Best for the Backroads? Triumph Bonneville T120 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350. You May Be Surprised!

In my recent review of the Royal Enfield Classic 350, I surmised that it is probably The Best backroad bike in the World, and many people agreed with me, but was I wrong?
To find out; I rode the Royal Enfield Classic 350, and the Triumph Bonneville T120 1200cc Modern Classic motorcycles back to back on the same backroads, to find out. I also rode my BMW R 18 cruiser motorbike down the same route, and the conclusions are interesting!
Please NOTE: any comments saying that the Triumph is faster and therefore thats like comparing apples to oranges won't be answered; those people will have missed the point...BACKroads; not open sweeping fast roads or motorways.
Many people enjoy motorcycling for the visceral joy; the feeling of freedom and enjoyment of exploring and being in beautiful places. Riding as fast as possible doesn't come in to it in these situations.
LINKS TO PRODUCTS WE USE TO FILM AND GEAR WE WEAR:
Sony A7iii: amzn.to/3Msrhbx
Sony ZV E10: amzn.to/3IzIQFC
Sony 30mm lens: amzn.to/422XrjR
Takstar affordable shotgun mic: amzn.to/3ok38w3
Rode video micro mic: amzn.to/
423ymFc
Rode video Micro 2: amzn.to/3IANSl6
Rode wireless go mic for talking: amzn.to/3WsGVIx
Synco wireless lav mic: amzn.to/3oqLcQd
Simpson Venom Motorcycle Helmet: amzn.to/3q8ayCO
Premier trophy helmet: amzn.to/3q8R8y0
Go pro hero 10: amzn.to/3MOctp4
Texspeed marlon Brando style leather jacket (the Ol’Man wears): amzn.to/435UFvp
ARMR Moto olive green bomber jacket: amzn.to/3q09q4h
Purple panda Lav mic: amzn.to/3OACrxQ
Slik tripod: amzn.to/3Wsj77I
Sony 50mm F2.5 lens: amzn.to/432qeGn
Zoom recorder and lav mic: amzn.to/3BRI4Qz
DJI Action 2 action camera: amzn.to/43qtjA1
Mac M1 for editing on: amzn.to/3MusSOe
BUY ME A COFFEE: www.buymeacoffee.com/mdatom
Instagram: / mrdarcyandtheolman
Facebook: / mrdarcyandtheoldman

[@sjnorte]

Have been a motorcycle rider since 1963 with many different motorcycles and just want to compliment your explanation of this video of riding. The differences are exactly what you say and true. Want to say "thank you" for your attention to detail in your expert explanation. Was quite refreshing.

[@joshnnik]

I heartily agree with you on this subject. One will often benefit from a lighter bike with a more upright riding position when navigating narrower and tighter roads.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Good afternoon. I took my Classic 350 on a mini tour of The Lake District, covering 145 miles. I did Ashness Bridge, Honister Pass, Newlands Pass, then on to Ullswater via Troutbeck. The littlest motor purred and thumped it’s way up the passes without any problems, and was an absolute joy. It really will go almost anywhere. Busier roads aren’t a problem either, but the Classic 350 is perfect for lanes.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I've been waffling between the Classic 350 and the Triumph T100. Realistically, I will be riding backroads. Where things get complicated is when my dreams of riding far come in. But at my age now that's not likely. Your review and comments are excellent as always. And I'm now coming closer and closer to a second Royal Enfield in the garage to keep my Himalayan company.

[@andrewjohnson6297]

Id go for the t100 there are some good priced second hand machines about usually well loved too it’s always better to have an option to have a bike that gives you a bit more scope for your riding I’ve a 500 bullet and a Harley Crossbones so it opens up options

[@pm8465]

Hope you're right Ol" man. 😁 I've just traded my Tiger 800 in for a RE Classic 350 in Halcyon Black . Decision made after your other video. Get it this week on my 70th birthday.( not far behind you 😂) Loved the Tiger but to tall for me now . Got to admit, as soon as I sat on it, it felt right, perfect seat, hands, pegs triangle. I can't wait for this old man to hit the lanes. 👍

[@alexugurie]

I fell in love with the looks and allure of the Hunter 350 and went for it. What I didn't realise until I owned it, is that the Hunter is a long stroke engine and - a blast from the past - I am now hooked on it's old school torque characteristics. In first gear you can go walking speed at tick-over and even pull away without any need to use the clutch at all. Even in 2nd and 3rd, it will travel at tick-over on a level road without even spluttering (but pulling away does require pulling the clutch to raise revs first). In this, I gladly accept RE's compromise of lower HP for their 350s (I did take the time to consider a hot cam for the Hunter for an extra 5 horse, but going forward I don't think I really feel the need).

