard muffler and fit a short bottle silencer with single baffle. 2. Fit Iridium spark plug and non-resistor cap. 3. Fit a bigger drive sprocket by 1 tooth. The ABS version has a 17 tooth front sprocket so swap it to an 18. (The non-ABS have an 18 tooth which can be replaced with a 19. This difference is due to the rear ABS sprocket size.) 4. While you've got the engine side cover off, put on a Carberry anti-vibration plate. 5. Toss the standard airbox system and fit a pod right to the throttle intake. 6. Block the hose or delete the air injection system altogether and block the port in the exhaust manifold with a 16mm sump plug. 7. Lose the carbon canister and all the plumbing that goes with that. Re-route petrol overflow pipe to drain under the engine...like the old days. 8. Take the front pipe off and pull out the guts of the catalytic converter. 9. Fit a power Booster Plug to the air sensor fuel system. 10. Fit an MMB tacho. Now she runs like a dream and easily keeps ahead of traffic and keeps her place in group rides. The slowest part of any trip is filling up at the gas station and trying to avoid a 100 questions from onlookers who want to look at the bike, take photos, etc.
I have a 2017 RE classic 500 battle green and it’s the first bike in my life that I know I never want to part with. It’s so much fun to ride and reminds me of my riding days as a kid in the late 70’s and early 80’s. It feels like a real motorcycle like the bikes I rode as a kid. Your characterization of modern bikes being to sterile is spot on. I’ve had Harley’s and an R6, a Husqvarna and many Japanese bikes of all sorts and the Royal Enfield is the only one that feels like a motorcycle I grew up riding. I have about 4500 Kilometres on mine and it still vibrates a bit and I love that gentle vibration. It’s comforting and reminds me that it’s still there, and when I accelerate I can actually feel the bike accelerating in the motor. My Classic 500 is a bit raw and primitive but also surprisingly refined and sophisticated. I can ride it with my Barbour jacket and Bed stu boots or a blazer and dress shoes and feel just as comfortable and classy either way. I love riding it on the highway and through the city equally and although a light bulb might burn out here and there or a seal may sweat a bit of oil, these issues are easily rectified and make me feel like my Royal Enfield and I are a team. In the 70’s, 80’s and even early 90’s people that rode motorcycles tended to know something about their bikes and it was part of the relationship of wrenching and maintaining my motorcycle that gave me the confidence that it was safe to ride. Once bikes were manufactured with warranties and service departments for changing your oil and spark plugs I feel the owners lost that connection that I love so much about riding. I’m no bike expert but if my bike needs something I read and research and figure out how to service it correctly. I surround myself with a community of people who do the same and someone in the group always has a solution. My RE Classic 500 battle green is the best motocycle I’ve ever owned and was also the one of the cheapest. Like the guy in the video said you either get it or you don’t and I sure get it. Thanks for the great review.
Just hit 1k & mine is running sweet. Did a 100 mile round trip to North Cornwall & she's pretty smooth now. Got a couple warranty issues but nothing major. All in all a great bike and she turns heads everywhere 👍
I'm at 24000km on my desert storm, only needed to replace chain and tires at 12000km! love everything about the bike, best part is it attracts anybody who rode 50 - 60 years ago and they go on to tell you stories about their first bike their first love and the war. ;)
@@TS-kb6lv do you get people commenting on your "restoration" job.. I do.. Then I tell them I fitted disc brakes, ABS and fuel injection.. The quizzical looks I get.. 😎😅
Good review Stuart. I ride my dads old 1978 model 350cc Bullet. It’s slow, clunky, vibrates, the exhaust is loud, bits need tightening every month but I love it for precisely that. It’s not just a cold piece of machinery. Like, human hands made it. It’s actually got a heart for lack of a better term.
I bought my 350 Electra 'iron barrel' three years ago on eBay and was the only bidder. It was unloved and had a number of problems, including chronic exhaust valve seat recession but it was basically sound. I seem to be addicted to it and my pristine Honda CB750 now hardly gets ridden!
@@wheater5 people who know what then are riding and know how to handle the machine will like this kind of bikes but lazy People like me want motorcycle that gives less trouble ( bcz we don't know how to fix them )
I have owned and ridden Royal Enfields, for the past thirty years now and still own a couple. One of them being a C500 UCE but I never knew that there were people around in this world even today, who thought of the Royal Enfield Bullet, as the " Chitty Chitty Bang Bang " of motorcycles. I thought it was only me who was going cuckoo in the head. I am thrilled to know of your thoughts, about this motorcycle, which I consider to be the real iron horse, in these modern times. I hope that RE Bullet does make it past the 100th year in production and if they launch a 100th anniversary model, I would be the first to book one @ a local dealership here in India.
@subhashishbanerjee Yes ! I wish for the best for RE but the 250cc will be a total failure, be it in Indian or anywhere in the foreign markets. The biggest blunder was to stop production on the 500 models.
@subhashishbanerjee Yes ! I know the Crusader but it was hardly a RE. But back in those days RE owners only wanted a 350 and not a sissy 250 . And pulling all the ones who do not know what to expect from an RE will be suicidal for RE and half of the damage has already been done, especially with the Himalayan and a few newer models and I know the score very well, cos I have been involved with a lot of market surveys for RE, through third-party vendors. Young guns coming up from Japanese plastic have no clue what they are getting into by investing in a Royal Enfield. All the boy racers who have put their hands to an RE in the past ten years have either gone back to their plastic toys or have now decided to go in for expensive flash high-end bikes. Royal Enfield should stop this non-sensical approach to start appealing to everyone, cos they never will, instead they should downscale international operations, reduce production, improve on quality, aftersales services, and kick up prices. Let a Royal Enfield again appeal to only those who can afford to buy and maintain one and I have four in my garage @ the age of 52, I love all of them. My Himalayan BS4 now costs three times its the original price, after a total rebuild, and believe me it's as good as anything else, in the 450 cc class, internationally. Wonder why RE could not build it right? the cos Lester Performance gave them a top blueprint.
@@stankropiunik2539 they decided to stop bcoz in India people are always thinking about economy. From Indian people's point of view both 350 cc and 500 cc look exactly the same and exactly the same size. They end up going to the cheaper one bcoz of it, being the 350 as nobody buys classic for performance but only for looks and sound. They just don't sell that many 500s in here. If they had it offering in 500 only right from the start this day wouldn't come. That is why a lot of companies are keeping their models confined to only one engine size.
@@detachedloop1004 Well ! But then the world is not India, there are people around the world who have the money to buy a 500 for its performance and not just looks. I know the Indian mindset very well but then why has the other genuine customers who really understand what a Royal Enfield Classics 500 is to own and ride, have to suffer because of a few who cannot afford a timeless classic. The " desi " Janta should stick to their Splendors and Activas, why try to be the donkey in the tiger skin. Anyways! RE will be doomed in the foreign markets with their new 250cc and the other junk they have started to churn out, lately.
Stuart, you have summed up the Bullet very well. Its not perfect, but it will soon become your best friend. After 8000 miles, the rattles become a reassuring hum. If riding on my own, the Interceptor gets left at home in favour of the Bullet. Its a timeless ride & I am often out on it for hours. I love it..
@@charlestomasino9161 These factory mistakes are minor and included for its low price. The rest of its character compensates for many of those minor mistakes.
"A nostalgia enabling crutch for old men" My favorite line of this video. Being a 73 year old fart with a 47 year history of not having been without at least 1 ride able motorcycle in my garage, I am in agreement with that. That is why I purchased my 350 Classis Reborn and am now trying to find a 500 as a stablemate. Signed, The Yank from across the pond who had ridden nothing but Harleys since 1982.
You have just made my day. When I ride my Velo through the local country side singing to myself chitty chitty velo I thought I was the only one. Keep living the dream.
I love my Classic. It has some flaws (some major ones), but 65 000km later on it and I still think it's a great little bike. I must say though, the vibrations are a bit tiresome on longer trips. Especially at 100kph+. But, the bike is brilliant in traffic and going about the city and semi-urban, or twisty areas.
Mine is at 41,000km and going great. I’m lucky with mine. Only vibes that are annoying is at 70km/h in 5th gear. At 60 and below is great. At 70 and up to 110km/h is pretty smooth. I go off-roading with it. Camping, long distance touring at speeds where you actually get to see stuff roll by.
Great content as always mate. I love my classic. It was a stripped back trip to yesteryear and made me reconnect with all the things I loved about motorcycles. I’d say the sweet spot is 45 smiles an hour!
Enjoyed this, thanks! I come from a similar background in terms of 17 year old starting motorcycling, japanese was great and British bikes were history. I ride a Modern Triumph and like the look and spirit of RE. I even rode one 20 years ago, rented in India for a couple of weeks. I loved it, but even back then the talk amongst people who were buying them in Delhi and riding back to their home countries were that you had to check everything before you attempted anything major. Looking forward to the next installment. Cheers again from Thailand.
