Royal Enfield Classic 500! If CARLSBERG made motorcycle shocks, This is what they would be like!

[@FATBOY692011]

I put the shrouded version on my Classic, they match the shrouds up front. It was nice to watch this video and have my choice vindicated. Keep the videos coming, my wife sits and watches them with me. Best thing on telly.

[@jecob11111]

Bullet (or Classic) is one bike you must have in your garage, all you need is some space and time and place in your mind. Whether all stock or customised beyond recognition, it turns heads irrespective of which kind of bikes they are into. Back in India, since 500 was taken for granted while it was in production, now while it’s not available in showrooms anyone who owns it is holding on to it, and these bikes have become objects of envy for other rides. Stuart is one of few wise and lucky chaps to grab it, so we could watch these customisation videos and become sexier.

[@Simulera]

Hagen. I didn’t realize they still were out there making shock absorbers… there is something very comforting about that. So to speak.

[@sidecarcn]

Stuart, The Bullet is a bit of a weird beast on a few fronts. In Japan, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, US, Germany and the Netherlands. Finding a second-hand Bullet isn't easy as most riders keep them. There are bikes that I have sold and replaced for new models, but never even though about selling the Bullet. Two months ago a friend called me up Friday night and asked if I had no plans for the weekend to ride along the coast road of Taiwan. I've done it before on a BMW GS and Triumph T100. But this time I decided to take my Bullet. Did it in just shy of 24 hours non-stop and keeping an average speed of between 90kmph to 110kmph. To be honest I was a little worried at first, because its not exactly the most comfortable bike. But it wasn't at all bad and the 500cc engine had no problem running 24 hours only stopping to re-fuel or a quick bite to eat and have a coffee fix. Funny thing is he used his Yamaha MT09, which is a far better bike. But not exactly comfortable when you ride 24 hours non-stop. LOL I did have a good laugh two weeks ago. We were riding and we pass this girl on a Honda CB350 who broke down on the Number 9, which goes through the mountains. Well the little Bullet toolkit had just enough tools to get her moving again, Mine is different from yours in that is only has drum rear brakes. Which is really all it needs. I'm so use to riding old bikes. Someone once asked me how to ride old bikes. I just told them ride it like any bike. Just leave a wider stopping distance.

[@stevecambers3190]

I know nothing about the complexities of cameras or filming so it all looks absolutely perfect to me all of the time...

[@sunnyr8434]

The aesthetics of these shocks are far more beautiful. Regarding the difference between 30 and 25 fps, well I couldn't make out any difference. They are all good.

[@wolfhalupka8992]

Hi Stu, good idea! I've got a set of HAGONs on one of my bikes, a Honda CB900C which had some aftermarket rubbish when I got her. HAGON used my data (weight, typical speed, typical riding style) and the setup came out spot on. and that's certainly was a pretty surprise, as the CB900C is very rare in Europe but they still came up with the right setup.

[@bsimpson6204]

I have Hagon fully shrouded 2810 shocks on my 650 Interceptor. Initially I bought them for the classic look but then found just how much better than the standard shocks they are (they have adjustable damping and spring tension. All the harshness had gone from the rear and it was so good I’ve fitted YSS kit to the front forks, and they’re every bit as good too! The bike is transformed! I can’t recommend Hagons at the rear and YSS at the front highly enough. PS, I have no affiliation with either company.

[@SuperBlizzard77]

I need the music. I have said this before and I will say it again, Uncle Stu puts on some real music in the background. If you read this Uncle Stu, know that when and if I reach your age, I just want to retain 3 things like you. Ability to ride, the taste in music and a great all white bread.

[@Redliningcrewguy]

Damn I've liked all the videos of yours and now girls are fighting in front of my house...😪 situation is out of control

[@corriecole4687]

Hey Stuart. I’m over here in the US. Been watching your videos from time to time. I currently own a Honda Africa Twin, but love the style and simplicity of the Royal Enfields. However they’re not practical where I live . However, when I saw your videos on the Classic 500 I knew I had to find one to at least test ride. You are right, it is a true gentleman’s bike. The smiles per cc’s that that little bike gave me were imaginable. I’ve been watching all your videos on it. Thanks for the great content.