[@mikefule330]

I ride a Guzzi V7, just a shade under 50 bhp. Over the last few days, I've done several hours in the saddle ranging from the A1 dual carriageway, fast A roads, through to narrow fen roads that were so badly subsided, broken and rutted that I had to stand on the pegs for substantial distances. I was only overtaken on the major roads by sports bikes. At no stage did my throttle hit the stop. That is proof that 50 bhp is more than I really need. I used to do longer days on a 250cc 2 stroke single which gave me some of my happiest biking memories. I have ridden far bigger and much faster bikes, but the feeling of only being able to use the bottom third of what's available was frustrating. It's far more fun to ride a small bike at 80% than a big bike at 30%. Also, when you look at the cost of back tyres... a bike capable of 130 mph needs a tyre designed to be capable of 130 mph. That is an expensive tyre, and it can be squared off and ruined in one long day on the motorway. Small bikes are cheaper to maintain, easier to ride, and tend to get used more.

[@ralfybaby]

And cheaper to insure and less likely to get stolen

[@mikefule330]

@@ralfybaby Indeed, and if one is stolen, you can run after them. :D

[@shubhamgorade4242]

The Classic 350's and Classic 500's are built so strong and so reliable that people take these bikes on off-road to high altitudes like Himalayas, Spittin vally, leh Ladakh and tallest mountains in india where you barely see any roads for 100's of miles. You should check it out on KZbin. 😊

[@kgc1963]

Picked up my 350 hntr yesterday, been out with some mates today mainly on back roads = bloody great fun.

[@robgerety]

Thanks for this. I'm considering getting a bike after 50 years. I'm 72 and just retired. I have zero interest in speed. I want a nice classic bike for the back roads and dirt roads in the rural area where I live. I was going to go Triumph Scrambler 900. Now I am thinking that this 350 is probably the better choice for me at this stage of my life. Thanks. Great videos.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

💯 Classic 350 is the best backroad bike without doubt.

[@ReRiderChi]

agree, Ive been on a variety of off road places on my 350 recently and it performs admirably; i may change out tires from stock i'm thinking 🤔

[@alexugurie]

I put Metzeler Karoo Streets on my Hunter 350 (they come even in small sizes): excellent road holding, and with a chunky tread pattern offering slight off-road capabilities, the often broken and gravelly back roads of West Cork now seem less intimidating.

[@ReRiderChi]

@@alexugurie I'll check out thanks

[@jamesharvey44]

Shenko 705s work great on the Classic as well, gives a mild off-road grip that still handles wet pavement without problems.

[@Lee-70ish]

Good evening. Spot on analogy OM Just returned from a Suffolk ride to bring my 350 up to 300 miles and just done its first oil and filter change . Tappets tomorrow. Obviously as an owner people will say I biased Perhaps so. But as I returned home I ended up on the tail of a ride out . Mixed bunch of bikes from an Africa twin to a big Kawasaki Ninja in the lead with rear tyre Kim Kardashian would be proud of. All super machines. The road is a mix of 30 40 60 speeds. Boredom seemed to prevail on this windy back road but not for me . The Africa who was tail end Charlie kept blipping the throttle as he had an after market look at me please can. He kept looking at me in his mirror at every blip I was not that impressed A couple in the middle did the ubiquitous weave as if they were on a warm lap and in the end the road captain got so fed up with a car in front of him doing the speed limit he blasted past on the wrong side of a keep left sign and left his mates in the dust. It was a great ride for me. The old Honda ad "you meet the nicest people on a Honda" Can be countered by " Enfields give you time to watch the show". Relaxed back road fun with entertainment thrown in. I Love it. The adrenaline bikes are great in the right place this road was not it . But for the little 350 classic ......Perfect

[@frankysworld]

Well put and explained. I own a Royal Enfield Classic 500 and an Interceptor 650. The interceptor had upgraded suspension and a FuelX mod to help it run smoother at lower RPMs - its brakes are way better then the Classic 500 and it is a great bike with twice the power as the classic 500. - but on my favourite route (the old military road in the Wicklow mountains) which is exactly the sort of road you describe - the Classic 500 (with maybe a few ponies more, but then JUST a few, then the Classic 350) goes through it with ease while I would have to work much harder on the Interceptor - maybe, on a good day I might shave a few minutes off the time I can do it with the Classic 500 - at the expense of comfort and longevity in the saddle - the Classic 500 would be my choice. If you are talking taking longer trips with lots of motorway - the interceptor is the better choice.

