Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Owners Honest Review |

[@richlijacanacua]

Congratulations. Thank you for the longterm vlog of your Royal Enfield 350 CC Classic. Me, I have Chrome Red 350 Classic here in Cebu City Philippines!

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thank you. Unfortunately, I think this review came across quite negative, but it wasn’t meant to. Some of the issues can just be put down to the quirky nature of RE’s. Others, like the rubbish wheel spokes, are really unacceptable. Cheers

[@maxiejohnson8356]

Would you recommend it for a new beginner rider then? Im interested but is very much on the fence.​@@ianhughesroyalenfield

[@ralfhoffmann2487]

I think that is the most honest review I've seen on the classic 350 - thank you

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Glad you enjoyed it, it’s handy that I have owned it so long, figured out all of its niggles 🫣😂 Still a brilliant bike though. Cheers

[@Peter234100]

Mine is now just over 2 years old and “Omega” like Clementine had the speedo issue after 3 months, the replacement speedo has been fine ever since. If a really sunny and hot day as a precaution I just put a cloth over it, the battery on mine is still the original but do use an optimate on occasion, over 3000 miles now covered with no other issues. I did change the original chain at the first 300 mile service for a top quality DID chain as had issues even with Hondas with low quality chain, the chain still looks brand new! Heated grips fitted before I collected the bike then changed the brown seats to the touring seats in black. Last thing was bar end mirrors. The spokes are rubbish but a month ago fitted alloys and tubeless Bridgestone BT46s and had right angle valves fitted at the same time. In 54 years of biking this bike is by far the best I have ever owned and the first time I am not wondering what bike I will get next. Unless you need to travel at well over 70 mph for a long period of time this is a perfect bike. Very fair review Ian and will carry on enjoying your rides on Clementine 😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Hi Peter. I use a battery tender, but it still failed 😣 I have found the chain is fine, using gear oil, hardly ever needs adjusting. Although I quite like bar end mirrors, I rely on the std ones to monitor my camera when recording. The alloys are the easy answer, but we shouldn’t really have to do that, that’s what annoys me about them. I definitely think we agree that the 350 is a brilliant bike 😎 Cheers

[@Peter234100]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield I also use gear oil on a rag, just replaced the original as love DID chains, guess I have been lucky with the battery, probably fail when I next start the bike 😂 As you say though they are fantastic bikes, you see how well they are made when you watch Glyn Owen rebuilding his crashed bike 😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@Peter234100 I applied the gear oil with a brush, just wiping the excess off with a rag. Still get fling though, and you would think that would give the spokes some protection, alas not 🙄😂

[@stephenkinsley2483]

i had the same problem with the strap, i fixed the strap to a long screwdriver with a cable tie and managed to hook it over the loop and kept hold of the strap and pulled out the screwdriver leaving the cable tie on the strap for next time, as for the lights i haven't bothererd as i don't ride it at night or in the winter months, i made a plate out of alloy and drilled and tapped the side stand underneath to fix it with a 5mm allen screw so that's sorted, having a neck movement problem i have altered the the handlebars to lift them and move them back slightly again by using an alloy plate and old yamaha single point risers, all i'm waiting for now is some good warm weather so i can ride it again, not having ridden it since two months after i bought it due to a family illness last year. good luck with your rides.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Stephen, many have come up with different solutions to the dreaded battery strap. Having just left mine off, it’s never shifted 😂. I changed the lights, so I had more headroom in the battery to accommodate my heated gear. I don’t ride at night either. Good call on the side stand and mod to help you ride easier. Just need some decent weather for you now as well as the rest of us.

[@stephenkinsley2483]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield i have photo's of the mods if you would like to see them, i'll put them on messenger if you can message me or send me your email address, ?

[@davericketts9101]

Nice honest review thanks. A couple of points, just from my own experience of owning and riding a Classic 350...First of all, the battery on mine is the original one and I have it connected to an Optimate battery tender, when it is in the garage, as I do with my other bike and the battery is 100% fine. The bike is over two years old and done close to 4,000 miles. The other thing was the speedo problem, which I had after 3, 200 miles. It was changed, under warranty, with no quibble and a 6 week wait for it to be delivered to the dealer. That was last August and I have had no problem since, so I am hoping that is the end of it. Enjoy your lovely little Classic.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Dave. I too had mine connected to a battery tender, but outside under a cover. I know of others who have also come to start their bikes, only to get the click click click……they too had them on a tender/optimisor. Maybe a bad batch 🤔. I have also heard mixed thoughts regarding replacement speedo’s. Some finding that the replacement suffers the same issue in hot weather, hence my waiting until the ones with the revised backplate come in, not a big deal. As you know, I love the Classic 350, but only fair to give an honest review. Cheers

[@ice2642]

I think the worst thing about the classic 350 is choosing what color to buy it!

