Why The Royal Enfield 650 super meteor is their best bike yet!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 มิ.ย. 2023
- The Super meteor left a big impression on me when I tested it earlier this year and I have been trying to put my finger on the reason why. Also why have Triumph not been able to create a down to earth quality machine like this?
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PATREON. / stuartfillingham - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
One consistant comment from reviewers and youtubers about Royal Enfield bikes, all models, is that they enjoyed the ride, it made them smile. There's a lesson in that for other manufacturers.
Indeed! For years it has been all about performance and don´t get me wrong. Performance and fast bikes can be fun too but one simply can´t use all that on ordinary roads without either killing yourself or worse, someone else. There is something undefinable about RE bikes AND the pricetag doesn´t show that. One would think that cheaper bikes automatically are rubbish and lacking a bit of everything but here we go. Look at this. Charming, basic and no nonsense. Bravo RE!
We choose what we like and we chop and change.
This Enfield take on the cruiser style is way more European freindly.
Big heavy cruisers are great on the motorways but not on b roads.
This 650 is small enough to enjoy the bends .
PS I own a big bore cruiser
It's true. I have a classic 350 2022. I smile when I ride it. It's a great town bike up to 100kmph. But that's it! I'm enjoying it more now that it's not my only bike.
I came to Enfield in 2019 when I bought a interceptor it rekindled my enthusiasm for motorcycles and motorcycleing I'd been riding Ducatis for year's and had got bored with all the electronics to much weight and to much power
Since the interceptor I've owned a Himalayan, meteor and now Super Meteor all of which are excellent motorcycles
Enfield have done a great job producing excellent motorcycles at an affordable price
...could not agree more. bought one after my first 2hr test ride. Such a pleasant and fun bike!
Its the slowest motorcycle you can buy. It can easily keep up with traffic but every time I stop I get drawn I get drawn into long conversations with strangers telling me how pretty it is and wanting to talk about it. Spent half an hour at a morrisons talking to a Harley owner who fell in love with it. Its pretty in an understated way, no flash or bling sort of like an old jag or alfa.
So its slower than a 50cc?
@@warrenhancock5742 yes except your makinf people happy instead of slowing traffic and pissing them off
50, 125, 250, 350, 500's, and some other 650's are slower than these!
@@Mo-xx9gg r/woosh ;)
I get exactly the same reaction, strangers of all ages just want to talk about it.
I used to hate cruisers, then one day I suddenly got it. Now at 64 I just ride cruisers. Love the Super Meteor.
I agree - a Meteor would have been the last thing I would have looked at, had it not been for an injury. Now I love it, and the other 4 bikes are in the garage gathering dust! Funny old world...
Royal Enfield is run by a enthusiast.
Triumph by corporate suits.
I swapped from a GSX S1000 to this, I saw it in the flesh and took it for a test ride, instantly fell in love! I've never chuckled so much while riding such a playful engine, done many 200+ mile days super comfortable and has never missed a heartbeat! You will get stopped by people asking about this bike as its gorgeous. RE have knocked it out of the park with this, 100% an absolute joy to ride !
I'm a big fan of this bike. I had booked it earlier but my finances aren't sorted enough as a 26 year old to be able to afford this yet. My dream bike! 😍
You'll definitely have it one day for yourself bro, just believe in your hard work ❤
Keep at it. By the time you have some money saved, hopefully a 2nd hand one will become available that will save you some $$.
Find yourself a used Meteor in the meantime?
Dream on👍
At 42, I still dream to ride this beast.Its loved across all the age groups.
I'm impressed about the styling, but what really does surprise are the quality, it's quietly gone up, and now as good as any other top brand, they have really turned the company around.
Took delivery of my Interstellar Green about 4 weeks ago here in New Zealand. My last motorcycle was a Yamaha XS850 which I sold in 1988. As a returning rider I find the Super Meteor brilliant, albeit the very firm rear suspension which has launched me off the seat on the odd occasion! I like the styling, the adequate power, the sound, the tripper, the ease of servicing, the finish, ......... well, I just like it. At 61 years old I'm not interested in a go-fast lean forward bike anymore. A HD was of interest, but for the same price I'd need to buy a 10 year old one with an unknown history. Looking forward to getting some panniers on it and clocking up some mileage. Well done RE.
Hi
I'm no longer a bike rider but really enjoy your videos.
My first bike after passing my motorcycle test in 1965 was a 6 year old Royal Enfield Constellation 700.
I was heavily chastised by my would be ton-up mates for buying a "Connie", not a "Dommi", or a "Bonnie". I was told it would disintegrate if ridden for more than a 1 mile @ 90mph, & possibly couldn't reach a ton (which it couldn't - only 40bhp, if that!)
It was said to be the ideal old man's cruiser which in my version with airflow fairing (soon disposed of), it certainly was, having been owned from new by such a man.
