Bye Bye Meteor 350.....a few candid thoughts
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ย. 2024
- I have spoken at length about the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 - a wonderfully comfortable bike with a smooth engine but, sadly, flawed in a number of ways.....
The somewhat feeble engine coupled with the "big brother" speed limiter - a device that the rest of the world get by default although it is only a requirement for Indian riders.
Then there is the useless tripper - ok simply a gimmick and the appalling front light - you'd be better illuminating the ride ahead by the blinding candle power emanating from the speedometer and tripper!
Other less tetchy types may be able to tolerate these annoyances but, having lived with them for about 2500 miles I decided to go for something more suitable for carrying my not inconsiderable fatness across the back roads of England.....something that will accelerate from 50mph to 60mph in less than six seconds which I contend has safety issues.
The Meteor is a hybrid......it presents itself as a bike for the back roads....which it is, but looks like it ought to be able to cope with stretches on quicker roads; which it cannot in safety - in my opinion.
Anyway.....it is a very pretty, comfortable bike with a smooth engine that pulls rather lethargically.
To be honest I am really disappointed I feel this way and am truly sorry to see it go but like some wives, one became more and more "incompatible" the more familiar I became. 🤣
RobLittleUK
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This is a touring bike and sorry, the speed and acceleration will be influenced by the weight of the rider. Tripper works excellent on my bike, so blame it on the user of the tripper!
Ummm? It’s a day bike - you’d need to be retired to tour on it. The fact I am fat has no influence on the 72mph speed limiter. How do you feel on the occasion you need to venture on a highway being burned off by trucks as buses? Maybe you don’t mind but we don’t agree on that. And the lights? They’ll be Ok if you do your riding north if the arctic circle in summer I guess? Bottom line is I loved the bike but it was not quite right for me in the end. Thanks for your comment.
Man buys 20hp bike with manufacturer's stated top speed of just over 70mph, then complains that it performs like a 20hp bike and can only do just over 70mph. If only there were some way of checking specifications before purchase.
Yup guess there’s one word for it…..”Stupid”
@@RobLittleuk You're not stupid at all, I think you just loved the style so much you were hoping it would make up for the advertised performance.
@@DBUCKS1988 You hit the mail on the head. Thanks for the comment!
He bought the bike so he could complain about it
@@johnhart2861 yeah you hit the nail on the head mate because I am so effing rich I can do that 🤪
I have a Meteor 350, Supernova Brown. Absolutely love it. I knew exactly what the bike’s capabilities were before the purchase. I use it for country roads, and short errands. It’s perfect. I’m keeping the 350 and adding a Super Meteor 650 for those highway getaways here in the USA. I’m just waiting for the 650 to be available.
Thanks for your comment.....we have had the 650 over here for 6+ months......you will soon get it!
A 1 minute ride
th-cam.com/users/shortsDzm_xuOqpv8?si=qpk6aWVmW8zlswgm
Honestly, from the start of the video you appear to be a little upset over a lot of things, not just your bike. Hope you'll feel better soon, at least with your new bike. ☺
Not sure about that but I am frustrated I made the wrong choice.....but thanks for your good wishes!
Glad you posted this Rob, and everything you say about the shortcomings of that engines power is true. Weak on hills, weak on dual carriageways etc. and it`s not the fact that wagons can overtake you, if they can`t they will try to "Push" you along faster. In other words you are in their way- it`s a dangerous situation. There is a northern commenter who would argue, (and he does-vehemently) that it`s ALL to do with YOUR riding technique, you don`t know how to anticipate other road users or the driving conditions, but the bike is brilliant. Having said that he does have the back-up of a couple of tasty Triumphs languishing in his garage. At best, this engine/bike is only use is as a commuter, the same as the 1970`s 125s, anything else and it`s lacking, unless you can tweedle about a few miles down to a Yorkshire beach beauty spot eh Uncle S.....
Thanks for this detailed comment and, yes, you are right about the behaviour of the Meteor on fast roads etc. It is indeed a dangerous situation but all the more ludicrous performance because I am thinking of buying a second small bike - XSR125 - to ride in my club - with nearly the same BHP as the Meteor and a higher top speed. The annoying thing is that the Meteor is restricted and could have improved performance and top speed if permitted to do so. A very odd decision by the Indians to inflict their laws onto the rest of the world - I wonder if the Indian minister in charge of roads is related to the "TWENTY IS PLENTY" idiot in Wales? Not sure where you are from you may not get that little joke!
Staffs lad Rob...I know, dangerously close right. I get it, are the Welsh bobbies gonna be clocking the local push bike clubs when they`re out practicing at the weekends? I think not. Motorists/motorcyclists targeted again and again.@@RobLittleuk
@@Snapper2110 😀
Stuart Fallingham, the man who cannot stand Triumph as a brand.
I can understand your perspective. I tried an identical Meteor last year, here in West Australia. It was indeed comfortable, but our open-road speed limit is 110kph and constantly running a bike almost flat out, simply to avoid being run over by the traffic is not a good scenario, especially as a road-train weighs 200 tons and is 175 foot long. It's a recipe for disaster and, at 76, I'd like to keep riding for a good few years yet! Needless to say, I regretfully decided against buying a Meteor.
Chris....I am with you, 100 per cent !!
Pretty pathetic they can't have a 350 engine comfy at 120 kph.... My Yamaha 155 exciter touches 150 kph and I'm near 90kg
*Crap Game*
Hi each to there own.
I love my meteor 350 wouldn't swap it for the world.
It's perfect for me just Pottering round the country lanes were I live, I'm lucky enough I've got a maxi scooter if I ever need to go on faster moving roads.
But if it was my only bike I agree think it's a bit slow for busy roads.
Great video fella as always.
Safe riding.
Thanks for your good wishes - yes my other bike is a YB100 so for my main bike I needed something a bit more flexible - I was sold on the Meteor but maybe didn’t think long enough!