Why we love Bullets.... last 3-4 min you totally nailed it. You just summarised the way I could never do. People often ask me why I sold my fast sporty bike and bought a Classic 500 chrome. In fact I have the same colour you got. So it was difficult to explain in words and they would think I made a mistake. But they don’t understand. And I don’t blame them.
Living in Germany, and coming from Barton on humber , it was really nice to watch your bullet video you've got to watch out on a windy day when going between the towers you can get sucked & blown around , so im looking forward to part 2 of your review, Thank's
@@sharanpujar6268 indian version has good build quality but the problem with royal Enfield is heating And some time engines have some rare problem which even the company itself can't repair Such problem is 1 in 1k but heating is there in every bike
Thank you , once again , a great video , brilliant . I live in the U.S.A. and have owned , and rode many motorcycles over the the last 38 years . Now owning multiple Harley-Davidson's, and a couple of metric cruiser's , I find myself yearning for that little machine , for the nostalgic , and simplicity of it , along with the appeal . I appreciate these bikes for what they are , and would not change them to something they are not . Thanks ride safe , and above all , honesty is what holds me here .
Many times I have some difficulty to explain what's my Bullet about. I concluded that the poetic language and the use of metaphors say it better than other common words. Perhaps I am a typical client ; retired , 68 y.o. riding for 50 years since 1968 every kind of motorcycles. I've doubts if I'm using my rationality; but I have good and real arguments to support everything you said. Tank you Stuart. By the way; that jazz sounds very good while riding it...i'm going to listen it again.
Great video, i swapped my 2015 classic 500 for an interceptor last november, and tbh i regret it. Int 650 seems a bit bland to me at the moment. My classic was buttery smooth at 6k miles and probably the best bike ive enjoyed
Thanks Stuart for another great video! You make some very important points about what I think of as the psychology of motorcycle riding and how those of us 'senior' riders approach this activity. I was lucky enough to buy a brand new Norton Commando Mk2 Interstate (from Elite Motors in Tooting) in April 1976. I loved every minute of my subsequent 22 years ownership and was very sorry to see it go. But that experience cannot compare to a modern touring bike as the technology present today is frankly incomparable. I've never owned a Royal Enfield motorcycle but I get the points that you make with regard to what your Bullet gives you as a sensible rider. My Commando almost became part of me and I got to understand all its little quirks and foibles, and this was an important part of why I enjoyed riding it so much. As you so accurately comment, modern motorcycles do everything right all the time and sometimes we need a bit more to bring back the pure fun to our rides.
A bike that allows the rider to sit up and enjoy the view without the 1000 yard stare from eyes peeled for speed cameras. A bike that demands more input and thought and gives more satisfaction for a job well done in return. There is something about a "single" and certain V-twins that speak to the soul. PS I don't have one. Not yet.
do it - I wish I had bought mine much earlier in my riding career. You can find one to fit any budget and fix it easily and cheaply - at 80mpg I cant afford not to own one.....
You made me buy an Interceptor !.....don't make me want one of these I've run out of room ! Wafting down country lanes and getting lost is what these bikes are all about to me . I'm happiest on the Interceptor at 50/55 and I'm sure the Bullet has a similar grin factor something that people have lost the grasp of ! Great video, loved the "nothing to shout home about " .....you need to get that phrase right , it's not rocket surgery ! 😀😀😀
Can't get enough of these Bullet videos mate,takes me back to my first bike a Triumph 200 Tigercub.I was 14 and rode it on private land to get the feel of motorcycling. Closely followed by a Bantam 125,then a CZ 175. I'd love a new Bullet but health holds me back,but great to see your reviews..👍
I have a 2017 classic bought new and was 29 at time of purchase. I bought it purely for looks. I wanted something smaller than anything i had before. It chugs alongs no bother always makes me happy. The style and engine make you less of a hooligan. More miles better it gets. Great review.
Thanks Stuart. I enjoyed your comments especially about the visceral nature of riding and owning an RE single. It just puts a smile on my face every time. Cheers from Peter in OZ.
I have had a bullet 500 since 05 , have traveled 32K . Through Europe. have had problems and still love it. I'm 66 and biking since 15. I like your chanell
Lovely review Uncle Stu. Eagerly waiting for the next one. Evocative is the word that comes to my mind when I try to encapsulate the riding experience of my Chrome 500
Another enchanted Classic 500 owner in our midst. Once you let go of the myth of larger and faster bikes, you realize the humble Enfield truly represents the essence of motorcycling. Just ride it as intended and you'll smile with every mile. I'd expect your 'singing whilst riding' ratio to increase rather drastically as well Stuart. Great review. Your every word is spot on.
Hi Stuart. From my experience with most any new bikes and 'normal' riding the rear brake takes about 1500 - 2000 miles to reach its full feel and potential. The fronts tend to bed in quicker at about 800 miles because of more use and load. The disc surface settles down and the pads wear in to match. Many riders quickly dismiss new motorcycle brakes and go and swap the pads early on for more agressive ones. Save your money, ride and feel the bike getting better as you have with the bike's mechanicals.
Been out on my single seated 350 Bullet today......put a grin on my face.....even when it stalled at the front of a queue of traffic at a busy roundabout. And it got lots of positive attention from the long patient queues of shoppers outside some village shops especially when it misfired a few times kicking it over and my knee just missing the handlebars with the compression!! Some commented how you don’t see or hear that very often these days and “sounds like a bike should” and “they don’t make ‘em like that any more” (it’s only 12 years old going on 65 in design!!) Love it!!
Seeing the review of this bike on this channel, I bought back my first bullet i ever owned. It’s a 2000 bullet chrome 350 with a cast iron engine. It was used as a daily commuter and while the owner took good care it still has some issues that need to be addressed. Nonetheless thanks for the great content and thanks for indirectly helping me in getting back my first bike! 😊
Mine was also 2003 model machismo. I had Sold it coz I stopped riding it regularly as I also had a pulsar. Now I also wish If i wouldn't have sold it for a paltry some.
People's relationship with vehicles has changed. The idea of holding onto the same bike or car for many years, perhaps indefinitely, is practically unknown. Now it's a case of been there, rode that, and on to the next thing. The Bullet is anathema to the modern consumer. That said, how did the scratch on the tank get past pdi?
Oh dear, I must be one of the few 'dinosaurs' left who like to hang on to my machines ( seemingly forever ! ) : 1975 Norton 850 Commando - 35 years 1979 Suzuki GS1000S - 38 years 1995 Triumph Trophy 900 - 25 years I also used to have a Scott flying squirrel for quite a few years, I was only the 4th owner in 90 years (the bike is now in a private museum somewhere). I've still got a pot of 'Scott purple' touch up paint somewhere, which came from the original Shipley factory and is 70 odd years old - it's still sealed in its original packet...!!
Actually let me be specific. I have a car all the way from the 30's, 40's and 2 from the 60's and those are my newest cars. I have a scooter from the 50's and 60's. A bike from the 2000 though. All of them are purely mechanical and they all work great. Unlike many of the new garbage nowadays that's expensive and hard to fix. Yes. Manual windows and manual locks. Back to basics. Snowflakes not allowed.
I still hang on to one of my bikes from college days that's approx 30+ years. It's a Yamaha and a simple 100 cc but perfect in every way, for the short rides. Can't imagine giving it away, for it holds with it all the great memories that awaken in me each time I take it for a spin around town. I'd say it's more to do with one's perspective and the other excuse would be me being an absolute bike enthusiast
Morning Stuart! Really appreciated your comments about the joy of the journey when motorcycling. I recently read an article written just before confinement by a French moto journalist who decided to reconnect with the simplicity of motorcycling. He bought his neighbours old Yamaha YZ125, added some much neede TLC to it, and then set off for 4 months around the French b-roads (in Winter!) to reconnect with friends and contacts that he'd not seen in a long time, some since lycée! It was a fascinating and fabulous article, really illustrating, to me, the whole ethos of motorcycling. I really enjoy the point to point. I'm not about thrashing the nuts of my bike every journey. Really don't need to. I love the noise, the sensation, the feeling of being at one with the bike, the scenery, the endless possibilities. I ride in all weathers and all seasons, love my Tracer for it's ability to cope with anything. Love to look at it when we've completed a long ride. Love to subtly modify it. You know what I mean. Am always on the look out for more bikes to add to my garage. I think a thumper would be a lot of fun. For some reason, I'm sorely tempted by the new Mash 650X. Am I mad to consider this Chinese made bastard copy-bike when there are so many other tried and tested single cylinders on the market? I know it's an old Honda engine. Do I need therapy? Help!
Very nice video and interesting approach on the Bullet 500. I got an Interceptor thanks to your videos, in part... and I feel that the Classic will be in my garage somewhere in the future. Cheers from Argentina!
Very well said. I often feel that the Bullet is like just-tamed Mustang horse which is still a little bit wild. Especially the older kick start version because it can give you a back kick if you don't watch the ammeter carefully.
