Royal Enfield Meteor 350 (2021) | Review & In-depth interview

BikeSocial's Michael Mann gets a blast on the new-for-2021 #RoyalEnfield #Meteor350 and talks to Mark Wells, Global Head of Product Strategy & Industrial Design for Royal Enfield, about this sub-£4k #motorbike
For the full review, head to: www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial... - unfortunately the sound quality of the on-board commentary wasn't good enough but everything I said is included in the online review!
📖 CONTENTS
▶️ 00:00 Intro and video overview
▶️ 00:13 Riding montage
▶️ 00:35 Details
▶️ 05:45 Riding
▶️ 06:25 Interview - Mark Wells
▶️ 15:59 BikeSocial Membership advert
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[@AleksiJoensuu]

I really, really like it. I mean, we grieve over not getting enough new riders to the hobby, while bikes get more expensive and more complicated. Sometimes I feel like I'm piloting some sort of intergalactic cruiseship when I sit down on a modern bike. We fuss over whether a bike has a quickshifter and rider modes, cruise control and active suspension, and the bikes keep getting more and more out there and expensive. And we make comments like "Oh yeah out there in China and India they ride lots of little bikes. There's more bikes there than cars! Riding a bike's normal there!" Well guess what. I think this kind of stuff is exactly what we need. Bikes that are simple, fun, inexpensive, approachable but still well built. And we need the image of biking to go from "specialist hobby" to "normal", something anybody could do, or better yet, something anybody would do. Great job RE!

[@GunDaDost]

Well said! 👍

[@WerdnaLiten]

Exactly! We need more people on bikes and out of cars...

[@miapasternak6188]

You are describing me! I am a beginner rider and recently bought the meteor. I love it!! I know I will be buying more bikes in near future as my confidence grows and I am already encouraging all of my friends to learn to ride.

[@goldilocks913]

@@miapasternak6188 well done! Wishing you many safe and enjoyable miles on your Meteor 👍

[@miapasternak6188]

@@goldilocks913 thank you!

[@ManneSaint]

I dont know why but every time I see a Royal Enfield it makes me Smile - love it. Great video - thanks

[@straighttalk2419]

You are in love 😏

[@hiteshsethiya1790]

Go get her!!

[@jasonclarke7422]

That’s passion mate 😉

[@jimmyb4982]

You get the same feeling when you ride them.

[@derekcook7667]

I`m 63 years old, haven`t ridden for several years and thought my biking days were over but, the meteor has certainly got my attention, particularly the Fireball versions. Think I may need to pay my local RE dealer a visit.

[@pauld1966]

I'm about your age and have returned to biking after about 35 years. I've tried a couple of bikes over the last 18 months and bought a Meteor Steller in red a couple of weeks ago. What a great bike! It's fun, handles well, is easy to ride, sounds good and looks great! The only downside is the running in speeds.... Stick to the country lanes and you're fine... Go for it!

[@STho205]

It has a nice small lowrider and bigger frame, however the analog carburator CB250 from 13 years ago has more thrust (20hp) out of 234cc than this one. Parallel twin is a smoother ride also. Better petrol mileage of 100mpg imp. I waa not impressed, but i thought the bike was 1975 attractive. Much more than the slightly more powerful Honda Rebel 300. The other India 350, the Honda retro CB350 pulls a hill at 21hp. However the 1973 Honda CB350 had 37hp and the late 70s Honda 360 had 34. I don't know why these newer fuel injected, electronic ignition, fuel pump bikes have half the power as mild Japanese 4 stroke bikes 50 years ago.

[@redcruiser1338]

Iam owning one and have already clocked around 5000 miles on it... Its a bike for all age groups.. ❤️ with love from India.

[@kevindarkstar]

@@STho205 and the answer to the question is 50 years ago they didn't have a euro 5 emissions law to meet just to sell the bike, half a century makes a huge difference to engines and not always for the better 🤷🏻‍♂️ it is what it is!

[@STho205]

@@kevindarkstar true yet a 330cc Yamaha engine twin cyl, in a similarly priced less expensive bike can produce 40hp to the back wheel, have torque pretty consistent all the way to a much higher redline...torque that doesn't flatten and fall off after 3500rpm. Add a few quid and a Kawasaki 400 can best that...all with the same environment standards worldwide. A Triumph out of India can deliver a lot more than 1hp per 10cc...these India bikes deliver about 1 hp for every 5 or 6 gas eating cc. The pitch salesmen doubletalk around flaws and shortfalls as if they are strengths. A diet drink had a bad aftertaste No out diet soda stays with you! Same thing the cigarette adverts used to say. I'm not saying everyone needs a lot of HP but steady torque to the uppers would be nice in climbing a mountain at speed and running out of gears to lower rpms. These 350s are where a Honda or Suzuki 250 was just a few years ago. Those could easily improve with FI and since they got superior fuel mileage, they were cleaner.