[@paulhodgins]

Thanks Stuart. I have Hagon custom shocks for my T120 and they transformed the ride. They are a quality item and I would recommend to anyone

[@ashleyreynolds6604]

I had 2810's on my T100. Not as 'pretty' as some but look correct. Solid engineering, and functional, nothing more required. Dave helped me out with mine, he's a good egg 👍🙂

[@troeteimarsch]

I always come back to your videos to fuel my dream of touring to and through England on an RE Classic 500 one day. In less than 700 days it will have happened.

[@motormikeb1047]

I share with fellow riders that when it comes to the questions of shocks. HAGON. Yes, not a cheap investment but they ..work ! . I have a set on my 1970 Xs1 650 Yamaha and on my 1966 Triton and they make a world of difference. When it comes time for replacement on my Bullet, with sidecar... no question.. Hagon.

[@MrAaronLarking]

I have heard of these shocks in New Zealandnd years ago. Its like a blast from the past hearing the name again

[@MrAaronLarking]

Yeah excuse the wrong spelling of New Zealand, I had keyhole surgery today

[@MrAaronLarking]

yes I'm looking forward to videos on the GT, as I have benn planing to get one myself as a second bike

[@alastairmcisaac2761]

And Hello from another Kiwi sitting here at home. Looks like I’ll be giving Hagen a call tomorrow.

[@rhonda-my_honda_cb500x3]

And me, makes 4 Kiwis. A set of Hagon Nitros adorn the back of my Suzuki VX800 for the last 15+ years. They're a work of engineering art & beauty and performance that were (still are) light years ahead of the OEM Showas. Between them and genuine Progressive Brand front springs, they transformed the bike's handling from 'barely adequate' to 'bloody superb'

[@MrAaronLarking]

@@rhonda-my_honda_cb500x3 I had a VX800 with a set of Conti pipes. I turned the handle bars upside down like a cafe racer, and rode it like one

[@davidherbert5308]

In 2003 Hagon made me up a pair of rear shocks for my new Harley Sportster XL 1200C. They were still working perfectly after 100,000 miles and still are.

[@navithakhoo]

That was SHOCKING!

[@fasthracing]

no stop it

[@igocamping3545]

Booooooooooooo

[@danielmcneil3004]

Very good video Stuart and coincidentally apropos to a recent personal experience. I recently contacted a local RE dealer to inquire about the availability of pre owned interceptor 650 ‘s as I’m in the market for one. I was told that he had none available, and to his surprise had not seen one or taken one one trade- in since he had started selling them in 2019. In take on this fact was that owners were liking the bike so much that they were keeping / riding them as their primary , go to ride. So this seems to support your comments, and the views of many other sources I have read. I hope to have one soon. Stay safe. Cheers, Dan ✌️🏍🇨🇦

[@johnroberts2290]

If I'm irresistible I can't wait for the weekend 😊. Very nice shocks and video.👍👍🏍️

[@drewiediggler1]

Fitted Hagons on my 535GT when I had it. On the softest setting they cured the high speed wobble, which was a great result. However the springs rubbed on the inner cartridge a bit and took all the paint off.

[@brianperry]

I’ve used Hagon shocks a couple of times. I fitted a pair to my Triton plus Hagon supplied and build my alloy wheels with the original Norton brake drums.. At the time I lived in Southend -on -Sea so it was a half hour drive to Hainault where the main factor/workshop was situated at that time. The main entrence had a couple of drag bikes on show that belonged to and been raced by Alf Hagon.....They were very helpful in the selection of equipment....

[@jeffryheintz9405]

I just put a set of these on my Bonneville. I've made one short test ride, and like them better already. I can hardly wait for my sub arctic weather (Northern, Wisconsin) to improve enough to give them a thorough ringing out.

[@Shinysideup]

I used to go into the Hagon shop in Leytonstone London to get my Methanol and spare parts for my grass track and speedway bikes many years ago. I can remember the smell of the engineering shop. Always top quality products, great times.

[@adityabhaskaran3521]

Gosh, Stuart! What a shocker!! The women waiting outside my door...this was what all your subscribers where waiting for 🤣. We're not here for the bike videos anymore now. On a "side note" though, nice video as usual. I really liked the aesthetics of the un-shrouded shocks and how they look from the back, kind of merging into those seat springs. Looking forward to your upcoming videos. Stay well and safe.

[@sminterceptor4086]

A second for the Hagon shocks, I have bought the shrouded 2810 for my interceptor which will be on when the ome are done. Great service from Hagon.