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

It’s a tough choice, so many nice colour schemes.

[@mrgrizzlyrides]

Yep, the J series engine is a real beaut and no mistake. My Himmy 411 is three in June and some of the back spokes have gone the same as yours after winter riding, but not all of them by any means; the front spokes are perfect. It’s amazing how many J series bikes you see kicking about on the roads too. Clem is in superb condition Ian, a testament to your cleaning regime. Ride safe bud.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Neil. Bloody spokes 🙄😂

[@mrgrizzlyrides]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Too right😡

[@melfzs]

Good accurate review Ian , I've replaced the battery on mine and yes, that strap is a pain , you need fingers like long nosed pliers to get at it ! I forgot to show you my sidestand mod on mine , I got an old engine sprocket and cut and ground it into the shape of a ducks foot, then welded it to the bottom of the stand it doesn't sink in soft ground now 👍, I also welded an old cut down metal storm peg to the stand to make it easier to kick it out as well . The bike will certainly do motorway work , as you know I've ridden from Stirling to Stockport today all via the motorway 60 on the clock all the way , no issues, but as you say it's more suited to A and B roads, and it loads more fun on them. Cheers, great to see you today and chat about the bikes Mel .

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Mel. Lovely to meet you, and great conversation. I did actually notice the sidestand mod as you rode off 👍Good to know you got home safe. All the best.

[@melfzs]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield ah good stuff, same to you and thanks very much to you both for the brew and cake , it was lovely. My total mileage for the round trip was 739 miles! Proof of what the Classic 350's are capable of eh! Thanks again Mel 🍻

[@alanjones32]

Cleaning classic 350 the other day I noticed the spokes where a little tarnished, I'm thinking when my tyres require changing I may change them for stainless steel incidentally the only way I would feel confident doing this myself is to remove one spoke at a time and replace it, does this seem feasible I'm not sure. Thanks for the great vidios your putting out.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Hi Alan, I honestly don’t know much about re-spoking a rim, other than, no matter how you do it, you will have to “true” the wheel after changing all the spokes. This is why I would recommend getting a professional to do it. I had a look on the internet, and prices seem to vary. The cheapest I could find is a chap in Staffordshire, and if I do decide to go down that route myself, I will drop them off with him. Good luck 😉

[@islaws4589]

Nice to hear of someone else busting the Classic 350s are only good for country lanes myth! My record was riding back to Manchester from Southampton earlier in the year. She has also been to Edinburgh twice & am off up the M6 touring in the Lakes from Saturday. And 100mpg at hgv speeds...what's not to like?!

[@charlesbarnett2724]

Great review pal. Thank you for that 😄👍 Thinking about getting one myself at some point. On my Himmy 411 at the moment. Love it, but I have a yearning for the 350 classic

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

It’s a great bike despite its “quirks”, my biggest gripe being the spokes, but even then, I still love mine. Cheers

[@TAYM]

Brilliant, open and honest long term review😊 Thanks Ian 😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Mr TAYM. Appreciated 😎

[@chrisweeks6973]

That's a very good, objective and honest review of the bike, Ian; as you say, no bike is perfect.The spokes notwithstanding, Clementine's a nice-looking bike and very well suited to the picturesque environment you ride her in. 👍

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Chris.

[@Plough78]

Good stuff.... I'm seriously considering adding a classic even though i have a meteor. I love my meteor to bits , so comfy for long haul trips but the looks of the classic are so much better... Cheers 🥂 *Crap Game* 🎉

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Glad you enjoyed it. They are great bikes 👌

[@dinomalta712]

I just LOVE mine! Decatted, and Free flow filter all done, and performing nicely, Cheers, DINO.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Dino, Panda and co. Great bikes 😎

[@BlakesPipes]

when i watch you and other motovlogers, i found out i am not a motovloger. i just ride a motorcycle to where i am going and do my thing. i am also not a pipe channel as they do not edit and talk about stuff for 30 minutes. i sure do not know where i fit in! thanks for the ride today and spending my money next winter. going for gloss brown like the tank of my W800 cafe. i will send you the bill.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

😂

[@Plough78]

PS. I've subbed , number 167 🥳 *Crap Game* 🎉

[@icedidi]