However I rode it regularly up to London & back (250mile round trip, for work) before the M3 & M25 were built, every week for 3 years while attending college. It never let me down, provided I spent roughly an hour a week checking it over, & cleaning it. But there again I never cruised more than 70-75mph, which in any event was precluded by the fairly upright riding position. (Would have put ace bars on, but then I would have had to change the footrests which unfortunately we're already too far forward for my tastes! It regularly returned 50-55mpg, and was by far the best bike I've ever owned.
I must have at least 12, and ridden at least 20 or so bikes, before hanging up my helmet on my wife's insistence after the birth of my 4th child in the early 80's.
And my last bike was, the 2nd best bike I ever owned - Yamaha XS750 (another disrespected heavy lump?)
I can only wholeheartedly agree with you, Stuart. I had the good fortune to test ride a Super Meteor at an event a couple of weeks ago, along with many other bikes. And it was easily the biggest surprise of the day. So much so that I'm contemplating dropping my love for scramblers and actually buying a cruiser. To me, it was fantastic!
My wife's a really big lump so had to go with a Speedmaster with it's 1200 engine and spoked wheels instead. We may look like Bernie Ecclestone with Mama Cass on the back but it works.
And she let you get away with posting that comment???? I'd have to meet this woman! Any of my ex's would have had a fit! LOL
Traded my interceptor chrome mk2 for the super meteor 2 months ago, and it's true the fit and finish, the ride is just another level.
Great video again
Stuart.
Picking up my Astral Green SM650 this afternoon! Loved the looks and quality. The test ride confirmed my suspicions, certainly quick enough for this sixty nine year old! I enjoy the comfort of feet forward controls too, not just for knees, but makes paddling the bike, when parking, so much easier too.
I've got just over a thousand miles on my SM. Fantastic machines. Many happy miles to you.
Got mine in March! Fab bikes! 👌
@@FATBOY692011 - cheers Kev. Day three and I'm grinning from ear to ear and that's while I'm still running in!
How's the new bike doing? My SM due anytime.@@NickStaib
@@louhmx1136 - very good bike. I swapped out the air filter for a DNA free flowing filter and it actually feels and sounds more fun!
Got mine in April this year and absolutely love it. I traded in my interceptor for it. Don't get me wrong, I would've loved to have kept the Interceptor but just had no space to keep it. It is a step up in quality over the Interceptor though, and light years ahead of my Himalayan! I'd never entertained a cruiser style bike before either but I just got old. Now in my mid 60's the Super Meteor just feels right. And like the RE corporate logo says, it is 'Built Like A Gun'. It handles well, goes and stops well, 70+MPG, is comfortable to ride until the tank needs filling up again (or in my case, when I need to empty my bladder). And most importantly, the wife says the pillion seat and sitting position is great! Only thing I can criticise, is the rear rear shocks are a bit too stiff, even on the lowest preload setting. Apart from that, What's not to like?
In your case though Stuart, I can see your T120 leaving Fillingham towers?
Thanks!. Just got my Super Meteor 650 in America about two weeks ago. I had to drive to pick up from the West Coast to bring back to central Montana. Riding weather is over, but I take out when it's warm enough. Thank you for your reviews. You are the reason I purchased this and became a motorcyclist.
Cheers!
Glad I could help! and Thank You!
Love your reviews, so honest, like we're allowed inside your head, it's ok to change as we 'mature' 😅😅 it's progress, go with your heart 💘❤️ xx happy riding 🎉
Thank you!! 😊
Good Morning Stu , a very good review on this bike , i think it will be a winner for Royal Enfield , but my own choice would be the intercepter every time , take care & ride safe
2200 hrs in California Stuart why are you keeping us up over here??!!
I'm a regular viewer of Salty Cracker. He starts at 4.30pm, California time...that's 12.30am, here in England. I usually have to rewind and watch some of his show, in the morning, 'cos I pass out half way through 😂
I've had my "cruiser epiphany" when I was 20 or 21 years old and I test rode an Yamaha 900 (I can't recall the model's name) which I could not afford or mantain back then.
Even though I've owned other types of bikes when I was younger for mere market circumstances, that first feeling of commfort and aplomb that only a cruiser can provide never left me.
Now I'm 49, never stopped riding in about 30 years consecutively and I can be happy and proud to say that since 2005 I never owned any bike that wasn't a cruiser and I intend to stay this way until the finish of my riding days (hopefully may years from now).
On your other video regarding to the Super Meteor you said you were becoming some sort of "convert", Stu. Now you seem to confirm that tendency. I wait for the moment I'll be able to welcome you among the cruiser crowd. I guarantee you won't regret becoming one of "us", not because of us of course, but because of the feelings related to a cruiser motorcycle. 😉
All the best from Brazil.✌
Let the Bobber go, that would leave you a 650 Int, 500 Bul and 350 Clas. I started off looking at Orange Crush Int, moved to 2023 Int moved on to SM 650 as my final choice. I have big miles to chew up on the continent each year and after years on a big Harley let it all go to get back to the real feel inside from riding. Great video 👍🙏
The more I see and look at these bikes, the more ok I get with the styling and start to appreciate it more. Knowing the 650 engine well I'm really liking it more and more. Might have to get it one day lol. Great video sir. Well said.