I also bought the Meteor a few months after you. I'm old school like yourself and owned a Suzuki 250GT. My mates had a Yam 250, and a Kawasaki KH250. That was 50 years ago, and all would do a ton. The Honda however was a 4 stroke and it was called the wet dream because the 250 engine would only do 84mph. So 50 years later and the 350 Enfield will top at 70mph which is a disappointment. Like you, I didn't buy it for speed, but you would expect at least 85mph from a 350 lump.
I am with you on all that - I remember a mate had a mid 60s Honda dream which was really quick. Like you say, as the owner of a little YB100 I am not a “speed merchant” but expect to be able to keep up on the motorway if I choose to use such a road.
Back in 1965 my 350 Bullet made about the same power and on it I went all over the country. Of course everything else on the road was a lot slower in those days. I know someone around here that has one like yours and he finds it just right for him. There are few 70mph roads in Suffolk/ Norfolk and certainly no motorways. I have been on almost a 60 year search for that perfect bike. I hope you find yours soon.
Poignant words re searching for the perfect bike - I guess that’s part of the fun of motorcycling- test rides! 😀
The speed limiter can be got round by fitting a throttle body (it includes the ECU) from the Hunter model. The Tripper navigation device has been fixed with the latest software application upgrade. It's performance can be greatly enhanced by fitting a Kent camshaft available from Hitchcocks.
Interesting....does that mean the Hunter has no speed limiter because the published top speed is the same as the Meteor? And yes, the Kent camshaft will help but only up to 81mph? I did hear that Enfield's 350s were not restricted in Brasil?
I have a 103 cubic inch Harley Davidson and I just got a Meteor 350. The big bike is my travel/highway bike and the Meteor is my in town commuter bike. The are both excellent bikes in their respective categories. Different types for different purposes. It’s all about use and perspective. Ride on my friends.
Thanks for your comments Jeff. I’ve also got a YB 100 which I rode around Ireland in June and that’s a slow bike so I sort of didn’t really need two slow bikes. Take a look at my Ireland trip on this channel _ I set up a play list - it was great fun
Rob, I own the same bike with the same color here in the states. Although I love mine, as I think it's fine for 60 mph, I feel your pain. In my experience, there are better choices if you need higher, sustained speeds. I find that this is a great bike for the kind of riding I do, which is country roads ( 55mph). Good luck on your search for your next bike. I'm 71 and still find motorcycling and riding something I hope I can keep doing for a long time to come, god willing.
Nice to hear from you my friend - it’s a lovely bike for the 55mph roads as you say but not for longer distances even in main roads. I have bought a Bonneville T100 which I am much happier with and should serve my purpose better !
How many miles did you have on it by the end?
You do hear that they take a while to bed in and are very sluggish at first. Maybe up to 1000 miles.
I know they are pretty slow but yours seemed a bit too slow.
Its a shame because they are a fantastic looking bike.
Agreed - lovely looking and a lovely bike but the performance was a disappointment. Thanks for your comment!
I watched these videos all in the wrong order Rob ,but I have enjoyed them all the same . I admire your honesty with everything and really enjoy your style of the way you tell it . In the time Ihad my Meteor I did enjoy it although most of my riding is bumbling around the back lanes with my wife on her vespa and my reason for changing is my neuropathy in my lower legs and not always feeling comfortable changing gears . keep safe. I have been called a serial bike changer and have had many many bikes and scooters .Istill get exited picking up a new machine and also seeing someone else like yourself do it .enjoy as long as we can .
Neuropothy is nasty one of my neighbours has it. Shame you are still not able to ride - have you considered a small bike, twist and go? You may have seen that there are little bike clubs all over the country and, franjkly, its the social side I like as much as the riding? Have you seen my series on riding round ireland.....now that really does need to be watched in the right order!
@@RobLittleuk I watched you in ireland Rob ,very enjoyable. I have four rwist and go scooters ,a Honda a d v 350 a Vespa gtr 300 ,a Honda s h mode 125 and a Honda zoomer 50cc. My wife has a Vespa 50cc . best wishes Rob.
It's not really a highway cruiser for a long period of time even though you can do it as long as you stay over to the right. The bike worked well from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and back. Cruised at 70 miles an hour long as it wasn't climbing up a hill
Cheers
USA
Hi thanks for your comment although I’d be safer keeping to the LEFT 😅 I’d love to ride from LA to Las Vegas…..but then I bet you’d like it here!!
Nice to hear some honesty about the bike. It is ok for what it is but not suitable for modern traffic conditions in many circumstances .
David I liked the bike but 350s it seems do not perform like they used to. But there is this group of “Apostles” that will hear no wrong said about the bike and that’s pathetic
@@RobLittleuk Totally agree Rob , all makes have 'fan boys' but RE do seem to attract a particularly
narrow minded brand who refuse to accept any shortcomings . They also are vociferous in attacking
other brands ( particularly Triumph)
@@WyreForestBiker did you hear me? My chuckle was audible as I read that but yea, very odd do t you think?
@@WyreForestBikerThat comment a little generalised isn't it? I quite like RE products, and others brands too!, so I don't fall in to the do called fan boy camp, but I detest the rubbish that Triumph makes. They have had so many issues, and never want to help their owners, awful brand!
From where I come from the motorcycle excels. I am much younger in age, which means I probably haven't mastered my urges to sometimes ride the bike aggressively. This bike surprises me every time with the roads it can take. I love how usable the torque is way low down, you can ride with ease but I still manage to overtake those vehicles when I need it. I also like how much you can load on this motorcycle. It's like a truck and it still pulls. The power specifications on paper doesn't justify it's overall performance. From where I come from, speed is the least of the worries, though people do use high power engines comparatively to the meteor 350 and end up getting killed in an accident.