Don't worry, I'm not a Moto vlogger either, just a ranting miserable old git that whinges while on a bike

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

You are good at it though 😂

[@derbyshireruralrider9398]

I watch a few channels of Royal Enfield including some with Classic350 (Shotto’s Travels & That Bloke On A Motorbike). If I was to consider one I would go for blacked out version with solid wheels rather than spokes. Always good to hear a review that includes negatives as well as positives

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thank you. When reviewing, I try to be honest. When out for a quick demo, on a new bike, it is easy to get wrapped up in the hype. Taking them out again, once run in, gives me the chance to properly see what they are like. Obviously, with this being my own bike, I have had nearly two years to get acquainted 😂. Still a brilliant bike 😎 Cheers

[@wallybuettner]

Great honest review, I didn't realize the spokes weren't stainless, I'll watch for that on mine. I might try Mother's chrome polish if I see the same issue. They are great bikes for our back roads here in Ohio. They beg you to take little roads you normally pass up. Stay safe Ian! Let us know if you find a spoke cleaning solution.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Wally. Yes they are a pain in the bum (or rear 😂). As you know, I really do try to keep Clementine looking good, giving her a good coating of protectant all round, but those spokes 🫣. I need to spend a full day, just trying different methods, but I fear the tarnishing is not going to go away unfortunately. As you say, the 350 just wants you to take the routes less travelled, and in doing so, we find some really beautiful and interesting places. All the best, take care.

[@simonhall5086]

Brilliant Ian. Great review, still getting your bike " fix " for a fraction of the cost of a bigger bike 👍

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Absolutely Simon, great bike. Cheers

[@SOLOMOTOUK]

Hi Ian true honest review of the classic 350 👍🏍️

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Derek 👍

[@stevenmiller184]

This is the first I've heard of the spokes issue. You are right... this is something that should have been a priority when it was built. A motorcycle is all about it's wheels.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Definitely Steven. As you can tell, I am a huge fan of the bike, but really disappointed with those damn spokes. Cheers

[@Tildog59]

I really like the look of these and am considering getting one unless I like the upcoming 650 classic more. If I do I'm thinking I will explore getting wheels rebuilt with alloy rims and stainless spokes to minimise corrosion issues

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

A good idea, but you really shouldn’t have to. Obviously I am a massive RE fan, but this is the one thing I find unforgivable. The Interceptor 650 has stainless spokes, so I can’t see the Classic 650 being any different. Cheers

[@ianhalliwell8604]

Nice video and breakdown on your classic 350, personally i went for the extra power of the GoldStar big thumper but have to say like the BSA the styling of the RE is right up my street.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Morning Ian. Nothing wrong with the BSA GoldStar, great bike 😎 The extra power would come in handy, and like I said when I did the reviews on it, the Goldie reminds me of a bigger engined Classic 350. Cheers

[@crumblymal8479]

Nice one Ian clem is looking pretty dammed immaculate for getting through 2 winters it's a shame the spokes were not done in stainless and I guess that's the way to go subject to cost but hey there is no rush just something to aim for .👌👍

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Definitely Mal, the spokes haven’t rusted through yet, plenty of time to go 😂 Cheers

[@33wolseley77]

Hi there, I've had bikes with the same problem that you have with the spoke corrosion. I found that if you use oiled wire wool on them to remove the canker, whipe them dry and then apply ACF-50 with a cloth. This for me has worked fine and tends to last as well. Regards Ian

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Ooo, now that sounds like a plan. Thank you, I will definitely try that. 😊

[@5dTraveller]

Hi Ian, a great review of a well used bike. Given you ride her fairly hard at times and she lives outside I'd be very happy with just tarnished spokes and a dodgy speedo after two winters, the rest of the bike looks in pretty good condition. My GSA has stainless spokes and they're great but the paint and powder coating is absolute rubbish so the spokes and the plastic bits were the only parts that hadn't corroded after two winters, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. I'd say RE are way ahead in both quality and value for money, they're great little bikes and I'll be very happy to trade my GSA for one once I've put it back together. Cheers, Mick

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Mick. I agree, I do need to spend a good couple of days cleaning the spokes up, so they look better than they do now 🙄😊

[@Ainsworth-Rider]

Evening Ian 😊 the tubeless wheels at £200 a pair are the way to go Tigger Ness as them on his Classic and I think they solve 2 problems with the Classics 😊 Those spokes really do my head in 😳 But I'm still on the RE battery but the strap lives in my tool box 😆😆 did I say this is a smashing video 😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks James. I am just unsure cast wheels suit the classic. 🤔 Would be the sensible answer though. Cheers

[@icedidi]

Morning Ian. Sadly tarnishing, or oxidising happens on many bikes and my w800 rear spokes where shocking. It can also vary bike to bike. The only thing that matters is that you're happy with the bike. Nice chat

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks ice. Some of the bikes I owned in the past had spoked wheels, but I can’t remember them tarnishing at the same rate, and back then, I wasn’t that keen on cleaning/protecting. Just jumped on and sped off. Just annoying !

