Ride and Review of the Royal Enfield Meteor 350

[@fastestonearth1]

I have this in yellow I have done 800 from new no problems at all at 67 this is a great bike I past my test last year..love it 🥂

[@chuckvt5196]

Bought one of these last week and loving it! You are right on all points! Such a fun ride! Especially for a 70-year-old guy like me with 45 years of riding experience. I am done with heavy bikes. This suits me perfectly!

[@andytopley314]

Good review. Nice to see someone who doesn't think that smooth power delivery, progressive brakes and stable handling are only for beginners - as though experienced riders automatically want a white-knuckle experience when commuting to work/running to the store etc. Personally I find that getting the most out of a small bike can be just as much fun as using 100+hp and far safer for me, everyone else and my licence.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I have said that before. It is better to take a slow motorcycle fast than a fast motorcycle slow. It's more enjoyable and you're using everything that you can, and for the most part, you shall not see a ticket.

[@Tony89]

I been contemplating for a while to buy this… this review sold it. The excitement seemed genuine and not like a paid review. Thank you

[@henryhartley9993]

Nice one, these bikes are selling really well here in the UK, it's a winner for Enfield...

[@RabidHedgehog]

I was advised when they started to show up here in the US dealers they started to move pretty quick around here too. It is a fantastic small bore.

[@FilipKrygsman]

Just bought one, loving it to death. You are absolutely right. It is just smooth as and I am not an experienced rider.

[@Wabbit1961]

First off - Always love your reviews. You're an enthusiast. My RE dealer is 45 minutes from my house. They have all the RE models on the floor as well as all the BMW Ural, and Indian models. What makes this place special is they offer demo by appointment on any bike in the shop. I wish other dealers would get their heads out of their.... All RE bikes have that feel. They don't care about top speed. They care about the riding experience, which includes the exhaust note. The price is unbeatable. The experience is unmatchable. You forgot one thing about that 350. It's much larger than you'd expect. You need to try the Hymalayan and a GT. You'll end up with bike number 5 if you do. They all have smooth power delivery. Why? Because they are geared for cruising and when you're gearing is relaxed your fueling doesn't have to be accurate to a micro drop. No one will ever say that a RE throttle is snatchy! Let's say it's just a broad spectrum but not bound by tight parameters. There's a KZbin build on the Meteor with a straight pipe and clip-ons... Simply a lovely thumper. All REs have a nice stock exhaust note.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I got to do every single one in the range that day! Those videos are up. RE has come a very long way from the first bullet that I rode.

[@Mark-el8sb]

As a new owner of a 2021 Meteor 350, I confirm this positive review.I couldn't be more happy with the way the bike rides, as well as the quality of its finishes.

[@Plough78]

How's it going a year on mark . She still with you ..? Any issues ...? *Crap Game*

[@Mark-el8sb]

@@Plough78 Hi. Yes, I still own the bike. Still love it. Absolutely no issues.

[@Plough78]

@@Mark-el8sb Music 🎶 to my ears.. Hopefully the journey with my recently acquired Fireball yellow is as blissful. 11,000 km on clock, mint condition when I bought it couple weeks ago. Loving it..! Cheers 🍻 *Crap Game*

[@sachinisg]

Good to see that many have liked RE. I have Thunderbird 500 from 2016 and have clocked 50K km and till date not a single complaint. I have changed rubber pipes on the bike due to cracks twice and changed tyres once. That's it, truly made like a gun 👍

[@twoeightythreez]

I love mine and it does just fine on the highway. Most of them are construction zones anyway. Bike does very well even when sharing road with semi trucks, even in hilly Pennsylvania

[@jasonletzelter6863]

Hoping to pick one up next year for hilly Pennsylvania (Butler, Pittsburgh) myself!

[@rickhill6277]

@@jasonletzelter6863 I live in Sale, Ohio and travel once or twice a week on Route #11 and Interstate #80 to Hermitage, Pa. do you think this Bike will handle that traffic between 65 and 85mph?

[@rickhill6277]

I live in Salem, Ohio and travel to Hermitage, Pa once or twice a week on Routes 11 and 80. Do you think this bike will handle that traffic at between 65 and 85mph? Or would I get run over?

[@viswasrujith8426]

@@rickhill6277 It hits it's peak at 60mph, it will do 70mph throttle pinned. 55-65 mph is it's sweet spot. But first try it out for a test ride first and get a feel to it before deciding.

[@RabidHedgehog]

@@rickhill6277 It'll do it!

[@DavidSmith-fw6uj]

When I was in the PI I have seen thousands of them They are a remarkable motorcycle and easy to work on And they are cheap 💰💰💰💰

[@archievthapa3593]

I own a RE Meteor Fireball Yellow 💛 & love the machine absolutely

[@alexc8920]

Fireball Red here

[@_JimS]

I understand the single cylinder smooths out as you get miles on it, at least the Classic 500 does.