[@AdrianShawDrummer]

Just got one and it’s brilliant. I’m a 70 year old returning biker who started looking at the meteor at the back end of 2020 and ordered a supernova in January 2021. I’m the first customer from Hayward’s of Cambridge the oldest RE dealer in England. The bike exceeds my expectations and the only niggle is the gear shift mechanism which is ripe for modification and upgrade both in ergonomic design and the quality of the pivot bearing. I feel that the slack in the linkage is going to make it wear out quickly although it will probably continue to function. I can’t wait for an aftermarket upgrade. Despite that, it’s a joy to ride and even though running-in requires a 45mph limit for the first 500km (a mix-up units), it pulls well and sounds great. The quality is good for the price and I paid £3,900 for a Supernova that was probably landed at the importer for £2000 which with UK registration, a three year warranty, three years roadside assistance, a years road tax and a full tank of petrol is a great deal. Oh and you get a key ring, a snood and a mug into the bargain. I’m really pleased with the bike and get a buzz every time I ride it. It’s got the vibe and sound of the old 1960s British bikes of my youth in a modern package with ABS, disk brakes and not an oil leak in sight. Remember The Shangrilas “leader of the pack” from the 60s? The exhaust note is almost identical to the revving on the record!

[@universalradio6944]

Hi from New Zealand. Loving mine but I also am not a fan of the gear shifter. I've seen some mods people have done to turn it into a toe shifter but I'm waiting for an after market one to come out as modding is quite difficult with the way the linkage is designed.

[@Amileo350]

I have ordered a yellow fireball from Sycamores Peterborough. Been riding Suzuki Bandits for years, but want something very different and this fits the bill as I was going to give up riding until I test drove this beauty.

[@davidmargetts821]

But don't forget the appeal of this bike to an old fart like me, who doesn't relish the thought of canning a GSXR around anymore like I did 26 years ago. There is a market for this bike for the likes of me.

[@pauld1966]

Yep! Returned to riding a couple of years ago after a 35 or so, year break. Got a sports tourer and found getting on and off it a right pain, it had switches for the windscreen, seat release, fuel cap etc. and was like riding an iPhone. I replaced it with a Herald Classic 400 and found although I loved it's looks, that it was quicker than my reactions were, but huge fun. But after my mate (72 years young) created the Royal Enfield Interceptor aerial display team, I realised that I needed something 'less demanding'. The Meteor is perfect (apart from the low running is speeds) it handles beautifully, brakes are good, it gets a lot of attention and it sounds lovely!

[@drewlawrence696]

Ditto !

[@Amileo350]

I agree I’m going to downsize from a bandit 600 to this. Been riding sports for 10 years plus

[@stephenfricke9298]

I just put $ down on a red one with a back rest

[@stephenfricke9298]

How are the brakes and i took 6 months off. Sold my BMW800GS in May last year

[@noisefuljoy]

I'm a big fat 6 footer, and still admire this bike greatly. Looking at it pleases me. I'm a very happy Interceptor rider, and have silly thoughts about having one of these and a Himalayan, too. There are no other bikes that inspire my second childhood like the Royal Enfields. They are rat race escape devices.

[@sscbkr48]

I have an Interceptor and a Himalayan and now I'm thinking that the meteor is all I really need.. maybe I should buy one for my wife, and since she doesn't ride, I can borrow it whenever. 😁

[@devonbikefilms]

What a great bike. There is a groundswell of opinion that’s frankly fed up with bikes that are full of tech and weight you don’t need. Something like this would be a great tourer, commuter and just a fun bike. Yes it’s not fast, but if you tour at 100 mph, your not seeing the scenery anyway. For someone to loves the trip, this could be for you. At the price point it’s an honest to goodness bargain.

[@sanatandharma4435]

I went to my local KTM dealer today, who also sells Royal Enfield! I am 60 years of age next year, I am well built, strong and still quick witted! However, when I saw the size of the big KTM's and realised how complex they were I admitted that I would not be able to fix it or pick it up if it fell over! My wife suggested that I sat on a Royal Enfield, the Himalayan, and it was a great fit! Not at all intimidating, and everything was accesible! My eye was then drawn to the Meteor, what a surprise! Beautifully executed, a nice riding postion and again all the bits were accesible! Just sitting on the RE's reminded me of how lost we get in performance, electronincs and computer aids and dreams of global travelling, when in reality we would be very happy with a simple machine, that can transport us around locally and go further afield if required without having to be super talented rider on a hugely expensive motorbike. It makes sense to me, but the world is full of different riders! I like this meteor. Thank you Royal Enfield for creating bikes that look great, are affordable and serviceable. I sound old!!! O'h dear!!!

[@drjohndunn2898]

Country lane potterers of the world unite. Lovely pure and simple machine.