[@icedidi]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield indeed, seems to be a common issue with RE's. Derek's Scram had the problem, he was concerned about a potential MOT failure and was going to have them redone in stainless if I recall but sold it.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@icedidi yes, I remember. It wouldn’t be an mot issue until they were really corroded. We are a long way from that, but they just look untidy. Cheers

[@thesilverfoxtravels6653]

Couldn’t agree more about the spokes. I’ve even considered getting a set of stainless steel ones too. 👍

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

££££’s needed though Nick 🙄🫣😢

[@tomstockell9481]

Great review thanks Ian

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Tom.

[@terencekidd1097]

I have classic signals and love it great bike

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

They are indeed. I am just working on a couple of videos from a ride today, which highlights just how good these little 350’s are. The first one will be out tomorrow, just a lanes bimble, but the second one will be some really steep, and rough unclassified’s 😎. Cheers

[@tedcase9175]

Hi Ian think your quite correct, there are niggles but hey price wise what can you ask, great looking bike I have hunter more than pleased, would love 350 classic also, ( I have an old bullet 350) that would have to go, but hey ho, thanks again Ted; Bay Bimbler,

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Morning Ted, hopefully you haven’t been blown away by the recent storms 🫣. Absolutely agree, I still think the 350’s are excellent value motorcycles. So much so, Honda were forced into developing the GB350 to try and pinch sales off RE in the lower capacity sector. I just wish RE had used stainless steel spokes, that is my biggest issue, but I can live with that. Cheers

[@tedcase9175]

@ianhughesroyalenfield I Agree my 2007 bullet has stainless spokes and still no tarnish maybe another £100 on price would have saved the day, ha as for the storm we are right on sea front at sandylands and it was windy thanks fir reply you take care Ted

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@tedcase9175 you too my friend.

[@philpeacock7803]

Think you covered every one of my gripes there Ian. Over winter, I'm going to get the rims re laced with stainless.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thank you. Have you had a quote for the job ?

[@philpeacock7803]

No not yet Ian. Bloke up near me rebuilds british classic wheels, said he would do me a good deal

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@philpeacock7803 onto a winner then. Where are you located (ish) ?

[@philpeacock7803]

A little fishing spot on North Yorkshire coast, Scarborough.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Ahh, a bit far for me 🙄 I look forward to seeing your new spokes on the group page 👍

[@Lee-70ish]

Agree on all your points. Leds on mine spokes are poor I'm going to try burnishing then try hard lacquer. no bike is perfect. Do all my own servicing. Easy peasy and not worried about warranty 300 quid for 2 valves and an oil change is a joke Had my classic for 2 years. Does everything I want and is a huge improvement over my previous Kawasaki VN900. Why? Character and Soul, something very few bikes these days have. Speedo ? I've got a little condensation, but it still works fine. Will I replace it ? Possibly, but the kph ones are only 60 quid, so that'll do me.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Morning Lee. The 350’s definitely have character, I sold a Yamaha Tracer 900 for an Interceptor 650 (which also has character), then bought the Classic 350 as a “2nd” bike. Turned out the 350 was ridden more, so sold the 650 😂. Cheers

[@ruahinesrider]

Can't beat Stainless steel spokes like on the Interceptor easy to clean too & looked great. Steel wool then rust kill paint like Black Onyx spray paint which will look great & no more rust. You can buy Stainless fasteners for RE bikes as stock one's are soft steel & cheap. That side stand hasn't got a foot at all😲.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Agree RR, RE could have just fitted stainless spokes. Over time, I may change some of the fasteners, as I did on my Interceptor. Cheers

[@user-ts1fp4nm9y]

Tape up the rim good,clean up the sopkes good,ues a quality primer on the spokes,paint the spokes body color and clear coat.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I think, if I went to the extent of cleaning up the spokes to get a smooth finish for paint, I would just lacquer them with something, rather than painting. Thanks for the suggestion though.