I have riden it for more than 20 thousand kmps plus and I m still keeping it. I take good care of it and sometimes even spend too much by replacing old parts for nothing other than just because I think it needs to be replaced. I would like to add, that sometimes people do forget to adjust the rear suspension accordingly to the load, their weight etc. It makes a lot of difference. It's so simple, it's efficient. The bigger wheels chomps up the distance in a relaxing way. Obviously it's not meant to go at 200 kms/hr and I am not implying this bike is perfect for expressways but small highways, hills, medium type offroads is certainly not a problem. One advantage of the thumping character and it's good maneuverability is that you can throat down a quarter of whiskey or rum and ride in peace, slow & steady. (NOTE: PLEASE DON'T DRINK MORE THAN A QUARTER). Overall it's a good engine. I am sorry to see you sell the meteor but again we all have different needs. Thank you.(Please don't ride like Rossi).Almost forgot, I too hate the trip meter, and you're right about the silly brightness of that trip meter , though now I keep it in dark mode.
Thank you my friend for such and interesting and considered alternative point of view on the Meteor which I am sure is totally valid in your part of the world. It would be interesting to know where you are - I am guessing India? As for the whisky thanks for the recommendation - I must give it a try next time I ride out on my Bonneville 😂
I enjoyed your video. In addition to a Road King, I own the same bike. I find all your observations valid, but I truly like riding the Meteor. Good luck and ride safe!
If I'd had a bigger bike I WOULD NEVER HAVE disposed of it so quickly....talking of the `Road King....and I am not a Harley Man, are you watching Million Dollar Bogan? Thanks for your comment!
I'm somewhat surprised on views of engine power. I have an interceptor but test drove the classic 350 last week. I found the power amazingly good and took it up to motorway speeds very easily. I wonder if the meteor is slightly detuned? I liked the nimbleness of the classic compared to interceptor and definately on my shopping list!
I was under the impression that the Classic and the Meteor had virtually the same performance - certainly both are limited to 72mph.
@@RobLittleuk Surely thats adequate in the uk with our 70mph speed limit on motorways and dual carriageways and indeed 60mph on most other roads.
@@stevelynes8058 Are you a motorcyclist Steve?
Yes had full motorcycle licence for last 42 years and had numerous bikes during that time of all sizes from 1100cc to an old Yamaha 100cc job back in the 70’s- not sure what model but had chrome tank sides as I recall - YB100???
@@stevelynes8058 if it was a YB the only speed limit you’d have broken was the 30mph.
I like your video, my thoughts exactly, including the tripper which I agree is close to useless? What I am interested to know is what did you replace it with so I don't make the same mistake. thanking you Roger
If you watch my channel tomorrow Roger, you will find out 😉, In the meantime thanks for your comment !
I think it can depend which way you are moving on the cc ladder. I went from 1200 to 650 to 125cc very quickly as cycling took more of my leisure time & the little bike made perfect sense for my commute. The only thing was that with only 12hp it struggled on hills, even dropping the front cog a tooth didn't help too much.
I'll be getting an RE350 soon & expect the extra to suit me just fine, but then l weigh 78kg.
Your choice - if you are used to riding. 125 you should be very comfortable.
I was going to make a similar comment 😏
@@davericketts9101 👍
I think you'll enjoy the Enfield, with bored police and speed cameras everywhere , you'll be on a bike capable of 10 mph short of the national speed limit anyway . I rode the cb125f ( the one honda quite 188mpg ) it actually averaged 130mpg the 12 months I owned it , which is still pretty damn good . An added bonus about the Enfield ( I have the meteor) is that it's low and quite heavy , making it feel like a larger cc bike than it is , so when you load it to tour the weight you carrying makes absolutely no difference at all , where as the cb125 wobbles with weight in the top box because it is so incredibly light. Happy biking. Ed 😁🌞
thanks for an honest review. I am thinking of getting one for town mainly.
did you have any engine problems and was it reliable? Good mpg?
For me the bike was not suitable for my rides.....it is comfortable, smooth and would be absolutely perfect in town. No engine problems and 100mpg !
Was tempted by the looks of a meteor but in two minds about the 20 bhp, thanks for your experiences. On the look out now for a tidy W800.
The W800 is a lovely bike
So, I’m sure you were terrified on your island trip on the Yamaha. It has dismal power and takes how long to get to 70? When you getting rid of it as well? Not trying to be confrontational, but it’s a bit hard to hear bad things on what thousands of people consider to be an incredible bike! Just your opinion vs mine. Happy days!!!
Of course we all just have our opinions. I know that thousands of people think the Meteor is the perfect bike. Not getting rid of the Yamaha - it is not underpowered for what it is and it never sees a highway. Might get rid of the car though - only does 130mph max.... Ride carefully.
Hi Rob,
Good to see a nice messy garage, great bit of decisive decision making being done with you getting rid of the Enfield 350, totally underpowered and the lights are like a Mk 1 Yamaha Fazer, 2 candle power.
I assume that this is the video before getting the Triumph, so have a great safe time with your new bike.
All the Best
Thanks John - it was a year ago but yes think the new T100 comes next!
Sorry to see the end of the road for you and your Meteor, but excited for you and your next ride. In terms of the loss you made on the meteor, I know it’s a lot as a % of purchase price, but at around £1,600 although not insignificant, it’s not a lot more than a top of the range iPhone and in the grand scheme of life, not a huge amount if you are happy with the change. Take care, have fund and all the best to you and Mrs Little as you undertake new adventures on the new wheels 😊
My thoughts exactly.....and I am in the market for an iphone 14 top of the range with 1tb too !! 😄
@@RobLittleuk 😂 Me too, go for it. 📱
As a Meteor 350 owner, myself, totally agree with all the reasons you're moving it on. Visibility on the bike, both in seeing and being seen was bad! So one of the first upgrades I felt necessary was a full LED conversion, which RE did not make easy with all their proprietary electrical bits, I also added auxiliary run/turn lights in front and run/turn/brake in back. Which all helped, I can see better and traffic definitely gives me more room now, whereas before I always felt like I was about to be run over! The Tripper navigator never stays connected for me, so just gave up on it and use my phone.