[@randompete2204]

Its good for the soul pottering.

[@pauld1966]

Absolutely!

[@Ricardo_Conti]

Great job! I'm from Brazil and I'm waiting for this release, we hope that the engine works properly with our gasoline, our country is a great consumer of motorcycles and Meteor will be part of our future. Welcome!

[@55loves09]

I can assure you that as long as its called gasoline , it will work. I bought one last year and went for a 2000KM ride in Himalayan Mountains and from time to time fuel we got wasn't that good but this machine keeps moving. KTM 390s or 250s they wont appreciate bad gas.

[@georgerestrup1660]

I started riding in the U.K. 1959, on a BSA 250 C11G, which was for me affordable to buy, and to insure and most important......run pretty well as the mood took me. This for a teenager was freedom indeed and as my income increased so did my bikes, and I eventually acquired a 500cc BSA Shooting Star, which was still a very uncomplicated machine, but did give a very good ride for its day. My point is, keep it simple, reliable and fun and these single banger bikes certainly seem to do that. Remind me of the AJS/Matchless rides, and let’s not forget Velocette . Well done India keep them coming......hell I am now in my eighties and they give me the ‘itch’ .......Himalayan would be great here in backwoods Ontario.

[@henrysmith5604]

Great bike had a road test today put my deposit down straight away

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Nice one Henry, let us know how you get on. Which model did you opt for? Cheers, Michael

[@henrysmith5604]

Hi Micheal I chose the Red stellar as it resembles the meteor of the 1950s

[@bennettsbikesocial]

@@henrysmith5604 If you’re a Bennetts customer and fancy contributing to my main review in a ‘customer feedback’ section then fire me an email to [e-mail]

[@pauld1966]

@@henrysmith5604 Me too! I've had mine a couple of weeks now and still just stand and look at it sometimes!

[@petehealy9819]

To paraphrase, "It's not a spec-sheet bike, it's about the sum-of-the-whole experience," and that rings very true for me after test-riding one last week. I've ridden for more than 50 years, and have had a full range of bikes, from a 1962 Honda 150cc to a 2004 Victory Kingpin 92ci (1507cc). I love riding, but am ready to downsize; and my hunch is that this simple, responsive, well-designed bike will appeal to many of us "oldster" riders who want to continue enjoying the road!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Nice one Pete, will you be buying one? Cheers, Michael

[@newhavenneil]

I agree (also experienced over many years, I'm 62, and bikes - still have 5!) that the sum is greater than the parts, a surprising little bike that is simply superb to ride. No rocket ship, but it isn't for that, it makes you smile though! I test rode it to see how comfortable it is as I have mobility issues (arthritic hips and a smashed foot) and it is simply an armchair, so easy to get on and off but doesn't feel too small for a 5'10' 13 stone old git.

[@newhavenneil]

And yes I bought one!

[@nigelfisher3756]

Another lovely review from the classy Michael Mann. I think Enfield have pulled another rabbit out of the hat with this new Meteor. Obviously aimed at younger and new riders who they (R.E.) want to stick with the brand but not outwardly marketed at them so they can trawl a wider clientele. The bike looks good, aside from the awkward looking rear seat and rest. Also the exhaust could do with a makeover but I’m sure the aftermarket accessories will follow. I think further motoring restrictions (traffic cameras, calming schemes, congestion charges and parking restrictions) will reignite the more simple, lighter and less cluttered bikes as a more relevant ownership proposition. Royal Enfield seem on a roll....and similarly Moto Guzzi with their lovely V7.

[@Marbleheadjed]

A lot of older riders don’t need 1600cc anymore. 70mph is fine for most folks.

[@jfro5867]

The older we get the more that makes sense

[@petehealy9819]

Exactly! I just commented a few minutes ago, but I'm selling my Victory Kingpin (1507cc) because it's just a bigger dog than I want to grapple with anymore (though it's been fun). The RE Meteor looks like a perfect companion to the Triumph Bonnie I also have.

[@jovadriano5162]

i am 60 year old and retired, i bought my RE meteor super nova 3 weeks ago. i am still in my break in period. people keeps looking at my motorcycle whenever i passed by. so happy with my brand new motor bike!

[@deeptruthchanneldtc6770]

Thanks to RE for making a great simple, pure, easy on mind and pocket bike that helps free the spirit.

[@artiecisneros4691]

Great review, I put a deposit on a FIREBALL RED Meteor here in San Diego about 3 week ago and looking forward to getting it. 👍

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Nice one Artie and thanks for the comment. Ride safe, Michael

[@amarg2199]

Enjoy bro, with all love from India.

[@artiecisneros4691]

@@amarg2199 Thank you and you also.

[@TrailHuntersThailand]

A year on how's it going... 🤔 *Crap Game*

[@artiecisneros4691]

@@TrailHuntersThailand I've really enjoyed it but as soon as the 650 Super Meteor makes it to California I'll be trading it in.