Great video Sir. I laughed all the way through it. You should be commended for your bravery and great patience. Thanks so much. Looking forward to the next video.....Sal : )
I have just had a 2016 bullet delivered. I imediately took it out for a spin, and I definately get it! Riding at 50 miles an hour along a ridge in an area of outstanding beauty in Hampshire I had what I can only describe as a spiritual moment which I will remember forever. So I am jumping back on for another dose, can't wait for next summer. Thanks Stuart for all the videos which did help me make the decision to purchase a Bullet.
What a belting review dude! As an Enfield owner I couldn't have put it better myself.....folks who don't like Bullets are missing the point, but each to their own, as I don't like modern bikes that I find too clinical, even though they are wonderful at what they do, they lack soul, character, kudos, heritage. You don't just own an Enfield, you have a love affair with it.....
I´ve have just bought the last Classic 500 in Monterrey Mexico. I will go and pick it up next week , I have so emotions around me !! ... I will let you know how it goes. One thing I totally agree now is that this bike has a soul and matches mine at this time of my life.
A friend of mine here in Cambodia recently (2022) bought a new 500 bullet and absolutely loves it. He says it's perfect for our roads here with all the stay dogs, chickens and kids running out in front of you.
As a result of your videos I have my first Royal Enfield arriving this week, a black and cream 500 classic, told by the dealer it might be the last one in the UK for sale after production finished.
Hi Terence. I agree, Mr Fillingham has probably emptied the shelves quicker than any Royal Enfield campaign.. I have also just bought a new black & cream classic. I certainly believe that there can't be many more out there - its a 21 registered bike. Being delivered early April. I'm certainly looking forward to it!
A superb video, I enjoy seeing you ride all the bikes, especially the Bobber with those fantastic exhausts from Motone Customs, and the music is spot on great stuff, regards.
Love watching your vids! Keep it up :) I’m from Canada and have a Continental GT 535. Pretty rare around here and hard to find parts for but SO WORTH IT! Looking forward to your next video!!
Thanks for a great ride and review. I recently was able to test ride the Bonneville T120 & Int 650 back to back and it was hands down the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and for some of the reasons you discuss. It was more maneuverable, nimble, just plain more fun, more me. It was what I wanted a bike to be, not what somebody was trying to convince me a bike needs to be. After I gave them my deposit I felt something pulling back into the showroom. It was a green Bullet 500. The more I sat on it, heard it run, the more my man brain started to work away at me. It only makes sense if I was willing to buy a T120 then certainly I could afford to purchase both the Int650 and this sexy little 500. I didn't buy it but, I Get It!
Stuart, thanks for such a fascinating review, I think many of us have been waiting for this with great anticipation a I for one was not disappointed. We live in a world now where we have come to expect ‘instant gratification’ as the only acceptable outcome of any event or transaction we engage in and patience is fast becoming a rare commodity. I suspect the Bullet appeals to the same type of person who shuns the bland pre-packaged commodities being offered to us from every supermarket and chain store shelf in favour of the home-grown, hand crafted products that require a bit more time and effort to acquire but bring their own unique rewards. People with strong and eccentric personalities are often difficult to get to know, but building a long term relationship with them can bring great rewards. I’ll take ‘visceral’ over ‘bland’ every time!
Road down to Brighton the other day from Wimbledon with a mate on his Bullet 500 EFI and me on my older carbed model . What an awesome day and a total pleasure. As you say a Royal Enfield is a friend not a mode of transport. So glad you got one ( I also have an interceptor)
I love my Classic 500! It gets lots of attention, and I find the ride just makes me smile. This brings back the old feeling of motorcycling, as you pointed out. It takes me back to the 50's and 60's when men were men and motorcycles were motorcycles.
Many thanks for another great video, i love plain speaking/openess, as it should be, nice one, thank you for taking the time to make them, appreciated, great to listen to someone on the same wavelength
i have it(Desert Storm). i love it. This is not an easy Bike. It's easy to repair and regularly do break because its simple technology. Its good that you have other bikes too, then it makes sense. Enjoy the thumping machine .
I rode a Bullet 500 for two weeks over the Himalayas July last year. The Bullet handled everything we threw at it from hustling through the twisties, full on rocky dirt roads and crossing snow melt river crossings. The secret to hustling in the twisties them is to change up early and rely on the bottom end, loads of fun.
I'm curious did they ever rectify the 500 a535 transmission issues I know of a local Royal Enfield dealer who wouldn't take any more bikes until they straightened out the transmission is this something that they sort it out
Wonderfully honest review, thanks. There will always be critics who sneer at RE, but it is what it is, no frills motorcycling. Echoing other comments I can appreciate its 'character' and soul. In the same way a steam locomotive is a living thing I reckon that's what appeals with the Bullet. Really tempted to get one if I can sneak it into the shed unseen to accompany my other bike, lol. It would compare nicely with my Morris Minor, a no frills car that has to be actually driven as opposed to modern stuff. Now where's my nearest dealer...🤭
I got my Classic 500 about 3 months ago, and agree with your review pretty much in every way. I particularly enjoyed the last two minutes where we forget all the technical details and get into what the RE is really about... it's personality and soul.
Stuart, thanks for the video and for the honest way you describe motorbikes. Great the way travelling in motobikes is all about. I look forward to buying my fisrt bike, maybe one of this. Cheers.
You described the essence of this motorcycle very very well. Not many get it. As you said it, Bullet is a travelling companion that gives all it has got. Thanks Mr Fillingham.
I agree totally! When you say "10% of the finishing is left to the customer", you are so right. You will be able to see on the bike the amount of love and respect that the owner have for it, even in India (lots of indian channels about Royal Enfield very interesting), where it is mostly utilitarian. Love and polishing time can be synonymous 😁
Great video Stuart,this is such a fantastic looking bike,really enjoying these videos so nice to see a proper bike that isn’t all about driving modes and break neck speed,but about the enjoyment of riding. My bikes quiet basic and I get more enjoyment from a relaxing ride through the twistys rather than getting my knee down. Looking forward to seeing lots more of these.
Nice "state of the union", Stuart, thanks. So far riding experiences on my new Classic compare with yours. She's more like an old friend than a new bike.
I enjoyed your video. Very honest about the Bullet it's good bits and not so good bits. I have a Bullet top and have grown to love it more and more as I ride it. I have had my Bullet for 4 years now and it did take sometime to properly run it in, like you say around 1500 miles. I look forward to more videos about your Bullet. Happy motorcycling 🤗. Bye Stuart
Perfect, Perfect, Perfect description of life with an RE 500 Classic. It is not about power or performance or you or the bike... it's about the joy of the ride and the road. I have an Interceptor 650 and it is an F-22 compared to my SPAD. (Bullet). The 500 is a humble conveyance. I ride my 500 every chance I get, my 650, occasionally. The turn signals are invisible.. I find my self driving for miles with them blinking. (very embarrassing) The vibrations are mostly gone now at 1,500 miles (this is my 2nd RE 500) Only extended rides over 55 MPH are painful. I may install a 19 tooth front sprocket and vibration reduction plate to make this a better commuter. I had a lot of false neutrals with my first RE 500 during break in, not with this one.. the transmission is better on this bike. The On/Off clutch you describe is familiar to me. I found the seat uncomfortable after an hour... I bought a leather one from BAAK motorcycles in France and it has made a big difference. I look forward to more stories about you and the Bullet.
Great Video Stuart. I own a Standard Bullet 350X which I bought in October 2019. Yes, it's not a perfect bike but it is surely pure motorcycling experience. There is a pride and a feeling which can't be express in mere words when you ride a bullet. It's just full of emotions, even though it has many problems small or big, but it does come with a learning experience. You get to know new things which I believe cannot be done with the modern age motorcycles. It's quite commendable how Royal Enfield has managed to keep the motorcycling experience a raw one when there are many sophistication systems available for manufacturing bikes these days. Keep riding, and ride safe.
Totally agree with you when you said that modern bikes are too sanitised, I had an old b.s.a 250 starfire and the old girl was my favourite bike , 65 m.p.h but she stayed there with no complaints, have had a bike from all the big 4 Japanese companies, but the b.s.a ,well what can i say . Skip forward in time (hang on I'll get my Zimmer frame )now i'm on my 650 r.e interceptor and hand on heart i will stay with that ,why you may ask,well it's because nora (her name ) makes a lovely old style 60's bike sound and ride .so i'm staying with her . See you later, take care on the road 👍👍👍
Well you hit the nail on the head. A royal Enfield is a living entity. It has a soul and every one has its own character. We currently have 3 and each is quite different. My eldest daughter loves hers, but hates mine. I love all of them, but they are a bit shoddy in places and you could spend your whole life trying to make them perfect. It would be a foolish quest and would, in my opinion, show that you’ve missed the point... A Royal is that - just plain special. Enjoy yours. My experience of support and parts availability has been poor, but then I kind of expected that, so I’m not that saddened by it.
Thanks for the great review & video on the Royal Enfield Classic 500. I really appreciated the in-depth discussion about the vibration issue on the RE, but also your discussion about single cylinder bikes in general. I've test ridden a new RE 500 myself & was really taken aback by the vibration & especially the inability to see clearly in the rearview mirror. Although I'm an older guy (69), I'm also a fairly new rider (6 years) & I really like to hear the experiences & impressions of more experienced riders to somewhat ground my own impressions & experiences. I'm a very casual rider & really enjoy the type of riding you do. Thank you again for the great video!