[@davidparadis490]

I bought a 2022 supernova model leftover today with the low ride seat for $4200

[@RabidHedgehog]

Nice where at?

[@davidparadis490]

@@RabidHedgehog dealer in boxborough Massachusetts

[@davidparadis490]

@RabidHedgehog youtube.com/@AlphaCars These guys...I didn't even know they had a KZbin channel

[@Osinivos4]

Thank you sir I am in a toss up for a bike either the Meteor or Himalayan and you are making this Meteor look just right for what I need.

[@walterroussan9827]

Thanks for reply and Happy New YEAR RH.!!! I'm going to get the meteor 350 or int 650for 2023 i now ride a Kawa 900 vulcan.Its time to d0wn size !!!

[@orunabho]

What a beautiful machine. Great colors.

[@jamesrobinson46]

Unexpected treat. Cheers from Aus 🇦🇺

[@RabidHedgehog]

I have a few more, I got to ride all four models from them that they offer in the US right now. I was pleasantly surprised.

[@jamesrobinson46]

@@RabidHedgehog I had a Classic 500 as my last bike. Very flawed bike but that was what made it so great. The new Enfields seem to be keeping the character while ironing out the old quality issues, good time for the brand!

[@svaralen]

Hi nice review and thanx 👍 as a 50 years old beginner i really considered to take the meteor as my first bike. Do you think he can manage longer rides specialty with a pillion!? All the best ✌️

[@RabidHedgehog]

I believe so. It's pretty comfy. I want one for long term reviews for sure.

[@davericketts9101]

Nice video. I love your enthusiasm for that bike.

[@alejandrodelasala6528]

great, a big salute from Argentina,

[@RabidHedgehog]

A howdy back from Oklahoma :)

[@landonvlcek9047]

Can't wait to get one

[@leehartung2814]

Hitchcocks RE out of the UK is coming up with cams, sprockets etc for this bike. 40 HP may be possible with cams and or piston kits and so on? Cams, and then go one tooth up on front sprocket may just do the trick for touring at freeway speeds?

[@christopherspick5111]

I understand there's a speed limiter via the abs sensors.

[@leehartung2814]

@@christopherspick5111 If someone can disable it, I will own one.

[@bryanmilstid4087]

Great video. I'm trying to decide between this and the Himalayan and this isn't helping! Now I want both!!

[@RabidHedgehog]

Sorry about that :) I do appreciate them both for sure. I rode the Himalayan back to back with this one and they are both fantastic machines. So I understand the hard choice. The great part is either is great.

[@seauryakumar]

Time for you to buy an interceptor

[@DavidSmith-fw6uj]

I am First Love from Mississippi USA 🇺🇸

[@yehezkelnafshy8754]

What a great machine

[@JohnBraman413]

they're fun bikes, good price and easy to work on.

[@godwhomismike]

Power and comfort-wise, how does it compare to the Suzuki S40?

[@RabidHedgehog]

A little less power but far more comfy. The S40 would get to around 90 or more but under 100 where this one maybe 75 max end. But the vibes on the S40 were there more so than this. The Meteor is refined and the machine is a little wider and just comfy.

[@godwhomismike]

@@RabidHedgehog Thanks, my MC mechanic has an S40 he is planning on selling over the winter for a really good price. I also been hoping to find a good deal on a (fuel injected) Honda Shadow, but so far nothing. I haven't had a motorcycle since April, when I hit a deer, totaled my bike, and ended my season with a ride to the ER and two surgeries. Healed up now, and the first thing I wanted to do is get back on and start riding again. Sadly, the bike market is crazy right now.

[@brunothepug8807]

​@@godwhomismikeS40 owner here. The S40 is relatively smooth up to 65 and after that it vibrates with authority. For 15 minutes highway to catch the next side road I can tolerate it. If you are going to do distance, the S40 is a raw bike and your ass will be sore. If you are taller than 5-10 you will be cramped on it. Fun torque though!

[@godwhomismike]

@@brunothepug8807 I actually ended up getting a Suzuki S40 based on the recommendation of my mechanic after I healed up from my motorcycle accident where I hit a deer on a Honda Rebel at 35-40 mph. I find the carb and idling on the S40 to be temperamental, especially on humid days where it always feels like it wants to stall unless I am giving it some revs to keep it running at lights and stop signs. I actually ended up going from riding almost every single day to riding just three times in all of 2023 because I just don't like the S40 - it makes me feel like I am going to end up stranded somewhere with it. I had 16,100 miles on that Rebel when I totaled it on the deer (3/4 of those miles were from me).