[@ekimandersom4478]

Went to take a look at it yesterday. Ordered one right away. Too bad delivery times are uncertain at the moment, at least here in Germany.

[@davehendricks7023]

Hwy speeds not in the Us markets but the old man got one and it's a killer city commuter.

[@ethanhigley2845]

Two and a half years till I am old enough to buy a bike and this is 100% what I’m getting.

[@drdoolittle5724]

Buy it now, it will only go up in value and money locked in banks makes no interest!

[@annabellowman3142]

Had a test ride last week and bought one. Great bike.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Great news, Annabel. Which model/colour combo did you go for? Cheers, Michael

[@annabellowman3142]

@@bennettsbikesocial Yellow Fireball

[@neodrone1]

Just put my first EVER 100 miles riding the motorcycle with the RE Meteor 350. I would not do it with any other bike out there if I had to start over. Pure joy when riding the Meteor.

[@karlallen9389]

ROYAL Enfield deliver fun well made motorcycle for true motorcyclist who have no wish for every rider electronics aid to help you controls your 160+ hp on the road that you can’t use. Back to the true spirit of enjoyment of a motorcycle well done.

[@TrailHuntersThailand]

+1 Well said 🎉 *Crap Game*

[@diegocella6791]

This is the manifestation of cheap and cheerfull! Plus it sound amazing!

[@parasujjainia9497]

Economical

[@drewlawrence696]

The best review of the Meteor 350 on YT...bar none. Very informative, especially for someone like myself who is considering one of these.....for pretty much all the same reasons mentioned. Thank you for the review.

[@tailtidy8185]

Another fantastic video from the team at Bennetts. What a great small capacity bike. Smart touch with the integrated turn by turn sat nav.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thanks very much, TT

[@drdoolittle5724]

There are new bike reviews and new bike reviews but heck, this one blows all the others off of the pillion, very well done Guys and thank you! ( mine is due in 2 weeks)

[@jr.5581]

absolutely love that design!

[@darrenneilson2853]

I really love the look of this bike.. it give people like myself who hasn't been out much recently (on my bike) due to work commitments another riding experience other than my harley. It looks a great little bike to pop out with your friends for an afternoon cruise....i shall be taking one out for a test ride and very well may add it to my other 2 bikes. Great video lads well done.

[@nunovalente7096]

As soon as I entered the dealer I fell in love with the yellow one. Didn't leave without buy it. I'm 31 years old, and I've always seen motorcycles like the best way to disconnect from the world and ride for hours. I don't like sports bikes, GS ones, whatsoever. I like it simple, retro style, to ride on mountain roads and enjoy the scenery. This one is perfect for me.

[@chrisandrew852]

You're exactly right Nuno. I'm 68 and want the same thing. My Yellow Fireball should be arriving this week and i cant wait!

[@TrailHuntersThailand]

How's it going a year on Nuno... Is she still with you.. ? Any issues..? How many KM you done..? *Crap Game*

[@AMac71]

Test rode one today….. what a cracking fun bike and very nippy. Enjoyed it so much I ordered a Blue Stellar, to keep my Moto Guzzi V7 company in the garage. For the money it’s a unbelievably great quality bike and extremely enjoyable to ride.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Great stuff! Please let us know how you get on, AM. If you fancy being featured in the main BikeSocial review from an owner’s perspective then fire me an email to [e-mail] Cheers, Michael

[@weinsaneroomies]

Awesome review bro 👍🏾

[@pauld1966]

Got my Stellar a couple of weeks ago. Went out for a 30 mile ride through the countryside today and was grinning like the proverbial Cheshire cat, all the way! It sounds gorgeous, lots of people look at it and one older gentleman told me he once had one and that I'd done a good job restoring it! It does have an old personal plate on it.... The only thing that is frustrating, is the maximum speed for the first 300 miles is less than 45 mph and then 50 mph for the next 900 miles! Having looked under the rear seat, it's a shame they have a load of metal work and wiring under it, as it would look so cool without the rear seat.

[@johnflongmire]

Just bought one in the USA. Ride it in Lancaster County Pennsylvania - rolling countryside filled with Amish farms. This is an ABSOLUTLY DELIGHTFUL BIKE! Good on highways and winding back roads. Simple and intuitive ride, and quite an eye-turner. Everyone I encounter wants to know about it. I couldn't be happier!

[@sangeethsuresh9320]

The Royal Enfield meteor 350 is huge stepup from the old Thunderbird 350. Its a great bike with very good looks, decent performance, easy ridability on city. The new 350 cc engine is super smooth. The handling is also great.overall a nice package. 😄😄🤩🤩 chears 👍👍👍Royal Enfield.

