Are modern Classics really Classics?

[@dungspreader]

Ah , the voice of experience ! And I have to agree with you . Back in the day , bikes were unreliable , but mostly because they were badly maintained by previous owners . The " rich " blokes who bought new bikes and traded them at three years old didn't have the problems that impoverished youngsters like meself had with 5th hand Brit oil leakers . I think it's a good thing that these modern retros are being made . I sat on a 400 Triumph the other day and thought what a lovely bike it is. The Bonnies and W 800 Kwakas are great too . Personally , I like to rebuild " Classic " bikes and make them a bit better than they were in the day . I just did 2600 miles on a trip with a 74 Eldorado with only a couple of very minor problems ( 2 bolts came undone ) . No electronics on it , coil and points , ran fine . 65 hp same as the new 850 Guzzis . But simpler to maintain . Progress ? Computers on bikes are a modern day curse and I wish we could get away without them . But individualistic old b*ggers are still working away in sheds restoring old bikes and modifying new bikes . Long may it continue .

[@iantoy7778]

100%

[@Trev350]

It would be interesting to do a poll on "how many more biking years to you feel you have left in you?" I would certainly hope to keep going as long as i can, but at 61 I suspect I've probably got ten years. Fifteen if I'm really lucky, but more likely ten maximum. I was in Matlock Bath last Thursday and looking around at all the lads riding in on their bikes, eating lunch and sitting outside the cafes, it's abundantly clear that most uk bikers are in the age range 55 to 75. I could narrow it down to say the biggest pool would be 60 to 70. On that basis, in ten years time, we could see huge reductions in the number of people still riding. There are very few really young guys coming through to take our place. But for now, it's great to see everyone still soaking up the sun and continuing a hobby that has gone on for years. I , like you, started with bikes being my only form of transport and that lasted for several years. Twenty years ago I had a Blackbird. Those days are long gone. Two Enfield 350s now, and I feel 17 years old again. Wonderful bikes. And your Bullet 500 is a glorious bike. Last of the hand built modern classics; something to treasure. Character in abundance. Now there's a subject for a future video; define "character". Interesting video Ian, thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@iantoy7778]

It would be interesting in hearing peoples thoughts on how long they think they will be riding. I will ask Sue to set one up.

[@borderlands6606]

@Trev350, interesting you say 60 to 70 as peak biking age in 2024. That would put starting age as the 1970s, which was the last era when motorcycling was readily accessible. From 1971 a 17 year old could ride a 250 on L plates, that could exceed the national speed limit. The helmet law didn't come in until '73, and mopeds were unrestricted. 1982 saw the 2-part test and a one year ban for not passing it. In 1983 the 125cc learner limit was introduced. Without getting into the wisdom of these restrictions, it's no coincidence that the attractiveness of bikes over cars as transport and fun matches the age of those still riding them today.

[@wheelsontheroad626]

Had my licence since 18, now at 72 I hope to be still riding in 10yrs even if I have to downsize to a scooter 🛵

[@Trev350]

@@wheelsontheroad626 if I'm still riding at 75 I'll be over the moon. I doubt I'll bounce very well at that age if I have a spill, so will have to think hard about when to call it a day. Let's hope we can all carry on for a good few years yet. 44 years in the saddle for me.... How many more to come? One of life's big unknowns.

[@iantoy7778]

@@borderlands6606 I passed my test in 1975 on a 250 MZ lol . Borrowed some money of my dad and then bought a Kawasaki 250 . Dad offered to buy me a car , insure it to get me off bikes but I refused. His last words to me on the subject was well you are on your own then and the rest is history,never been with out a bike and 65 now.

[@nunnyd69]

I can see the Himalayan 411 becoming a modern classic. It’s got loads of character and is quite unique in looks for a modern ADV.

[@philcox8771]

G’day Ian, in 2006 I purchased new my RE Bullet 500 5 speed, electric-start in classic black. Originally I was looking for a British made bike of the 50s through to 70s era. 18 months of research for a reasonable conditioned bike suitable for restoration to be a fully registered & rideable bike in retirement as my goal. After further research I decided to purchase a new RE 500 bullet as basically it was pretty much still the same model built for decades. To me it’s just a cast iron barrelled 2006 built RE bullet, but full of charm in my opinion, still has similar problem ancestry with its origins from a truely classic era. My Interceptor is a modern 650 bike built by RE loosely styled from the British built interceptor that suits my current needs well. Looking forward to your next round of mods & fixes to your RE’s. Thanks for sharing your thoughts mate… cheer Phil 🇦🇺

[@stevesanelli90]

Happy birthday Ian! Sue will give you a birthday present of cleaning the garage & the house! Modern classic is the way to go! Just like yourself! Cheers 🍾

[@iantoy7778]

Well I've never been called a modern classic before. Plenty of other names but not that 😂

[@stevesanelli90]

@@iantoy7778 younger than ever!