[@stuartfillingham]

Nice 👍

[@bernardhorrigan4753]

Yep totally agree fitted Hagon shox to my classic Yamaha Yds5 , fantastic improvement

[@markwivell1817]

I put a Hagon shock on my Triumph Sprint. The difference was night and day. Great company👍

[@danmcneil7181]

Hey Stuart, the video looks fine to me . And the Hagen shocks really spiff up the bike, and as you say have much improved the ride. Cheers. 🏍👍🇨🇦

[@UKspicer90]

Put these on my interceptor 3 weeks ago was a real game changer

[@angusrodger6407]

Yup l did the same a while back big difference

[@UncleBogator]

From the moment I subscribed I have had to carry a stick to keep the ladies away Stuart. Thank god for the researchers at Oxford. I can show my wife the proof that it isn’t my fault. Wish I’d bought a classic before they were gone.

[@josemathew3916]

Dear Stuart your videos are knowledgeable and gives positive energy to me ,even you explain minor things to take care of my classic 500 and intercepter.

[@PhilipBallGarry]

At 2:20 I clicked "like" immediately 😁👍

[@chriswild2458]

Me too 😀

[@rahulsawant8369]

Timeless Design & Man my Favorite Chrome Classic option 😍🤩. Just luv it

[@mcbob1967]

Well, I've been thinking of the Hagon shocks for a long time. I believe they are what the Classic 500 deserves, even more than what it needs. I'd choose the shrouded version though - but this is of course also a matter of personal taste - because in a wet area like mine with the hidden spring they're easier to clean (I have to do that often, to effectively prevent rust). I am looking forward to the fitting video because I notice you've followed a different path from the one suggested, for instance, by the people at Hitchcock's. There's another issue: the bolts RE have used for below, that somehow make more difficult (but one of the beauties of this bike is that you can - almost - always find a solution, and I believe I'm getting there) to think of fitting polished brass domed nuts. And yes, the C spanner toolkit absence is something to be reckoned with - I solved the issue with an adjustable hook spanner, but even with that is non that easy to adjust the preload!

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

Brilliant video as always Stuart and those shocks are very nice indeed, plus a nice fly past of Saltend 😃👍🏻

[@philiprussell3338]

Most informative, glad the new shocks controlled your rear end !!

[@whatsstefon]

I’m planning on throwing Hagons on my C500 soon. I’m very happy with the rear Hagons on my Harley. I have to swap the fork seals shortly, and might as well change the front springs while I’m at it to something more suitable for me svelte figure. I tried to sell my C500 once. I couldn’t do it, and this have now hit 45,000km. I’m likely going to ride it around Australia soon.

[@henryhartley9993]

Nice one Stuart, Hagon have always been excellent value for the money...

[@darkoflight4938]

As a result from subbing and liking I´m having constant swims with hords of bowlegged women! Thank you uncle Stu!!!

[@sluf1963]

Woo-hoo , your gonna land me some nookie , thanks mate , you deserve a pint for that . I love the humor , and thought you put into your channel. I enjoy your content , and banter , not common here in America. So thanks , and cheers on that well earned pint my friend. Stay safe .

[@kanhaivaidya1906]

Man your Bullet is shaping out nicely. Looks stunning and 👍🏽 clean

[@johnbrc]

You're right - subscribing and liking has done wonders for conjugal relationships with the mrs. Amazing. Obviously can't wait for your next video and perusing the back catalogue at pace… 🤩🤣

[@Tubespoet]

Really interesting, I am someone who never adjusts preload, I just ride it as it is so a possible 5 clicks has been irrelevant but seeing this I am seriously considering these custom Hagons for my Interceptor and I would adjust them as the settings make sense!

[@Ramp2062]

Triumph Key Chain on Royal Enfield Really Love it 😊😊👍

[@sneekylinux]

I'm sure I've had a few pairs of Hagon's over the years, always well worth it.

[@geraldfitzgibbon7428]

Aww.the bmw key ring not in shot I tink its fair to say.u were plesently surprised over the quality of the performance of ur new shocks. Good info as normal thanks uncle stu

[@peterwarneford-bygrave1490]

Hagon suspenders are megger improvements on any motorcycle, well worth the money.