[@garybrown4854]

A bit of feed back : For me it would be an everyday get me to work , get around, easy to jump on and go kind of bike , I would like it to have a single seat with a rack where the pillion seat is and a top box , somewhere to put a lock and a helmet . I've been on the RE website and can't see any of those things as options or accessories . A pillion back rest on such a bike is imo a bit unnecessary given its power output . I hope RE can start getting some accessories like those I've mentioned , it would widen the appeal .

[@aunoates6617]

They are introducing another version of the bike which appears to have the options you want. It’s called the Hunter ....but don’t know where they will sell it.

[@lord.onk99]

Great review, nice little bike, i like it.

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Thank you Ken. Cheers, Michael

[@GlennO1961]

Bought my Stellar Black (2022) on Monday and will take delivery either this or next Saturday. A lovely piece of work.

[@tamar5261]

My next door neighbor has a 1300cc super duper something or other, it has ride mode and other high tech stuff, it cost him 23k. He was trying to get me to get one, he doesn't even know where the spark plug is. Along comes a guy on a 350 Enfield, simplicity itself. Cut a long story short, I bought one yesterday and should have it delivered in January ❤️

[@manojkarunakaran8604]

I bought the same Supernova blue. It's such wonderful dream bike.

[@stevec-b6214]

wow this bike has my full attention! I have totally given up on motorways, and as soon as i did that, the royal enfields make total sense. just take your time and enjoy the ride, the feeling of a single thumper is unbeatable.

[@MH-vr2bv]

By motorways you mean Smart death traps.

[@genegoodwin8925]

In the 60's if you wanted a British bike and could not afford a Triumph Bonneville or a BSA Lightning, the single cylinder offerings were there form Triumph and BSA for those who did not want a Japanese bike. BSA had a 441 that I remember, one with a low pipe and one with a higher pipe. (and the BSA Gold Star was really something special) Triumph has several upright singles. The upright single Meteor from Royal Enfield reminds me of those bikes, but much better engineered than anything we had back in the 60's. I'm glad there here and hope they sell well.

[@dlittlester]

I'd have one in a minute. After all the multi cylinder bikes I've had, including a CBX, and a twin, the CX500 Turbo, my favourite was an SRX 600 Yamaha single. I'd love another single, and this one would fill the bill.

[@jgeph2.4]

I’ve never been a cruiser guy but this looks stellar , has the same lines of the old Harley FXR

[@johnbellamy6449]

mine delivered today to dealer in crate.look foreward to picking up next week.

[@johnbellamy6449]

i am 72,

[@MarkASaxer]

I really love my RE Classic 500. And I really wish to test a Meteor…. For whatever reason my RE-dealer in Switzerland got it promised for June/July - but apparently RE fails to deliver….. Well, I keep waiting…..

[@kevindarkstar]

Doesn't the supernova also have the two tone metallic paint and the polished wheels spokes sides

[@KarthikSoun]

If you add larger chain sprockets at the back does it increase top speed?

[@davehall4054]

Lovely Sunday bike for town/country A or B roads, however my commute takes in stretches of fast duals and motorway so I opted for a year old CB 500. I wish it well and at the price I expect to see a lot about.

[@GunCollector007]

I’m 6’2” and fit very comfortably on it.

[@Surya-rk6lj]

In India this bike is best quality product..... very long Life bike.one time investment bike.very low maintenance.

[@bruisingSpartan]

I think that the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is an amazing bike, looks stunning, has an absolutely fantastic build quality, and the price of them in the UK is really good, I would like to make a suggestion that could potentially improve the bike: increase the bhp in the engine from 20bhp to 30bhp, give it a little bit more power.

[@loendsti]

ceat tyres are very good for regular use. nothing wrong with them, i use them for my motorcycles all the time.

[@soudipsanyal]

CEAT works in Indian roads where biking in city itself will feel like an adventure. Indian tyres will have to be reliable.

[@amarg2199]

The best entry level cruise bike.

[@robbikebob]

It's a lovely bike, but I'd really, really like to see that engine in an 'interceptor 350', in a roadster chassis with better clearance I bet that would be a proper hoot!

[@bennettsbikesocial]

There are many plans floating around at RE, though as I said in the video and in the BikeSocial review, I reckon this is the base for the next gen of customisers. What do you reckon? MM

[@robbikebob]

@@bennettsbikesocial definitely, it would look great with the rear mudguard hacked and a single, sprung seat. Proper little bobber! I would lengthen the forks and shocks by an inch to get a bit of clearance, weld a new upper subframe in to give a flatter, higher seat and bring the pegs back under the rider....to start...

[@gessler555]

RE has got just such a bike in the works...look up 'Royal Enfield Hunter' in Google, its been seen testing around the streets in India for a while now.

[@googleuser6972]

RE Hunter & Classic 350 coming up soon with the same chassis, gearbox and engine. Styling differences only.

[@jfro5867]

I like it, a lot. Could see me getting one of these….