[@kennethheldreich6604]

I think it would be a great watch to see you build it Ian,I can't think of anything better to watch on a winter evening, 🙂👍🏍🇬🇧

[@iantoy7778]

Thanks 👍

[@doughoffman9463]

My first bike was a 1971 Honda CB450. While I dearly loved that bike as it was reliable and capable (and beautiful), my RE Interceptor is much better. No need to fuss with the ignition, no carbs to synch (the EFI delivers much better economy as well), no cold start choke or fuel petcock. The o-ring drive chains are FAR superior to the old style. I picked the Interceptor for several reasons: 1) There was no radiator/coolant issue to be bothered with for maintenance 2) I could easily adjust tappet clearance (no fussing about with shims or camshaft removal) 3) The riding position was comfortable for me, no leaning forward as on a race bike 4) I liked the overall looks, it does not look like an insect or a Transformer toy 5) A test ride confirmed what I had read: it is a wonderful motorcycle to ride. I really don't care if it replicates "old" motorcycles or not. I just wanted a motorcycle with these characteristics. No need to remove a lot of fairings just to get at the mechanical parts to adjust/service. 6) The suspension as purchased is plenty good enough to not cause to my aging body when riding pain over bumps Interesting video. Thanks! Keep up the nice content.

[@tedcase9175]

Hi Ian thanks for the vid and you Sue for editing, well I go along with your thought processes Ian, iam 69 now 70 next may, have a hunter and a 2007 350 bullet, love em both differently, as for the project bike for me film as you build, suit me down to the ground, thanks again guys NW biker dude over the hill but refuses to grow up, just keep breathing nd riding does not matter what anyone else thinks or does be yourself Ted

[@iantoy7778]

Plans are in progress. Parts are on order

[@paulharvey1392]

I've not ridden either the bullet or interceptor,but to me the bullet does look spot on

[@iantoy7778]

Sue says it's her bike lol

[@walt7518]

About the interceptor looks: I think the hitchcocks polished stainless steel front mudguard with stays really transforms the look to a more classic style. I didn't think such a small change would make such a big difference but I think it shows just how wrong the original mudguard is. If I owned one that's the main change I'd make.

[@henriverheyen6190]

Great video, i enjoyed it.

[@gford816]

OMG. I've wanted a Bonnie T140v since the '70's. My best mate had one. So unreliable! So 4O years later after falling in love with RE I bought an Interceptor to go with my other RE's. But I hanker for the T140 style - in that maroon. I can't wait to see what you do over the winter.

[@iantoy7778]

Keep an eye on the channel. I think you will like my transformation

[@gford816]

I hope so! I've waited 49 years for the Int to come along. I had an SR 500 and an XS650. I prefer the RE. But they were a long time ago! Lol. Great channel.

[@edwardkaminsky8142]

Nice quiet spot to film Ian. Looking forward to you retroizing the orange crush. There is others out there that like the CB 350 which is interesting. ( The cost is a deal breaker for me )Honda was never going to let Enfield bask in the limelight without playing catch-up. The Scram will get the sherpa engine and the Himalayan will become a 650...more of a road bike. ( from my take on other videos on Enfield). Big Sid mentioned 28 new models over the years which is quite the undertaking...but look at the CB 350. Monkey see, Monkey do. Average age from what I see out there is 45-70.( In Vegas ) 95% on road riding. Electric bikes will soon be on our roads. We have to be conformable in what we ride. I could of rode the 411 30 years ago...and I can ride it until I cant get on it or petrol gets rationed again.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

I agree, what i've seen over the years with all the new rules, law, regulation and prices of owning a bike is insane in many countries but specially in the UK. They actively try do discourage youngsters from riding bikes. Don't know why, maybe they are few reasons at once.

[@CodgerBiker]

Can only speak for myself, but would like to see the build. I'm happy with mine as is, for what it is. But will be taking the Honda NT over to Lincs next week as it is more suited to motorway trip in rain etc. There's a place for both. Agree though it is almost impossible for teens to get on road on a petrol bike. So they all ride illegal electric motorbikes, (Sur Ron) no number plate, insurance, tax, no helmet, just a balaclava. Police don't stop them. I don't blame them in some ways.

[@richardjones3112]

I feel sorry for youngsters today.The government is hell-bent on ruining any freedoms that we took for granted.