Thanks again for a good honest review! I have just watched a 2022 review of the new 350cc Classic. I'm like you who has been riding bikes for fifty odd years and still riding. Please keep up the good work. I'd love to watch a review you have done on a new 650 BSA Gold Star sometime.
Loved the analysis of why the bullet is a great machine and riding a motorcycle is meant to be more than just speed and zooming. I had a 850 Norton built in 75 I loved that bike. As you said it was the closeness of being part of the journey.
Spot on Mr Stuart. The vibrations help to remind us that 'We're Alive'. It's also a free all over massage : ). I ride a cheapo Chinese 400 that looks a bit similar; it gives me the same feeling-basic, beautiful motorcycling, though, I'll probably get the Classic 500 Bullitt soon before they stop making them
Thanks again uncle Stu. I get what your saying. Modern bikes are terrific I grant you, but as you say there just so good there is no soul. I just want simple stuff now. The great thing about the enfield sin general is pricing, including spares. As an example, I agree that BMW GS's are brilliant but check out the replacement cost of one of their electronic rear suspension units, have a double brandy on standby!!! I so would like one of these, it's just a shame that he 500 is no longer to be produced. Not good.
Don’t get me wrong Stuart, I absolutely hope you get to keep enjoying it as much as you do now. I owned one myself, was absolutely in love with it for a few months. It is true that it is a pure bike, with mechanical imperfections and that can indeed be charming. Some people get it, others don’t, and that’s fine. But in the end, I consider it to be the worse bike my money could have bought. I don’t regret that I owned one, at least now I know, and it is out of my system. But the lack of quality, a spring falling of, oil leak on the head gasket (replaced twice and still wasn’t fixed), damaged paintwork with no Warranty, traces of overspray, dented rear rim from and a crooked front mudguard, all from factory, those things started to annoy me more and more. For that price I expected more and apparently many people do too. RE isn’t up for the job to deliver European standards with a bullet. Sold it within 6 months, with 3500 miles on the clock and lost 20% of the value. I do like all your video’s though 👍
1000mi on my wife’s Classic, it’s getting smoother by the mile. No problems to report so far. 🇺🇸🇬🇧 You have done the best review of this bike that I’ve seen so far. It’s good to get a review from a mature rider with tons of experience!
I feel you hit the nail on the head with your description of a 'visceral' experience; I've owned BMW's and Japanese bikes for almost 40 years, and the Bullet brings me to a place I haven't been before. I actually get a big smile when cruising the minor roads aboard the Royal Enfield. A different riding experience. One thing I would very much appreciate is finding a decent set of saddle bags for the bike; I want to put the Blackbird away for a bit, and try some touring on this machine (as my father had done in Britain, during the late 1940's and 1950's).
I'm at the 3600Km mark on mine. My first ever bike! I waited until 50 to get it as I knew I wouldn't make it to 50 if I got one earlier. I've wanted a Bullet for years and was in the store to pick up an olive green one, but got pulled away by a blue one! Such a beauty. I completely agree with your review, thanks for putting so clearly in words what I've experienced. I agree completely with your comments at the end about the desire to ride something that feels just a bit gritty. It's precisely the pleasure I get from the ride, compared to the much smoother, more modern bikes.
I love the way you have explained it all and hit the nail on its head, in all areas. I've ridden the old bullets as well and have the new one from 2014. The bike is very good, has great comfort, ride feel and the ability to log miles at a decent pace, unlike what most new age riders have to say. There is a certain charm about it which cannot be explained in mere words, that shows why it is still going great all over India and especially in the UK
my bullet has an amal carb, runs great and so satisfying to tweak the idle screws to a nice even beat. I fitted my DR350 with indicator bleeper, dead easy, will be doing same to the bullet shortly. I am into my fourth year with the bullet, ride all year round there arent many icy days really, and I still look forward to just going for a ride. In my view putting it away for months every year means I would be missing some great rides, shorter maybe, but still satisfying.
Yet another superb vid i love my triumphs but am keen on getting the bullet....deliverd to carpet right today ....nice place for a break .....lovin the vids......
Media never ever wants the truth when they can sell there story ..ie my first ever new bike 07...honda transalp loved the bike but oh no bike press.... bad reports...etc etc...!!!!.as with my himalayan ride it but don't ride it like a racer. ..👍👍good stuff as ever sir...
I have to say, after much deliberation I have decided to sell my Royal Enfield Bullet 500, it's an early one, no electric start or disk brakes just points and a carburettor!!. But after watching your video I'm not sure I'm doing the right thing. The thing is, I've had it nearly two years and done 7 miles on it, its just not useful, if I'm going somewhere its normally 150+ miles, and I have a Goldwing for that, so the Enfield just sits, gets polished and collects dust, I start it, maybe give a run up the road, but never really use it, it's a real shame and I know I'm going to miss it, but it's just not fair on it. I wish I had more time to ride, but with our crowded roads drum brakes are a real threat to your health the way people drive these days. I'm going to miss my Bullet, I have missed the last two, but I need to occupy my garage with things I'm going to use. But I will always watch your channel, your honesty is refreshing in today's media's manipulation of the facts. Keep up the brilliant reviews. Thank you Stuart.
@@fasthracing to date it's the best bike I have ever owned, and my European tour planned for later this year would be impossible on the Enfield. I can't say anything bad about the Enfield, I just never used it enough.
If u were in india I would have bought it from u. I sold mine 350cc and still repent. Only if I still had it the weekends would be more fun. When I started riding it I weighed 50kg n the bike weighed almost 200kg. College days
Wise words from Stu about the biking ethos of the bullet 500 and a Royal Enfield overall. As a 2017 T120 owner this maybe a second bike to choose. Thanks again Stu for an honest review update.
The nearest competitor to the RE Bullet is the Benelli Imperiale 400, the Benelli has old world styling of the Bullet with a modern power plant and at £3.5k on the road, the Benelli looks like excellent value for money.
I do own a 2014 BS3 Classic 350 (Bullet😁) and surely relate to every word you mention in your vlog. Its an experience a feeling to ride this bike. Yes there are flaws yes there will be issues but thats what it makes this bike more natural and relatable. One thing for sure this machine will not let you stranded in the middle of the road. And the more you ride the more you get closer and get to learn a new thing about it. As i say with your vlogs i feel that relativity love passion and a sense of maturity and calmness. Thank you again for this wonderful episode. Respect, love, admiration from India 🇮🇳😊👍👌
I bought a new Classic 500 in Battlefield Green about 8 months and 4000km ago. It's not hard to make little tweaks to this bike that make a big difference in performance and ride.
The simple, cheap weekend jobs I'd recommend are:
1. Dump the standard muffler and fit a short bottle silencer with single baffle.
2. Fit Iridium spark plug and non-resistor cap.
3. Fit a bigger drive sprocket by 1 tooth. The ABS version has a 17 tooth front sprocket so swap it to an 18. (The non-ABS have an 18 tooth which can be replaced with a 19. This difference is due to the rear ABS sprocket size.)
4. While you've got the engine side cover off, put on a Carberry anti-vibration plate.
5. Toss the standard airbox system and fit a pod right to the throttle intake.
6. Block the hose or delete the air injection system altogether and block the port in the exhaust manifold with a 16mm sump plug.
7. Lose the carbon canister and all the plumbing that goes with that. Re-route petrol overflow pipe to drain under the engine...like the old days.
8. Take the front pipe off and pull out the guts of the catalytic converter.
9. Fit a power Booster Plug to the air sensor fuel system.
10. Fit an MMB tacho.
Now she runs like a dream and easily keeps ahead of traffic and keeps her place in group rides. The slowest part of any trip is filling up at the gas station and trying to avoid a 100 questions from onlookers who want to look at the bike, take photos, etc.
the carberry plate was a farce of stupendous measures. Wouldn't reccomend it.
Or buy a Japanese motorcycle
Thanks for posting upgrade/fixes.
Share pics pls
@@chaimasalatvx4007 Why not?
"Relax: Objects in mirror are shaking less than they appear"
i have a harley roadster 1200 it shake more than enfield500.. n i have enfield 350 from last 14 years i still love my ride.... love from INDIA
💪💪💪
uce engines r faulty
@@borntorule2872 UCE 500 engine is here which is very famous for vibrations
Gold
Be careful if you ever visit India.
you are becoming very famous among the RE crowd there, the RE uncle they have been praying for!