[@borderlands6606]

The majority of UK motorcyclists also own cars, which obviates the need for 2-wheel long distance motorway transport. Suburban roads defined biking aspiration from the rocker's café twins to hot 2-strokes like the LC350, but speed cameras have killed bypass racers. Country A-roads are clogged with cars and vans, with sports bikes spending more time on their brakes than throttle. For many people it's about what works on the lanes where low down torque, linear power bands and fewest gear changes offer the most fun.

[@PeterOekvist]

With your reasoning you should try a three wheeled scooter, like a Tricity 300, as a backroad motorcycle. No, really! With It's two front wheels it's super stable in the corners going over gravel, potholes, sheep and cyclists. It got storage, no gears to mess with, very quiet and comfortable like a sofa. Just look straight ahead and not at it and imagine it looks like an Enfield!😂

[@PhilipBallGarry]

We actually rented a Tricity 125 last year in Halkidiki and it was great for exploring sandy tracks (of which there are a lot). The twin front wheels really help on the loose stuff. It was actually a much better mode of transport than the previous years 150cc quad

[@skillfuldabest]

Seeing a new video from the Ol' Man always puts me into a good mood =) Cheers!

[@Ukuleleal]

Bang on the money! Similar roads where I live on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. Swapped my Ducati Scrambler for a Himalayan. Ducati was a great bike, but the Himmy is more like a comfortable pair of slippers. 😎

[@patrickohara9550]

If I just wanted a bike for the backroads, I would hold out for one of the new Triumph 400s. I am looking forward to a review of those.

[@critterIMHO]

Maybe, but I don’t think those are going to be good low rpm engines. The 450 Himalayan is the one I’m looking forward to.

[@RiderOftheNorth1968]

Those engines is revvy little things. Not what he is looking for.

[@azurecoast45]

I think “easy” is an underrated quality in the motorcycling world. Maybe it’s because we take pride in riding, which takes skill, concentration, and effort. There’s this feeling that if something is easy, it is perhaps not as good as some alternative that would offer a greater experience provided you have what it takes to master it. But to me, ease in riding is tied with the freedom for which I ride. As you say, horses for courses, and more isn’t always better, as this 350 has shown.

[@hartley383]

So right about these lower powered bikes. I’ve a Himalayan making a whopping 23 bhp and on small backroads it’s by far more enjoyable than my 1250gs or XJR1300. If I’m honest I find it the most fun to ride most of the time. It’ll do the legal speed limit and on nationals it’s very happy. But a couple of hours between 30 and 45 on the lanes and I always get home with a smile on my face.

[@davidcoleman4941]

Wise words, my mantra is " Ride to the road conditions and always be aware of your surroundings ". To many people just want to speed, I use to work for a funeral company, the graveyards are full of the unwise and unwary.

[@666louis]

For the same reasons you mentioned for the little classic, I got a used Kawasaki W800. Same classic looks, beautiful engine, full mudguards. Pulls nicely from 1500RMPs onwards, doesn't encourage wringing it out. I can just enjoy the scenery and burble along. I recon though, for a man of your size, the riding position might be a bit cramped. I am 1.82cm and I feel you mustn't be much taller than that.

[@silkycherry]

I said this before and I'll say it again. This Channel is the best Motorcycles reviewer on YT. I will be getting the RE Classic as a second bike soon (Hopefully before winter.) 👍

[@85waspnest]

I know exactly what you mean and couldn't agree more. I have and love my Honda CB1100RS. However, as 90% of the roads I enjoy are 'back roads' similar to yours, I often think a lightweight single cylinder plodder of a scrambler type of bike would be more suitable for the potholes, gravel and times when we need to get off the road onto the grass or gravel verge. I'm interested to see the upcoming Scram if they intend fitting the more powerful 450cc water cooled engine planned for the Himalayan. Another that tickles my fancy is the Fantic Caballero 500. These would be second bikes, the CB1100RS is a keeper.