[@framusburns-hagstromiii808]

Wish they would have done this as a 350 twin. What would be a hoot, is it if they would do something like the old early 70's Honda CB450 twin....not too big...not too small......just right. This 350 single is a good start and it's obvious they were focusing on Indian and east-asia as the primary markets but bound to be popular in Europe as well.......in the USA maybe not so much....

[@shiftyshamsk]

I looked at these back in the spring with a mate of mine. The finish looks good. A bit too cruiser for my tastes. I just can't justify the outlay. My old 1997 Gpz500S twin has 60bhp, can do 40 around country lanes and 70 easily on the open roads. It'll do 50-70 mpg. Has a useful top fairing and 90's comfortable riding position. I can service it, and it cost me £1350.

[@tonysuffolk]

I'm 76 and just bought a Meteor. Been pottering for long time on my trusty Van Van. Hope the Meteor will give me some fun.

[@TrailHuntersThailand]

How's it going five months on Tony..? What's gathering more dust... The Van Van or Meteor.. 🤔 *Crap Game*

[@tonysuffolk]

@@TrailHuntersThailand I sold the Van Van for more or less what I paid for it. Just love the Meteor. Try to ride every day when the weather permits. I decided to do a refresher course with the Somerset Advanced Motorcyclists, (previously the IAM) to pick up on any bad habits. Traffic much faster than it was when I was a lad! The RE Meteor is such good value for money.

[@TrailHuntersThailand]

@@tonysuffolk "Lovely Stuff" I picked up a Meteor Fireball yellow myself a couple weeks ago here in North Thailand... Year old, mint condition 11,000 km on clock. New they are 160,000 bht, snared her for 95,000... It's bloody marvelous... Just ideal for this location.. Drive safe Sir Cheers 🍻 *Crap Game*

[@clivehale397]

Good bike great vid.....

[@bennettsbikesocial]

Cheers Clive. Appreciate the comment!

[@bobthebiker-5539]

Wow what a bike ok I've only had it just over a week at time of writing. But its eating up the miles on the motorway getting me to and from work. Well done Royal Enfield 👏

[@ArnoldsDesign]

I wanted to get an RE Classic 500. Too bad it's discontinued. The Meteor is a beauty, but I can't take an on road 350 seriously to keep up with traffic. Off road, a 350 dual purpose is great, but not on road. It would be great to see the 650 twin in this chassis.

[@andrewturner4728]

Love this bike and wish they would do a bigger one too like a 450 or 500 single with same stying. I've tested one in Thailand and loved it

[@xtc2v]

The weight and vibration would be worse. Also good mpg is very important in far east markets and combustion in a cylinder of just over 300cc is technically the most efficient volume point (all other variables being equal). Enfield 650 is already there for those that need something bigger so there is no point in Enfield developing/marketing another product

[@andrewturner4728]

@@xtc2v I think RE could still produce a 450/500 along side the 350. It wouldn't replace it just compliment the range. The Interceptor is a different bike completely and a great bike too but I think a bigger single would be perfect.

[@xtc2v]

@@andrewturner4728 Its unfortunate but that would probably end up with the way it went here with the Classic 350/500. The 350 got deleted from the UK range thus denying choice to those that wanted the smaller engine

[@andrewturner4728]

@@xtc2v The 350 was deleted from the range because it didn't meet emission standards and nobody was buying them. I still think a 500 Meteor single would compliment the range and both would meet emissions too.

[@xtc2v]

@@andrewturner4728 The emissions standard reached by the Classic 350 and Classic 500 was the same. They were the same technology. The 350 was not deleted due to emissions but the level of sales. There was a cloud of reliability issues surrounding it. The 350 was not exactly born into a peachy period in RE's quality control and the bad name stuck. The modern 350/500 version(s) would meet the latest standard of course but that is not at issue. I'm sure the Meteor 350 runs as smooth as butter at full revs. A 500 might not do that as a single balance shaft only partly deals with primary imbalance. The larger piston of a 500 in that lightweight Meteor frame will feel coarse and tiresome. Why not just make an A2 compliant 450cc version of the 650? It would market better than getting a single cylinder for your money

[@karlosh9286]

It looks good. I'm amazed it can only do 70 MPH. I'd have thought it could do a little bit more, say about 75. Even a fat middle aged so and so like me got to 65 MPH (speedo said 68, GPS said 65) on my former learner bike ( a 13.3 BHP 2018 Honda CB125R ). Although it did take a long time to get to 65 ! I'm going to have to get a test ride of one of these. It's cheaper than my former 125 too !

[@joevince8538]

Its a loooong stroke..so...go for the int 650 if u want faster bike

[@deeptruthchanneldtc6770]

Everything is almost perfect, lovely bike, great looks. wish they would have inserted the updated 411cc engine of the Himalayan in this because power is lacking just a bit in adequacy. Such a beautiful bike does not a have a more powerful engine is kinda sad.

