The Royal Enfield Interceptor vs the Triumph Bonneville

[@MasterOfNothing83]

I almost pulled the trigger on a triumph street scrambler, so glad I didn't and got the interceptor instead. The price difference is staggering and it was so fun making it in to a retro scrambler tribute thing. Keep up the good work!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Very interesting! I’ve seen a few Scrambler Interceptors- they look incredible🔥🔥. Thanks for the input!🙂🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@sluggo562]

I'm leaning towards the continental GT myself.

[@CresswellTim]

How's it handle off road ?

[@TriumphAventura]

not comparable. the scrambler is superior in all aspects and imo worth the price.

[@CresswellTim]

@@TriumphAventura So how does yours handle off road ?

[@MrQuakeroat]

You do reviews so differently to everyone else and you cover things that seem trivial but which are actually really important. Really like your style.

[@kamisama623]

Would prefer RE interceptor Good looking, very cost affective N very reliable just loved it

[@FreddieDobbs]

I can 100% understand why- this already seems like a popular comment!🙂

[@ananthakrishnan8484]

@@FreddieDobbs engine is reliable, I beleive there is a video on KZbin comparing engine oil impurities across various brands, Royal Enfield tops the chart even crossing even brands bmw. I don't the link but I will post that video soon.

[@shremich4583]

@ananthakrishnan8484 the video with the oil impurities is afair from fortnine

[@armandblake]

Man, you’re my favourite channel now. No spec sheets, no pointless tech comparisons. Just passion for riding and the bikes character.

[@vntoniberlini175]

Yessss I agree

[@davidkiernan5901]

I love my interceptor, 26,000k so far and not one issue. Always a pleasure to ride and will defiantly buy another Enfield if I want another bike. Thanks for the review.

[@darthvader5558]

I totally agree with you

[@Plough78]

She still with you Dave..? A year on hows it doing if so.. 🤔 Cheers 🍻 *Crap Game*

[@davidkiernan5901]

@@Plough78 Still have the bike and have over 42000 kilometers. the only thing stopping me from riding now is with all the plastic garbage lining the streets here in 'Thailand it's taking the fun out of riding.

[@Plough78]

@@davidkiernan5901 You should move North Dave.. I'm up in Chiang Mai... Makes a terrific launchpad for trips and plastic ain't an issue. ... Rolling on a Meteor, just acquired a couple weeks ago at a tasty price... Loving it....!!! *Crap Game*

[@giancarlogarlaschi4388]

@@Plough78 I used to fly with Juneyao Airlines and Qatar then , we stayed at the Grand Tulip Hotel , went to the bars a few blocks away and wondered about you western guys which lived there and had this Old Style British Bikes. One was a former Royal Army Engineers Corps who worked disposing WW II left over ordnance at some remote islands, he was Very Friendly to me. Now I'm retired at Vina del Mar, Chile. I'm facing the Pacific Ocean, wx exactly like LA . Cheers Gents ! Ps. Have a Moto Guzzi and BMW K 100 ...but I want a bike like the RE . 1960s Stuff ...imposible kids dream. 😎😉😊

[@morrisminor56]

I bought the Interceptor two and a half years ago as it was the closest thing to a T140E I have 30 years ago. To me the Interceptor is more 'real' than the new Triumphs.

[@JETJOOBOY]

Real!

[@billred3820]

Agreed

[@mohammedmazin4675]

Triumph is better.

[@user-fn1rb9ze6p]

What does that even mean? 🤔

[@leeonardodienfield402]

@@user-fn1rb9ze6p It means it doesn't feel like a fake computer driven mess.

[@scottroberts4551]

I got back into riding 2 years ago by purchasing the RE Interceptor and loved it, great starter bike and great price. But I really wanted the Triumph all along but was concerned about starting with the Bonneville. After 5 months of riding the RE 650 all over Texas I traded it in on a Triumph Bonneville T120 and couldn't be happier. The Triumph is a big step up in all areas - gearbox, engine, metal work, fit and finish. If you can afford it get the Triumph, otherwise the RE Int 650 is a great bike for the price.

[@JohnEvans-lp9dc]

This is good information. I bought the int 9 months ago and it's been amazing as my first bike. I do think at this point more power would be welcomed for exactly the reasons he talked about. Group rides the bike just can't keep up! I'm not trading mine though. I think it will be hard to find another one and I like it too much. I'll just have to wait until I've saved enough for the t120

[@andybryant1772]

@@JohnEvans-lp9dc I have seen reviews of the S&S big bore kits. They make a huge difference to the power. But then you gotta change brakes clutch etc... Not sure how much it would cost all up.

[@anoopj.p.1191]

Dear Scott, Greetings from Cayman Islands! What’s the riding comfort difference between T120 & Speed Twin if you have ridden. If there are any additional information in regards to the two motor bikes in your opinion, please share. Thank You, Anoop

[@scottroberts4551]

@@anoopj.p.1191 Cayman Islands, how cool! I've never ridding the Speed Twin. I sat on one in the dealership and my first impression was that's it smaller than the T120. As I'm 6'3" I liked the way the t120 fit me (I've also done modifications to make it taller). I also didn't like the angle of the pegs on the Speed twin, whereas the T120 allows me to sit up nice and tall and ride around all day, but I was after more of a cruiser type of bike.