[@raulantonioperezortiz1118]

Buen video Ol man., Gracias por poner subtítulos,. Tengo estas dos motos y estoy de acuerdo contigo. Saludos desde México ✌️

[@ericweber1969]

I wish we had more roads like this in the US. Unfortunately, road engineers in this country think we should only have interstate-scale roads, cut and blasted through the most interesting landscape. It utterly destroys the experience, sadly. Great video by the way, keep up the great work!

[@bebopredux]

Right tool for the job. That's how I see it. The RE is, at least for me I feel, going to provide a more enjoyable experience on roads you are traversing there. I'm 68 and some of my best memories on 2 wheels involved small displacement bikes. Fun is fun is fun. I ride a Stage II HD Sport Glide. It rips. I'm also desiring a small bike like the new Honda 150! These RE's though are really nice bikes. Not just in appearance. I would absolutely be thrilled to have one of these to compliment my current bike. It goes without saying that the Triumph still makes my heart swell. They've always been my favorite looking bikes (along with a Commando, Bonneville's). It's about leisurely riding and taking it all in. Moped or Hayabusa, it's all good.

[@Will-uu8ed]

One thing to consider, is that you shouldn't use all your budget on the bike. I did that recently with a second hand Dyna Super glide. I absolutely love the bike, but now I'm struggling to afford any accessories for it (screen, panniers, handlebars). And also don't have the money to take it on a big long trip around Europe. I'll be able to do all this in time, but something to think about if you were choosing between a RE and Triumph!

[@hatchetjack1031]

Ive got a choice of riding the back roads on my Bullet 500.. Or nursing my 600 lb. 100Hp. Harley around in 3rd or 4th gear. Used to ride a Yoshimura GSXR but i dont look good in plaster.

[@valherurides2109]

Having a Meteor myself, there's absolutely nothing better than brarping down a backroads (or main roads as we call them in Norfolk) on the way home.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

If the bike used soley a back roads your choice is understandable. I'm not sure that many actually limit themselves to back roads or have a second bike to fill in the gap. Your explanation and reasoning was clear.

[@TheNorthernClassicRider]

Fantastic real world review "the walking boot of motorcycling" as a keen walker & motorcyclist I'm sold! 👏👏👏

[@Coastriderscotland]

Good film on how good the 350 is and as a 350 Classic owner I could not agree more, U.K. riders are obsessed with CC sizes and when I rode the NC500 on my Classic 350 i constantly was asked two questions by riders of larger bikes; what’s it like on a small bike like that? And: I tried to catch you on those windy roads but no chance, says all that’s needed to say about the Classic 350 on country roads, half the questions were by clueless folks new to motorcycles and passing their test went to big bikes…the other half by surprised and interested folks who were really interested in how good these bikes are ?, I said go look at my channel-8000 miles on a Classic 350 and 100% fun times! 😁👍 Cheers Bruce

[@critterIMHO]

I’ve been preaching “horses for courses“ for years. And I find that I can ride much longer at a slower pace than what I can at a fast pace, so at the end of the day I’ve gone just as far on the slower bike, and enjoyed the ride much more.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoyed that as ever - and couldn't agree with you more!

[@bobbyblueace]

Non of these are light bikes, even the 350 is rather portly. A back road bike should be light and have enough suspension travel to soak up the inevitable potholes. Wider bars with some leverage and steering geometry that doesn't have the turning circle of the Torrey Canyon. My choice of back road bike is the KTM 690 SMC R (or its Husqvarna or GasGas cousins). It won't fit in at Distinguished Gentleman's ride and the Solvol Autosol will be gathering cobwebs on the shelf but for riding back roads......the best. I have no regrets. Try one.

[@DuffersMcDuff]

"Horses for courses" - wise words. I find both on Motorbikes and Mountain Bikes...it depends where and what you like to ride. Also if you have only one bike...it will probably have to be a compromise to cover all the riding you like to do. I have gone down the middle on both. I have a 650 V-strom, which is happy low revving round the back roads of Somerset but equally happy long distance touring. My mountain bike is a long travel trail bike that can do the local hills and is equally happy decending off an Alp! - I really like the RE range and I think they are going from strength to strength at the moment. As an older rider who is more interested in seeing horses than horsepower...your observations are spot on.