Hi Uncle Stu, big fan from Singapore who had been following you and very thankful to have been introduced to the wonderful Royal Enfield brand through your channel. Cheers!
I love the Super Meteor and agree with what you said (was a little surprised you didn’t rave about it as much a few Weeks ago when you had a it for a spell but knew deep down inside that this bike would get in your mind! 😅)
If I had the motorcycles you own it would be the Triumph Bobber I would replace with the Super Meteor (after you have completed the customisation of course).
I'm not in the market for a modern bike and I don't really like the look of the Super Meteor but I would be SERIOUSLY tempted by a Classic 650 if/when they make one.
I seriously doubt they'll ever make a Classic 650. Now a new J-Series 500 Yeah probably, at least that's what myself and most of the Indian population is hoping for. They REALLY miss the Big Bike over there and it would definately be a better choice IMHO. The Bullet/Classic always has been a single so until then I just enjoy my Classic 350 with a few judicious mods. Hitchcock's has a new cam that increases power 24%, up to a little over 26 hp. That's almost where the 500 was prior. And HP does not the Classic make. Ya need to throw a leg over one. It's not anywhere near what it looks like on paper. And I own a '22 Chrome-Bronze
Word on the street is, the Classic 650 is in the works. Perhaps 2024 or 2025?
It has been spotted testing what looks like a classic 650.
@@panzarybasumatary8133 A Classic isn't a Classic unless it's a single. I would never consider buying one. I'd go find either a Classic 500 or Conti GT 535, both are a little scarce here in the States used
Classic 650 is spotted multiple times in testing in India. My friend got to see one in real.
So many people talk about how great that LED headlight is, but I prefer the standard one from the Inteeceptor. I need them to start putting those taillights on Interceptors though, so clean!
When you talk of a light bulb moment, I know what you mean Stu; I always had sports bikes, and would not look at anything else in my ignorance, but one day I had gone to test ride a new Ducati, and when I returned from the test ride I asked if I could take their 620 Multistrada out for a test, just for the experience, but it changed me for ever! The Multi was so comfortable and I could actually look behind me. From that day, there was no more sports bikes for me.
Hi Stuart, love the channel, I've got the green and black version the same as you test rode. I've had a few royal enfield now, but the sm is my favourite of them all(have classic 500 as well). I got my bike about six weeks ago and have covered over 1100 miles in that time. Of all the motorcycles I've owned(65+) this is my favourite. I first saw the super meteor at the Scottish motorcycle show and was smitten then, even bought the same colour of one of the show bikes. Like you Stuart I was not a fan of cruisers, rode a few of them when I spent a while as a motorcycle mechanic,some were let's face it damn heavy and handled like a cruise ship. I test rode the sm and fell in love with it. This bike gets taken out every chance I get and commute to work on it as well. The bike I've found is all day comfy and has enough real world power. Go on Stuart pull the plug on one, but the choice of which one of your other bikes to let go will be a tough one. 🤔
Although my brother and his friends rode Triumphs and BSA’s I too, by the time I came of age, was weaned on Japanese Bikes. Cheap and Reliable. I really like my Suzuki Boulevard C50 but having ridden the interceptor 650 and liking the power train over the Suzuki , the Super Meteor will be the replacement bike for the Boulevard. I just hope that someone with come out with a good aftermarket upgrade to the rear suspension on the Meteor and offer a floor board option. With floor boards the heal/toe shifter is natural and intuitive. My 350 Classic is a permanent fixture until I stop riding and maybe even then but the 650 Super Meteor will expand my riding options, especially two up. My wife loved riding on the back of the 350 Meteor we rented but I wanted a bit more horsepower. So I figure she has already given thumbs up to the Super Meteor.
I returned to biking 2 years ago when I got a small inheritance. I eventually bought a BMWR1250R as I like naked bikes. However, I came close to getting a RE bike. This video makes me feel I made a mistake, although the BM is a superb machine to ride. I am attracted to simplicity. A good honest bike, that one can ride all day, in comfort, with adequate performance, and cheap to buy and run. Thanks for this video. Also it is a lovely looking machine.
Interesting comments about Triumph. Last year, before I bought the Interceptor, I’d been without a bike for a while, (kept “giving up riding”, but as you know it’s something in your DNA. Anyway, went to my local Truimph dealer, who’d better remain nameless, to take a good look at the Bobber as I’ve always liked the style of the thing. I never rode it - the sales guy said to me, quote,, “I wouldn’t bother, it’s bloody uncomfortable”. So I didn’t!