[@Matt_from_Florida]

@@anoopj.p.1191 Been going to Cayman since the late 1980's. Don't know how old you are, but as all things do, it sure has changed!

[@BrianTheGreenMan]

I'm seventy. Your description of how it feels to rid the interceptor took me right back to my BSA and Triumphs. They were bikes that a competent rider could use every bit of. When you got to the point where you were maxing out the machine on the curves it felt really good.

[@greatkingrat]

The David Bellamy level of energy and enthusiasm of Freddie Dobbs is fantastic. A great reviews from a real down to earth motorcycle enthusiast and journalist. You always know you’ll get the real beans from Freddie!

[@tro_de_bac]

I owned a Interceptor, and it was so damn good that I stopped going out with my friends with Zts or Rs. I tried to join coleagues able to enjoy the ride, and not the acceleration or the horsepower. Motorcycling is something else.

[@jigneshraval0609]

True...Classics have there own league above all🍻

[@bonnevillebagger9147]

So slow cumbersome bikes….

[@VikasSingh-my7vd]

@@bonnevillebagger9147 Yes Slow!! Cause sometimes u need to go slow or do things at slower pace to get the most fun/pleasure out of things in life. It's already a rat race nd so much chaos outside why not!!

[@stratolestele7611]

​@@bonnevillebagger9147🙄

[@mrmark8603]

Unless you need it to get out of trouble.@@VikasSingh-my7vd

[@Steven-Brooks]

Great video again Freddie. Last year was an eye opener for me. I went from one bmw tourer to buying an interceptor and a Himalayan. Both together were just over 10k. To have two bikes that are completely different in power, practicality and feel instead of one all rounder was an eye opener. I don’t feel like I’m riding a budget brand but they are definitely not premium. However they bring a smile to my face and I don’t feel like I’m riding something so expensive I’m scared to ride it in fear of it getting damaged. As you’ve said previously it’s exactly what motorcycling should be, cost effective and fun. 👍

[@Persian-Immortal]

They should be highly reliable as well. But, be careful of the Himalayan, she has issues with oil leaks.

[@darrennorton6881]

Your option sounds ideal. Two very different great bikes for the price of one. I lokk at himalayan's after wathching 'itchy boots' travels.

[@PrinceTMATHEW]

@@Persian-Immortal i ll say the brakes,i rode it from southern india to Ladakh ( 4100 kms)

[@nicojok7802]

I have owned an RE for two years, and I am very happy to have her. Just a great bike. Excellent video. Greetings from Argentina!!

[@easyridertenerife]

I like the comparison here…and I agree…The RE is a huge amount of bike for the money…the Triumphs are also, riding on name and is more a household bike. I think its interesting to see how popular the RE are when renting, compared to the Triumphs…it seems to me, our riders already have a Triumph…so they tend to not want to come and ride the same bike over here…they want to try something a little different…a bike they ¨dońt want to own but would love to try you have heard me say that before Freddie..and this is exactly what this bike is for….and why its such a popular ride…..The very interesting thing is how many people then question, why did they pay the price tag on the Triumph…when they could have paid for this. Also lets not forget this is only a 650cc…so a massive option for riders who have recently passed the test, and don’t want to jump straight into 850,900, etc… Thanks for the review Freddie, great job…

[@FreddieDobbs]

It genuinely does make me think about buying one- I changed my mind and had to take 10 mins to make my final conclusion, and I still don’t know if I’m right!😆

[@aedlow]

Do you guys have bike rentals in other parts of Spain, e.g. Mallorca and Menorca?

[@easyridertenerife]

@@aedlow sorry only the Canary Islands at the moment…

[@aedlow]

Do you maybe have any connections there?

[@informedcarpet]

Triumph me for me everyday. People shouldn’t kid themselves, RE purchases have Triumph envy.

[@andystroud2928]

This man talks absolute sense. They are two completely different bikes. The Enfield is not a poor mans Bonneville. You cannot compare the two. I am lucky enough to own both. Every bike enthusiast needs at least one Interceptor in their garage. Nothing on the planet with such value for money.

[@deferencetodusk]

I had the Continental 650 for a year, about 4500 miles and loved it. Sprung for the cafe racer style single seat, absolutely great for around town riding, and if you take the ridiculously heavy exhausts off and slip on some other ones it still doesn't get too loud and the weight is dropped (in my case from 22 pounds to 8 pounds). Honestly my biggest complaint for it was that the Interceptor has a standard fit center stand and for some reason they didn't include the center stand as standard on the Continental. I ended up trading it in on a BMW R18 Classic last summer due to wanting to take longer trips. I'd happily buy another one if I had 6 grand lying around, and the custom community is always growing. People are doing really cool things with the Royal Enfields. My big wish is that they'd put the beautiful 650 engine into the Himalayan.