My main gripe, is the same as yours, it's a little too underpowered for it's own good. I live in the Appalachian mountains in the US, and it's been a delight for long days exploring all the curvy country roads and twisty mountain passes, but is woefully inadequate over 55 MPH and is not quick enough for city riding. Of course you can help it a bit with the DNA air filter, Fuel X tuner, decat pipe, performance cam, and they even make a big bore kit now. Even after all that, it's still only ever going to be a pokey little bike, but it can be quite a fun ride as long as understand it's limitations and strengths.
If you need more grunt than what the Meteor 350 offers you should just look elsewhere - as you're doing. If only RE had seen fit to put the 650 engine in the Meteor initially, it would have been the perfect little light touring bike!
I think there is a reason why these seem to be fairly popular in the flatlands of East Anglia!
And hardly a motorway in sight!
I think the 650 version will be the sweet spot, currently ride a 300 (Actually 321cc) which has 41hp and can easily cope well beyond the legal limit, I don't want to go that fast, but be nice to at least keep up with the traffic.
Hope you are right but much rumour but nothing definite about the 650.
@@RobLittleuk Agreed, only good if you're able to wait :) The T100 is a great choice, just the price that puts me off.
end of december in india they have been testing since 6 months .....
@@RobLittleuk The 650 Meteor is definitely coming.
I picked up a meteor this past summer. It’s my third bike, each one slower than the one before. It’s funny that there is such a wide range of opinion concerning the power. I actually like that it doesn’t have enough hp for the freeway. I’m forced to take the back roads and enjoy the ride. I wouldn’t take it on a cross country trip, but it is quite enjoyable for local rides. Anyway, best of luck on the new bike. I would never criticize someone not wanting to ride a certain motorcycle. RE fans seem to be loyal almost to the point of absurdity.
Ha ha it true what you say about RE fans - it’s like they’ve been found out about the speed but collectively won’t face up to it 😅. I agree about keeping to the back roads but the way this little country is laid out, you sort of need to take a highway to get to the countryside bits. For instance if I take a day through the mountains of wales, unless I want to ride back the same way there is a stretch of highway across the River Severn Bridge to get home again - it’s uncomfortable on there on the Meteor with trucks and buses thundering past you?
The tripper works absolutely fine, the tripper gets all the info from your mobile, so it's your phone thats at fault not the tripper. Your network provider has bad coverage. And once you do the modification the bike does about 85mph, which is fast enough.
Beg to differ - you must be talking about a tripper that has now, much belatedly, been updated. The one I had was like the proverbial chocolate teapot. And 85 mph?? What modification are you talking about. Any suce modification was NOT available 18 months ago when I sold my bike.
I totally agree with the "gutless" sentiment here. I really wanted to like this bike. It's good looking, well built, comfortable, nicely weighted and handles well.
I went for a test ride with the full intention to buy....BUT...
no power! Can't cruise on open roads, can't safely use the motorways, can't accelerate out of trouble quick enough. A big disappointment and I walked away. The newer 650 is much better but is a true cruiser, not the best around town.
This bike is not meant to go on freeways, though it can keep up at 110kmh/70mph. Personally I don't like going any faster than that on a bike. For everything else it's a great bike. Note: if you need a bit more power get the DNA filter kit.
I beg to differ - while this is not a bike anyone should want to ride on the freeway all day, it should be capable of handling stretches from time to time - its a 350 for Cr****sake and even my 125 will do 70!! Yes the bike will do 70 if you are wringing its neck but no faster - it cuts off at 72mph and thats a decision made for political reasons in India. The DNA filter gives a bit more power up to 72mph. But yes, it is a lovely bike but not suited to my needs. I should have worked that out before buying it. I ride with a small engined motorcycle group (up to 125cc) and the 350 did not really fit but when I wanted to do longer trips it did not suit that either. Thanks for your comment.
Whatever you buy has to be a good fit for you. I bought some jeans last week, washed them and wore them, and hated them. Can't take them back, but I learned. Enjoy your new bike.
Very true Don - you can’t get the fitting assistants and more can you? 😅
the engine sounds so good
Rob, do you know if the speed limiter can be removed?
Had I been replying to this a few months ago I'd have said "no" but someone sent me this... th-cam.com/video/qOTZXiBCdA8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=OjRbN2D1pL1kuQZq
Is unfortunate you didn't factor in power to weight when you made your purchase. Twenty bhp is not going to accelerate 21 stone like a 40 + bhp bike. Tripper upgrade is awesome. Enjoy your Triumph.
Thanks your your candid comments - and when my girlfriend is on the back it’s even worse - she is twice my size!! In truth sometimes our enthusiasm runs away with us and we make the occasional disappointing decision in life 😢
@@RobLittleuk So true. It is a lovely machine. (I bought same)There are rumours of a 500 cc model...
@@lancerbiker5263 I started my biking life with a Tiger Cub - it would be nice to have something similar as my last run around as I continue along the path of my dotage !!
@@RobLittleuk Speed seems to loose it's importance as time passes...
@@RobLittleuk Rob, I now have a mental image of You and the girlfriend on the YB trying to drive up Sliabh Liag.....🤣🤣🤣🤣
i have the 350 classic....and yes there is not a lot of power. but i knew that before i bought it and got it purely for the style and sound of the bike. i just love it! perfect for the city and b roads
I still look back on it and think what a lovely bike - while I could have been rash on saying goodbye to it, based on where I live and the rides I do I am obliged to use the motorway for short spells and I felt uncomfortable. Enjoy your Meteor !
Power is relative. I used to make a weekly 250 mile round trip on a Honda 90, and did a 60 mile daily commute on a 250 for years. Compared to those my 350 Classic is a superbike. In reality, it's perfect for back lane bimbling and I avoid dual carriageways and A-roads wherever possible.