@@Shadrach666 I rather think your missing the point of my post! You might find the Rocket more comfortable if, like me, you have footboards, rather than pegs. I would never have been able to tour, esp in the Alps and Pyrenees without the movement footboards allow.
@@Shadrach666 My fault, apologies, I thought you were trying to teach me to suck eggs! By the way, I’m 18.5 stone and 6ft 4ins.
@@Shadrach666 have to say- I look a bit ridiculous on it and really ought to get rid. Sounds stupid, but I just love the style and engineering.
My physical presence on it rather ruins things!
@@Shadrach666 I’ve just realised that the rather glamorous woman who was demonstrating the Rocket for Triumph at Goidwood last year - (my first time, go if you get the chance it’s utterly brilliant and up close), this woman looked great on it - she must have been about 5’10, it fitted her perfectly and was all in proportion of the bike.
Excellent video Stuart! I have considered swopping my Harley for one as the maintenance costs are rather high compared to the Enfield- as well as a reduction in the weight.
I went from a Fat Boy, Soft Tail and a Sportster to an Interceptor and a REborn Classic 350... both are the most fun I ever had on two wheels.
I've taken note of how this bike has slowly grown on you since your first video covering it. Indeed, the more I look at it, the more it strikes me as something of an "anti-cruiser" - by this I mean it takes a more relaxed attitude without the cartoonish excesses of way too many cruiser-style motorcycles of the 1980s. It seems like RE has hit the head on the nail (as y'all say Over There) yet again. As far as your garage roster is concerned, I suppose we'll have to wait and see, yes?
It looks like a 1960s British bike for US export, a low-slung middleweight with higher bars and more chrome.
Nail on the head
I dont think garages need planning permission in the UK a small extention on the back for another bike wouldnt hurt to much😂 my Dad parked one of his bikes in front of the car and one behind it as his go to transport was a bike. The car was a luxury to him.
Morning Stu. Another good video. When I was contemplating a Royal Enfield, the Super Meteor was what I hoped would would be available. There were rumours and spy shots of it in the press but it seemed a long time coming. I went for the Interceptor and an extremely happy with it. I do like the look of the Super Meteor but not enough to make me change.
I love this bike. Almost three month of my ownership experience and its the best enfield in my opinion. I also want to thank you for the discount on the moc toe.
I agree with you stuart . The build quality on the super meteor is very impressive especially at the price point
Firstly I sat on this bike at the NEC and thought yes it’s build and style was excellent! Triumph did make a bike like this Stuart the Speedmaster 900 pre water cooled and it was a nice bike but heavy.
This style of bike is really nice and if you get chance ride a late 2017 onwards HD Sportster you may just like it 😊
The downside I can see to this bike as a cruiser is lack of proper torque like a 1200 plus engine would give which puts me off as used to 100 ft lb of torque from tick over which is what a cruiser is all about really.
Royal Enfield has once again found the secret sauce... I never thought I would consider the Super Meteor as my third RE. That is until I saw this video. I feel the same as you regarding the look of it.
Congratulations. I can't wait for this motorcycle coming soon here in Brazil. Um forte abraço.
Soooooo I picked up my 650 SM last Wednesday. Tough decision because the 350 M did almost everything I needed. To be clear 10 month old with 11500km. Totally agree with everything you have said, it's just an amazing ride. Personally I would love to see RE make the J engine into 500cc with around 35hp. They already have the bike range in the 350cc
Possibly the best clip ever about cruiser motorcycles!? As I have mentioned before, I was a confirmed cruiser rider for about 20 years before downsizing to the Scram. I have never heard anyone, outside of private conversations, state that cruiser motorcycles weren't invented by Harley Davidson. So congratulations on that. The general assumption now, for cruisers and customs, is that Harley are the genuine article and everyone else just copied. The reality is that bikers have customised their bikes, wherever they lived or what bike they had? Be that an Enfield in Madras or a Triumph in Manchester.
As for the Super Meteor, if there was a bike to get me back on a cruiser, this would be it. My current biking needs, commuting to work, shopping etc are adequately catered for by the Scram, which is a great all rounder. If I could afford a second bike, I would be ordering myself a Super Meteor!
Also liked the comment, as an older biker re. the sweet spot of 500-750cc for an all rounder. I will always remember my late friend Steve explaining how the 70s Kawasaki Z650 was a much better bike than the Z900 or Z1000 because it was just right, in all areas. Not faster or more powerful but it felt right. Royal Enfield understand this and I have become a huge fan of their bikes and their ethos.
About ten years ago I had an online discussion with a well-known former motorcycle journalist, and I predicted that if bikes had a future it would be with keenly priced middleweights. Given that the fashion was for expensive race replicas, dirt bikes and supermotos and had been for years, he strongly disagreed. The pendulum will always swing back to bikes that aren't very anything, but offer a sweet spot in performance, price and practicality. Your friend Steve was correct.