[@ishankhare8960]

Bought the inty from one of the earlier batches at launch. 15k kms and going strong. Have done upto 700kms in a day. Such a gem of an engine. 47hp is perfectly adequate in India. And the bike costs considerably lesser here

[@mailmeabhilash]

Yup, fun bike. I booked it, they said it would take 6 months to be delivered. Got pissed of got Dominor 400.

[@GV-yn4nm]

@@mailmeabhilash they told it would take 3 months, but i got it in 2.5 weeks

[@mayanksaxena6273]

@@GV-yn4nm Good for you mate. Lol.

[@Amory98]

I mean, 2.5 lac in uk money is more like 2.5 to 3 grand in pounds Sterling. At 6 grands it absolutely makes no sense there, considering when you can pick up a Suzuki GSX S 1000 for 10 grand there.

[@shree397]

​​​@@Amory98 Darling 6 grand to 10 grand monetary difference in UK is similar to 3L and 10 L in India. even you can buy a used versys 1000 for 10 lacs

[@matiasc.6277]

Hey Freddie, congrats on this really genuine and extremely well described video. I´m from Buenos Aires (Argentina), and I've got an Interceptor and I am truly happy with it. I dream with a Triumph, they are reaaaaally expensive over here due to local taxes, so it is not that easy to get one of those for probably the 95% of the population; that's why it is really nice to hear you having a Bonneville and talking so many nice things about the RE. Everything in your video is pretty nice (filming, sound, your voice rythim and accent), thanks a lot for sharing. Best!

[@happilyunsettled]

Bonneville is my first love, and interceptor is the love that I could afford :) cause in India there is a huge difference between these 2 bikes when it comes to pricing. but im very much satisfied with interceptor for Indian roads. Very informative video and you took a loyal decision in choosing the bike .

[@allans7281]

I just pulled the trigger on a 2022 Bonneville T 100 and a light beamed down from the heavens on me! The ride /feeling is magical! I like the royal Enfield as well.

[@jakehodder9524]

This is literally the dilemma I'm facing. Int650 or T100. Hilarious to find a video pitting the two exact bikes I'm thinking of together. The perspective is appreciated, though I still haven't made up my mind...I imagine my wallet will be making that decision!

[@kignacio]

Did you get either yet? I have a 2017 T100 but these RE’s got me on looks alone.

[@rudihenry5298]

I have both, the RE has this looks the Bonneville doesn’t have. The RE is just an awesome bike, turns heads, the Bonnie doesn’t!

[@matthewetmoi8436]

@@rudihenry5298 Do you have the chrome tank ?

[@vks4392]

I’m in the same boat brother 😮haven’t decided yet. 🤣

[@jamesemerson4102]

My Dad and I had a 2017 Bonneville T100 Spirit and he sold it to get the interceptor. The Interceptor was better to ride in every way. The Bonneville felt heavier and wanted to tip over... more top heavy? not sure, but it was also way clunkier and Jerkier. The gearbox in the interceptor is just fantastic! buttery smooth. It's such a fun bike to ride as well. Mine is a 2019 and I've done 12,500km's on it. Absolutely fantastic bike. It looks awesome too and so many great mods you can do to personalize it. I have the S&S pipes and air filter etc. Baak Motorcycles have some killer mirrors, bars etc. to swap over on it and get some of the extra weight off.

[@corytheobald2166]

I got back into bikes earlier this year after 30 years with a little Honda Monkey and just bought an Interceptor last week. In Heaven indeed! Great comparison video, Freddie. I know this was a while back, but keep up the great work! I'd love to see you revisit this bike sometime for a 3-way comparison with the GT and the Super Meteor!

[@ramirocortes2549]

Greetings from Bogotá Colombia. Apologize for my poor English. I have had 15 bikes during My long life. The two bests , without doubt, have been a Bonneville t100 and a Bonneville SE. I love them!!

[@AKASHROY-i9f]

🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@rambhaktrajputana5651]

I came across one of the interceptor in Himalayas, the owner had made some performance mods and it was kicking around 52-53hp, I think 55-60hp would have made Interceptor appealing to wider range of bikers.. still this engine holds melody of its own 👏

[@FreddieDobbs]

This is a really interesting point; I think I may well have chosen the Interceptor in this case🙂👌🏻 The vision of seeing an Interceptor in the Himalayas; glorious!❤️🏍👌🏻

[@frederickwoods5943]

My 2020 650INT has over 21,000 miles with no problems. I just bought two S&S "750cc" big bore kits and expect to have around 55-plus horses 🐎 which should put performance on par with my 900cc Bonneville SE which is 50-60 pounds heavier and has one less gear. Very few bikes can match the gearbox of the R.E. 650; all 3 of my Triumphs are clunky as far as shifting; better fuel metering on the R.E. also.

[@flamingogeorge8104]

I've watched this video 100 times trying to decide whether or not to get this same interceptor as a first bike... Im still undecided. Thank you for sparking and supporting my motorcycle addiction Freddie. And hello from the east coast of Canada.