[@mohitAV8]

650cc version coming soon mate 😁 Spy shot - kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKjMl6Jvm7dqqrc

[@pauld1966]

A 500 single version would be nice....

[@riteshr9477]

This is actually a iteration of the same engine at lesser cubic capacity.

[@nealeburgess6756]

Some nice touches. Looks well made and good value. However, what about a normal naked style bike rather than a cruiser? Like a replacement for the bullet? I'm not really into the "Cruser" style. I wouldn't mind a nice lightweight as a retirement present to myself. Also, I don't understand why a modern bike with fuel injection and electronic control, new design OHC, only produces 20 bhp from 350 cc.

[@the_good_lad]

You're in luck, the new singles will be launched in India soon, new models are already in production.

[@chrro466]

RE have nailed this. Take note big four and bring us good looking simplicity. Yamaha bring back the Xt500 and I’ll buy one.

[@paulstanley3265]

Now make one with a side car and I will buy . Great looking bike It’s tempting to buy.

[@vanjolo7852]

A perfect every day bike.

[@djkid14567]

Nice

[@jimmymac9388]

I read that the Royal Enfield classic 500 would cruise at motorway speeds all day long before I bought one.Yes it will, but it will be one boneshaking experience.If the Meteor is capable of doing this without the strong vibes it will do well. Note; I didnt or wouldnt buy this bike for motorway work but just mentioning when it says it will do motorway speeds.

[@stevemiller7433]

BINGO I have a RE 500 classic. I've had it up to an indicated 80mph and have run it for extended periods of time at 65-70mph. It can do it... but you can't. After an hour, your hands go numb, your feet go numb and you start passing blood in your urine. I love my 500 classic but it is not a freeway rider. If this smooth running single had 5, just FIVE more horsepower... it would be a huge seller here in the states. Here we don't have an option, getting anywhere requires at least some time on the freeway.

[@geordiegeorge9041]

I live in Germany, I ride a bike that's capable of 150 mph but I avoid the autobahn like the plague. It's great if you want to get somewhere fast but stressful and boring. I think I'll be visiting my Enfield dealer.

[@rickhill6277]

Love this bike. It’s too bad it’s so under powered especially for the US Market. Here there is more highway driving and at 20hp it just won’t keep up with traffic running 70 to 85mph. It’s actually more dangerous as you have no power left to get out of serious situations. Love the looks especially the Tank Badge!! Looking forward to the new 2022 RE line up!

[@mattlorenzi5606]

I agree in theory, but yeah this bike is not designed to do hours on a US interstate. But then again, as an on and off biker I'd avoid highway riding as much as possible. But to your point sometimes you can't avoid them for where you want to go.

[@stevendavies8496]

Good revue nice bike ,, but,,,,,, spoke wheels would look a lot better ,,,keep up the good work

[@BilgemasterBill]

I wish you'd asked why the new Tripper only displays in kilometers or meters and cannot be set to display miles or feet, or why they saw fit to basically steal that "Fireball" submodel moniker from a venerable Royal Enfield performance group here in the USA who'd been using the name for its products for decades.

[@artiecisneros4691]

Hello Michael, well I did get the Meteor and am really enjoying it. I'm considering a Touring screen, what do you think, does it do a good job? I enjoy taking long trips and was hoping it would benefit it. Thank you, Artie

[@bmk7890]

It is good for not hiting wind on chest, but you will get wind blow in hands and helmet more from the shield. I have it for my ride, at first I don't like it, it seems like it robs away some connection with the road, but now I'm using it and starts to love it after some long rides. Top variant comes with it as standard, it can be easily remove with an Allen key if u don't need. As for me I'm using it for my day to day rides.

[@artiecisneros4691]

@@bmk7890 Are you saying that the shield is directing more wind to the helmet ?

[@bmk7890]

@@artiecisneros4691 yeah, at speeds above 100 kmph there is noticable windblast from it towards helmet.

[@artiecisneros4691]

@@bmk7890 mmmm, Are you able to adjust it? What is your height? I'm 5'9

[@bmk7890]

@@artiecisneros4691 I'm also same height, weights 72kg, Riding at 80 kmph not an issue, above that you can feel it. I'm now getting used to it. I have it more for look rather than functionality For me it dosent serves as what I expect.

[@barryhale9364]

Any 6ft riders try this one? Is it a bit too small for us taller fellas?

[@leekelvin00]

Test rode 1 & yea! Wow! Ahhh! 🤣 For the price tag I will give this little fello 4 🌟 it's surprisingly smooth, just enough pick up, thick cushionsy seat & yes it will cruise on highway comfortably like other cruiser 👍 If it has alittle more torque & top speed I will give it a 5!

[@bmk7890]

For your 5 ⭐ they are preparing a super meteor with 650 twin.