I called the new RE dealer here locally the other day about something that I ended up fixing myself. Half expecting them to want to get me in the door to sell me an Indian FTR. But frankly that wasn’t the case. They told me, no, we love the Enfields. Oddly enough Redditch and Springfield had an arrangement decades ago, but that’s neither here nor there. I know that they are positively drooling over getting one of these in the showroom. I don’t want one I don’t have room for another bike and I have only put 5000 miles on the interceptor. But this is going to be a good seller on this side of the pond Stu. A really good seller.
A very impressive machine and with your comments I'm quite tempted to buy one myself
As a sportsbike owner for many years I have gradually moved across the spectrum of styling, from head down bum up gung ho bikes, to muscle bikes, to roadsters and latterly classics... a sign of ageing...? Possibly, but the years take their toll and comfort comes to the fore and since buying my bobber I've found that a mental reset occurs, I travel less quickly, I admire the view, I enjoy the travelling more than the arrival... could it be that bikes like Enfield's Meteor, or the (flawed) Triumph Bobber are a panacea for the riders soul...? In all seriousness I can see the bobber going in the near future and although the next bike won't be a cruiser, I can see an Interceptor on the horizon, Royal Enfield seem to have grasped the essentials of biking enjoyment, leaving performance behind and concentrating on the true essence of the pure enjoyment of riding..
Stay safe...👍
With comments like that ROYAL ENFIELD should give you one. I fell for the bike before it was released, went to a launch night at my local dealer and it didnt disappoint back in February. Watched loads of videos including yours and now picking up one this Saturday, went for the black one. Might even do a cheeky review of my own. Thanks for the help in deciding to get one !!
Cannot wait to test this bike, if it is fairly easy to cruise around 70mph, and still has enough power then it will be my new bike.
RE is a great way to form genuine bromances.
Its next bike on my radar hopefully!
My first cruiser style bike was the Meteor which was a excellent motorcycle and I enjoyed it tremendously
I swopped to the Super Meteor which is a step up in all areas
I've covered 2k MLS now I've taken it to France and it performed excellent, it's comfortable Enfield have done there normal excellent job with the fuel injection engine pulls smoothly from tickover and the gearbox is precise and silky smooth
It's a excellent good looking
motorcycle I'm enjoying tremendously
We're off to Spain in August it's disappointing that the touring screen, seat and panniers won't be available till September
I love the way the entire royal enfield family of motorcycles look and the great reviews I read. I also when checking out the price in the USA see they are quite reasonable. If you do not either choose or want to perform the 3000 mile valve inspection, I have read in the USA it can cost 350 dollars or more to have the inspection done. Seems this would somewhat quickly y add up over time. I'm not taking away from a fantastic motorcycle but just look at the overall ownership costs every 3000 miles if you cannot do them yourself. Appreciate any positive feedback or ideas, as I am very interested in one of the bikes. Thanks.
My last great ride was an RD 350...so my expectations and thrill spectrum was around the experience of the Yamaha...had to sell that due to financial reasons...had a brief stint on a bullet 500 which was not in the same league of expectations which i was used to, sold it within 6 months of purchase...and immediately formed a negative opinion of Royal Enfield...left Biking for almost a decade...only recently i got back into it and inspite my negative attitude towards Royal Enfield and the cruiser format of bikes....i bought an SM650 after that first test ride..which sparked a slight smile...the second test ride widened that smile...and pretty soon i was sold out ....now that my hair is all but gone for the wind to blow through, and the waist line is not what it used to be,i am no longer looking for that death defying, risk taking speed thrills i used live for back in the day, I have to say the Super Meteor 650 has put that smile back on my face....this guy is right....there is something about this bike.......the SM650 has just enough and then some for a beautiful and satisfying riding experience.....
Thanks SF. Great job. Good info. God bless.
HAPPY TRAILS
Stuart, I really enjoy your uploads.
I've been waiting in NZ to swing a leg over the Super Meteor for ages.
Well I had my opportunity a few days ago.
When I looked at it in the metallyflesh. I did not like it. I did not even bother to sit on it.
We are all different, but I must say I was bitterly disappointed
Stu you are obviously smitten, one of the Triumphs has to go, you know it makes sense. I’m purchasing the meteor next year, it will be all the bike I will ever need going forward.
Great review, thank you. I am about to get back into biking so I think I will put this on the list of bikes to try.
"Riding is 90% about emotions" well said sir. Really liked your review and the way you put thoughts into words. I always enjoy reviews that aren't just describing the model but are somehow different, authentic, personal, well more about feelings rather then facts. Because facts can be found online easily right? But not the feelings.. that's what good review should deliver and that is what this one did. Well done 👏
Mate, in the throes of “swapping” the Interceptor for a Himalayan, have the off seal jag big time, and now I am looking sideways through narrow eyes at my Moto Morini…thanks for this thoughtful post. Ka kite ano.