I have a 2017 RE classic 500 battle green and it’s the first bike in my life that I know I never want to part with. It’s so much fun to ride and reminds me of my riding days as a kid in the late 70’s and early 80’s. It feels like a real motorcycle like the bikes I rode as a kid. Your characterization of modern bikes being to sterile is spot on. I’ve had Harley’s and an R6, a Husqvarna and many Japanese bikes of all sorts and the Royal Enfield is the only one that feels like a motorcycle I grew up riding. I have about 4500 Kilometres on mine and it still vibrates a bit and I love that gentle vibration. It’s comforting and reminds me that it’s still there, and when I accelerate I can actually feel the bike accelerating in the motor. My Classic 500 is a bit raw and primitive but also surprisingly refined and sophisticated. I can ride it with my Barbour jacket and Bed stu boots or a blazer and dress shoes and feel just as comfortable and classy either way. I love riding it on the highway and through the city equally and although a light bulb might burn out here and there or a seal may sweat a bit of oil, these issues are easily rectified and make me feel like my Royal Enfield and I are a team. In the 70’s, 80’s and even early 90’s people that rode motorcycles tended to know something about their bikes and it was part of the relationship of wrenching and maintaining my motorcycle that gave me the confidence that it was safe to ride. Once bikes were manufactured with warranties and service departments for changing your oil and spark plugs I feel the owners lost that connection that I love so much about riding. I’m no bike expert but if my bike needs something I read and research and figure out how to service it correctly. I surround myself with a community of people who do the same and someone in the group always has a solution. My RE Classic 500 battle green is the best motocycle I’ve ever owned and was also the one of the cheapest. Like the guy in the video said you either get it or you don’t and I sure get it. Thanks for the great review.
I like this!! Spot on.
Just hit 1k & mine is running sweet. Did a 100 mile round trip to North Cornwall & she's pretty smooth now. Got a couple warranty issues but nothing major. All in all a great bike and she turns heads everywhere 👍
I'm at 24000km on my desert storm, only needed to replace chain and tires at 12000km! love everything about the bike, best part is it attracts anybody who rode 50 - 60 years ago and they go on to tell you stories about their first bike their first love and the war. ;)
@@TS-kb6lv do you get people commenting on your "restoration" job.. I do.. Then I tell them I fitted disc brakes, ABS and fuel injection.. The quizzical looks I get.. 😎😅
@@sirgalah561😂😂 brilliant!
Good review Stuart. I ride my dads old 1978 model 350cc Bullet. It’s slow, clunky, vibrates, the exhaust is loud, bits need tightening every month but I love it for precisely that. It’s not just a cold piece of machinery. Like, human hands made it. It’s actually got a heart for lack of a better term.
I bought my 350 Electra 'iron barrel' three years ago on eBay and was the only bidder. It was unloved and had a number of problems, including chronic exhaust valve seat recession but it was basically sound. I seem to be addicted to it and my pristine Honda CB750 now hardly gets ridden!
@@wheater5 people who know what then are riding and know how to handle the machine will like this kind of bikes but lazy People like me want motorcycle that gives less trouble ( bcz we don't know how to fix them )
Real bullet 1978 ,but not UCE ENGINES
@@wheater5 hope you got the tyres changed as electra got very thin tires
@@user-lk3cf6yx6c What do you mean by “thin”?
I have owned and ridden Royal Enfields, for the past thirty years now and still own a couple. One of them being a C500 UCE but I never knew that there were people around in this world even today, who thought of the Royal Enfield Bullet, as the " Chitty Chitty Bang Bang " of motorcycles. I thought it was only me who was going cuckoo in the head. I am thrilled to know of your thoughts, about this motorcycle, which I consider to be the real iron horse, in these modern times. I hope that RE Bullet does make it past the 100th year in production and if they launch a 100th anniversary model, I would be the first to book one @ a local dealership here in India.
@subhashishbanerjee But the way things are currently going @ RE, I Have now started to have doubts.
@subhashishbanerjee Yes ! I wish for the best for RE but the 250cc will be a total failure, be it in Indian or anywhere in the foreign markets. The biggest blunder was to stop production on the 500 models.
@subhashishbanerjee Yes ! I know the Crusader but it was hardly a RE. But back in those days RE owners only wanted a 350 and not a sissy 250 . And pulling all the ones who do not know what to expect from an RE will be suicidal for RE and half of the damage has already been done, especially with the Himalayan and a few newer models and I know the score very well, cos I have been involved with a lot of market surveys for RE, through third-party vendors. Young guns coming up from Japanese plastic have no clue what they are getting into by investing in a Royal Enfield. All the boy racers who have put their hands to an RE in the past ten years have either gone back to their plastic toys or have now decided to go in for expensive flash high-end bikes. Royal Enfield should stop this non-sensical approach to start appealing to everyone, cos they never will, instead they should downscale international operations, reduce production, improve on quality, aftersales services, and kick up prices. Let a Royal Enfield again appeal to only those who can afford to buy and maintain one and I have four in my garage @ the age of 52, I love all of them. My Himalayan BS4 now costs three times its the original price, after a total rebuild, and believe me it's as good as anything else, in the 450 cc class, internationally. Wonder why RE could not build it right? the cos Lester Performance gave them a top blueprint.
@@stankropiunik2539 they decided to stop bcoz in India people are always thinking about economy. From Indian people's point of view both 350 cc and 500 cc look exactly the same and exactly the same size. They end up going to the cheaper one bcoz of it, being the 350 as nobody buys classic for performance but only for looks and sound. They just don't sell that many 500s in here. If they had it offering in 500 only right from the start this day wouldn't come. That is why a lot of companies are keeping their models confined to only one engine size.
@@detachedloop1004 Well ! But then the world is not India, there are people around the world who have the money to buy a 500 for its performance and not just looks. I know the Indian mindset very well but then why has the other genuine customers who really understand what a Royal Enfield Classics 500 is to own and ride, have to suffer because of a few who cannot afford a timeless classic. The " desi " Janta should stick to their Splendors and Activas, why try to be the donkey in the tiger skin. Anyways! RE will be doomed in the foreign markets with their new 250cc and the other junk they have started to churn out, lately.
Stuart, you have summed up the Bullet very well. Its not perfect, but it will soon become your best friend. After 8000 miles, the rattles become a reassuring hum. If riding on my own, the Interceptor gets left at home in favour of the Bullet. Its a timeless ride & I am often out on it for hours. I love it..
If I buy a bike with factory mistakes.its going back
@@charlestomasino9161 These factory mistakes are minor and included for its low price. The rest of its character compensates for many of those minor mistakes.
If you've ridden the Bullets in India, you'd consider the bike coming 95% complete from the factory as good enough 😂
"A nostalgia enabling crutch for old men" My favorite line of this video. Being a 73 year old fart with a 47 year history of not having been without at least 1 ride able motorcycle in my garage, I am in agreement with that. That is why I purchased my 350 Classis Reborn and am now trying to find a 500 as a stablemate. Signed, The Yank from across the pond who had ridden nothing but Harleys since 1982.
You have just made my day. When I ride my Velo through the local country side singing to myself chitty chitty velo I thought I was the only one. Keep living the dream.
I love my Classic. It has some flaws (some major ones), but 65 000km later on it and I still think it's a great little bike. I must say though, the vibrations are a bit tiresome on longer trips. Especially at 100kph+. But, the bike is brilliant in traffic and going about the city and semi-urban, or twisty areas.
Mine is at 41,000km and going great. I’m lucky with mine. Only vibes that are annoying is at 70km/h in 5th gear. At 60 and below is great. At 70 and up to 110km/h is pretty smooth. I go off-roading with it. Camping, long distance touring at speeds where you actually get to see stuff roll by.
Vibrating keeps u Awake . Try 4000 miles on BSA 500 thumper in 70s 😀
@@whatsstefon absolutely agree!
100 plus speed also not comfortable to ride in bikes
60-70 is the best speed to ride these bikes...any higher than that the bike will vibrate like crazy
Great content as always mate. I love my classic. It was a stripped back trip to yesteryear and made me reconnect with all the things I loved about motorcycles. I’d say the sweet spot is 45 smiles an hour!
Enjoyed this, thanks! I come from a similar background in terms of 17 year old starting motorcycling, japanese was great and British bikes were history. I ride a Modern Triumph and like the look and spirit of RE. I even rode one 20 years ago, rented in India for a couple of weeks. I loved it, but even back then the talk amongst people who were buying them in Delhi and riding back to their home countries were that you had to check everything before you attempted anything major. Looking forward to the next installment. Cheers again from Thailand.
Thnx uncle stu was waiting for these ,, coz for us Indians bullet is just not any other bike
Why we love Bullets.... last 3-4 min you totally nailed it. You just summarised the way I could never do. People often ask me why I sold my fast sporty bike and bought a Classic 500 chrome. In fact I have the same colour you got. So it was difficult to explain in words and they would think I made a mistake. But they don’t understand. And I don’t blame them.
Living in Germany, and coming from Barton on humber , it was really nice to watch your bullet video you've got to watch out on a windy day when going between the towers you can get sucked & blown around , so im looking forward to part 2 of your review, Thank's
This has made me want one now!
Go and get one, Its timeless & stress free riding.
Don't buy
You will regret
@@bkr1546 it's not like indian version,bikes in US have better build quality
I strongly suggest test riding it. The design is elegant and gorgeous, but running and riding one is not for everyone.