[@utubevid0]

Hi, great review. As you are a Scout owner, how do you compare the Meteor with the Scout? (I know they are not in the same class, but the ride quality).

[@RabidHedgehog]

I like how plush the Meteor is and just how well balanced it is. The Scout can have some harsh suspension sometimes.

[@mototom9086]

Very good review,thank you!!!

[@RabidHedgehog]

It was a blast to ride! I am hoping to get more time on it!

[@umeshdhond]

Would be good if you can get your hands on the re-imagined 2021 RE Classic 350. A modern remake of Royal Enfield's flagship (best selling) Classic model.

[@kantameena9668]

Love the Meteor....affordable & reliable

[@simongilbert2704]

great little bike ,,

[@rickhill6277]

What was your top speed? Some say there’s an engine limiter at between 70 and 75mph.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I would say it's not an engine limiter but a gearing or drag limit, it'll get there and hold but not go further.

[@umeshdhond]

70 mph is the max speed I even want to go on a bike (that too for passing) for safety reasons. Plus if one wants to ride fast, there are styles other than a cruiser that would be more suitable.

[@MysteryMan101]

Yes the top speed is about 75-76 mph but it can hold 70 mph all day which is a good cruising speed.

[@supermodes]

3000 mile service intervals are a massive turnoff.

[@jamestorregrossa1185]

Love the bike, the only negative is there is no OEM saddlebags or Tour pack

[@brunothepug8807]

Check Viking bags. They have all kinds of luggage. I have a Triumph America. Rare bike in the US. Viking had the bags and hardware for my bike.

[@noelbrown6771]

How would you compare this bike to your Guzzi? I would like a Guzzi but they have gotten so expensive. The V-7 and this bike have similar weights. But I think the Meteor would make me want to ride more often on shorter rides in the hills here in Temecula, CA. I don't need a frwy flyer. Thanks

[@RabidHedgehog]

The Meteor is just a wonderful and pleasant riding experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the ride as you are not going anywhere fast fast. 75 ish top speed and a wonderful plush ride it's great for back roads and city and it's a blast and comfy. These things the V7 can do and faster and just as comfy, I will say that the V7 is a comfy comfy machine, but the relaxed pace and great package the Meteor has to offer at it's price point is hard to ignore.

[@noelbrown6771]

@@RabidHedgehog I am retired now,and my vision and reflexes I don't trust so much anymore to be speeding around. I had a Honda XL 250 as a beginner and was my only transportation out of high school for two years. Watching you riding the Meteor around the infield reminds me of how I enjoyed that little bike. Love the compression braking of those small singles too! Just controlling the bike with the throttle and a touch of rear brake. Relaxing, not hectic. Thanks for sharing. New subscriber🤙

[@sudhansuranjanmohapatra6429]

Didn't you feel any engine overheating at these speeds

[@RabidHedgehog]

Nope I did not

[@umeshdhond]

Very good review. 👌👏 Looking for getting an entry level cruiser. Beginner, newbie, in late 50's. Have my eyes on Honda Rebel 300, and RE Meteor 350. Could you please also post a ride review on the 2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350? Thank you!🙏

[@RabidHedgehog]

I wish that I could, but that motorcycle is not available in the US market at this time. I can say I find the Meteor much more comfy than the Rebel 300. Yes it is slower, but the foot pegs and such do not dig into you.

[@umeshdhond]

@@RabidHedgehog Appreciate your perspective on the Meteor 350 vs Rebel 300. I'll keep tabs on my local Royal Enfield dealership for availability of the new Classic 350. Fortunately there is one within 5 miles of where I live (Portland, OR). Now all I need is procure my gear, take the MSF course, and start taking test rides. 🤞

[@jlborish]

Hey brother, good review. Mind me asking how tall you are and how you felt on this bike with your height? I'm 6', closest dealer is a couple hours away. Your reply is greatly appreciated. Stay safe out there. JB

[@RabidHedgehog]

I'm am 6 feet even, 32 inch inseam, and 209 lbs or so. The Meteor fit very well and I would love one to zip around town on for sure.

[@jlborish]

@@RabidHedgehog awesome, thank you. I'll make the drive to throw my leg over one on person. Thanks for your reply

[@ohn1234567]

Nice video. Too bad it doesn't have just 10-15 hp more - it would make it highway capable (at least where I live). It looks absolutely stunning though

[@RabidHedgehog]

How fast are the highways? Well at least drivers?

[@ohn1234567]

@@RabidHedgehog Around 81 mph

[@viswasrujith8426]

@@ohn1234567 RE is in final stage testing for 650 version of this same cruiser style. May be that will be up to your expectations. But it's going to take some time for that to come out.

[@chrisandrew852]

You might be pleased to know that the 650 twin version of the Meteor is due to be released in 2023. It the same motor as the Interceptor.