Nice bike although my taste goes to the Hunter for everyday city riding and the Interceptor for country riding , for myself the interceptor is more suited for racks and bags and more so sportier riding than i must say the beautiful super meteor , it is rather difficult to choose when you can only afford two bikes . One has to trim the demands on the choices for costs sake .
Stuart, you could trade either the Interceptor or Continental to own the Super Meteor. That way your balance of RE’s remains the same. What a wonderful choice to have to wrestle with - happy days!
Hi Uncle Stu, nail on head again. I love riding my Super Meteor 650. Whilst I toured Northern Spain on my Interceptor, which was great, I want to do it again when I have more miles on my Super Meteor. Interesting fact: I bought carriers to fasten luggage to it from La Poderosa in Valencia, Spain. They use the Klickfix system that the Long Ride luggage use, (you did a video a while back that) so I am able to swap luggage between the
two bikes. Once again following your good advice. I would recommend the carriers from Spain for the Super Meteor.
This bike puts me in mind of the triumph thunderbird, which was a crusier by same. Have ridden a VTX 1800R Honda all over USA and half of Canada. Touring on a crusier is superior to dedicated touring bikes in many ways. All day comfortable for one. I would rise before daylight have a hearty breakfast and be on the VTX as the sun came up. Then it was a 300 to 400 mile day ride for me. And cruisers are pretty too.
The All New Classic 350 would be the one to go in my opinion. RE have done a great job marketing a bike that never really replaced the 500. It just looked..... a bit like one. A generic homage bike, nothing more. Just my view. The Super Meteor is a lovely machine on the other hand. Punching way above it's price point in both quality and looks! They do keep pushing the bar upwards at RE. Great bike! 🙂
I love my Meteor 350, best bike I've ever owned- Honda's, Yamaha's and Ducati before it. It just makes me smile when i ride it and makes others smile when they see it. So comfortable and it "feels fast" when it isn't...so safety boost right there.
#metoo.... Rolling on a Fireball Yellow in North Thailand...
10,000 km done... No issues 🎉
In the mid 80s I switched from busy two strokes to this type of bike (kawasaki 450 Ltd, VN 750) and it opened up a different riding experience which I found surprisingly enjoyable for touring. The style was a little impractical for commuting but these look better.
Really enjoyed listening to your thoughts on this surprising bike! Cheers.
Just had to contact you to thank you for your wisdom and knowledge in relation to the Royal Enfield motorcycle brand and in particular the Super Meteor 650. I really appreciated your no nonsense approach and honesty, so much so I have just purchased the Super Meteor. I have received my first orders from Hitchcocks and TEC and have started a tasteful customisation into a bobber. We are now hoping RE will release a Classic 650, wouldn't that be nice. All thanks to you. 😊
Your line is impeccable. Center to right of, but never leaving the grease slick.
Really do like your take on this subject. Messing.
Great video Stuart I've ridden cruisers in the past and for me the forward control position is just perfect not to far forward that you have very little control through the pegs. I've had my 650 meteor for 4 months and enjoy every second I'm on it. So far no issues I said when I first got it that I felt that royal enfield had built something very special and after watching this video I think you agree. Ride safe Amigo.
"... this is the kind of bike Triumph should have made.... years ago...!"
Stuart you said it 🎉 and kudos to RE.
I started on a Yamaha V Star 650. Wonderful for my first bike. Learned how to ride in New Jersey and if you can survive there, you can ride anywhere. Then I rode with my feet under me and never went back. But then I bought the W800 Café, and that is half way from sport to leisure riding position. Give me ten more years, I will be back to feet out front. Maybe the RE meteor will still be made. Thank you for the insight on it!
As a fellow Jersey Boy, I thought the same thing-UNTIL I rode I-95 in South FL! Ride I-95 between Ft. Lauderdale and Miami, then let's see what you say...
@@markymarknj I now live in Virginia, it's hot here, going more south doesn't interest me . But if I do, thank you for the heads up. Hot and humid is not my friend.
@@BlakesPipes it's not my friend, either. My brother used to live in Coral Springs, which is outside of FLL. When I visited him, I'd ride his bike. He tried to warn me about I-95, and I said the same things that you did. Well, the next day, when I rode I-95, I had a HEART ATTACK! It' made the Garden State Parkway look like a picnic. I never rode that stretch of I-95 again.
I too enjoyed the vstar. My favourite of my youth wax my 70's 1100 Yamaha Maxim; took me allover Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Sold it when I married. Moved to Texas.
Thirty years later, remarried and happily riding again in Northern New Hampshire and Maine.
I feel I understand Stu's arguments and would love a situp-and-beg like the Classics, those bikes married me yearn for that solo-ride. But I love the feeling of my wife's hands in my back and the trust that I Will keep us safe as I can. We ride two-up through the White Mountains and back roads of Maine; I wouldn't trade those moments for the world.