[@MrMomo182]

Having just been to an antique motorcycle show on the Bullet 500, my experience is that there's a lot of ignorance here about the modern Bullet being a reproduction, and this is the lecture I have to give five times a day: The Classic might be a reproduction, they're not badged as Bullets. However, the Bullet is unique in being an unbroken production run, unlike the others, Triumph, Norton, BSA, even Brough Superior now, which are revived brands and reissued models. Everything is mass produced in robotised mega-factories now, and materials are so consistent, it doesn't matter which country they're made in. There were dozens of variations and improvements on the Bullet over the decades, electric start, UCE, EFI, and ABS, etc, are just the latest. But it's still the same model, only it doesn't meet the AMCA show definition of a classic, vintage, or antique bike, because it isn't over 35 years old yet.

[@timharley7599]

A few points about your comments on the BSA Gold Star. Buying brand names has been going on since the dawn of motorcycling. Many British brands names have been bought such as AJS, Matchless, Norton, Triumph, Sunbeam, Villiers, to name a few, so what's different about the BSA name being bought? With regards to the Gold Star not looking like a Gold Star, what would you expect from a bike 60 years later. Imagine if BSA were still going in its original form, wouldn't they want to improve the bike over the years. What's wrong with a 4 valve head, double overhead camshaft, twin spark plugs, water cooling and air cooling, fuel injection, Brembo brakes and a 5 speed box. These have all added tremendously to improving performance, efficiency, reliability and rideability. The new Gold Star is way better than the old one in many respects. I think BSA have done an excellent job in making a new motorcycle that has good performance, very nimble handling, powerful brakes, very reliable and most of all, a clear and very attractive resemblance to the original and all at a bargain price. By the way I have owned both old and new Gold Stars, so I have experienced both. Have you ever ridden either one?

[@iantoy7778]

In the video I said that from a distance it's a good looking bike. I did say that I understand that to make a modern engine the manufacturers have to work round the looks. Take Triumph for instance, their water cooled engines still look like the original air cooled engines with nice barrel fins etc, lovely designed engine casings that mimic the originals. In my eyes the BSA isn't like that. I am pleased that you like yours and enjoy riding it. I have ridden the original Goldstar. I didn't own one but someone I knew let me ride theirs. I have seen the new Goldstar at a show but as it has not been imported into Bulgaria yet I have not had the chance to ride one yet.

[@richardyardley5127]

It would be really good to see some videos as you progress with with the Interceptor project Ian. It would make for great content. I agree with you regarding Classics/retro classic bikes. Probably the only true classic which was available brand new up until recently is the RE Bullet/Classic 500, which is basically a gentle evolution of a genuine 1950's bike. A one of a kind and the reaction and compliments I get to mine, from pretty much everyone is staggering. I have very little time for the new 350 Bullet/Classic versions. Whilst the engine is a genuine retro engine and RE should be complimented on it, the rest of these bikes are just pure plastic fakery. A 3D photocopy of the old 500's made to fit over a modern generic frame using plastic mouldings. The battery isn't even in the battery box! Pure fake. I think the Interceptor and GT 650's are the nearest you can get today to a real retro classic because they have air/oil cooled engines and keep the bikes simple. Modern Triumph's just look like retro classics but the new Norton Commando is, I think, a genuine retro classic but very pricey. Just my thoughts 🙂

[@keepitreal1547]

Similar age to you & agree with what you're saying re classic bikes. I think many people get mixed up in proper classic bikes & bikes they feel are classics...I'm guilty over a few bikes I've had, GSXR 750wt Srads 1996 & the Honda VFR 400 NC30. I'm guilty because both were before their time when produced & owning them, became classic bikes to me. But as you say, proper classic bikes were well before those. Just brought a 10month old Himalayan 411 & I must watch your vlogs again, about your thoughts on it. After 30yrs of sports bikes, I don't want anymore, I've slowed down & speeding around doesn't do it for me anymore. I hope to enjoy the 411 & get good use out of it. Thanks for your vlog & the stunning location.

[@MarkBruce-m2i]

Hi, I got myself an Interceptor when they first came out as it (to me) was the only modern bike that looked at all like the Brit twins i had in the '60s. It's the first bike i bought new, first bike with - electric start, indicators, disc brakes - even mirrors! and six gears ! I love it. It will be really interesting to see what you do with yours over the winter. Today i was fixing a rear wheel puncture -whell out, no problem, new inner tube - easy. Putting the rear wheel back in - nightmare ! I believe you changed the tyres on yours so must have had the whhel out - did you have any trouble putting it back in ? Or anyone else out there?

[@iantoy7778]

With the bike on the centre stand put a piece of wood under the back wheel so it just takes the weight. The spindle will slide out easily. When you put the wheel back in the wheel will be at the right height. They are tricky to get past the mudguard and exhaust though.