[@kyakaruvlogs2784]

If only this came in the 650cc avatar. Anyways Royal Enfield is on a roll. It has alot in store for the next 12-24 months. A model every quarter. The following models are up for launch - Classic Roadster Shotgun Hunter Sherpa Scram Flying Flea and An Electric Motorcyle Also BSA will be launching its 650cc motorcycle by the end of the year.

[@brahnseer3512]

I found the Meteor just a little lacking in top speed. Do you know the capacity of the new bikes to be launched by RE? My reading is that they are all variants of the 350cc engine.

[@dadmadforgot4050]

Lovely little bike, if I wasn’t 6 foot 3 I’d have one!

[@zedcharlie]

I.ve sat on it. Dead comfy due to slightly forward pegs. I.m 6ft 4.

[@dadmadforgot4050]

@@zedcharlie hmm 🤔

[@zedcharlie]

If you like it go sit on one. More comfy than my bullets but would have to try on road which I intend to do. I was impressed with the general build quality and the details like grips and switchgear. Love the yellow too. 😀

[@bennettsbikesocial]

I’m 6ft and was comfortable enough, I was joined on the press launch by the 6ft 7in Geoff Hill (Daily Mirror), though he does make everything look toy-like!

[@claretbuck1882]

🤘🏻

[@22fret]

Why didn't they just use the Himalayan's 411cc Thumper? It is quite close to that 349cc, therefore I asked myself why someone would develop a completely new engine for the Meteor/Classic...

[@Pung_Henke]

tachometer?

[@garybrown4854]

I suspect they will bring a 500 out as well , I hope so , it wouldn't take much to do would it the 350 is a nice little bike though .

[@amitchodankar1989]

Next year they will launch 650 as trials are going on in India.

[@Nadheem721]

500 cc engine was officially discontinued

[@Honourable66]

@Serving It Cold yes that was the Thunderbird but the meteor is the new version of the thunderbird, RE will introduce the 650 over the next 24 months. Although it's a brand new bike they wanted to retain the Thunderbird name but had to rename the Thunderbird for the global market as Triumph kicked up a stink.

[@dinof68]

love the look but i dont like that when you are in 5th gear for a few mins it basically dies on you and you need to go back on 4th to keep it going 😕

[@manojkumarKalagara]

Nice pocket friendly good looking bike.

[@randompete2204]

Its a shame Honda aren't importing the CB350 & CB350RS, I'm not a big fan of forward controls. l like the the idea behind this sort of bike is brilliant for real world use. 200+bhp and a load of electronics to help control it does absolutely nothing for me. An Interceptor styled bike would be brilliant.

[@darklord9102]

Classic 350 is going to get updated soon...

[@chrismarc1810]

What is your tall please

[@maanassharma5628]

It is a real beast❤️🔥

[@motophoenix5951]

Started off nicely, but then the exec was wheeled on, it turned into an advert and I got bored by the half way mark, so I switched off 🤭

[@Geshmaal]

Not quite sure what the point of this given the Interceptor/Continental GT are already A2 compliant, felt like RE could have either gone a step up to a full licence bike getting towards 1000cc (a Moto Guzzi/Bonneville rival for example) or made a 125 and actually accessed a new part of the market.

[@siddharthm285]

Theres a huge difference in price in the Indian domestic market between 350 and 650 cc models. I expect filling that gap was a priority for them.

[@cloggsy1971]

When’re RE releasing the finance figures for these? If they do a low/0 rate finance they’ll shift a boat load! I don’t think 6.9% is competitive…

[@bennettsbikesocial]

The PCP figures are due this week, Clive. I’ll add them to the main BikeSocial review and as a comment here. Cheers, Michael

[@tobiasz6613]

So at a guess this motor/gearbox is going to go into the replacement Bullet 350 now emmisions killed of the old RE engines in India and a version of the Himalyian engine in the 500 replacement.

[@kevindarkstar]

Bloody shame you didn't make the gear linkage a bit more of a quality item rather than a piece of coat hanger wire, also if you are going to make exposed forks then put a fork protector on the bike, overall it's great, but just a few little bits which spoil it

[@sambrooks7862]

Pretty little thing. It looks like a triumph thunderbirds baby brother.

[@detachedloop1004]

It's funny that this bike is just a revision of a bike that was named Thunderbird 😀 Enfield discontinued that model and revised it completely with this name for obvious reasons of a clash with triumph for the name lol

[@DanTube2010]

A lot of the RE designers have previously worked for Triumph.

[@sambrooks7862]

@@DanTube2010 I didn't know that but now you've said it I'm not surprised.

[@bfarm44]

Torn between this and the classic

[@philreadman1412]

Take my money

[@bitzannbobz]

5:34 exhaust scraping on corners

[@sagarmeena0210]

affordable and quality