Cannot wait till they make it to the states
In September
Really nice looking bike and a good review, nice to see you’re on some roads relatively local to me
Brilliant video as always Stuart and in my opinion you should get rid of the Continental GT and get a Super Meteor 😃👍🏻
Stu, you're right about Royal Enfield doing things right. It says something about a manufacturer when you want one of EVERY bike they make! If I had the money and space, I would have one of each model Royal Enfield makes. I'm serious!
As for the Super Meteor, I WANT ONE! Though I love my Meteor 350, the Super Meteor would give me extra capabilities that the Meteor doesn't have, such as touring long distances; the Super Meteor would literally allow me to ride any road here in the US. Meanwhile, I think that the Super Meteor would retain the virtues of its smaller sibling; that is to say that it would be able to turn and give you a fun ride. I can lean my Meteor over far enough to scare myself; I think that the Super Meteor would offer the same. Cruisers aren't traditionally known for that! In addition to being well suited to touring, I see the Super Meteor as a sporty cruiser. I think that the Super Meteor will REDEFINE what a cruiser can and should be!
Like you, I was put off by cruisers. They seemed to be overpriced, overweight, underpowered, and unable to turn worth a damn. They're fine for cruising the boulevard, but that's it. That's not very interesting to me. Back in the mid-late 2000s, Hyosung brought out a sporty cruiser called the Avatar. I wanted one, but I wasn't in position to buy another bike at that time. Besides, there wasn't a dealer near me anyway. When the Depression of 2007 came along (and that's what it was, a depression, not a "Great Recession"!), Hyosung fell by the wayside-at least here in the US, and the concept of a sporty cruiser seemed to die with them.
Nevertheless, I liked what Hyosung had tried to do; I liked the concept of a sporty cruiser, a bike that, while offering a relaxed riding position, also offered fun and agility in the curves. I think that the market has been ready for a sporty cruiser for a long time now. Hyosung had the right idea, but they were a victim of bad timing. Royal Enfield, doing as they've so often done before, have found and filled yet another overlooked niche in motorcycling. Many older cruiser riders still want to cruise, but they don't want to move a two wheeled behemoth around the garage; the Super Meteor is a perfect bike for these riders. Because of that, RE have another winner on their hands. I agree, Stu; I think that the Super Meteor IS Royal Enfield's best bike to date! Now, if RE would only get them to the States already...
That's true.. I was drooling around RE showroom today... I really would like them all...🎉
I liked the INT650 but i'm more of a cruiser guy. I can't wait to see this here in the Philippines.
If you still have a Triumph it may be worth trading it in for a Super Meteor. You've not had any big problems with the RE's but you had the gearbox issues on the Triumph. I have an SM and a Classic 500. I've had other bikes but nothing comes close to the enfields for sheer riding pleasure. That's why we ride.
Great review Stu, and a convincing thumbs up from me
Now, this is the Bike! I'm going to test ride one of those next month.
I love mine (Interstellar green) from Eddy's Moto Tadcaster.
I'm looking at returning to riding something after a hiatus of about 12 months due to complications ofdiabetes and kidney disease. Keeping the bike simple for home maintenance and ease of use i'm finding the more i read of RE SM650 the more it appeals. Soon next is a test ride and i'd like to try the kitted-out tourer with bags and the screen. I haven't seen RE hard bags yet in Oz and it doesn't make sense to me for a touring bike without bags (and heated grips). Thanks for the review!
I've not ridden the Super Meteor but think ,if I were in the market for another highway bike, it would be on top of my list. However with all that extra metal and weight over the other RE 650s I can't understand why it wasn't given a few extra ponys and or torque. As everyone agrees the bottom end is strong enough to handle the big bore kits, cams and other bits now available. Wouldn't it be a bigger seller if the factory had simply given it an extra 50 cc?
The beauty of the lower capacity is that it fits most international standards for novice licences. At almost 55 years I finally got my L’s. So this fits into Australian LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme).
A bold comment ref the bike being the best so far. Must admit the green/black version looks good in the flesh.
It sounds like a Triumph is on its way out! Lol.
And it could have been a perfect bike if RE had traded chain drive for belt drive.
A little bird told me S&S in Wisconsin might just be working on such a thing.
There is a guy in Canada who is doing belt drive conversions for the Interceptor - looks really good quality
Excellent review
It'll prove to be a popular bike here in the US as well I reckon. Harley no longer makes the Evo sportster, so there's really not a good "beginner" bike in their lineup. Not that an experienced rider couldn't enjoy this bike.
Also, I happen to ride a Triumph speedmaster lol. I don't take offense that you think it's ugly, I think it's a gorgeous machine. I've outfitted mine with the mini ape bars, a fly screen, and some bags. She's a looker if you ask me
I’m ok with the Speedmaster looks. Kind of an American twist on a British parallel twin. I especially like the beach bars and am considering adding them to the Meteor once it reaches the US. That said the Speedmaster is approximately twice the price of the Meteor but does not deliver twice the looks or performance over the Meteor so I’m just waiting for the Meteor to arrive.
