Royal Enfield Classic 500 Review

[@MikesMachines]

If you would like to support my channel check out my new range of T-Shirts including one inspired by Royal Enfield. teespring.com/stores/mikes-machines

[@chandranshpandey1929]

Lol it's used as a commuter all over India. Re is selling half a million of these every year.

[@tenjisaga]

I rode a 500 Desert Storm over 20,000kms throughout India and Nepal over 12 months. From the Himalayan mountains to the Thar Desert, jungles, highways, tight overcrowded alley ways, you name it - this machine did it all. You nailed it with the "meditation" comment. People often ask how I could string together a week of dawn till dusk days at a time, and my answer is always the same - "I was meditating". Great review on a truly amazing bike.

[@paco6641]

Hi Todd, i’m about to buy a 500 classic. How bad is the vibration, and is it true that after the first 1000 km , this becomes significantly less? I rode a bullit 500 twice in ladakh but the roads mainly created the vibration!

[@tenjisaga]

@@paco6641 Vibration was the same from start to finish for me. i didn't reach actual tarmac highways until about 5000kms in so I can't comment on the initial period. I will say though that the vibration in general is more than most other bikes, but that's part of the reason you want one ;)

[@paco6641]

@@tenjisaga thanks Todd!

[@fre2045]

I had one for a year and put 10000 k on it, sold it for a new Ducati monster and my heart is still bleeding... most fun on a bike I ever had

[@theaxeman4429]

I think this Will be one of the Best Selling Motorcycles not just in Australia - but in Every Country that it is sold. Period.

[@andybryant1772]

The new royal Enfield interceptor seems too have done that

[@artwebb6939]

Call me an outlier, but this is exactly the sort of bike I would want for a daily Rider A standard riding position, low revving engine, predictable steering, and be able to get it in olive drab or Desert Storm really adds to the cool Factor

[@HerculesCDN]

I have been riding a 2010 Classic 500 for a few years now and love it. Recommend it. Don't listen to the nay sayers. Great video Mike.

[@jayanthraju5700]

Thumbs up from India

[@mannyytuarte4666]

Just got mine two weeks ago . Of course it snowed the very next day . I did get a ride in a few days later . It’s wonderful. I’ve been riding since 1967. We moved to upstate NY six months ago and when we moved I sold my Harley . The roads are so wonderful up here that I decided to get another bike . Great choice. I had the HD for 15 years but never really bonded with it . This bike felt perfect after a twenty minute ride on a demo. Bought this in Albany NY - great shop (thank you Ellis) . Slowly breaking it in now. Good stuff . Should have bought one of these fifteen years ago .

[@santifresnel2320]

I think that very few people realize what this bike is about, and what a gem it really is. This is the perfect bike after you had your fill of RRs and just want to go back to no nonsense pure joy of riding and admiring scenery in the process.

[@williamdent3462]

A good honest review Mike .... so many people rubbish these bikes

[@paulparnell2173]

Good review Mike; I've just done 2500km on my 500 UCE and you're spot on. It is a great bike, especially here in the Kangaroo Valley and NSW Southern Highlands.

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks Paul. It's interesting how the bike transcends it's limitations and delivers such a rewarding riding experience.

[@jeffslade1892]

Meditation! Yes! One returns home with memories of the scenery instead of the visual after image of black tarmac and white lines. They're great fun to ride. With a sensible after market exhaust you can wake up sleepy villages, probably the entire parish, and still have denizens wave to you as you pass.

[@whorayful]

It's odd on my Japanese bikes I always felt the need to be traveling at or just over any posted speed limit, there was always some sense of urgency, on Rodney my Redditch 350 I couldn't care less, 80 - 90 kmh is just fine, I find I can ride it for an hour or two get off and feel relaxed and no aches, my Japanese bike I'd feel stressed and usually have lower back aches.

[@marcj6265]

The sound of that big single is therapeutic and relaxing.

[@jeffslade1892]

whorayful - Wot is an posted speed limit? - the RE speedo is gloriously inaccurate ;) A few years ago we got a nimby law that allowed dormitory villages to have a 30mph limit through them for 'black spots' and to protect pedestrians despite the fact that the inhabitants have lost the use of their legs. The local legislators completely ignored the requirements for applying them, i.e. the accident records, no accidents and no pedestrians meant no 30 limit should be permitted. The difference between the 350 and 500 is about 10bhp. The thing with the RE is you open the throttle, a loud crobber from the back, and it's up to wow! 50mph as it reverberates off the walls and rattles their windows. And it they're out mowing the lawn, they'll turn and wave hurrah! I have ridden for most about four hours, which would have been fine if we (two-up) hadn't been soaked to the skin and pelted with hail in a summer storm. Normal ride 1-2 hours. I did try out the CGT but after only a few miles my back and wrists let me know I don't fit a caff racer any more.