[@stoneroses9350]

Man I love the passion you put into these videos!

[@hughlynas6219]

I'm an old motorcycle guy from the 50's. I rode Ariels, 350 and 500 and Triumphs, Speed Twin and Tiger 100 for 9 years. I would love to ride one of those, or equivalent again - Just to experience the joy and peace that comes from riding these bikes. My first love was an ex war department (UK) 350cc 1939 Ariel with girder forks and no rear suspension, no generator, no lights, broken kickstart. I had more fun on that bike than I had with any of the 52 vehicles I have owned since! I tore the engine down once and went through three dry cork clutches. Very easy to work on. Never did replace the kickstart because the shaft was broken, just pushed the bike , jumped on, released the clutch and off she went. The sound of a Triumph twin is unique and I enjoyed both Triumphs - especially the Tiger 100, baby blue and fast. Nostalgia - I will have to get an older Triumph, or Ariel 350,500 or Square 4! The price of the Interceptor looks inviting. In the 50's the guys considered Royal Enfields to be "soft" - except for the "Bullet."

[@katafrakt33]

Now I need RE Interceptor even more.You're very good story teller sir!

[@vntoniberlini175]

I agree

[@SteveSmith-xc4hf]

mate,i like your videos a lot.honest ,unbiased,unpretentious...great format.i have 6 bonnevilles and 2 REs each have their own character.You should consider a ride in Australia one day,fantastic roads and bike culture.

[@elisabattle8456]

Really enjoyed this video. I am over 70 years old and have been riding for over 50 years. Have owned BSA, Triumph, Ducati, Zundapp, Cagiva, Laverda, Moto Morini, BMW, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Indian and currently own two Moto Guzzis. Attempting to keep up with my son's Ducati on my Guzzi is not in the cards, but the disappointment lasts for less than 1 minute. I would take either Guzzi on any trip before the Ducati because of the reliability, ease of maintenance on the Guzzi. That is what motorcycling boils down to. Mike

[@chrisdagnall8666]

I think you articulated perfectly the dilemma I had recently, I also was trying to decide between the Interceptor and T100/street twin. The Triumph did have some better touches and the 900cc engine more power but for the sort of riding I wanted the bike for the Interceptor was totally adequate in all areas, in that case the £3000 price difference made decision. Tenerife is in the frame for a summer holiday and I know exactly where I will be hiring a bike from 😀🏍👍

[@resin8n]

Great video comparison. I'm fortunate enough to have a few bikes. I bought the RE because of looks and character. However, I've also added the S&S 865cc kit and it certainly made all the difference with regard to additional power. I now enjoy more than 60RWHP, which I find sufficient on this bike and would heartily recommend the big bore kit to anyone who like the RE, though wants improved performance.

[@r.i.p2464]

I have a question. How much did the big bore affect it's fuel consumption? Fuel consumption is my top priority for now but if i can get a bigbore and just lose 5-10 percent of fuel economy then i would be happy. Right now I'm enjoying 70+mpg riding to work hovering above 3-4k rpms. But i want a little bit of power too if I'm on a leisure ride. This thing is slower than my extremely obese roadking even when i have it fully loaded with camping gears.

[@nickduffy8482]

Freddie, that was a very interesting comparison and really well presented. I honestly thought you would chose the new Interceptor over a used Bonneville and that one surprised me. A big factor for me would be the new 3 year warranty versus the 7-9 years of use by unknown riders. I understand your ‘quality’ rating of 10-15% but I would also have a ‘value’ rating which would be used to offset some of the quality. I love both bikes but in my heart I feel as if I want to reward RE for bringing so much ‘value’ back to the market, which has had a huge influence over other manufacturers to try and do the same. Either way, it was a great review. Like a lot of other people, I’m waiting to see what the new Goldie has in store and where it will land price wise - it could be a major game changer in the retro market.

[@jackoshea1369]

I’ve only recently found your channel and I absolutely love it! Your style and your way with words is as spot on as a cup of tea on a cold day. Keep it up Freddie! Also, I passed my full bike license today, so excited to start my motorcycle journey! I’ve got my eye on that Interceptor, it oozes class and style!

[@stevezahn8056]

Great video freddie, I’m a Harley guy always been, but I started out on a 1971 BSA lightning. And it was a rock, but it handled like a dirt bike. Crazy nimble in traffic, I then got a 1980 sportster. Also a rock but not as nimble, but more power and grunt. I’ve always had a spot in my heart for old English bikes. But when you get down to it they are all the same. Parallel twin, light weight 650 or 750 and. Nimble as hell with seats as hard as a wooden board. So the difference comes down to how cool the bike looks, and how it feels, and how much fun it is to ride. And when I was a kid, if you had an English interceptor RE5 all chrome, they were faster than a t140 and a BSA and they made the Norton guys nervous, but mostly they just looked kickass. I don’t know much about the new ones, but if you rode an original one, you would be putting on your ,leather jacket, a pudding bowl helmet with goggles, and doing the ton between cafes.

[@biswaranjanmallick7407]

Bro this is completely designed and made in India!