@@borderlands6606 in germany sadly its even uncomfortable to drive on a one lane A road with it. 100km/h (65mph) are not a comfortable speed....80km/h (50 mph) is fine. thats the only down side of the bike...the best part is looks, feel and the price
Fascinating video !!I did the exact same thing you did have the exact Royal infield and traded it in for the blue and white t-100 Triumph 2022!!! Meteor is a good bike to ride for reasons you said but the speed is limited in a headwind up a grade to 50 mph.
I love the riding position/feel of the Triumph - the bike is the “ Rolex” of classics!
I always thought the flat seat on the Triumph would be uncomfortable- on the contrary it’s more comfortable than anything else I have ridden
This dude looks just like Goldfinger, the Bond villain.
Thanks Dave - email me a mug shot of your own and I’ll post it and run a competition to see who you look like old chum 🤪
I think some of these comments are nasty and unfair. He clearly says its a good bike and rides nice and smooth but struggles with power which is fair enough. I am speaking as someone who bought one today. Personally I think you can have a lot of fun on a slow bike
Thanks for your comment - hope you enjoy your Meteor!
Just buying one taking all into consideration but as I am also buying an 800 GT BMW for serious riding, the meteor will be my popping to the shops transport and most of your issues won’t affect my enjoyment of old school biking with no oil leaks.
Good you were honest and each person has his own opinions most reviews are full of praise within its limitations, happy biking to you
Thanks Kevin
The bike may be a 350, but it is only around 21hp. Not much more than my Yamaha XT250. I think your expectations may have been a little inflated.
In hindsight of course you are right
@@RobLittleuk as my Dad used to say: "hindsight is always 20:20" Best of luck with the new bike. It has around 60+ hp so power shouldn't be a problem.
Really appreciate your effort thanks
👍
I'm happy doing 60 mph everywhere and no more , it's only a little engine don't bully it !!
Fair play I am with you and while I owned the bike I treated it with respect. But…..it’s a bit inconvenient on the odd occasion when you are obliged to take a “highway” eg when crossing the Severn Bridge. Heavy trucks thundering by at 70mph can be a little disconcerting don’t you think? Thanks for your comment!
@@RobLittleuk I guess it depends on your state of mind, trucks can only do 56mph so you could shadow one . I've just got home last night from a trip from Hatfield Hertfordshire to penryn nr Falmouth Cornwall , during the trip I covered just over 800 miles and never felt the need for more speed . I think these bikes only really have a happy cruising speed of 55 or 60 with the 16 tooth front sprocket. Of course my st1300 would have cruised at 100+ but you miss the world you are rolling though . I would concede these Enfield bikes aren't for everyone , but if you want to soak up more as you roll through the lanes , towns and villages it's economic touring ( I recommend the 16t , best tankfull on trip 103 mpg ) . Safe riding, enjoy the summer , and petrol bikes before our idiot dictators take the internal combustion engine away 😁😁🌞🌞
@@edwardwilliammorris1340 Thanks for your comment and as for the lack of speed and seeing more, this is why I am off to do the NC500 on my 1989 YB100 and 2-stokes must be well up the list to ban 😃
If you search out the various Royal Enfield engines tested on an actual Dyno you’ll find the Euro 5 detuning they have done to the motors has a severe impact on motor performance. The 350 singles are hit just about the hardest with beteen 20-25% less horse power delivered varying with bike tested and of course a corresponding loss in actual torque delivered than Royal Enfield advertises and sells these motorcycles as. Triumph uses a different process to meet Euro 5 rather than a simple motor detuning or running everything very lean across the whole ECU map so a Dyno tested horsepower and torque delivered result should be closer to what you paid for in comparison.
Thanks for your comment.....actually just watched a TEC Parts video all about this - and the restrictive cam in the new Triumph T100 that I bought as a replacement! Big Brother is watching us !
I would love to find an aftermarket “retuner”. I don’t need Euro 5 compliance here in the US
@@ChadWinters apparently Brazil is the place to go- that’s not far is it? 😀
Correct
Finally, a truthful review, thank you!
I try ! The Meteor boys (not RE boys) take the view that the Meteor is as infallible as the Pope.... In truth it looks beautiful, is pretty well made, very comfortable and suited to a Sunday afternoon chug around the lanes. But ask it to go on the motorway.....even briefly as most of us need occasionally.....no way José ! So it is a niche bike not an all rounder.
Not strictly true i fear, i have no doubt that hes telling the truth but my own meteor was very disappointing when i first got it but that i was assured by a pal a bike mechanic that i should stick with it as they need around 12 miles to loosen up, and now i have 1600 miles on it and its not a sports bike but it isn’t slow by any means , the factory restricted top speed of 70 is ok but the lack of flexibility at 70 is a little worrying if ur that way inclined as i am so i will wait until a re chip is available for it but have temporarily de restricted it myself for now until a pro re tune can be had it gets better with every mile and will do 70 all day even two up , the rear shocks are i think a bit over spring because thats got much better since i passed the 1000 mile mark i worries about how my life was going when i first bought it but I absolutely love the little bugger now and surprise surprise its a pretty good hill climber now its running in
@@NoelRoots-t1u Interesting comment - thanks !
Watching your Triumph Bonneville T100 video. It's hard to find gears that would fit us. I'm new on this world of motorcycle and book myself a meteor 350. I think its good for a starter bike for me. But finding a gears to wear is difficult just to have a safe riding. I also notice your using an HJC i90 helmet which I have as well.
I hope and would appreciate if you make some videos of the gears you use in your ride.
With proper research, you could have known what type of roads and traffic scenarios the meteor was designed for. Like some others have observed you appeared a bit angry, and the way you spoke to your wife was disrespectful. You didn't even edit out that exchange.
I was pissed off about my wrong choice - but the Meteor is not made for English country roads it’s to be ridden on the roads of India which are even worse than our roads. As for my relationship with my wife that’s none of your ******* business - clearly you have no comprehension of “black humour” - the situation was staged we often have interactions in my vids.