[@parratt-world]

Jeff Slade Nice comment.

[@arunkottolli]

Yes! It's so refreshing to ride slowly, and enjoy the scenery on a Enfield bike. A 45 minute ride is a complete destressing experience. I have a Honda 650F and a KTM, the modern sports bikes are always in a hurry, and I don't enjoy the scenery as much when riding them. Riding a Royal Enfield has its own innate pleasure, which can't be experienced in modern cruzer or sport bikes

[@MarquisDeSang]

This has more soul than Harley Davidson.

[@deniskozds4213]

It is the soul of India Where ever you go you find a royal Enfield Every street at least one owns a royal Enfield It is very very famous in India

[@trippmiller6199]

ekim andersom I didn’t know. So your wrong...dickhead!

[@maplemaple1439]

@ekim andersom let the man have his moment

[@diotheprofessional6510]

Rosida Andriyana Indian bike tho

[@mohammadnoor8429]

It's literally from 1955 plus EFI, a disc up front, and electric start. It's not soul. It's the real living, breathing, thing.

[@balajisundarrajan9684]

Finally , someone who gets this motorcycle . Nice review ! The vibrations settle down when you put miles on it. A synthetic engine oil makes things a lot better. I replaced the stock rubber brake hose with a steel one and it certainly bites better. Definitely a fun little motorcycle at the twisties

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks, much appreciated!

[@jeffslade1892]

A full synth has better thermal stability. Which is to say its 50 weight will remain 50 weight over a greater temperature range. It is of course an air cooled motor and thus has a wide operating temperature range. Do make sure it is JASO MA bike oil for the wet clutch, car oil is a big no-no. During running-in the oil probably wants changing several times because it gets filthy, full synth is a bit pricey for that. Not just at first service and again 6000km later then, changed 3 or 4 times to 1200 miles as the oil is used up (the detergents get used up and discolour). Then put full synth in when it stays clean. Replacing the brake hose no doubt replaced RE's horrible brown liquid with decent DOT.4 brake fluid. That's the main thing (the oem brake hose is Brembo).

[@jedidiahsinena6819]

the way he talks makes me relaxed ..i dunno why but i love it

[@boomerguy9935]

It looks like the RE Bullet has come a long way since it was imported into the USA on a large scale over 15 years ago. I test drove one that had the 4-speed newly converted to the left side through the engine from the right side as required for sale here. It had a carburetor, two drum brakes and a kick start only. On the negative side, the shifting was guess work because I usually found a false neutral with every other shift and the brakes were extremely weak which required stopping long before I reached a stop sign. On the positive side, I loved it! The comfort, handling, sound and overall personality were excellent. It only needed one kick to start the cold engine and it performed perfectly. The riding style is perfect for me. I've never been a fast rider, don't like interstate speeds and I certainly don't need a uniform which seems to be required for the "crotch-rocket" or Harley/Indian macho machine. I currently putt around on secondary roads with 35 mph and 55 mph speed limits on my little Honda Shadow VT600 Shadow/Steed. It is the slowest motorcycle of my last four models and the most fun. It is 30 years old and shows its age cosmetically but it is mechanically excellent. I plan to place a newer Bullet 500 Classic beside it now that it is more predictable in its shifting and braking.

[@samarshekatkar7980]

I have this one and no one dares to ask me for it, its confusing for them.

[@elmariuspanzerus5993]

I Got me squadron blue one...FANTASTIC here in malta i love it!!! :D

[@ripmax333]

Mario Mallia reliability so far? Did you got a good aftersales service from wotomoto?

[@MrNarenk]

Airborne blueee

[@kieronjonesanotheredenband8496]

Best Colour imo

[@anandgosai3294]

I wondered where is the city of Malta and found out that is is a country 😲

[@jeffslade1892]