@@sharanpujar6268 indian version has good build quality but the problem with royal Enfield is heating
And some time engines have some rare problem which even the company itself can't repair
Such problem is 1 in 1k but heating is there in every bike
Thank you , once again , a great video , brilliant . I live in the U.S.A. and have owned , and rode many motorcycles over the the last 38 years . Now owning multiple Harley-Davidson's, and a couple of metric cruiser's , I find myself yearning for that little machine , for the nostalgic , and simplicity of it , along with the appeal . I appreciate these bikes for what they are , and would not change them to something they are not . Thanks ride safe , and above all , honesty is what holds me here .
Many times I have some difficulty to explain what's my Bullet about. I concluded that the poetic language and the use of metaphors say it better than other common words. Perhaps I am a typical client ; retired , 68 y.o. riding for 50 years since 1968 every kind of motorcycles. I've doubts if I'm using my rationality; but I have good and real arguments to support everything you said. Tank you Stuart. By the way; that jazz sounds very good while riding it...i'm going to listen it again.
Thank you! the music is called "Ba Da Bing" and is available free from the You Tube music library!
Great video, i swapped my 2015 classic 500 for an interceptor last november, and tbh i regret it. Int 650 seems a bit bland to me at the moment. My classic was buttery smooth at 6k miles and probably the best bike ive enjoyed
Thanks Stuart for another great video! You make some very important points about what I think of as the psychology of motorcycle riding and how those of us 'senior' riders approach this activity. I was lucky enough to buy a brand new Norton Commando Mk2 Interstate (from Elite Motors in Tooting) in April 1976. I loved every minute of my subsequent 22 years ownership and was very sorry to see it go. But that experience cannot compare to a modern touring bike as the technology present today is frankly incomparable. I've never owned a Royal Enfield motorcycle but I get the points that you make with regard to what your Bullet gives you as a sensible rider. My Commando almost became part of me and I got to understand all its little quirks and foibles, and this was an important part of why I enjoyed riding it so much. As you so accurately comment, modern motorcycles do everything right all the time and sometimes we need a bit more to bring back the pure fun to our rides.
A bike that allows the rider to sit up and enjoy the view without the 1000 yard stare from eyes peeled for speed cameras. A bike that demands more input and thought and gives more satisfaction for a job well done in return. There is something about a "single" and certain V-twins that speak to the soul. PS I don't have one. Not yet.
do it - I wish I had bought mine much earlier in my riding career. You can find one to fit any budget and fix it easily and cheaply - at 80mpg I cant afford not to own one.....
Thanks for the rideout again. I noticed the lorry in the overtaking lane way before than was needed.
Looking forward to the next installment.
You made me buy an Interceptor !.....don't make me want one of these I've run out of room ! Wafting down country lanes and getting lost is what these bikes are all about to me .
I'm happiest on the Interceptor at 50/55 and I'm sure the Bullet has a similar grin factor something that people have lost the grasp of ! Great video, loved the "nothing to shout home about " .....you need to get that phrase right , it's not rocket surgery ! 😀😀😀
Ah too late " that train has sailed now!"
HaHa! Is the issue with the Bullet vibrating a tough cookie to crack?
The interceptor would have been the better Investment anyway. Don't worry.
Can't get enough of these Bullet videos mate,takes me back to my first bike a Triumph 200 Tigercub.I was 14 and rode it on private land to get the feel of motorcycling. Closely followed by a Bantam 125,then a CZ 175. I'd love a new Bullet but health holds me back,but great to see your reviews..👍
I have a 2017 classic bought new and was 29 at time of purchase. I bought it purely for looks. I wanted something smaller than anything i had before. It chugs alongs no bother always makes me happy. The style and engine make you less of a hooligan. More miles better it gets. Great review.
What a brilliant long term first instalment.
She’s a beauty and will continue to reward you.
Thanks for sharing 🙏🏻
Thanks Stuart. I enjoyed your comments especially about the visceral nature of riding and owning an RE single. It just puts a smile on my face every time. Cheers from Peter in OZ.
I have had a bullet 500 since 05 , have traveled 32K . Through Europe. have had problems and still love it. I'm 66 and biking since 15. I like your chanell
Lovely review Uncle Stu. Eagerly waiting for the next one. Evocative is the word that comes to my mind when I try to encapsulate the riding experience of my Chrome 500
I own a RE 350 which my dad bought in 1968. I love the riding feels something special.
That ' dug dug ' never gets old everytime I start it ...put a big smile in my face .. )
Another enchanted Classic 500 owner in our midst. Once you let go of the myth of larger and faster bikes, you realize the humble Enfield truly represents the essence of motorcycling. Just ride it as intended and you'll smile with every mile. I'd expect your 'singing whilst riding' ratio to increase rather drastically as well Stuart. Great review. Your every word is spot on.
Hi Stuart. From my experience with most any new bikes and 'normal' riding the rear brake takes about 1500 - 2000 miles to reach its full feel and potential. The fronts tend to bed in quicker at about 800 miles because of more use and load. The disc surface settles down and the pads wear in to match. Many riders quickly dismiss new motorcycle brakes and go and swap the pads early on for more agressive ones. Save your money, ride and feel the bike getting better as you have with the bike's mechanicals.
Been out on my single seated 350 Bullet today......put a grin on my face.....even when it stalled at the front of a queue of traffic at a busy roundabout. And it got lots of positive attention from the long patient queues of shoppers outside some village shops especially when it misfired a few times kicking it over and my knee just missing the handlebars with the compression!! Some commented how you don’t see or hear that very often these days and “sounds like a bike should” and “they don’t make ‘em like that any more” (it’s only 12 years old going on 65 in design!!) Love it!!
Seeing the review of this bike on this channel, I bought back my first bullet i ever owned. It’s a 2000 bullet chrome 350 with a cast iron engine. It was used as a daily commuter and while the owner took good care it still has some issues that need to be addressed. Nonetheless thanks for the great content and thanks for indirectly helping me in getting back my first bike! 😊
Mine was also 2003 model machismo. I had Sold it coz I stopped riding it regularly as I also had a pulsar. Now I also wish If i wouldn't have sold it for a paltry some.
People's relationship with vehicles has changed. The idea of holding onto the same bike or car for many years, perhaps indefinitely, is practically unknown. Now it's a case of been there, rode that, and on to the next thing. The Bullet is anathema to the modern consumer.
That said, how did the scratch on the tank get past pdi?
No idea although to be fair its not easy to see in strong daylight!
Have a car from the 30's. Not letting go of it. No way in hell :)
Oh dear, I must be one of the few 'dinosaurs' left who like to hang on to my machines ( seemingly forever ! ) :
1975 Norton 850 Commando - 35 years
1979 Suzuki GS1000S - 38 years
1995 Triumph Trophy 900 - 25 years
I also used to have a Scott flying squirrel for quite a few years, I was only the 4th owner in 90 years (the bike is now in a private museum somewhere). I've still got a pot of 'Scott purple' touch up paint somewhere, which came from the original Shipley factory and is 70 odd years old - it's still sealed in its original packet...!!
Actually let me be specific. I have a car all the way from the 30's, 40's and 2 from the 60's and those are my newest cars. I have a scooter from the 50's and 60's. A bike from the 2000 though. All of them are purely mechanical and they all work great. Unlike many of the new garbage nowadays that's expensive and hard to fix. Yes. Manual windows and manual locks. Back to basics. Snowflakes not allowed.
I still hang on to one of my bikes from college days that's approx 30+ years. It's a Yamaha and a simple 100 cc but perfect in every way, for the short rides. Can't imagine giving it away, for it holds with it all the great memories that awaken in me each time I take it for a spin around town. I'd say it's more to do with one's perspective and the other excuse would be me being an absolute bike enthusiast
Morning Stuart! Really appreciated your comments about the joy of the journey when motorcycling. I recently read an article written just before confinement by a French moto journalist who decided to reconnect with the simplicity of motorcycling. He bought his neighbours old Yamaha YZ125, added some much neede TLC to it, and then set off for 4 months around the French b-roads (in Winter!) to reconnect with friends and contacts that he'd not seen in a long time, some since lycée! It was a fascinating and fabulous article, really illustrating, to me, the whole ethos of motorcycling. I really enjoy the point to point. I'm not about thrashing the nuts of my bike every journey. Really don't need to. I love the noise, the sensation, the feeling of being at one with the bike, the scenery, the endless possibilities. I ride in all weathers and all seasons, love my Tracer for it's ability to cope with anything. Love to look at it when we've completed a long ride. Love to subtly modify it. You know what I mean. Am always on the look out for more bikes to add to my garage. I think a thumper would be a lot of fun. For some reason, I'm sorely tempted by the new Mash 650X. Am I mad to consider this Chinese made bastard copy-bike when there are so many other tried and tested single cylinders on the market? I know it's an old Honda engine. Do I need therapy? Help!
Love your videos. I just bought my first Bullet and I love it. Great informative material. Keep up the great work
Very nice video and interesting approach on the Bullet 500. I got an Interceptor thanks to your videos, in part... and I feel that the Classic will be in my garage somewhere in the future. Cheers from Argentina!