[@MarkBruce-m2i]

@@iantoy7778 Thanks, I enlisted an extra pair of hands too & got it done - what a fiddle!

[@JamesAdam100]

Id like to upgrade the rear shocks to the fully enclosed hagan shocks this winter, so a video on that would be very appreciated, Of course, I'd love to see the interceptor winter project to keep me dying of boredom. Thanks Ian! Go on sue.. let him have one in the hallway 🙏🏼🫡

[@iantoy7778]

We will be showing a video on fitting Hagon shocks to the Bullet next week. Ian will film his work on the Interceptor as he completes jobs. He has already given me a shopping list for parts. It's never ending 🫣 Don't encourage him on the hallway😂 Thank you very much for your continued support. It means a lot

[@roscodog441]

Love my interceptor with it's classic looks, not done many mods, back rack and top box, engine bars, iridium spark plugs, touring seat, it's plenty fast enough handles well and keeps a big smile on my face, remember those days when I first started riding was just before the helmet law was introduced 😊

[@motormikeb1047]

I'm lucky in that I have several old machines which could be seen as classic.... I was never a Harley fan..... new ones are overpriced... over weight... but I always loved the old 45's.... I now have a pair.... great old bikes.... My 2011 RE Bullet, with Cozy sidecar... is a very good unit.... unlike the 2009 and older versions ewer Bullets can handle 55 mph all day and get you home .... I've done 1200 camping trips. I have a RE 650 Interceptor..... I simply tell others... everyone for the pass 80 years built a 650 Twin.... they all were try;n to build the RE 650. Would I call it a classic.... no. Classic is a term that's earned... The Interceptor has great lines and has that old school classic look.... but it hasn't earned ..... " classic ".... Yet. 😎

[@rupertbollywood1190]

It comes with a price tag! If you want a bike with modern features which somewhat resembles a classic bike to the casual uninterested observer, you can buy one, easily. But the real price tag is the opportunity cost in riding a bike that's objectively inferior to a CB500F in almost every respect. Sure, most riders will never be able to ride a CB500F to its limit, even if they do frequent track days. However, there is a real pleasure in riding something that's perfectly balanced and handles like a scalpel and follows your will almost telepathically. Breaking down isn't cool, so I understand that people don't want that. But people do still ride classic bikes - they just have to be willing to get a specialist to sort it now and then. Fashion has a price.

[@johnwood4448]

I couldn't agree more about the new psuedo BSA Gold Star(?),it's not a Gold Star,the market is seeing straight through that visage and that's why they're not selling and have dropped their prices by as much as £1000 here in the UK! The "retro" theme,for that's what it is,is selling bikes and that suits the industry in lean times,so we can't blame them for that. I'm a little older than you at 71 and still riding,hopefully for a loonnnggg time yet.It's the riding that's most important to me these days above all,currently on a 2024 Honda Cb500X and a 2020 Suzuki DL650,both bikes which i love to ride but the DL650 is an ugly duckling if I'm honest,the Honda not so much,but as one Albainian YT poster once said "a Japanese motorcycle may not be the prettiest bike in the world but like a good wife,it's very reliable" . I get your nuanced bikes of the old days view but for me riding(in the UK)it's all about the reliability of the ride with not,or very little fiddling 'n fettling,I also seek comfort in my 250mile on road riding days on the bike,as I'm too old and decrepit for off road riding in the slippy muck and mud of UK weather.much as like that kind of riding. keep up the good work and thanks for a very insightful video.

[@iantoy7778]

You give me hope to continue riding for a good few years yet.

[@borderlands6606]

Blokes like to categorise things to the last degree, and motorcyclists are as guilty of this is anyone. My take on classic is any bike before the Suzuki Katana, and bikes that were influenced by it. So, motorcycles that had organic shapes for tank, engine and cycle parts, not triangles and wedges in the modern idiom. I care much less whether it has a carburettor, pushrods, and a separate gearbox, than it satisfies those virtues. I never try to pass of my Classic 350 as an old bike, even to passers by, and see it less as an exercise in nostalgia than a continuation of motorcycle design before sports bikes took all bikes down a misplaced aerodynamic dead end.

[@nathanbrompton453]

I dont think anything can be classed as a true classic unless it's over 30yo. And right, I dont want to be sat at the roadside fixing bikes or cars. Plus there's the cost, I love classic land rovers but they've wandered completely out my price range. As for retros the z900 rs is more my cup of tea as its more my era I guess.

[@mattdog1982]

Guilty as charged. I’d love a classic, but I can’t afford one and don’t have the know how to keep one on the road. Interceptor for me😂.