@@RobLittleuk Rob I dont agree with people being nasty and personal towards you in this way ,so as a complete outsider i dont need to be pleasant to these turds and so keeping it plight they can go F themselves from me.
@@johnbellamy6449 Thank you for your support, John. My sentiments exactly. I believe Morris Midgley must be a troll 🤪
I’ll tell you what, Rob, if that has been my missus you’d have been wearing your breakfast.
It was a staged incident to incite such a response as yours but there has only been one other. Guess everyone else must have seen that as entirely normal. Behaviour 😳😀
I was going to buy one of these as my first bike, but I'm glad I steered clear. I went for a triumph speed 400 instead !
Its a pretty bike - and comfortable - both prob more than the Speed but then there is a "BUT"...
A 350 cc single that is speed restricted? How ridiculous! I can understand why you are getting rid.
Well...
Why did you buy it in the first place? Royal Enfield is pretty transparent when it comes to the performance of this bike.
Ignoring your comment - not repeating the same old answer to a very unoriginal question
@@RobLittleuk Did you ignore it by replying to it? I guess the question has been asked by others, sorry, I don’t read the whole comment section, not enough time for that. All the best and enjoy your new bike.
Rob sorry to hear your time with the Meteor ended. I have owned mine 11 months now. I agree with you on a lot of points. It certainly could use more power. There is absolutely no reason in the world for a bike this size and this horse power rating to have a speed limiter. It makes no sense. The headlight is terrible. In this age of LED lights its ridiculous how poor it is. I still love my Meteor as it does everything I ask it to do. No freeway driving. Just two lane country cruising. It gives me hours of enjoyment. I am in the process of upgrading the headlight to an LED. Enjoy your new ride and stay safe out there.
Dennis don’t get me wrong I loved the Meteor too. It’s just that to get to some of these rural roads through wales etc you sort of need to get on the highway at some
Point Thanks for your comment!
You hit the nail on the head. Trouble is that Interceptor/W800/Triumph 900 are too heavy and the modern style 300/400s are still marginal on power. A trad. KTM 590/RE500 might do it, but there are no such things. Mash 650 Classic might be worth a look but that Honda 500 engine was a bit dull.
👍
The meteor/classic 350 needs a rework for the European market..
A weight reduction: 191kg/195kg wet for an air-cooled 350cc bike is too much.. Loose 10kg on both bikes.. So they get down to 181kg/185kg ..
Then the lack of power:
Can't believe that in 2022 a 350cc long stroke single makes less power than 1 horse pr cubic inch..
The bikes need 14% more power and 10% more torque.. Numbers like 23bhp/30Nm should be accesible within the design and engine size.
The Scram 411 gets 15% more power without any modifications other than a new camshaft built by TEC parts in the UK.. and 20% more power with a better exhaust and air-filter fitted.
You sound like you know what you're talking about !
I think it's meant for the congested Urban Indian streets.
Probably
I've traded in my Meteor for a T120 after 8 months. It's a beautiful bike but wouldn't do all I wanted.
You and me both - I opted for the T100
I think a DNA filter system (10% more HP), a 16 tooth front sprocket and a windscreen would get you 80 MPH that you were looking for.
Thanks for your advice !
I don't recognise this critique at all. I tour the Pyrenees either side of the Franco/Spanish border on, yes you've guessed it, a Meteor.
I bought it knowing it's figures and boy hasn't it lived up to expectations. I should add that I weigh 68kgs.
Sorry you don’t agree with my comment. I take it you are happy with the lights? How does it feel at 80mph? Young lad like you no wonder you can do a ton on it - you need to eat a few more pies 🤣
@@RobLittleuk I'm 70yrs and whilst I use motorways as required I prefer to use national roads and stick to 80kph (50mph).
My Meteor is reliable, economical and very comfortable...........can't ask for more.
Oh come on now you have moved the goal posts. The Meteor IS a comfortable bike. It IS economical. And chuntering along at 50mph the performance is similar to my XSR125. Shere are you from?
@@RobLittleuk I cruise along just as I want to. If I need to use an autopista I use it and my Madge, that's her name, handles 120kph no problem. In fact last June I rode from Narbonne (France) to Figueres (Spain) totally by motorway because there was a forecast storm passing through. So, when needs be trash it, but by choice cruise it and simply enjoy the ride. Simple!
@@raykenna8489 I’m always fascinated by people who give their motorcycles a name of an aged aunt…..Maud, Agnes, Gladys etc? Very odd? Actually I was on that very autoroute myself exactly a week ago - must have been terrifying for you being inundated with cars and trucks either side of you. Assume you live down there so at least you have the weather in your favour!
Hope you did your homework before buying the Triumph!
Well no bike is perfect but this time I used my head....
What a moan that was. I have had mine over a year and covered nearly 6000 miles, I find the power is adequate. I don't know why you didn't notice this on the test ride. Anyway you are in a minority, the Meteor is loved by many owners all over the world.
NO! Actually I am not in a minority. The meteor is a great bike, agreed. But the owners are blind to its inadequacies (all bikes have them) thinking its the best thing since sliced bread. It ain't me old mate...
I see, so we only think we like it but you know better and I am not your old mate.
@@jamesbarrie2458 No chappie.....i was being sarcastic as fuck thought you'd realise that you seem smart guy
Lol, just came across this from watching your Scotland videos... On a 35 year old bike that makes even less power.🙃 But I do really get the point about having enough power to keep up with modern traffic, which is why I ride a Moto Guzzi V7 and why I haven't either at this stage got an Enfield 350. Looking at the comments, there are a lot of negatives which is an oblique way of pushing a video I have in the works following 2wheeled Willie's thoughts on internet negativity. (shameless self promotion ha!) Keep an eye out!
surely you had a test ride before you bought it.
Thanks for your message but I’m not revisiting this - the answer is in previous comments.