[@keithstovin1482]

Another great video Stu 👍👍, that one did make me giggle 😁😁, Big thumps up here for the use of Hagon shocks, I have a pair on an old Guzzi I own, very good!!👍, If this video was from last weekend I must of just missed you 😉, I was on the Paull Camerton back road myself. Keep up the great work mate. Well appreciated here.

[@stevenhill6214]

Interesting to hear that the comfort is partly due to the sprung seat, it seems that sometimes, old tech is the best tech!

[@mikeball5883]

I have Hagon springs on my 2013 bonneville they’re excellent would recommend them to anyone 👍

[@Nrgpack]

Videoquality was very OK. Thank you Stuart!!

[@davidjenkins8911]

ha ha that brought a smile to my face good to see the bullit again ,the hagon shocks story was interesting

[@igocamping3545]

Great review mate! I am putting heavier oil and springs in my front forks. Rear is next. I will get these for sure.

[@garylightning8740]

Outstanding, as always. Your videos ,reviews and opinions are absolute quality. Respect. Thank you very much. Regards Gareth Wiltshire UK. Gratitude. Quality. Respect.

[@williamsatish25]

Wow what a location, i wish i can drive like through this English country side one day on my Himalayan.

[@disco41]

My wife has banned me from watching anymore of ur videos 😢😂😂👍

[@rockintigger]

6AM, that's the middle of the night 🤭

[@mred7030]

i didn`t realise how bad my suspension was till i put hagons on .

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Bloody Hell They’re currently Queuing down the street from my front door 🚪 Champion 👍🏻

[@dr.chrismort8448]

Magnificent video 👍. Good overview of the shocks. I want a 500.

[@JohnSmith-xw5qe]

Another brilliant video & it's great to see the bullit again oh I didn't notice any difference in the video no frame jumping or anything like that!

[@stuartfillingham]

Thanks 👍 slowing it down by a 6th did the trick!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I love that bike so much… ❤️❤️❤️

[@stuartfillingham]

You need to get one sir!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@stuartfillingham I really do!! I’ll wait for a garage first though… soon hopefully!!

[@ccooper8785]

Not sure about 2:20 but my male cat does appear to tolerate me more after pressing "like" so there may be something in it. Cannot go wrong with Hagon shocks and am very pleased that they are still in business. Maybe my cr@p boadband has some advantages after all as I watch in 480p to avoid buffering.....

[@markos1963]

One of the first mods I did to my GT was to fit a set of Hagons. I nearly bought some YSS after seeing your video but I couldn’t justify the cost in comparison to the Hagons.

[@mondo2417]

Thanks Stu.

[@nakedlakedip57]

Got to say...... I’m quite surprised at how well my classic chrome handles was expecting it to wallow about like my old CB 500 Honda but no handles bumps and holes in corners like a boss.

[@SurajSinghTomarArya]

They have just launched new model in 350cc. The engine and frame is all new from the Meteor bike launched earlier this year. I have heard that engine and frame is a significant improvement over UCE (Unit Construction Engine). Sadly the UCE looks more aesthetically pleasing. This minimalist frame too.

[@stuartfillingham]

I tested the meteor a few weeks ago, it is very nice!

[@birbeck87]

Great video they will be my next upgrade thanks stu 👍

[@Draian63]

I just woke up this morning and left a like on this particular video; then my wife saw me... !😂

[@michaelfirth1075]

Another great video, thanks Stuart.

[@daveevans2261]

Very informative video Stuart, thank you.

[@juans3728]

Great information for those that want to do it themselves, Peace.

[@mototakahe836]

I was at the RE dealer in France today . The 500 is withdrawn from market cannot meet new Euro regs, but a new 350 is coming out.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

It is a shame how they camper with motorcycles Georgetown for the pollution caused by cars motorcycle should be exempt from pollution controls and they should only have to pay half price for fuel in order to encourage their use

[@ChrisJohnson-pd4hh]

Oh dear. 1080p? I've still go that. I have a front/rear helmet cam. It just about does the job! - Chris Johnson.

[@fredblogsmac.5697]

I hope you find a compmrise with handling and comfort Stuart. Its either good in the corners ratling out what tooth filings we still have . Or smooth over all the pot holes and funky in the corners lol

[@bradboustead1682]

The young guys like the look of that piggy back reservoir on the shocks. Royal Enfield may have had some sort of a committee meeting about "reaching out to the next generation" of riders.

[@ourmanf1int]

Looking forward to your Royal Enfield Continental GT videos. Keep up the good work.