Regarding the power: the 350 is long stroke but the 500 is practically square being only 1mm different to a DB34 BSA Goldstar. It has a little less power than a DB34 (34bhp) but a lot more torque, 41Nm which is similar to a Honda CB500R. The motor can be tuned fairly easily to about 34bhp, it doesn't go a lot faster but gets there quicker. A free-flow exhaust alone won't do that but helps it breathe easier and gives a good improvement to mid-range; more of the same. Regarding vibration: it is very noticeable during running-in, which takes 1000 miles. If the bike is run-in properly the tingly handlebar and foot peg vibration will dissipate around 1500 miles, but not be eradicated completely because it is after all a big single; engine mounts, head stay and swinging arm should be torqued up because these loosen and bed in during running-in too. If the motor is thrashed during running-in it will knock the bearings and trunnions oval and it will always feel like riding a road drill. Once about 1500 miles has been reached then increase revs through the gears which beds-in the various bearings and shafts and further reduces vibration at higher revs; if this is not done the motor will feel reluctant to exceed 4800rpm, the benefit is not instant, can take 500 miles. Cruising speed: when properly run-in comfortable cruising is 50-70mph (80-115kph), above 70mph wind buffeting is unpleasant (no screen). Will go to 80+mph which means it can be ridden on boring motorways if absolutely necessary. Handling: confident and forgiving but tyre pressure affects handling, put 27psi in the front and 29psi in the rear (Avon numbers), especially on Avon Roadriders, put in another 2psi both for pillion and another 2psi rear for extra load. Hence I ride it solo about 28/30. The Owners Booklet low front pressure (18psi) will have the front tyre practically rolling off the rim, with soggy braking and unpredictable cornering.

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks Jeff, an interesting insight into ownership of one of these classic singles.

[@tommasotobio]

Jeff Slade e

[@andybryant1772]

Carberry Enfield make a vibration reduction device that goes at the end of the crankshaft. Apparently that works really well. It won't get rid of the vibration completely though.

[@ChronicTHCBlaze]

You're a genius Jeff Slade

[@puneetmehta1754]

Awesome review. I have a classic signals 350 desert sand. Its got a few updates the best one is a low fuel indicator and the second one being a dual channel ABS with a rear disc brake. The bike is awesome between. 80 to 100 and the best part is u dun get tired at the end of the journey like the Japanese motorcycles.

[@TheClarkenstein]

Excellent review. I’m debating a classic 500 here in the US. I don’t mind tinkering (actually look forward to it) and I like the Enfield for that. I am debating between a 1970s Honda CB or the Enfield. I like the fact that the Enfield is still in production vs digging for parts of a 40 year old bike.

[@jeffslade1892]

Tinkering with an Enfield is optional. They do like a little minor maintenance, all bikes do. Stuff will come loose during running-in but on the whole pretty reliable; some of the oem RE stuff should be replaced, clutch cable, fluids, fuses and light bulbs, all commonly available and cheap. An old Honda is more like a swiss watch, great when they are working well but at close to 50yo can become a money pit. My favourite Honda was the 400F.

[@dhruvjoshi7320]

I own a classic 500 too and to be honest it easily doubles as a commuter as it's simple bike and very comfortable.

[@whorayful]

I am currently 3 weeks into ownership of my Royal Enfield Classic 350, and loving it! The 350 still has a carburettor but is otherwise the same as the 500, it's also over $2,000 cheaper. I find the 350 is a blast for commuting, that slow thunk thunk thunk idle has people looking as it sounds much larger capacity than it really is, I have nearly 800 klm on mine now and the engine is bedding in nicely, a lot of the very mechanical noise from the engine has vanished after the first service to be replaced by a very satisfying rumble on acceleration, the bark and burble on closed throttle coast down just adds to the fun. I am getting almost unbelievable fuel economy, my two topups after the initial fill have it running at over 40 km/ltr. near on 120 imperial mpg. It just makes you smile every time you throw a leg over it, I refer to mine as Valium on wheels, there's just no way you can be agro riding one of these things. Build quality and paint finish is totally fine, it's not a Rolls Royce, but it's not rubbish by any measure, the only issue I've had with mine is a dodgy looking weld on the front wheel rim where the hoop is welded to form the rim, I showed it to the local dealer here in Adelaide on Regency Road and no problem, a new rim has been ordered and will be replaced asap. Looking forward to many many thousands of km's of smiles on 'Rodney' Cheers Ray

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks for the info Ray. I haven't ridden the 350 yet but it looks like I should sometime in the future.