AUTHOR COMMENT - A number of people have kindly eluded to the fact that my fatness makes me unsuited to ride the Meteor!
You may be right but then "my other bike" is a 35 year old oil burner - a Yamaha YB100 and that took me nearly 2000 miles round Ireland in June (th-cam.com/play/PLeWxAfTo3yHQtW1vXAVnXvdWzARxmLLM5.html).
No excuses though.....fat bastards need to lose weight.
Horribly insensitive comments by the way. I love my Himalayan and bought it knowing about the lack.of power, but thats ok w me as I don't intend to take it on highways...just a commuter and back road and motocamping explorer. Get what makes you feel happy and comfortable and safe. I go slow slow so I'm fine w everyone passing me.
@@FL-PHILLIP Horribly insensitive? Sorry to have offended you Phillipa
@@RobLittleuk sorry i should clarify my comment. I was commenting on how insensitive the comments were about your weight. I apologize for the misunderstanding.
@@FL-PHILLIP ooohps - well appreciate your concern but fat people tend to attract that kind of moronic comment - I’m used to it!
Sorry to see the Meteor going but, if you are not happy with the bike then the enjoyment of riding is gone.
I’m sure your next bike will bring back what you are looking for when biking. Stay safe Rob.
Thanks Mike hope to catch up soon!
Pity you were unaware of any of these issues before buying one, my rule of thumb riding 45 years, never buy a bike until you know exactly it's good/bad points and it's capabilities, and what you want to do with it, for many people this particular bike will be perfect. good luck with your next purchase
Thanks for your hugely sensible advice Mark - I sort of was aware of some of the issues but thought I could live with them in fact I still look lovingly at the Meteor and the Classic 350. When I grow up a bit I may adopt a more mature approach to purchasing motorbikes - I’m 72 been riding since I was 16 😮
Sad to see you parting with the Meteor but to each his own. I wish you many pleasurable and safe miles on your new bike.
By the bye, I won’t be parting with my Meteor…love it.
Take care and ride safe 👍✌
Don’t be sad - I enjoyed the Meteor but time to move on 😊
Am I missing something here? You've ridden a YB100 2500 miles and think a modern 350 isn't man enough for your needs?
Personally I haven't touched the dizzy heights of 70mph on a bike for YEARS and don't miss it at all.
You've got me hooked to see what you've bought to replace your Enfield. My hunch says a cb500x.
Good luck and happy riding!
It’s all about constant stimulation and excitement…..always seek change albeit the YB will NEVER be sold. The missus has been with me for 50 years so must be allowed some fun in compensation!! 🤩😀😅
Sometimes you just Need that Extra Bit
Of power for an Overtake .. it does not
Mean you are going over 70mph everywhere . my Honda 500 has a Bit in
Reserve when Needed..& a speed Limiter is not great when you are Halfway trying to get past a Truck on
a Dual carrigeway. .🚛🏍
@@jefflambert8603 You are right Jeff
I would point out that 350s are not what they were - eg the old Triumph Tiger 90 was a 350cc and the 90 signified it would do 90mph !! Bet your Jawa would have beaten my Enfield !
@@RobLittleuk the point of that Meteor is that you're out of the speed game. Surely you realised that before you bought one. If I'm stuck behind someone doing 50 I drop back and chill. If i want to go up and down motorways I've got a car for that. My J has the performance of the GP125 I owned in my learner days, the difference being its lazy engine operating below 4500rpm in order to do so. Plus it's much more comfy, better braked and stable AND uses less petrol. 70-75 mpg.
Sounds like you bought the wrong bike.
Yes and I was delighted with it to start with !
You obviosly did not do your homework,a 650 may manage your power too weight ratio a lot better.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Allen - obviously had a 650 existed when I was in the market for the Meteor, I would have made the choice you suggested. And your referral to power to weight ratio - lets assume you are a wirey little chap Allen, would you mind sharing the top speed you are able to squeeze out of the Meteor?
It's certainly the biggest problem with the classic and meteor, not enough power to pull the skin off a rice pudding 😁. Different strokes the different folks. I detect some sodium in the comments, had to laugh at your girlfriend comment 😂. Looking forward to seeing your new steed, triumph rocket!! 🤣
Daym….you spoilt my next video (out Monday!!)
Acceleration rate is very negatively affected by excess weight. Know what I'm saying?🙂
Kind of you to point that out but I think I already had in the video. What acceleration and top speed figure were you able to achieve as a lithe chap or was it just your aim to have a laugh. Not clever and not even funny sunny jim !
@@RobLittleuk Right now I know I'm at least 5 stone over weight. If I had my old YB100 it would seem even more uncomfortable. Its difficult to keep one's weight down but its your responsibility. I would never blame anyone else for my weight nor get angry that someone pointed out the bleed'in obvious (at least if they did it with a smile emoji and not a laugh). I was thinking that acceleration is not a fair criticism. You had some good points that nobody's mentioned in reviews but as to power you must have known it was slow before you bought it.
@@xtc2v When I bought it I was impressed with the comfort. I knew it was not quick but where I live in certain circumstances you are obliged to use the motorway - not sure where you are but The Severn Bridge for example. Not to clever being on a two lane motorway bridge with a gusting wind at 65mph with trucks sweeping past? Hence my reluctant decision. In fairness my enormity would have made no difference to the top speed and little difference getting there.
@@RobLittleuk I'm in Norfolk. We don't have any motorway here (thankfully). No hills to climb either as its mostly flat. Norfolk is a spiders web of delightful back roads and small villages. My classic Honda C70 is smooth and economical BUT the handlebar width is uncomfortably narrow for my shoulders. The "bars" are a casting on these and so nothing can be done except look for something else. A reluctant decision!
@@xtc2v well good luck in your quest to find something more suitable
Trucks are limited to 56 mph so not sure how you get overtaken.
Really? Not sure what it was passing me then.....must have been hallucinating
@@RobLittleuk Yes really, all trucks 7.5 ton and over are limited.