[@Lee-70ish]

You're not wrong. In my now as a new Royal Enfield 350 classic owner quite bias opinion. Motorways and fast roads the Enfield is not suited although you can if inside lane 60mph truck speed is ok with you. My kawasaki vee twin vulcan cruiser would eat the motorway but around town or b roads it was a lump, no two ways. An adventure bike will go around a MX track but a MX bike will be way more suited . Each bike has its merits. The one thing that for me modern machines in general all are lacking is character and soul. That was my number one reason for buying the Enfield.

[@bobman7881]

I agree 100% with your analysis The W800 has that low end off idle torque as well you might try one

[@user-ww8cd1ue7x]

Excellent video! Interesting comparison, this is actually one of the reasons I bought a T100, because it sits in the middle of these two as far as I can tell. Fast enough on highways (which i don’t like riding) and very relaxing on backroads. Absolutely love it! Greatings from the Netherlands, Gert

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Thanks 😊 You will be very interested in our latest T100 review which will be coming on Sunday morning 👍🏼

[@ML-cl6ob]

Perfect comparison! I love my Classic 350 for exact that riding on small back roads - with a big smile in the face 😊 And for going on big journey i take my BMW F800GT

[@ravenbird111]

Wouldnt the T100 be a bit better for the backroads over the T120? They Are both fine bikes

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Yes certainly 👍🏼

[@PhilipBallGarry]

@@MrDarcy-OlMan the single throttle body on the T100 makes it much happier pootling along at sub 200 rpm 👍

[@rockyescape8989]

t120 owner here, what you say is definitely true. i just got off a 400km touring with a mix of back roads and highway. and while the t120 can do all of it stunningly well, the 350 can do better on back roads specifically. less is more.

[@MidnightExpressMC]

Well, this might be a good one for you, because when you said Barry Sheene, I really had no idea who you were talking about since I haven’t followed Moto GP for eons. The names that come to my mind from back in the day would be Mike Hailwood and Giacomo Agostini 😝 …tells you how old I am 😵‍💫 Anyway, I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed this one as I do your other videos, which, by the way, I actually would call short films instead of videos or “content” because those give them a connotation of less value somehow. My wife and I are known to put them up on our big TV in the family room and watch you as well as the incredible Welsh countryside from the comfort of our huge couch 🙂 The odd thing, is that basically every word out of your mouth is always something that I would say myself, exactly, down to the last comma and period. It’s almost bizarre. Thank you! From Southern California ~ Ride Forever! 🦅

[@garyseaton4619]

Your comparisons are on point. I wish I had the roads you do to cruise on. Yes, I do know who Barry Sheene was... I'm now 61 and have been riding since I was 15... Ride on...

[@andrewjohnson6297]

I’ve got a bullet 500 trials a month or so ago and after a short honeymoon period I’ve come to the conclusion it has no place on modern roads it’s slow and stressful at 50mph it’s getting well out of its comfort zone , I can commute in 35 minutes to work on my crossbones on back roads at a chilled rate of knots but the Enfield is an hour , having said that the Enfield would have been a treat in 1957

[@jasonjason7277]

have a look at the new Honda CL500 Ol' Man. it looks like it may be a great back road scratcher with enough puff for national speed limit roads too. i love the Classic 350 but i spend a lot of time on national roads and i feel the bike is just too under powered for that.

[@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555]

I think that's a great bike but can't see it stealing 1 sale from RE because there is zero charm in that Honda. Using that same platform with added chrome & retroism than it'd be different so l hope they have another model lined up.

[@jasonjason7277]

@@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555 i agree the Enfield is a far more attractive and characterful bike, theres no comparison looks wise. its just too slow for nsl roads i feel. i think the Honda with its riding position, 47hp and 190kg wet weight looks made for country lane fun but still has enough puff for motorway riding. it certainly isnt a looker though.

[@speedtriplerider7853]

Enjoyed that Ol Man. Barry Sheene, my hero bar none.

[@korrakrit100]

I just got Classic350 last week, It very comfortable and make me happy so much. Classic350 is enough for me

[@deano1873]

There's a big difference between roads from country to country. I toured in Indonesia on a 1975 honda cb 100cc and loved it. Back to Australia and tried touring on a cb 250cc.... worst trip of my life...

[@healinglight333]

Exactly!