[@ChakraVart1]

I must say, especially in that colour it is achingly beautiful.

[@roblippiatt874]

I had an interceptor on loan whilst my Himalayan was being serviced and I found the the power was spot in because there’s enough to have fun but it still felt safe and pushing it didn’t lead to silly speeds.

[@mohitextreme1988]

Considering that the 650 twins cost around half of what they are priced in the UK, it's a no brainer for people in India! While they do come with their fair share of niggles and issues, they are the best bikes RE has built till date. I am currently running on Honda Highness CB350 and it's a beautiful machine. When it's time to upgrade after a few years, the Continental GT is at the top of my list! Maybe I'll get a used one and modify it to my taste!

[@kelboyce2629]

A good comparison, well done. The Interceptor reminds me of the Meteor 700 that I had in the mid-60s. The Triumph reminds me, unsurprisingly, of the Bonnie I had shortly after. The DNA was completely different in each case. The Meteor was big, brutal and chunky, whereas the Bonnie was just about the lightest (in looks and weight) 650 you could buy. The modern companies have clearly set out to replicate the old personalities, and have achieved just that. As they used to say back in the day, the Enfield was a 'man's' bike, meaning, I suppose, that the Bonnie was not. Steer a centre course and you've got the 1960s Norton 650 SS!

[@axelalvarezllamas4210]

Man, congrats on your work. It is so pleasing to watch this reviews when you're so passionate about it.

[@philroberts5537]

Thanks for the comparison. I bought an Interceptor as a second bike as my Harley is very thirsty around town. I have changed the silencers , air filter and added a fuel probe , can cost around £500 plus depending on the silencer choice. This I’m told will add another 10 hp, bringing the bikes pretty close. The brakes are Brybe which are Asian brembos. The frame is Harris . Sure you can uprate the suspension. I do also love the Triumphs .

[@the.communist]

10 bhp🤔

[@tomaszp614]

@@the.communist yes....more like 4-5, I have the same upgrades. Air filter, TEC pipes and fuel booster.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Very interesting, thank you for sharing this!

[@willlodge5386]

I’ve made those changes too, a must imo. Great bike.

[@iamrobot396]

Also the chains and gearbox are Japanese imports along with Bosch ABS 😎

[@dwaynemcallister7231]

Your enthusiasm is infectious, enjoyed your review greatly. When my Dad was a teen he bought a new '53 650 Triumph T-Bird it would do 109 mph stock and 119 after he put more cam in it. He put 120,000 miles on it in two years

[@russellstroup3014]

Excellent comparison! I was faced with this exact decision and chose a 2016 T100. There are plenty of garage Queen Bonnevilles available, and most include extras you don’t have to buy yourself after purchasing the bike. Mine came with back rack, panniers and a center stand. 4k miles later, still smiling 🙂

[@rudihenry5298]

I’ve got both, prefer the RE, much more character!

[@chillridesjohn]

This bike has been around for a long time but only really started to pay attention because of this very video... and now I'm head over heels with it, and for me, that exact color option is perfect for it. Thanks Freddie!

[@Foodgeek]

Great review :D I did a test ride on the Royal Enfield Interceptor and I found it to be a really nice bike with enough power and a gorgeous styling. I did end up buying a Honda Monkey instead, as I already have one or two full sized bikes and the monkey had a smile factor out of this world :D

[@mickcook9277]

Really like what you are doing here both in the YT and podcast space Freddie. What I'm seeing and hearing is genuine enthusiasm for bikes and biking culture. Your penchant for talking about bikes in terms of affordability and appeal is refreshing. Keep up the good work the both of you. Mick from Aus.

[@ivanwatling194]

Great review Freddie. Very interested in the Interceptor as an upgrade from my Mutt Sabbath 250 (which I bought after your review of the Mastiff). Love the Mutt, but simply can't handle 2-up riding. The T100 is also one on my list, so your comparison is very useful.

[@hbh77]

Just to make you jealous, the interceptor costs the equivalent of about 3.5k pounds here in India. I'm strongly considering getting the continental

[@FreddieDobbs]

Nooooo way!!😳 Eye opening. The Continental is so fun- I’m a big fan!😍🏍👌🏻

[@adityaverma6754]

@@FreddieDobbs and also u can get 3 interceptors at the cost of owning 1 Bonneville here in India . I know Bonneville is an amazing motorcycle but its just not worth it atleast not in India.

[@splodge5714]

And what is the average wage in India?

[@adityaverma6754]

@@splodge5714 Average wage in india is like 30000 INR equivalent to 500 dollars .

[@adityaverma6754]

@@splodge5714 meaning half of the population earns less than 500 dollars a month , while half makes more than 500 dollars .

[@peteodonald5440]

Great natural presentation, thanks. When I first saw the Interceptor in Germany the exhausts reminded me of the Honda 750 four, another very good looking bike.