[@thepipesmokingbeekeeper8917]

Completely agree about the strap thinking of gluing mine to the back to stop it coming off 🤔🙄

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

It’s a bugger 😂 mine is in a drawer 😎

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Have you had a look at “Blake’s pipes”, he is a pipe smoker too 😉

[@BlakesPipes]

my W800 has spokes and i am not happy, i just looked into having them painted. might do that next winter as i ride my Concours more and can leave the W800 at a place to paint them. thanks for making me think about that.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Blake.

[@Disposalist]

Enjoyed the review. Very good to hear from long term owners for 'real' opinions. I ride a Speedmaster 1200 currently and LOVE it, BUT it has features/issues I don't enjoy and a 350 classic (or maybe the very similar Bullet) might be preferable. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts? Basically I used to ride a 1958 Ariel 650 Huntmaster and I love the classic relaxed (when it's working) ride feel, but can't do the mechanics any more hence I went for a modern classic. I had a T100 and loved that, but found long distance my knee, that I broke years ago, hurts being bent under. The Speedmaster is a fantastic bike and has forward-ish controls so is a modern-classic that is comfortable for me. But, I don't need a 1200. A lower capacity would be a gentler, easier ride, which I would prefer, and I wouldn't be looking for fuel every 80 miles. Also the suspension on the Speedmaster is short, so it can be a bumpy ride and I've heard the REs are a much smoother experience. I can't find one to test ride though! Gah! In the meantime, what do you think? Is the riding position on a classic 350 'right-angles', ie. sat up and knee at 90? Would I be comfortable? (5' 9") Cheers! (check out my channel to see me on my Speedmaster! ;^)

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Good afternoon. As mentioned (maybe not on here), I too am 5ft 9”, with knackered knee’s, hip’s and right shoulder. I look back at those years where I bounced on the tarmac, and rode in winter, wearing clothes you would go to the pub in. Now I am suffering for my stupidity, but then again, back then, we didn’t think about the future did we 🙄😂. Anyway, back to your question, provided I take a couple of paracetamol before hand (mainly for my shoulder), I can ride all day (with a few quick stops, to take some photos), and still be fine when I return home. The Classic 350, is very much as you described. Very sit up, with 90 degree knee. I used to own an Interceptor 650, and recently went for a 55 minute ride on one on the RE City Tour, and I was knackered when we returned. So it was the right decision for me to sell it and keep the Classic 350. If you are used to riding with feet forward, you could try a Meteor 350, obviously the same performance (uses the term loosely 😂). I took one on a demo, video elsewhere on my channel, and found the position to be comfortable, but feet forward are not for me (nor is the heel toe gear lever, but you can fit a std type). Even though you say a gentler, easier ride would be beneficial, you really do need to get on one if you can, as they will almost feel like you are crawling in comparison, but these 350 engines will take you anywhere, and are an absolute joy once you get your head into what they are about. Also, weighing in at about 195kg, and carrying the weight low down, they are very neutral in the handling department, and can be fun in the twisties. Hopefully you will have a look at some of my other videos, you will get a true feeling for what I am on about. If I can help anymore, just ask away. All the best. Ps, The Aerial Huntmaster was a lovely bike 👌

[@Disposalist]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Thanks muchly for the reply. I will check out more vids ;)

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@Disposalist I had a quick look at a couple of yours, the 350 would be so much easier on those lanes, but longer distance rides, like touring up the motorway, would be quite a chore, doable but not as easy.

[@Disposalist]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Absolutely, but I find I avoid motorways even on my 1200 Speedmaster. Without a big screen it's still unpleasant and it's hard to get a good looking, effective screen. 99% of the time I stay under 60. Another reason I don't need 1200 hehe. Still trying to find a demo near me...

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@Disposalist well, any of the 350’s will fit the bill then. Where are you located ?

[@jonyoung6405]

Thanks mate . My Bullet has the AVL engine. It vibrates at high Rpm .

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Unfortunately, I don’t know what the AVL engine is. Are we talking the original with the kickstart, as opposed to the newer J series platform ?

[@jonyoung6405]

A 2008 model with a dodgy electric starter . The AVL engine was after the “ Iron Barrel “ engine and before the UCE engine. The AVL was in production for maybe 3 years .

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@jonyoung6405 ahh, ok. No such issues on the J series. The engine is sublime 😎

[@Butlers_Bike_life]

Becareful allowing the battery panel / flap to sit against your frame when it's open, as any downward pressure on it will create a little dent/impression on the side of the panel. Jam a piece of cloth in the frame..👍 Great video

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks, good advice.