[@deadandburied7626]

Torque is the most important thing riding or driving backroads, and a bike you can pick up off the ground. Trail bikes are best there.

[@pistolpete6321]

You makes some great points! Both are beautiful motorcycles!

[@lostnfun]

Here in China. Own one T120 Black, love the Royal Enfiield Classic 350 too but find nowhere to buy one in China. Thanks mate for the video, nice one!

[@kirbylechien]

I could test the T120 last year, in the city (Brussels). She can't do the job... 1st gear is so long that you can't pass the 2nd before 30km/h, which is the (let's say official...) speed limit of 85% of the streets of that city! My old f650gs is a bit brutal but is fine for that environment. And the Moto Guzzi V7 is even better, her V2 is so smooth, musical and torky in the low revs. My favorite. I didn't test the RE 3500 yet. But I could ride the Himalayan and the Scram which could be also good in the city.

[@Von-by8xz]

I agree with that . I wouldn't take a semi to the corner 7-11 convenience store for a snack , but I would for all day at work.

[@kwakithailand]

You are living in a stunning landscape, incredible scenery, indeed 👍 Your (invaluable, at least IMHO) POV might be not very popular with some folks... But, as they say: different walks for different folks 😁 Great job, Ol'Man 👍

[@christiand.7930]

Love the styling and concept of the Classic 350. Being 6‘5“ my knees are well above the gas tank though and actually interfere with the controls of the bike a whole lot before full lock 😢

[@the_anxiousphotographer]

I agree, I have a T120 and it definitely doesn't like going very slow, 1st gear still likes to run even at low RPM's. I had thought about getting the new Scrambler 400 for some slower speed back roads.

[@hatchetjack1031]

Thinking of trying to find an identical 350 classic, Like yours, same beautiful bronze color and all. Here in the states, there are only 2 Enfield dealers in the whole state and they treat them like Gold.

[@lukeoverthere1364]

Good argument for having several different bikes. I’ll use that one with the missus lol

[@SkysaxonDragonslayer]

Completely right! As I couldn’t afford a stable of different bikes I had to make a compromise and chose my 2004 HD Sportster 1200 Custom as a doing it all bike… Sold my car recently and added a little Honda PCX 125 scooter as a commuter for my 15min ride to work and now find myself exploring the smaller roads more and more with this little gem. In my eyes the Enfield has one big flaw and that is it’s weight! These 190kg are to heavy for a backroad bike - the Mutt 250 gets closer to the ideal with only 130kg, but the old 250cc Suzuki isn’t that torquie… The Hunter is great, but the handling is to nervous and it still has 180kg…

[@Coastriderscotland]

The Classic 350 has no weight issues on back roads! Have you rode one on them? 🧐 Don’t bother with all your spec sheets nonsense which folk are obsessed about and go ride one and you will find their ace! 😁👍

[@Big_DT]

Hey Ol' man! Spot on, different bikes for different purposes. That being said, here in the States, I find my T120 to be well suited for our back roads. Our back roads are undulating with blind corners as well; however, riding at 20 mph would get you run over from behind in many cases. For cruising along at 40-60mph, I love my Bonnie.

[@Aaron_Ada]

Ya. Even well into the sticks there are very few 25MPH roads in the US. Almost all the paved country (county) roads are 45-55MPH. 25 or less would be dirt roads.

[@jessecollins5072]

Along your logic in this comparison, the Janus Halcyon 450 is something I think you should review. Check it out. Thanks for another excellent video, sir!

[@JoJo-hc4dj]

Great video and love the doggie 🐶 in the background 😊

[@johnnybgood7812]

I loved my Classic 350 and now my Hunter 350 even more so as it’s a little bit nimbler and manageable for my old bones.

[@NanceDrew]

IMO, even going slower, put it in rain mode (I know you don’t care about modes or don’t fuss with them) and it’ll be happy at lower RPM. The Bonnie is the best all around bike weather walking, running, and long hauls. Happy riding Sir!😊

[@mikoajlatocha265]

I agree, I have T120 and I use rain mode when going arount the city, or when I'm on back roads. In rain mode it's really nice around 2000 RPM.

[@rumbeard8688]

I would be interested in revisiting this topic once the Triumph 400s hit the roads. That may be next year, but it would be interesting to see if your opinions change.

[@szezi66]

I would like to know why you are not interested in the W800? In my opinion, the most classic English motorcycle, tuned with the knowledge of Kawasaki!