[@whorayful]

Definitely try and find one with at least 500 k's on it for a test ride, younger than that they are tight, grumpy and rough. Mines hit 1100 klm now at 4 weeks and is really becoming a joy to ride, it definitely doesn't have the power of the 500 but to me the engine seems a lot smoother than the 500 I test rode, maybe due to the lighter rotating mass? I haven't ventured out on freeways yet but I have given it a couple of gentle squirts up to 100 kmh, there's not a lot left in the tank at 100, but once fully run in I will be trying some aftermarket bits to help with the breathing. All in all I'm still smiling and so far haven't had to touch it with a spanner. They are just from a different age and will not appeal to everyone, but if you are of a certain age and are tired of technology, definitely worth a look. Seasons greetings, Ray

[@jeffslade1892]

They all vibrate less after running-in, which takes at least 1000 miles, 1500km. The 500 can and will cruise at 70+mph/110kph, flat out about 85mph/135kph - meaning it can cope with a motorway. My Classic 500 has been tuned a bit and has accidentally (oops) hit 165kph (calculated from having hit the 6000rpm RevXtend rev limiter on the PCV) but it is no crotch rocket, it's a back roads burner. The 350 is down a good 30% on power to start with, and is the same weight. The usual thing is to change the exhaust for something better looking and leave the rest well alone. If you want more power, you want the bigger engine. A trick to reduce vibrations at high revs is, after running-in to 1200 miles, to gradually use more revs up through the gears. Without that they seem to be reluctant to go over 4800rpm, whereas they're supposed to go to 5400. Maximum power is at 5250rpm.

[@whorayful]

Hi Jeff, I've now passed 1500km and still no major problems, I had the rear wheel out last weekend and refitted the rear brake assembly with flat washers and loctite as per your video, the rear brake is now brilliant with both bands now working! Interesting about 700km after the dealer service I started finding lots of neutrals and the gearshift was getting very vague, I drained the oil to see if there was any metal particles, all good but I did find the tell tale sheen of friction modifiers on the surface of the old oil, I have refilled with standard semi synthetic oil and the gears have all returned to where they should be with only one neutral. Once it's fully bedded in 3000ish Ks? I will try full synthetic oil as the heat here in Australia ( week 1 at 0 k's was over 35 Degree C, 95 F ?? and the bike really felt to be struggling when stuck in traffic with the engine hot. All the best Ray

[@whorayful9361]

Hi Jeff, I've just fitted a Tech bike parts (England) mega silencer onto my 350, the change is amazing, it's gone from a plodder bike breathless over 90 kmh to a bike eager to hit the rev limiter in the first 4 gears without really trying, it actually suprised me as I didn't think the 350 had a rev limiter! The exhaust bark is now proper old school British as well, most happy. Ray

[@ashwaninikgraphy]

Royal enfield its a passion, feeling, attitude. I love my royal enfield 500cc bike

[@PritishA82]

You got it right Mike.....its very much like meditating.......and one always wears a smile ...whilst riding it.... I use my Baby Tiger (Bullet 350 Standard) to escape the city on week ends.... Peace and Lots of Love from Mumbai, India

[@Yellowcardfan1]

I had a green 2012 classic 500 for 3-4 years. Overall, I thought it was lacking in power and distance capability (can't really go highway speeds). It was definitely a comfortable ride, and very relaxed, so good for tooling around town. I always got compliments on the bike, like clockwork whenever I pulled up in a parking lot, so it definitely turns heads and has a great classic look. One thing that I didn't know until I had the bike: There isn't a large (english speaking) community of enfield riders, so every time I had a question about the bike or specifications it was really a big struggle to find forums online with the right information. Along with that, the few additional parts that are available are sold through India and tend to be very expensive for even small farkles. I noticed all this after moving to an 800cc dual sport and finding an abundant wealth of information online which makes it much easier to do my own servicing and troubleshooting. Also, as someone else mentioned, pieces on the bike do tend to rust easily so keep it dry. Lastly, word to the wise: be super careful not to over-tighten the drain plug on the bottom of the engine box. I'm not a big guy but I easily stripped the aluminum threading on the bottom of the engine. Since it's all one big metal hunk, you can't just replace a small portion - I had to have the dealership retap the plug hole and then fit a larger drain plug, which was a big PITA.

[@soproparmvfx6269]

My uncle lives in India, he bought classic 350 brand new. He gave it away to his friend claiming is was too heavy to park in tight spots

[@jimmyrimshot1108]

Hello Sir, this being my first exposure to your work and channel, finds me as a new and happy subscriber. Your style, presentation and apparent honesty I find both refreshing and enjoyable. Just one point I would argue, I believe this would in nigh all aspects be an ideal beginners bike regardless of what they may or may not "transition" to. From personal experience these older style designs require a more active but restrained input, in all a more nuanced experience, which I think can only be beneficial to the novice. Finally I can really relate to your meditative condition whilst putting along on those gorgeous Victorian back roads, I mean lets face it you Victorians always had the advantage of somewhat wider roads than we New South Welshman, leaving a good deal more rideable surface before encountering the usual cracking edges. Anyway, many thanks from James (ex-Australian now residing in West Yorkshire, UK)

[@LarryRickenbacker]

The RE bikes are oozing with character; stunning bikes.