[@Butlers_Bike_life]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield It happened to me 😩👍

[@s.k9677]

Hi the other day when i was mounting my new fog lights on my Classic i remeberd this video off your negatives about battery isues even ET with his tiny long fingers hadde fell short in that space the rubber band fell off constantly boy o boy what poetry commes to mind it springs out from your lips it became whery bright in the room form hott words i nead a brake then your video on battery topic came to minde and a thing you seed me back out to the bike out with battery tha fastning in the back are bolted i unskruved it took it out found a washer putt the bolt and washer true the ring of rubber band and just bolted it back in now it cant fell out any more ,one niggle/negative of your list , all the best ceep your videos coming ride safe 😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thank you. A good idea ! A tip for you, as you have fitted extra electrical’s, your battery will be under a lot of stress (it doesn’t take much). I use plug in heated clothing in winter, so after some investigation (and watching another KZbinrs video) I fitted LED headlamp and sidelight bulbs. I mentioned it in a video kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmK3lYalirOJY5Ysi=EgBioz4hH0cuR8ET Cheers

[@s.k9677]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Have led in pilot lights and my H4 bulb is replaced with Osram night breaker (led) bulb and my aux lights is Puig 2.0 small aux lights use 30W butt i fited them last night and well spent mony they do the job i can tell you, and my aux lights is connected to an aux plug in head ligt case curtesy from Tiger ness that gave a heads up on that my aux lights onnly comes on when engine is running have a nice day 🙂

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@s.k9677 well there you go my friend, you have already done it. 😎

[@malcolmpatton9314]

You could probably emery cloth the spokes then ceramic coat them will probably do the trick.a battery fly lead permanent connection I plug my bike into a smart charger if not using for a couple of days.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I admit to not trying emery cloth yet Malcom, though I have used course wet and dry. The tarnishing is under whatever coating is on the spokes. Once scrubbed, you can run your finger over them, and they are smooth, but tarnished. Ceramic coating each individual spoke and nipple, would really be a pain in the a**e. My gripe, is that they should have been stainless from the factory. As for the battery, I too have a permanent connection, and used to periodically connect to the battery conditioner/optimiser, it still failed. The Yuasa I replaced it with, can go for 3 weeks (probably longer, as I haven’t left it longer than that), without being hooked up. That says a lot 😉

[@garythompson7078]

Hi. Nice review. Do you know if the battery/alternator has enough to run heated grips and jacket?

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Hi Gary, I have a Keis heated jacket and socks. I swapped out the original headlight and tiger eyes for LED’s kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmK3lYalirOJY5Ysi=DOm979plPRRTHuEZ and all is well….more importantly, I am nice and toasty (I have RST Paragon 6 battery Heated Gloves too)

I’ve got an interceptor 650 but I always wanted a classic or a super meteor. I a seriously thinking of selling mine and getting one of these.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

They are a great bike, obviously not as quick as the Interceptor, but will take you almost anywhere 😎

@@ianhughesroyalenfieldmy only concern is it’s speed in motorways, being honest.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Although it will do 70mph ish, I find a cruising speed of 60mph is easier. At that, you will still be overtaking others.

[@ReRiderChi]

I've just topped 6,000 miles, mostly good roads and under 60mph. Can't seem to find any real trouble other than the speedo being off by 5mph so I could always be slow. Actually runs better now, easily up to 70mph now, at least for me.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Good morning. The speedo being “off” is standard on most motor vehicles , well here in Europe anyway. Our Ford Transit Custom reads 10mph over. The little 350’s run better and better with more miles on the clock. Great bikes 😎 Cheers

[@ReRiderChi]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield It's been a great purchase and you were a big help.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Always good to know 👌. Also good to know the weather has improved for you to be able to get out. It was a very long winter for you.

[@Gazr965]

The spokes must have a poor quality zinc coating/plating, but I find that even on the Japanese bikes, they get to a certain dullness but don't seem to get any worse, I just used to rub on some Finnigan's wax oil for protection. Gaz Yorkshire.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Morning Gaz, I really don’t know what they are made of, but in all my years riding, I haven’t come across ones that are as bad as these. The first ride on our grit salt, and that was it. I had coated pretty much the whole bike with FS365, and everything else is absolutely fine. Just those damned spokes. I will have a look at Finnigan’s, thank you.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Just looked at Finnigan’s, it’s what we used to coat the engine bay and underneath of our cars back in the day. That stuff would have been ideal, if I knew how poor the spokes were going to be 🙄😂

[@Gazr965]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Yes it's good stuff, only thing is it leaves a dull matt look but protects very well.