Very well said. I often feel that the Bullet is like just-tamed Mustang horse which is still a little bit wild. Especially the older kick start version because it can give you a back kick if you don't watch the ammeter carefully.
Great video Sir. I laughed all the way through it. You should be commended for your bravery and great patience. Thanks so much. Looking forward to the next video.....Sal : )
Open and honest review Stuart, love the BMW key fob!
I have just had a 2016 bullet delivered. I imediately took it out for a spin, and I definately get it! Riding at 50 miles an hour along a ridge in an area of outstanding beauty in Hampshire I had what I can only describe as a spiritual moment which I will remember forever. So I am jumping back on for another dose, can't wait for next summer. Thanks Stuart for all the videos which did help me make the decision to purchase a Bullet.
Well i'm a nostalgia loving foolish old man and i'd get one.
Certainly as a second bike.
Novelty has it's place.
What a belting review dude! As an Enfield owner I couldn't have put it better myself.....folks who don't like Bullets are missing the point, but each to their own, as I don't like modern bikes that I find too clinical, even though they are wonderful at what they do, they lack soul, character, kudos, heritage. You don't just own an Enfield, you have a love affair with it.....
I´ve have just bought the last Classic 500 in Monterrey Mexico. I will go and pick it up next week , I have so emotions around me !! ... I will let you know how it goes. One thing I totally agree now is that this bike has a soul and matches mine at this time of my life.
A friend of mine here in Cambodia recently (2022) bought a new 500 bullet and absolutely loves it. He says it's perfect for our roads here with all the stay dogs, chickens and kids running out in front of you.
As a result of your videos I have my first Royal Enfield arriving this week, a black and cream 500 classic, told by the dealer it might be the last one in the UK for sale after production finished.
Hi Terence. I agree, Mr Fillingham has probably emptied the shelves quicker than any Royal Enfield campaign.. I have also just bought a new black & cream classic. I certainly believe that there can't be many more out there - its a 21 registered bike. Being delivered early April. I'm certainly looking forward to it!
I love your final thoughts on the enfields honesty.. them words could sell more bikes for the company than any advertisement they Could make
A superb video, I enjoy seeing you ride all the bikes, especially the Bobber with those fantastic exhausts from Motone Customs, and the music is spot on great stuff, regards.
Love watching your vids! Keep it up :) I’m from Canada and have a Continental GT 535. Pretty rare around here and hard to find parts for but SO WORTH IT! Looking forward to your next video!!
Me too, with a CGT 535. I enjoy it and regard it as a 'keeper'.
Riding my bullet electra since 2 years.. great experience..just amazing.. nywys keep up your good work..nice video👍
Thanks for a great ride and review. I recently was able to test ride the Bonneville T120 & Int 650 back to back and it was hands down the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and for some of the reasons you discuss. It was more maneuverable, nimble, just plain more fun, more me. It was what I wanted a bike to be, not what somebody was trying to convince me a bike needs to be. After I gave them my deposit I felt something pulling back into the showroom. It was a green Bullet 500. The more I sat on it, heard it run, the more my man brain started to work away at me. It only makes sense if I was willing to buy a T120 then certainly I could afford to purchase both the Int650 and this sexy little 500. I didn't buy it but, I Get It!
Ha well done! good move!
Didn't buy it -Yet!
Stuart, thanks for such a fascinating review, I think many of us have been waiting for this with great anticipation a I for one was not disappointed. We live in a world now where we have come to expect ‘instant gratification’ as the only acceptable outcome of any event or transaction we engage in and patience is fast becoming a rare commodity. I suspect the Bullet appeals to the same type of person who shuns the bland pre-packaged commodities being offered to us from every supermarket and chain store shelf in favour of the home-grown, hand crafted products that require a bit more time and effort to acquire but bring their own unique rewards. People with strong and eccentric personalities are often difficult to get to know, but building a long term relationship with them can bring great rewards. I’ll take ‘visceral’ over ‘bland’ every time!
It's so nice to see an intelligent and honest review of a motorcycle, great job as always.
Road down to Brighton the other day from Wimbledon with a mate on his Bullet 500 EFI and me on my older carbed model . What an awesome day and a total pleasure. As you say a Royal Enfield is a friend not a mode of transport. So glad you got one ( I also have an interceptor)
Mine has a Cozi and I keep watching for a deal on a used one with only 2 wheels. You’ve just made that more difficult. Thank you. 😉
I love my Classic 500! It gets lots of attention, and I find the ride just makes me smile. This brings back the old feeling of motorcycling, as you pointed out. It takes me back to the 50's and 60's when men were men and motorcycles were motorcycles.
Many thanks for another great video, i love plain speaking/openess, as it should be, nice one, thank you for taking the time to make them, appreciated, great to listen to someone on the same wavelength
i have it(Desert Storm). i love it. This is not an easy Bike. It's easy to repair and regularly do break because its simple technology. Its good that you have other bikes too, then it makes sense. Enjoy the thumping machine .
I rode a Bullet 500 for two weeks over the Himalayas July last year. The Bullet handled everything we threw at it from hustling through the twisties, full on rocky dirt roads and crossing snow melt river crossings. The secret to hustling in the twisties them is to change up early and rely on the bottom end, loads of fun.
Very well handled review. You love your machine, it will be with you 👍🏼
Wow bro you are everywhere in the review of enfields
@@abhiramtn5795 , I ride one😀
@@cksajeevkumar I know u ride a thunderbird x right😁
@@abhiramtn5795 , you got me😀😂
I'm curious did they ever rectify the 500 a535 transmission issues I know of a local Royal Enfield dealer who wouldn't take any more bikes until they straightened out the transmission is this something that they sort it out
Wonderfully honest review, thanks. There will always be critics who sneer at RE, but it is what it is, no frills motorcycling. Echoing other comments I can appreciate its 'character' and soul. In the same way a steam locomotive is a living thing I reckon that's what appeals with the Bullet. Really tempted to get one if I can sneak it into the shed unseen to accompany my other bike, lol. It would compare nicely with my Morris Minor, a no frills car that has to be actually driven as opposed to modern stuff. Now where's my nearest dealer...🤭
I got my Classic 500 about 3 months ago, and agree with your review pretty much in every way. I particularly enjoyed the last two minutes where we forget all the technical details and get into what the RE is really about... it's personality and soul.
Great, honest review. I aim to own a Bullet next year. Always fancied one and I'm only 50!
Stuart, thanks for the video and for the honest way you describe motorbikes. Great the way travelling in motobikes is all about. I look forward to buying my fisrt bike, maybe one of this. Cheers.
You described the essence of this motorcycle very very well. Not many get it. As you said it, Bullet is a travelling companion that gives all it has got. Thanks Mr Fillingham.
I agree totally! When you say "10% of the finishing is left to the customer", you are so right. You will be able to see on the bike the amount of love and respect that the owner have for it, even in India (lots of indian channels about Royal Enfield very interesting), where it is mostly utilitarian. Love and polishing time can be synonymous 😁
Great video Stuart,this is such a fantastic looking bike,really enjoying these videos so nice to see a proper bike that isn’t all about driving modes and break neck speed,but about the enjoyment of riding. My bikes quiet basic and I get more enjoyment from a relaxing ride through the twistys rather than getting my knee down. Looking forward to seeing lots more of these.
Nice "state of the union", Stuart, thanks. So far riding experiences on my new Classic compare with yours. She's more like an old friend than a new bike.
I enjoyed your video. Very honest about the Bullet it's good bits and not so good bits. I have a Bullet top and have grown to love it more and more as I ride it. I have had my Bullet for 4 years now and it did take sometime to properly run it in, like you say around 1500 miles. I look forward to more videos about your Bullet. Happy motorcycling 🤗.
Bye Stuart
Perfect, Perfect, Perfect description of life with an RE 500 Classic. It is not about power or performance or you or the bike... it's about the joy of the ride and the road. I have an Interceptor 650 and it is an F-22 compared to my SPAD. (Bullet). The 500 is a humble conveyance. I ride my 500 every chance I get, my 650, occasionally. The turn signals are invisible.. I find my self driving for miles with them blinking. (very embarrassing) The vibrations are mostly gone now at 1,500 miles (this is my 2nd RE 500) Only extended rides over 55 MPH are painful. I may install a 19 tooth front sprocket and vibration reduction plate to make this a better commuter. I had a lot of false neutrals with my first RE 500 during break in, not with this one.. the transmission is better on this bike. The On/Off clutch you describe is familiar to me. I found the seat uncomfortable after an hour... I bought a leather one from BAAK motorcycles in France and it has made a big difference. I look forward to more stories about you and the Bullet.
Great Video Stuart. I own a Standard Bullet 350X which I bought in October 2019. Yes, it's not a perfect bike but it is surely pure motorcycling experience. There is a pride and a feeling which can't be express in mere words when you ride a bullet. It's just full of emotions, even though it has many problems small or big, but it does come with a learning experience. You get to know new things which I believe cannot be done with the modern age motorcycles. It's quite commendable how Royal Enfield has managed to keep the motorcycling experience a raw one when there are many sophistication systems available for manufacturing bikes these days. Keep riding, and ride safe.