[@themoog3889]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder as they say and most people buy with thier eyes and for me the RE has nicer proportions....for ME before you fire up your keyboards ! I wanted a second bike that I could throw on my gear and go for a pootle and I didn't want 10k+ sat in the garage I just couldn't justify it as a toy at that level. I wanted the peace of mind of a 3 year warranty & that no-one had thrashed it , so The RE became an obvious choice. I have spent a few quid making it mine , new exhausts , indicators, rear light & mirrors but I would have done the same mods on a bonneville . I've had the bike 18 months now , never once regretted buying it and I know that once I've fallen off the perch it'll be my kids problem where both my bikes go ....not sure what my main bike will be by then but I know one will be the Interceptor 👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

Fantastic insight, thanks for sharing!🙂 Out of all the bikes I’ve tried (T120, Scout, Harleys, Ducatis etc etc), the Interceptor is the one I miss the most. There’s something very special about it. Regarding nicer proportions- I do agree with you

[@themoog3889]

@@FreddieDobbs I think some of the components are good enough quality but let down by the colour choice RE made that pale flat silver would make the crown jewels look cheap ,I stripped lots of the small components ( heel plates, injector covers , mudguard bridge , levers , etc. ) all look much better in satin black ! The seat off the GT ( touring version ) really improves the comfort and looks !

[@BMTVMeditationandSleep]

I dont even ride bikes but after watching this video and a few others you have done on Royal Enfield... I feel like I want to buy the Intercepter and learn how to ride.

[@irishflyer6377]

Love the review. Two other bikes I’d love to see you review are the Kawasaki W800 or the classic Yamaha XS650, both in the same bracket as these.

[@ThePeachteats]

I come for your enthusiasm (among other things) in your videos. Was not disappointed :-) great vid!

[@russellparratt9859]

I enjoyed the genuine nature of this video, and the way you dealt with questions and issues that don't usually pop up in many motorbike reviews. I know it's probably not feasible, but I would be interested in seeing more comparison reviews like this one.

[@moneeb343]

This was the most genuine and enjoyable comparison and review of a motorcycle I've ever seen. Thank you for bringing your character and wit and genuine interest to this video Freddie, subscribed and excited for more of you!

[@neilharrison1203]

Interesting stuff. And I’ve just bought the Interceptor because I don’t need any more than it gives - just as you said !!

[@paulbrook2459]

Brilliant honest video 👍, The intercepter is a very cool bike that suits ! TMF as just completely ruined his intercepter through modification! Goes to show that Money doesn’t buy taste ! Brilliant channel 👍

[@splodge5714]

Well TMF likes it and that's all that matters.

[@willlodge5386]

Now now….

[@apurvpr]

I consumed this entire video without a budge. That relaxed presentation is the perfect way of inducing a viewer to understand your perspective. Good job brother 👌👍

[@peterhollis8291]

Great review Freddie, I previously owned a T100 and now have an Interceptor and in my mind there is not a lot in it when it comes to quality. Sure there are some dodgy looking welds and some of the metal components are not as high a standard as the Triumph, most of these bikes are probably for weekends so why pay the extra to sit in the garage. The bike always gets noticed and the amount of conversations I've had when parked up which I never had with my Triumph, I did love the T100 but was it worth the extra cost over the Interceptor? The answer for me was no but if the cost was the same for both bikes when new then I would have a difficult decision to make, keep up the great work.

[@sidharthadas4295]

Excellent comparison and superb camera work by Monica. Can't wait to checkout other videos on this channel.

[@rgochina]

Hello from Brazil! You my friend has a true biker hearth... very few people can understand and verbalize the soul of those two bikes as you... you went to the point, to the very subtle and personal details and the "personality" of the Interceptor, and can describe it. A bike that is honest, elegant, simple and stunning in a surprisingly humble way.

[@stuartmoles843]

I’ve got the other retro (Moto Guzzi V7) that sits somewhere between the two. If the Interceptor was out at the time it would have been a difficult choice, think they look great.

[@xyan819]

What a brilliant review. All the way love from India 🇮🇳❤️

[@markwilliams8655]

I can’t believe how good you’re review was. Seriously well done to you. I also have to point out that I’m actually not interested in either of the bikes here, that’s how good you’re review was 👍👍👍

[@michaelmclarney1994]

Great review, Freddie, really practical and tells me what I want to know, thanks. I'm swinging towards a bonnie or speed twin if the budget will allow when I come to buy 👍

[@maxxf12]

A true genre specific enthusias think a like. Perfect comparison and all points of enthusiast covered. Wonderful job good sir.

[@MeAndMyRoyalEnfield]

Good Review! In January 2020 I KNEW I was going to buy the 2020 Triumph Bonneville T120 SE. My dealer had both in stock and I did back-to-back test rides and hands down, money aside, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 was the winner. In my parking lot test, slow speeds, stop and go, tight circles and figure eights, then in-town driving, and freeway popped right up to 75MPH easily. The Bonneville was sluggish in the parking lot test, ok on city streets, and did get up to 75MPH about two seconds sooner. The salesman knew from the smile on my face when I came back the INT650 was the bike for me, no question. Also during my research looking at the periodic maintenance, the INT650 looked like the easier and cheaper bike to maintain as well as fewer people complaining on the internet about maintenance issues. I carry very full saddlebags, tent, computer bag, stuff sack, Everything I own strapped it my bike and can easily do 80MPH on the Texas highways, and she still eats up the mountain twisties with joy. Now with over 19,000 the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 has proven to be the perfect bike for me.