Some folks are never satisfied
oooh.....don't you just know it.....why can't we be like the russians and just shut up, think ourselves lucky and accept our lot for what it is....? ** Sigh **
@@RobLittleuk 👍
Hey maybe shave off that massive gut and you'll get more performance from your vehicle being under less load, you can also install a front sprocket to increase max speed. its actually a lot cheaper than getting a new bike
Oi ya bearded Yank - button it.....
Im sorry you had to go through this my friend! Its not cool to buy something and feel you were Robbed!
But in the end it was my fault...."let the buyer beware"
Never been a fan of small cruisers, which are something of an oxymoron. On the other hand, people get obsessed over stats and what a 350 "should" be capable of. I have the Classic 350, which I think of as a torquey, low revving 175 in terms of output, and adjust my expectation accordingly. Some riders wring the neck of the J-series engine, especially on back roads, and it seems to put up with the abuse. All that said, it's hard to know why people put racing cams and air filters on, when top speed is a basic engine management issue at Enfield's end.
As for your last sentence, you are SO right !! Ludicrous ! And the Classic - what a beautiful bike. I thought the Meteor would suit me but sadly not.
To be fair, with your weight on board, most 350s would struggle to perform to your expectations.
Thanks so much for your helpful comment....you could have been even more helpful if you had recommended a bike that might suit me. Don't say a Rocket lll - too much money.
Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2 wheels.
You know something, you are right but it seems in this case its the Indian Government Regulations.....
if you lost some weight it might have helped
Poor bike
Your candour is taken as a positive suggestion although I am not sure how losing weight would help the lights, tripper or speed limiter? But thanks for your comment.
@@markfraser6307 If that was just meant as an insulting jibe....eff off.
You need a reality check partner.
Oh go on…..it would be a pleasure to accept some advice from an expert.
You should have buyed interceptor 650
You are probably right!! Thanks for your comment!
Dragons den here I come
Dial socks 😂
I totally understand as the speed is a reason I haven't bought this lovely looking bike.
I have to do some motorway and dual carriageway riding and the bike taking 11 seconds to reach 70 from 60 wouldn't be ideal.
And I'd like to be going up hill at 70, not 60.
I rarely go faster than 70 but I want to do it and I don't want the bike spluttering if I'm doing 72 on the clock.
If I never touched these fast roads I'd be happy with one.
But unfortunately I have to if I use the bike for getting to work or a trip to the coast.
Trouble is I got caught up with the hype last year and it is a lovely bike but not for me, sadly.
@@RobLittleuk yeah I almost did.
I love the look of the classic and I rarely take my 650 over the speed limit but like this bike, I just know it's going to be that tad too slow uphills and accelerating for me.
I had a ninja 250 before and that engine was just right for my needs. If that engine was in this then it would be my ideal bike.
Check out a Honda Rebel 500. Much more power.
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I don't think it's the lights are dim ???? You buy a 20hp 350 and moan it won't go over 73mph.....😂😂 hysterical.... I had dr350s xt350s that you didn't go over those speeds especially cruising... rubbish negative review
Bollocks to you sunny James! You think the lights are not dim? You're about the only one - do you ride blind? And if you owned a DR350 and an XT350 - and I'd hardly call them cruisers - you should know their top speed is over 80mph. If you knew what you were talking about you would have cottoned on to the fact that the Meteor 350 is not ALLOWED to exceed 73mph. You are, indeed, hysterical Mr Troll, foldy role...😅😆🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪
20hp seems very low !!
My Kawasaki J300 scooter is more powerful !!
Exactly!
My Honda sh300 scooter will show 95 on clock and is no slouch getting to 70 and feels fast at only 24 bhp. I’m glad I never bought one of these. From the age of 16 I just wanted more performance but nowadays 70 bhp is a sweet spot on my 650 the same as my honda 750/4 in the day
@@volt8684 If you ignore the fact that a 350 should be more powerful, the bike does have a place - comfy, looks nice and will chug around the lanes. That being said my XSR125 will give it a run for the money
Nice to watch an honest review of a RE. The 350 is too underpowered, a motorcycle needs a bii of go! Even my Honda 300 scooter out accelerates most cars up to 60, will cruise at 70 and hit 80mph. Would be nice if RE made a Classic 500 producing 40 hp, then I might be interested.
Sadly I learned the hard and expensive way 🤬
The RE‘s are all overweight. While the 650‘s are only overweight, the 350‘s are both, overweight and massively underpowered. They are partners that are of outstanding beauty but otherwise of no help at all.
Yes, if you can afford it, they are nice second, third, … bikes for city travel and short overland tours only, just like 125‘s. The power (hp) to weight ratio of my 2002 Honda Shadow VT 125 is 0.09375 hp/kg compared to the 350 Meteor‘s 0.104 hp/kg which is only marginally better, i.e a plus of 0.01 hp/kg.
Postscript: that 125 cc drivers are permanently on diet is a running gag here in Europe. I‘m 65 still, so I‘m not in a position to make ugly jokes, but the affairs of ol‘ men and Royal Enfield‘s 350 bikes all end in tragedy: overweight and underpowered old men being very disappointed by their overweight and underpowered lover bikes.
I'm worse at Math than I am at mechanicing ! So my XSR125 is 140kg and the power is 14.9HP what is the ratio please?
I know how you feel. Lots of good things about your bike but the negative things can be too much
It’s a shame Andrew 🥲
Ok you don’t like it much, but your arguments are irritating.
Sorry about that - the minor flaws irritated me.
Fud.
🤪 🤬
This is an ignoramus.What he knows about classic single cylinder m/cycles could be put on a pin head The truthis ,the bike is excellent,and he needs to loose 4 stone,get fit,and stop talking.
And you, my friend, are a female part and an effing rude one at that
It’s about time somebody got real reviews on RE crap bikes as it’s pure hysteria. Almost all vloggers doing RE. Give them all comparable cc/bhp as jap bikes