[@felixVanDiemen]

Have to thought of getting the wheels from a UCE 500? They have stainless spokes and you might be able to get some cheap? Just a thought.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I doubt the wheels from a different model would fit, thanks though.

[@SkysaxonDragonslayer]

Gerry from Economical Rides had the speedo issue at his 350 too and dived into it… His solution was to regrease all the connectors in the headlight housing to get it working fine….

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks. I did the “in the headlight” thing after watching his video. It worked as a fix at the time, but the problem returned. Cheers

[@philipmccann2358]

I find the side stand a bit too short ..always feel as though I’m going to drop it when I lean it into the side stand !

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Hmm, I haven’t been worried about that, but I have been worried about it sinking (on rough ground) due to being almost a point, with it not having much of a footprint.

[@philipmccann2358]

@@ianhughesroyalenfieldI’ve cut out an oval from a piece of half three quarter inch mild steel and welded it to the bottom…better angle of lean and bigger footprint

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@philipmccann2358 you should go into business offering this service 😉

[@garryclarke-kray4071]

What do you use as a winter protection spray

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I was using Scottoiler FS365, but last winter I tried Rocket spray (available on Amazon), just top it up after washes. Did a great job of everything, including engine casings, but no joy on the wheel spokes. Mind you they were badly tarnished after the previous winter. I did this video a while back, kzbin.info/www/bejne/anq6d6GOqs9gapIsi=HI54eUEXZiwicNE8 but now I would recommend using the Rocket in the same way as I used the FS365 in the video. Hope this helps.

[@garychynne1377]

lovely lanes

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it.

[@Volksplane1]

ACF50 on the spokes and brake fittings etc. I can name lots of popular makes that have these poor platings sadly

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Sadly you are correct.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

If it had hydraulic valve adjustment and belt drive all you would have to do is change the fluids and filter and lube the chain.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Yawn……change the record Frank 🙄

[@MsDenver2]

I did a stupid thing couldn’t start my 350 Classic turned out I had left the side stand down lol😊

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

😂 rider error then 🫣

[@stevetaylor8698]

Surprised about the centre stand. On my Himalayan, it's quite a pull and is much more effort than on my BMWr1200RT,

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Yep, absolutely no hassle…..piece of cake 👍 I also found both the 450’s easy too, though the pillion footrest bracket gets in the way a bit. 😉

[@jjstuartonwriting8150]

I'm six feet tall and weight over 300 pounds, would I look like a bear on a bicycle riding this? I want one to commute back and forth to work (20 min each way) twice a day. Mostly 80km/hr zones, with the option to take a back road if I want. I live in Canada. WOuld this be a good recommendation for me? I'm an experienced rider but stopped riding about 30 years ago.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

It doesn’t matter what you think you look like, as long as you enjoy the ride. The Classic 350 would be ideal to get you back into motorcycle riding. Top speed is governed to 73mph (117kmh), though I usually cruise at about 55-60mph. Can I suggest that you have a look at my other vids to see what this bike is like on all types of roads. Honestly, it will go “almost” anywhere, and give you a massive grin. My best advice, would be to take one out for a demonstration ride yourself. Preferably for at least an hour or so. All the best.

[@cruze86]

Did you change the handlebar? Doesn’t seem stock 🤔

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Nope, totally stock handlebars.

[@mikehurley5052]

Regarding the spokes, thats why i would have a Meteor, cast wheels, easy puncture repairs.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

…but not Classic looking for a classic looking bike 😉

[@mikehurley5052]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield Spokes do have the look for sure and the 350 classic is a stunner, i just sold my 2007 f650 gs with spoked wheels, got fed up carrying all the tubes and tools etc needed to change a tyre but had the bike for 5 years and 11000 miles with no punctures. RE have a dealer in Kosovo now where i live and went to see the range last week, the Meteor 350 in matt green is calling me.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@mikehurley5052 it’s a nice bike, and the 350 motor will take you anywhere, all be it sedately. I just preferred the classic looks of the “Classic”, but they have all proven to be sound, reliable machines. I still adore mine despite the negative comments I made. I now no longer have to use it in winter, as I have recently bought a Guerrilla 450 for year round use 😎

[@bodoklewer3415]

Korrosion entsteht oft wenn Mann das Motorrad mit Reiniger einsprüht ! Bei meiner Mz Es 250/2 verwende ich keine Aggressiven Waschmittel nur immer einen Spritzer Spülmittel

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Didn’t know that, but if, like the Interceptor 650, it was fitted with stainless spokes, it wouldn’t be an issue.