The Super Meteor is a great looking bike, sadly, not my style.
If the rumors of a military-styled Classic 650 coming 2024 are real, I'll bounce my wallet of the salesman's forehead faster than Doc Holiday in a showdown!
Great video! 👍
Great comments.
It's amazing to me particularly in Australia that the motorcycle culture is about big engine is better and many of Royal Enfield is about learners. Great that learners can jump on, BUT these bikes should not be pigeon hold into just this market!
Royal Enfield manufacturers bikes inclusive of every rider. Decades or beginning. All about the spirit of riding.
I don't get, reviews who just don't get the purity of riding that is about the spirit of riding lovely motorcycles.
Morning Stuart, I have my baker express and enjoy it , but I do like the look of the Super Meteor, it reminds me of my 1955 Triumph Sprung hub Thunderbird I owned when I was eighteen, which I foolishly sold , I must book a test ride on the Super meteor methinks!
Great video, cheers 🍻
I really enjoyed this video, great content. But I also really enjoyed seeing roads I am familiar with -0 the A63, Clive sullivan Way, really enjoyed it thanks, one of those is on my bucket list.
Stuart I love mine mate best all round bike I have owned. Get shot of that bobber once you made your upgrade vid.
Good vid as always👍
My Royal Enfield 350 Classic now has 1000 miles, I am getting 94 miles to the Gal. I can not believe it. because of you, that is why I am a very happy owner.
Great video as always Stu , the RE 650 twin engine is simply amazing its partly your fault I bought my interceptor lol , and no other modern classic until this bike came out has turned my head, I so much want to test ride one but like you I think it may get a hold of me , although the new house I'm hopefully going to purchase would fit 3 bikes nicely in the garage don't tell the missus 😉 if you have to get rid of one I'd let the Continental GT go 🤔
Great review of a bike I'd covet with mid-controls.
I figured that the Triumph America would have been the perfect mid sized cruiser. It seems a lot like the RE Super Meteor but has a couple of hundred more cc's. It was a parallel twin built like a cruiser. Unfortunately it was discontinued.
Triumph restarted with the Hinkley triples being the ST and made the sweetest 900 i ever stuck my leg over.
A uaual GREAT video. Great job about this bike. Living in America and seeing so many Harleys in all of the flavors. There was a fad of straight pipes, no muffling, and when large groups went on runs, the noise would reach rediculous levels. They claimed the noise told the world they were on the road.
I am still waiting for the BSA to arrive in America.
I am a Harley rider for last 35 years. I really like this bike and am very interested in owning one eventually
I learned a lesson about what motorcycle is right for me from my fat tire e-bike riding experience. On my e bike, I rarely take it out of the lowest power assist. When I'm on the bicycle, I want to ride a bicycle, not a motorcycle. Taking that to a motorcycle, I don't need 1900ccs of Interstate Cruising. I don't need 300mph. I want a putt-putt that I can tour around the country roads of Wisconsin in. I'm not a Harley guy, God bless 'em. Royal Enfield 350 makes more sense to me. This 650 is actually a big bike.
Morning Stu, totally agree with what your saying the bobber was the worst bike i ever owned and a big let down so had to go.I,m a big fan of the Super Meteor 650 & would have one! but the reviews for my nearest dealership are awful!! so its really putting me off going there? the next one is 40 miles away in the midlands,Royal Enfield need to sort more dealerships up & running.
I own a 2022 Goldwing and a 2023 Indian Chieftain Darkhorse.Both of these bikes have huge engines and do what they do perfectly But i will be adding one of these when they come to the U.S later this year. It's just got something and I've booked a test ride but our dealers in The U.S still haven't got them cleared to be sold as yet. I'm more excited to get my hands of one of these Super Meteors than ride the two 30k plus monsters I currently own.
I agree with all that apart from CALLING MY SPEEDMASTER UGLY! Hehe. I think the Speedmaster is the _best_ looking bike there is, but that is, of course, subjective.
The Super Meteor is a great looking bike, though. They did a better job of making it look classic _and_ modern than they did with the Meteor, which for me looks too modern.
Looks aside, though, specification-wise, I was almost hoping the Super Meteor would be overall better than my Speedmaster when I tried one recently. For me, though, it was not and made me love my Speedmaster even more.
I found the Super Meteor suspension generally very hard, though it coped well with the bumps. Maybe partly the seat?
I found the gears and engine smooth, but you had to really shoot through the gears to get going and use the gears lots as you rode.
I found the exhaust note pleasing, but it's more of a modern purr than a classic growl.
In all, I think the Super Meteor is an excellent machine and for many looking for a capable, fun, good-looking, comfortable, well-priced bike would be a fantastic choice, but put up against the Speedmaster, while the Super Meteor makes you smile and nod, the Speedmaster makes you grin and groan with satisfaction.