[@78Outlaw]

I’d expect the Interceptor being more agile in the turns Freddie, higher CoG, shorter rake, more lean?

[@martinphillips2574]

Thanks for the great comparison... As a 60 year old who is planning to retire to my villa on Koh Samui, Thailand... I am seriously struggling to find the right fit for me, I had always promised myself a Ducati(Monster) in retirement, but because of where I've chosen to live my research keeps driving me to the Interceptor, its an island with no expressways/motorways so I seriously don't require the extra horses of the Triumph or a Japanese option... i'm one step closer to making the decision now - thank you.

[@tusharverma7415]

never seen a person so passionate and respectful towards bikes.

[@robbikebob]

Yeah, I love the interceptor, but my friend in the bike trade says that he sees quite a few and most of them are looking very tatty after a year or so. He saw one with a thousand, dry miles on it and the chrome and paint had wore thin on contact spots and the welds had gone rusty!

[@tomaszp614]

@@Victor-vf1fi I have one, my interceptor lives outside under a cover. It's been two years already, not a spec of rust. I live in UK, it rains every second day.

[@FreddieDobbs]

This is useful info, very very interesting. Thank you Rob🙂 I’ll be curious what others say on this point

[@robbikebob]

@@tomaszp614 I've no experience, but he sees hundreds of bikes!

[@martinowl]

My Interceptor is 2 1/2 years old , 10k miles. Still in immaculate condition & not one issue . So while I can’t say there aren’t some that have rust issues, there are certainly plenty that haven’t .

[@kdsowen2882]

@@robbikebob Is his dealership on the coast ? Salty-air f**ks metal, I live on a little Island (like Britain)...nz, and I have never seen a rusty RE650, nor heard of one . I check-out every one that comes-up on our biggest trading-site (TM), been looking for the bargain RE650 that coincides with my finances , and also the mods that people do. More info there, than Bike-Clubs, over here anyway. Your huge population (80-odd mill V's our 5mill , might have something to do with it, less rough-plonkers own them here, mainly older mature riders, so better cared-for overall ? Any uncovered, Coastal-Bike, over here, looks like scrap within 2-3 years.. David

[@slimturnpike]

One area of performance where the Interceptor excels over the bonnie is the throttle engineering, ie smoother and more linear. For myself that's a huge advantage.

[@dry509]

Would you buy one of the Interceptors? Or what instead? Throttle engineering is important tome too?

[@viktorask]

I would go any day for Triumph, way better quality. Also RE value goes down fast, like Triumph will be way easier to sell and price stay the same

[@slimturnpike]

@@dry509 Yes. You really can't go wrong with the Interceptor. Resale is great where I live, but you won't wanna sell it.

[@dry509]

@@viktorask Thank you.

[@dry509]

@@slimturnpike Thank you.

[@shawnchristian5279]

I love your excitement and genuine reviews. Great job

[@nirmalkumarmanturmath2503]

It is great video the way you compared two bikes. Way better than other video. Thanks for all efforts you put for this good video.

[@andywalker6122]

Doesn't matter how fast everyone else is going Freddie, just ride your own ride 😎

[@MrUwg]

Thanks for your ambitious report and the astonishing conclusion. I decided for the interceptor for all the reasons you mentioned and additional hp i will simply get by exchanging pipes and air filter. Aside the hp also the sound will improve significantly. Living in Thailand regulations are less and costs might be 400£.

[@alanhoward1510]

Just loved the video, I was trying to make up my mind what to buy you sorted out the problem for me. all the negitives you gave for the interceptor reminded me of my 1st love. I have not ridden for some years and have just reinstated my motorcycle licence, I will be buying the Interceptor which is almost identical in power to my old 1959 Bonniville but I will not miss the triumph whip this Interceptor does look old school ... thanks Alan 75 years old Brisbane Australia

[@matthewkaraszewski9726]

First time rider last year and was going to buy the INT 650 - supply was being held up then found a 2012 Bonnie online - all black. Very well maintained - it was fate. I never ride an INT so I can’t compare but in love the Bonnie

[@andymcneil7085]

Yes I agree. Both look amazing.

[@ianw3294]

Hi Freddie. I have been riding bikes over 50 years and have had a Honda CB750, Kawasaki ZiB 900, GT750 Suzuki and many other bikes. However this has to be the most fun to ride. And I love the fact you can service it yourself. Lookout Japanese bikes - RE is coming for you. Cheers Ian from Queensland.

[@rosswootton8825]

Why do we never get to see Monica?

[@davegallo8790]

You are the BEST motorcycle review channel on youtube Mr. Dobbs!!! Keep up the GREAT work!!!

[@Samuraisnowy]

Just did 950miles in 6 days on my interceptor all over Pennsylvania, and it was wonderful for touring with a dry bag on the back. I did replace the stock seat though (sahara seats). The bike is amazing fun, easy, and makes you just enjoy the ride.