I sold mine around 10 years back. I so wish I hadn't. I had a machismo in nickel black finish. It's one of a kind experience.
Totally agree with you when you said that modern bikes are too sanitised, I had an old b.s.a 250 starfire and the old girl was my favourite bike ,
65 m.p.h but she stayed there with no complaints, have had a bike from all the big 4 Japanese companies, but the b.s.a ,well what can i say .
Skip forward in time (hang on I'll get my Zimmer frame )now i'm on my 650 r.e interceptor and hand on heart i will stay with that ,why you may ask,well it's because nora (her name ) makes a lovely old style 60's bike sound and ride .so i'm staying with her .
See you later, take care on the road 👍👍👍
Well you hit the nail on the head. A royal Enfield is a living entity. It has a soul and every one has its own character. We currently have 3 and each is quite different. My eldest daughter loves hers, but hates mine. I love all of them, but they are a bit shoddy in places and you could spend your whole life trying to make them perfect. It would be a foolish quest and would, in my opinion, show that you’ve missed the point... A Royal is that - just plain special.
Enjoy yours. My experience of support and parts availability has been poor, but then I kind of expected that, so I’m not that saddened by it.
These bikes are crazy reliable
my dad's friend owns a 40 year old Royal Enfield bullet it still drives very well.Veru fun
Thanks for the great review & video on the Royal Enfield Classic 500. I really appreciated the in-depth discussion about the vibration issue on the RE, but also your discussion about single cylinder bikes in general. I've test ridden a new RE 500 myself & was really taken aback by the vibration & especially the inability to see clearly in the rearview mirror. Although I'm an older guy (69), I'm also a fairly new rider (6 years) & I really like to hear the experiences & impressions of more experienced riders to somewhat ground my own impressions & experiences. I'm a very casual rider & really enjoy the type of riding you do. Thank you again for the great video!
Thanks again for a good honest review!
I have just watched a 2022 review of the new 350cc Classic.
I'm like you who has been riding bikes for fifty odd years and still riding.
Please keep up the good work.
I'd love to watch a review you have done on a new 650 BSA Gold Star sometime.
This is the best bike ill never ride anybike in my life.. because i have only this and this will serve me my lifetime
"And if ya don't like that, tough." Hit "thumbs up" right then and there and had a good laugh. Sir, you are brilliant.
Loved the analysis of why the bullet is a great machine and riding a motorcycle is meant to be more than just speed and zooming. I had a 850 Norton built in 75 I loved that bike. As you said it was the closeness of being part of the journey.
Spot on Mr Stuart. The vibrations help to remind us that 'We're Alive'. It's also a free all over massage : ). I ride a cheapo Chinese 400 that looks a bit similar; it gives me the same feeling-basic, beautiful motorcycling, though, I'll probably get the Classic 500 Bullitt soon before they stop making them
Thanks again uncle Stu. I get what your saying. Modern bikes are terrific I grant you, but as you say there just so good there is no soul. I just want simple stuff now. The great thing about the enfield sin general is pricing, including spares. As an example, I agree that BMW GS's are brilliant but check out the replacement cost of one of their electronic rear suspension units, have a double brandy on standby!!! I so would like one of these, it's just a shame that he 500 is no longer to be produced. Not good.
Don’t get me wrong Stuart, I absolutely hope you get to keep enjoying it as much as you do now. I owned one myself, was absolutely in love with it for a few months. It is true that it is a pure bike, with mechanical imperfections and that can indeed be charming. Some people get it, others don’t, and that’s fine. But in the end, I consider it to be the worse bike my money could have bought. I don’t regret that I owned one, at least now I know, and it is out of my system. But the lack of quality, a spring falling of, oil leak on the head gasket (replaced twice and still wasn’t fixed), damaged paintwork with no Warranty, traces of overspray, dented rear rim from and a crooked front mudguard, all from factory, those things started to annoy me more and more. For that price I expected more and apparently many people do too. RE isn’t up for the job to deliver European standards with a bullet. Sold it within 6 months, with 3500 miles on the clock and lost 20% of the value.
I do like all your video’s though 👍
1000mi on my wife’s Classic, it’s getting smoother by the mile. No problems to report so far. 🇺🇸🇬🇧
You have done the best review of this bike that I’ve seen so far. It’s good to get a review from a mature rider with tons of experience!
I feel you hit the nail on the head with your description of a 'visceral' experience; I've owned BMW's and Japanese bikes for almost 40 years, and the Bullet brings me to a place I haven't been before. I actually get a big smile when cruising the minor roads aboard the Royal Enfield. A different riding experience. One thing I would very much appreciate is finding a decent set of saddle bags for the bike; I want to put the Blackbird away for a bit, and try some touring on this machine (as my father had done in Britain, during the late 1940's and 1950's).
Great stuff this! A great summary of a great classic. Keep it up and stay frosty!
A honest review of the product focused toward real bikes. Info you can use. Well done. Black Heart Cycle. USA
I'm at the 3600Km mark on mine. My first ever bike! I waited until 50 to get it as I knew I wouldn't make it to 50 if I got one earlier. I've wanted a Bullet for years and was in the store to pick up an olive green one, but got pulled away by a blue one! Such a beauty. I completely agree with your review, thanks for putting so clearly in words what I've experienced. I agree completely with your comments at the end about the desire to ride something that feels just a bit gritty. It's precisely the pleasure I get from the ride, compared to the much smoother, more modern bikes.
I love the way you have explained it all and hit the nail on its head, in all areas. I've ridden the old bullets as well and have the new one from 2014. The bike is very good, has great comfort, ride feel and the ability to log miles at a decent pace, unlike what most new age riders have to say. There is a certain charm about it which cannot be explained in mere words, that shows why it is still going great all over India and especially in the UK
my bullet has an amal carb, runs great and so satisfying to tweak the idle screws to a nice even beat. I fitted my DR350 with indicator bleeper, dead easy, will be doing same to the bullet shortly. I am into my fourth year with the bullet, ride all year round there arent many icy days really, and I still look forward to just going for a ride. In my view putting it away for months every year means I would be missing some great rides, shorter maybe, but still satisfying.
What a wonderful review by Stuart So much clarity
Yet another superb vid i love my triumphs but am keen on getting the bullet....deliverd to carpet right today ....nice place for a break .....lovin the vids......
Media never ever wants the truth when they can sell there story ..ie my first ever new bike 07...honda transalp loved the bike but oh no bike press.... bad reports...etc etc...!!!!.as with my himalayan ride it but don't ride it like a racer. ..👍👍good stuff as ever sir...
I have to say, after much deliberation I have decided to sell my Royal Enfield Bullet 500, it's an early one, no electric start or disk brakes just points and a carburettor!!.
But after watching your video I'm not sure I'm doing the right thing. The thing is, I've had it nearly two years and done 7 miles on it, its just not useful, if I'm going somewhere its normally 150+ miles, and I have a Goldwing for that, so the Enfield just sits, gets polished and collects dust, I start it, maybe give a run up the road, but never really use it, it's a real shame and I know I'm going to miss it, but it's just not fair on it. I wish I had more time to ride, but with our crowded roads drum brakes are a real threat to your health the way people drive these days.
I'm going to miss my Bullet, I have missed the last two, but I need to occupy my garage with things I'm going to use.
But I will always watch your channel, your honesty is refreshing in today's media's manipulation of the facts. Keep up the brilliant reviews.
Thank you Stuart.
Sell the Gold Wing
@@fasthracing to date it's the best bike I have ever owned, and my European tour planned for later this year would be impossible on the Enfield. I can't say anything bad about the Enfield, I just never used it enough.
If u were in india I would have bought it from u.
I sold mine 350cc and still repent. Only if I still had it the weekends would be more fun.
When I started riding it I weighed 50kg n the bike weighed almost 200kg. College days
Wise words from Stu about the biking ethos of the bullet 500 and a Royal Enfield overall. As a 2017 T120 owner this maybe a second bike to choose. Thanks again Stu for an honest review update.
The nearest competitor to the RE Bullet is the Benelli Imperiale 400, the Benelli has old world styling of the Bullet with a modern power plant and at £3.5k on the road, the Benelli looks like excellent value for money.
That ' dug dug ' never gets old everytime I start it ...put a big smile in my face .. )
I do own a 2014 BS3 Classic 350 (Bullet😁) and surely relate to every word you mention in your vlog. Its an experience a feeling to ride this bike. Yes there are flaws yes there will be issues but thats what it makes this bike more natural and relatable. One thing for sure this machine will not let you stranded in the middle of the road. And the more you ride the more you get closer and get to learn a new thing about it. As i say with your vlogs i feel that relativity love passion and a sense of maturity and calmness. Thank you again for this wonderful episode. Respect, love, admiration from India 🇮🇳😊👍👌