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Unfortunately Kawasaki no longer sell this bike in the UK, otherwise it would be of great interest. And Kawasaki’s marketing and pr are still in the printed press era

[@tweedelidee]

I owned the W650 from 1998 to 2010. Nice machine, but the Royal Enfield is much easier to handle on narrow roads.

[@solarisnatuson7928]

It reminds me of life. Take it easy, travel the journey of life at lower speed you will go through difficult times much easier

[@Argo-F-Ur-Sef]

I’d like to see you do the same topic with the RE 350 and the RE Interceptor 650. It seems like the perfect middle ground. It’s not much more than the 350 and 1/2 the cost of the T120. It has that little extra power over the 350 to have that extra fun or power when needed. And is expressway capable.

[@perfusionist999]

I ride a 125 cc and to be honest its all you really need in the city and short highways with around 60 mph speed caps. Sometimes I really want a Continental GT or a classic 350 but for me its a huge disadvantage that you have to get a motorcylce license which of course takes multiple driving lessons and theoretical lessons and costs another 1200 pounds in Austria while you can ride 125cc with your usual cars license

[@HardDanceShuffler10]

Hey Servus ! Du bist auch Österreicher? Kommst auch aus Wien?

[@perfusionist999]

@@HardDanceShuffler10 servus! ja fix

[@MrJpb2000]

What about the inbetweener that is the Interceptor?

[@ReRiderChi]

Good review; concur on the RE as I've just passed 1200 miles on mine.

[@williamwintemberg]

The correct wrench, screwdriver, hammer and so on for each job. Same goes for motorcycles. I get it 100%.

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Now those are some amazing backroads and pretty country there. Relaxing just watching the footage of the scenery. I throughly enjoyed my test ride of the Royal Enfield Classic. It felt really good, obviously not fast but just weighted really good under you and easy to tip in and still felt really stable too at speed.

[@wingandhog]

Very nice comparison of two stunning motorcycles. I find myself gravitating to a local dealership where they sell Royal Enfield’s, Triumph’, Moto Guzzi’s etc…. Very tempted to pick up the T-120

[@arulkumaran4959]

With a lot of back road riding experience with a street twin I can absolutely agree with your point. Street twin is slightly lighter and less powerful than a T120 but it is definitely hard to handle at low speeds. It's mainly because of the weight and lower ride height its takes a lot more effort to maneuver. Also the demanding throttle control at low speeds just tire you out and makes the experience just daunting after a an hour or so.

[@zedcharlie]

More fun riding slow bike fast than fast bike slow. I sold Africa twin as I never used the power much except overtaking. Which is not a good thing as plenty of drivers distracted and will turn without looking if sat nav tells them to.

[@letni9506]

I go to Matlock in Derbyshire some weekends and it's about an 18 mile journey. I think if I set off on my old 250 or my current 600 I'd probably get there in about the same time. We enjoy power and fast acceleration but most of the time we don't really need to use it.

[@m1907_]

love the T120!

[@jfro5867]

Agree 100% about the R18 being really good on slow backroads, that’s where I choose to ride mine as much as I can. It does slow speeds fantastically well, low seat, cat like balance, smooth and effortless.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

💯👌🏼

[@rkr6237]

What about highway cruising and higher speeds? How does it fare?

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Perfectly!

[@jfro5867]

@@MrDarcy-OlMan Effortless. 60 mph in 6th is around 2200rpm. The only issue is windblast. But that’s the same really on any roadster or naked bike.

[@jimbandit1250sa]

Absolutely spot on buddy I have the T120 but I’m looking at these Royal Enfields and also I may try the new Triumph 400cc also cracking on the ball review and you make a lot of sense. Cheers 👌🏍😊

[@TheLoopTraveller]

Nicely explained !! And yeah abandoned places are always very attractive :)

[@jameslovell9864]

Rode my Scram 411 for the last year. Fantastic for the back roads. Is the classic 350 as good.? Your completely right about power . On back roads less is definitely more.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Yes certainly it is also a great back road bike 👍🏼

[@sdefiel3719]

I have a Harley Limited that weighs 875# that I cruise all the Interstates and highways. If anyone tried to take it, they would die a serious death, but my 320# KTM 390 Adventure, (the pointy, plastic, gimmicky one, remember?) is a true joy everywhere else. It's so nimble and quick and light! Oh! That's a nice werewolf cottage! How's the Wi-Fi? thx S

[@jabjab1010]

I absolutely agree. If top speed it 50 give or take, my T120 is either under geared or over geared. . .2K RPM is NOT a T120 happy place.