[@fasthracing]

I had a 2019 one of these bought new. I liked the price, the looks, the brakes, the 3 year warranty. I disliked the foot peg position, the crunchy clutch lever, the hard seat. Imo it needed 20 bhp more, I got rid of it because I got just a bit bored of it. For me a bike needs to be able to make you go "OH F******************" now and again when you give it full attack.

[@michaelwatts224]

Totally agree (fellow Int650 owner)

[@timparkhouse9925]

I’ve never been a fan of the classic look but I LOVE the look of this bike. The tie-ing in of the rims, tank, engine and exhaust really highlight the lines and I think it totally works where a lot of ‘retro’ bikes look pastiche, this looks authentic. Character is not to be sniffed at if you don’t ride very often - you want every ride to be memorable. So on price, looks and character I’d give the nod to the Interceptor. Having said that, I think it probably suits a riding style that is chill rather than aggressive so I’ll stick with my manic little Husqvarna 401 until I’m done with being a hoonigan.

[@RobertBrockmann]

Thank you Freddy. I enjoyed your balanced review. As a matter of fact, it is the wisest way of reviewing I saw to date. (+signs subscription)

[@rogerioaparecidogarciagarc4430]

I can feel the passion when I saw your review and understood both proposals , now it’s all about what you want from a modern classic bike …. Thanks … keep up the good work

[@MAAKASAKINAKA]

A thorough, from the heart, review of the enchanting Royal Enfield Interceptor 650...!!!

[@NightingaleAkhom]

I rode the interceptor yesterday form a friend...can say ...it is a magical experience

[@MichaelWilliams-jc2ui]

Love them both, I’ve got a 2017 water cooled Bonnie and I love it. Bought it in 2019 for £6300 and it’s worth more then I paid for it.

[@sameerkharade7750]

The gearbox and braking on these original RE twins is fabulous👌

[@richardbolton6215]

I love the interceptor it would be a great second bike mainly due to the service interval being so short when I took one out last year I grinned from beginning to end and it sounds fantastic

[@Raining_V8]

Every shot of you on the RE 650 is like peanut butter on bread. it goes so well

[@MxGoliath]

Couple years down the line but this is a fantastic review. Really gets to the things that are important to most riders rather than technical specs etc. Only trouble i have is deciding between an intercepter and continental gt. Fantastic review and video style mate, keep it up.

[@humanentity2214]

Kudos to Monika for the excellent camera work !

[@sujitraul1097]

that weight comparison in from 9:15 to 10:00 is so good. RE should take note and try to lesser the weight in top and add it towards bottom if possible.

[@FielderTerry]

A good commentary. Well done. It is interesting how Triumph was content with its line up only adding cosmetic variations fir more than a decade. Especially to the T100 Until the RE Interceptor came among and demonstrated the incredible amount Triumph was overcharging for nothing really new until this year. Now the Bonneville has been improved making it closer in value to the price they charge. But the arrogant attitude especially around quality if a premium brand and transmission woes from quality irregularities in especially the T120. That is the kind of thing that took down Triumph before. I have struggled with my own debate about upgrading to the Interceptor from my RE Classic 500 which, despite fit and finish issues of its own has a link to the heritage of motorcycling that was firmly in the hands of Royal Enfield but it has let slip away as it has moved its entire line up the path to the gods of fit and finish, vibration free, and bikes that look like the past but are to some extent just coasting on the past momentum if an era only we old ones remember. For those from a different era, the new Triumphs and Royal Enfield’s spring from the past with modern images that really are great for these times. I looked for an Interceptor 750 in 1968 with no luck. Then I chose the Kawasaki W 650 but again, no luck. I did not want a Triumph and BSA because they leaked oil even in the show room. They screamed poor quality but at a premium price. Amazing how I am still cautious about Triumph over 50 years later. Trust is an interesting thing.

[@scottbroughton3847]

I've owned the Interceptor for 2 years and nearly 6,000 mi (9600 km). It's a perfect last bike for me. I'm 72 and have owned everything except H-D, BMW & Suzuki. Japanese bikes are tops for performance & reliability. My favs are Yamaha Road Star, Kawasaki Concours 1400 & Tracer 900. Those last two are screamers. A few observations about the INT650. The speedo is ~7% higher than actual, so it gets ~60 mpg. Build quality is impressive at the price. It is truly built like a gun! For my late in life need, the fun factor and pleasure of riding is superb. I get comments all the time about her looks. The Value factor is outstanding.

[@robjones2852]

A very revealing approach to a very thoughtful, well chosen, comparision. Thanks Freddie.

[@Snowaxe3D]

A lot don't know this and this is a very small detail, but The Gold lines/stripe on the RE gas tank are done by hand, so every gold stripe is unique.

[@piyalkarmakar2370]

this is perfection. the way of describing story about a bike...

[@joaocoupe]

I love your enthusiasm that is genuine when you talk about these amazing classic bikes.😎👌