[@chrismayes3588]

As usual, interesting and informative...! Typically the boffins from Oxford Uni did not extend their research far enough because the lassies north of the Tyne appear to be immune... 🤔

[@whenden]

Hi Stuart,booster plug,mirrors,clock,helmet and now new shocks,are you trying to ruin me? Are women attracted to men with very little cash? I don’t think so. Seriously great video can’t wait for fitting instructions,definitely buying these shocks.Thanks again Stu.

[@Ankit-pj5ly]

Putting a Triumph key chain on a Royal Enfield... That's next level of bad assery...

[@rhonda-my_honda_cb500x3]

It is Stu's (perhaps not so) subtle passive-aggressive 1-fingered salute to a corporation that won't own and properly fix its shit (transmission issues in the 2014-2017 (?) T100s, of which Stu has one and is expressing the symptoms, and the remediation attempts saga which he's previously vlogged about)

[@steveloy8273]

Wonderful as always

[@raymondsmith7020]

If i continue to watch your video`s Uncle Stu, i`m going to have to contact my local MP to petition the government to increase my pension so i can keep up with you!!

[@TheXeroid]

Damn! I can only like it once.

[@tuswatches]

Great video, as usual, Stuart!

[@stuartfillingham]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@lerixke]

Do you think that the Hagon could also be an equivalent alternative for an interceptor 650 (but more economical than the YSS you suggest in another of your very good videos) ? For a non-sporty, quiet driving style, but on poorly (continental) maintained roads

[@stuartfillingham]

definitely take a look at their 2810 shocks.

[@lerixke]

@@stuartfillingham Thank you sir .

[@googleuser6972]

Are you going to customize the rear bumper? Make it parallel to the circumference of the wheel? The present set looks like an afterthought. This has been the design shortfall of all single cylinder RE's before 2019. The RE thunderbirds in India looked downright disproportionate and ugly due to that rear bumper. Cost cutting at its ugliest best. Great video Unc Stu, keep them coming. They are a wealth of knowledge.

[@jeroenbeltman515]

Hagon's website is already 2 years under construction. Hopefully they are better at constructing shocks...

[@themechanicsingh4159]

I was shocked, though royal Enfield made shock like Carlsberg ,

[@paulbooth1373]

Oi, Stu. I couldn't concentrate on any of this because you've got a Triumph key ring on yer Enfield!! I thought we'd discussed this. I'm still ashamed about my Yamaha key ring for the car key. Don't tell anybody.

[@assessor1276]

OK Uncle Stu - I have been subscribed for a donkeys age and I hit the “like” button, so bring on the women!

[@hatchetjack1031]

Excellent upgrade, looks well worth the $. Like replacing the old Triumph , Girllings w/ Koni's. Does he ship to Yanks?

[@andybryant1772]

I still can't decide between buying a used interceptor or used bullet. The bullet is more classis but not as fast but sounds like the bullet is more comfortable.

[@davidherbert5308]

Have them fitted to my Royal Enfield Bullet great.

[@spinusdisplacius]

hi stuart ive been offered a 500 classic 2014 very low mileage and immaculate is this model as good as a later one cheers martin

[@mv55555]

As soon as I heard that I can look more attractive by up to 30% I was banging the ‘like’ button like a Gatling gun on full automatic..... but unfortunately I was only allowed to give one ‘like’. Thanks for the laugh though 😂

[@themoog3889]

Just looking at Hagons the other day as replacements for the Interceptor ones .....spooky !

[@stuartfillingham]

2810 might be a better option for the ceptor.

[@themoog3889]

@@stuartfillingham I'll talk to them when I'm ready ...I want a weird combo so I'll talk to Dave and see if they can oblige ! Hellooooo Daaaaaave !

[@andrerobertdrouin3642]

Stuart, when you test the GT please give us your take on the ride difference with that tank fully loaded with petrol , want to know if it feels top heavy as on a trip with tank bag and paniers it might feel squirly on dirt roads ,thank your for the ever interestin content of your vids .

[@Kickasss119]

I wonder how different from stock the ride would be with these shocks and the YSS fork springs.

[@ronaldevans7944]

Hi Stuart. Those new shocks look beautiful. Have you ridden 2up on the bullet. It will be interesting to see the difference. Ah well I may start saving up for a pair of Hagon shocks .ride and be safe . Ron.