[@itsbhooms]

Your backroad is like every other road in India 😂

[@divexplore71]

Will be great to see what you think of the new Triumph 400s

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Press bike should be available end of this year/ early next year 👍🏼

[@GK1976A]

They’re desperate to compete with Royal Enfield, but they’ll never get anywhere near the 4k mark.

[@alejandrodelasala6528]

Very good analysis, I would like you to compare it with the other 350 of the brand, that is to say, with the hunter mainly, for city riding and secondary routes with a passenger, thank you very much, greetings from Argentina,

[@grantkokich6906]

Yes you are right about the bike for the job. You also made a good point about the Harleys. A lot of torque low down , so they can cruise slowly on side roads and still go relatively fast if needed. My 2005 Harley Dyna being good for that for one example and in addition not big and bulky.

[@williamlylecameron9345]

Another excellent video Ol' Man, thank you. You are spot on with your views on both bikes. With the RE Classic 350 being the right bike for the right conditions it will open motorcycling up to the many not just the few. The other thing I like about the RE 350 is it comes in 3 flavours which gives more people more options to enjoy the back roads in a style of motorcycle they like.

[@aaazz92]

Great video! Keep up the great work 🏍️

[@goldilocks913]

Popped into my local big franchise bike dealer yesterday as I’d been musing about swopping the old softail. Apart from the xsr900 Yamahas which looked nice and were a reasonable £10k, l couldn’t find anything that would fit my aging body and requirements. Either too fast or too bulky or too expensive! I’d never seen the R18 in the flesh and those pots are HUGE! 😂

[@Ste197]

Smaller cc makes sense if you have these roads straight out of your back door and larger capacity does if you have a bit of a ride to get to them.

[@stevieneilson2451]

I am like you, being fortunate to own and ride a lot of bikes. I agree with you regarding the RE as i have owned two classic 350's and thet are outstanding at the back road's. If it had a tad more power 25 bhp would be a unicorn bike

[@GeeBeeMike]

What we need is the Classic 650! Won”t be much more of a wait, spyshots are already doing the rounds. But I still love my classic 500 scrambler.

[@blrmotorcyclesinc.]

Like they say riding a small capacity motorcycle fast is more fun than riding a big capacity motorcycle slow....Classic 350 nails it in the back roads and country roads n lanes....its made and meant for it....even interceptor 650 is meant for dual carriage roads let alone the Bonnevilles....Classic 350 has hit the spot which I hope the new triumph 400s singles do too.Only time will tell.Cheers

[@frankysworld]

My Interceptor 650 was a torture with the original suspension - an upgrade did much for the bike in taking the back roads - but my Classic 500 still runs rings around it in the mountains

[@blrmotorcyclesinc.]

@frankysworld Do test ride the new classic 350 reborn...its still retains the character but vibrations have vanished,very impressive....

[@frankysworld]

@@blrmotorcyclesinc. I know they have one a very good job on the engine, and RE did a very good job in keeping the classic look - they are great bikes, but there is a weird sort of thing that only Classic 500 owners are able to nod to when its being discussed, but nobody can really explain it. 🙂

[@frankysworld]

An explanation is that Classic 500 owners are all bonkers - I can live with that 😁

[@blrmotorcyclesinc.]

@frankysworld I know a couple of friends who never want to part with their Classic 500 it's got its own character, I completely understand what you're talking about👍🍻

[@GapBahnDirk]

Exactly. I couldn't agree more👍👍. I find the Interceptor 650 to be the ideal compromise for my type of riding.

[@ericmagnusson1990]

I rode a 120 last winter in the high country behind Alicante Spain. You need the low down torque of the 220 in the ascending hairpins, something the RE 350 just would not be able to do.

[@nikoscosmos]

Add price to the equation and the RE is a much better prospect.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

350: the best back-road motorcyle? Try a KTM 390 Duke. Any well suspended sub-400cc single cylinder bike, basically. I'd rather like a Yamaha SR400. Apart from the kick-start only. I had an XT500 through the '80s. That was a great back-lane bike. 1990

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

If only they still made bikes like the XT500!