[@borderlands6606]

On bicycles they are described as "rustless" spokes, and only come on the cheapest of cheap bikes. Chrome or stainless steel is the norm. On the scale RE work, I doubt it would cost a tenner a bike for stainless. I couldn't sell my Classic, whatever its quirks.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Totally agree. It wouldn’t have taken much, to make a brilliant bike, perfect. Hey ho, just have to work on a fix 😎 Cheers

[@maxtugger1859]

With all the faults, I’d still love to own one. One day, going to try and save money and buy one.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

They really are a great bike, and I would rather call the “faults”…quirks 😂

[@tcturbo1954]

How many miles have you done please?

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Now you are asking, I think it is about 2800 🤔

[@simonbowen6653]

Temperatures in India are pretty hot so the speedo distorting should never have escaped the factory. Cheap spokes are just unnecessary. Nevertheless the bikes definitely have charm.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I wonder if the bikes sold in India have the same issues as ours ? Agree about the spokes, ridiculous. Oh yes, charm and character 😎

[@standingstone777]

Limited use bike, only good for lanes. Woefully underpowered for anything else. Rode one and felt very vulnerable. Pay a bit more and get the BSA Gold Star 650.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I actually beg to differ……had mine over two years, no issues regarding other traffic. Ridden on little lanes (I prefer them anyway), A roads, duel carriageways and motorways. It’ll do the National speed limit, and hold 70mph all day long, but true enough, the slower pace doesn’t suit everyone. I test rode the Goldstar, it’s a good bike, and I can’t really understand why they haven’t sold in the vast quantities BSA were hoping for. I think the reduction in price and 4 year warranty will help to boost sales.

[@GapBahnDirk]

What a stunning bike and perfect for the lanes. I bet that you can buy replacement stainless steel nuts from Hitchcock's. But, don't you miss the sheer, unadulterated power of the interceptor 650? 😂😂

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

😂 yes, I do miss the “power” of the Interceptor. Funnily enough, I haven’t really looked into replacement hardware. Might do, but then again 😂

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

The spokes should have been stainless steel. For the little money at the factory 🏭 level they could have spent so little compared to changing the spokes to stainless steel. This is cheapness at it's best.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Yup

[@Dinky-Biker]

Wow, that car parked at 19.18, if you had been going any quicker you could have hit it.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

I know, stupid inconsiderate car driver……again 🙄. Cheers

[@mebeasensei]

The speedo and odometer LCD arrangement looks like cheap plastic junk. But the bike as a whole is sweet.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

It’s not that bad, but you do have to consider the price of the bike, obviously corners have to be cut.

[@mebeasensei]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield well I’m thinking this is a huge opportunity for a third market provider to step in and do justice to the bike. Punters will pay. Win win.

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Maybe they will, but I wouldn’t. It looks fine as it is 👍

[@mebeasensei]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield I couldn’t disagree more. It’s horrible. The square corners completely ‘disagree’ with the whole bike’s aesthetic. It looks like it belongs on an ‘80s Casio keyboard. 😰

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@mebeasensei it’s just a modern twist on an old design, remember, the Classic 350 is a modern bike. I think we should just agree to disagree on this one.

[@michaelgilbert3311]

HI Ian.Enoyed the ride out and your reveiw, I guess we are saying 8 outof 10 ?.overall. So not to bad , but yes those spokes would anoy me to. So i you are not selling Clemantine treat yourself to stainless steel spokes or something similar (cost effective) then you will be a happy bunny, Ride safe, Mike ,Sunny Wales

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Thanks Mike. I may look into it at the back end of the year 🤔. Yes 8/10 but her value is way more……😂. Hope you have been out in the sunshine.☀️

[@michaelgilbert3311]

Yep. 100 miles around trip to Abergele on the RE Hunter. Coffee and a look around the bike shop. bfn

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

@michaelgilbert3311 would that be “Woods” by any chance ? Used to frequent there, when we lived in Nantwich.

[@Chaarwaakgyaan]

Bhai bhoot left side 5:38

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Just someone walking their dog, not a ghostly apparition 😉

[@Chaarwaakgyaan]

@@ianhughesroyalenfield lol 😂

[@damiantuttle1348]

So you've bought a brand new bike and had to put a pushbike speedo on it !! 😂

[@ianhughesroyalenfield]

Err, well, kind of 😂