[@richardbarnes455]

Has Royal Enfield updated the 500cc?

[@RabidHedgehog]

Not for the US market, it is not longer offered.

[@detachedloop1004]

500s have been discontinued everywhere. 650 cc version of this is being tested though

[@RogerBankerFishmiser]

There's a Royal Enfield dealer in Tulsa Fyi. It's called Synergy.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I am aware, but I know that keeping these in stock and having some to ride is a bit tricky right now. I have also reached out to them before about doing some rides and it has not been very responsive.

[@RogerBankerFishmiser]

@@RabidHedgehogI have the Meteor on the list of possibilities for my son's first bike.

[@archievthapa3593]

Superrrrrrrr 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@knifenoob5411]

“ makes me feel like I’m on a motorcycle “ lol. How this compared to the Ninja H1?

[@ArunaaGowda]

Brother, i am planning to buy one bike in 350cc segment. I have a confusion among 1. BENELLI IMPERIALE 400 2. HONDA CB350 HIGHNESS 3. ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC 350 and METEOR 350 My Height is 5.8 inch My Weight is 90+kg I am living inside city. So City drive. Very rarely monthly once or twice i use to go Highway say about only 50kms distance. Other than this CITY drive. Almost daily 40 kms i ride. Keep it upto 50kms only. So which bike is best? 1. VIBRATIONS should not be there. 2. DUAL CHANNEL ABS should be there. 3. SEATING COMFORT. PILLION SIDE because ladies will sit ONE SIDE. my mother and my wife Thank You brother

[@RabidHedgehog]

Sadly only one of those machines is in the US and that is the Meteor. So I cannot give an honest answer. I know the Honda is in the same class as the Meteor and has a similar look and feel. The only Benelli machines in the US are sport and adventure types so we do not have even a cruiser. However, knowing the refinement of the companies named the toss up would be the Royal Enfield and the Honda. Ride them back to back and see what works best for you.

[@umeshdhond]

For me it's a toss up between Royal Enfield's Meteor 350 and Classic 350. Eagerly awaiting a comparison video on US highways, backroads, and urban driving between these two Royal Enfield's 2020/2021 model releases.

[@sudhansuranjanmohapatra6429]

Look no further than Meteor since it's ergonomics would meet your aspirations. Honda's gearing is too tall for riding in City as one can't even use 3 rd gear . Benalli has limited presence and may vanish from the market

[@kevindarkstar]

It must be a very American thing about toe and heel gear shift, no one says that anywhere in Europe or England, I'm blaming HD

[@RabidHedgehog]

Nah, not HDs fault at all. It is size 14 feet and tiny shifter pegs that I am not a fan of so the heel toe is a blessing.

[@chrro466]

The old Honda c90’ s had them years ago. Easy to use.

[@Plough78]

@@chrro466 125 Honda Dreams and Waves still do. *Crap Game*

[@chrro466]

@@Plough78 I remember the Honda dream I’m not familiar with the wave model tho

[@DC3AFA]

Unfortunately there is no Android „thing“, but only a dumb display connecting to a smartphone and often losing connection…

[@RabidHedgehog]

Well I look forward to hopefully getting a long term ride on one so I can give feedback.

[@chrro466]

We seemed to manage quite fine on bikes that only had a speedometer. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@shrishsingh9791]

RE ek no.1 Brand hai India ka. RE is no. 1 brand in india. I really love my RE thunderbird 350

[@korazon3spinado]

Faster than walking!

[@RabidHedgehog]

This is truth.

[@korazon3spinado]

$5500 seems a bit pricey though.

[@RabidHedgehog]

Here's the thing. They are supposed to be around $4,800.00 or so on the max end MSRP. But it seems the dealers love their fees and such for prep, setup, doc. Heck, we have one here that quoted me a price of $6,200 out the door and I just laughed that dude off the phone. So that $5,500 hopefully covers the idea of the dealer fees built in.

[@CraigSmith568]

Funny how people are different. I can't stand a heel toe shifter. For me it is the worst thing ever put on a motorcycle.

[@RabidHedgehog]

I believe it could be the overwhelming foot size I have. Sometimes getting the toe of a boot under a shifter is not a pleasant task for me so I end up needing to catch it with the side of the boot or use the welt of it to move it up. So to just click down with my heel is a wonderful thing, especially on a motorcycle with floorboards.

[@GURUKHAN_OG]

Its very useful! Start using it! And for heaven same don't amputate your legs because your dad is lame!

[@CraigSmith568]

@@GURUKHAN_OG I like being able to move my feet around on the floorboards. With a heel shifter it locks your foot into one position. I really don't think it is a problem to just use my toe to shift. If you like them then get one. It's a pass for me.