[@brucenichols9153]

Love all of my Enfields from the GT to this model, a good honest review.

[@human9512]

Well, I have this same bike same colour.... Feels good..vibrates Little... Good job by RE...

[@justdad53]

I have had my 500 for about 8 months and thought most of your evaluation was spot on. I think the bike is very good for commuting as long as the speeds are 60 mph and under. The lightness and fuel mileage is outstanding.

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks Jerry. It's good to get some feedback from an owner. It's impossible to really access the quality of a motorcycle in just a couple of hours.

[@jeynes14]

Can you tell me how many miles per tank you get please - roughly ….

[@andybryant1772]

From what I heard they are out of production now. I did drive a Morris major as my daily transport for years. I think this bike is right up my alley.

[@jota1221]

Had the black and white version of this bike and it was a hoot. Travelled all over the UK and it never let me down once. The vibrations do settle down as the miles rise. Would have another one no problem

[@steverichards9964]

Great. Now I want one more. My CB1300 is getting nervous.

[@YS3Caero]

I compare re RE Classic 500 to AJS, Matchless and BSA of the 50s with the benefit of being new, so you can go on a longer ride being almost sure you get home not on a tow truck. If you want a classic style motorcycle I believe there is no match (if there is, please tell me). And no, HD is not an alternative.

[@raygrigg5816]

I have 3 RE, a 350 single, carby, drum back and front, 500 Trials and the last of the 500’s, the Tribute, love these bikes.

[@rockdog2584]

I, for one, would just love to have that bike. Classic is exactly what I am looking for.

[@stephenphillip5656]

Having got an Enfield Classic 500 a few weeks ago, (my first non-Japanese motorcycle in 47 years) I can endorse what your review said. It is a lovely, relaxing ride on "A" roads and by-ways and at 50 ~ 60 mph, there's little vibration. I'll not be taking mine on motorways (freeways) as it'll be too frantic trying to keep out of the way of large trucks doing 60 ~ 70 mph. Instead, I'll enjoy the pleasure of a quieter (hopefully!) ride in the countryside and also on our UK network of less-major roads. By the way, the handlebar switch gear is EXACTLY the same as fitted on my other bike, a 1997 Suzuki GSF600S (Bandit). The only difference is that on my 2018 Enfield, the headlight on-off switch has been removed and blanked off. Daylight running lights are the order of the day.

[@MrEye4get]

Very informative! I am considering a Royal Enfield Classic 500 with a sidecar as my second motorcycle. Top end speed isn't as important as torque when hauling a sidecar. It will be my weekender bike.

[@viveksrma]

THANKS BUDDY HONEST REVIEW IS WHAT I LIKE FROM AN EXPERIENCED RIDER .

[@jeffslade1892]

That rear drum brake can be fixed to operate properly. For some daft reason RE paint the cam/bush onto the back plate. It has slotted holes and screws with lock nuts because it is supposed to slide slightly to centralise the shoes. With it reassembled correctly (about half hour messing about) and the shoes centralised the free play on the pedal can be reduced to less than an inch. The brake not only becomes more powerful but becomes completely predictable and really useful for feathering into bends and slow manoeuvring. Otoh the liquid RE put in the front disc brake is genuine rubbish and needs replacing with DOT.4 asap and then it works well (it should be a Brembo on that year model)

[@whorayful]

I can fully support Jeff here, I just had the rear wheel out of my 350 last weekend and removed the Indian paint. The rear brake pedal has now changed from being a spongy foot rest to quite a firm powerful stopper, as it should be.

[@jeffslade1892]

Spongy foot rest - rofl What did my head in was the bite point was never in the same place twice. Now it is. The 1LS is a really old design that goes back to when Redditch were making their hubs and wheels and brakes for many of the other british bike manufacturers too, it's so simple. So it beggars the question how the factory manages to assemble it so wrong. I usually find a disc has more 'grab' than a drum. So, properly set up, this drum is excellent for applying light feathering into a bend or whatever. It's not the most powerful stopper in the world but then a rear brake doesn't have to be. and shouldn't be. Although if you stand on it, it will lock the rear. Regarding the front brake, it was spongy, so I flushed the horrible brown liquid out with fresh DOT.4 - sorted.

[@jeffslade1892]

Do note (NB) when I say the bush should be allowed to slide I *do not* mean /loose/, the screws nipped up with just enough pressure that the shoes will centralise if you practically stand on the brake pedal. Otherwise the bush adjusts itself every time you hit a bump in the road. The old british service manuals do say the cam should be centralised and the screws tightened, but centralising the shoes is impossible to do with the brake off the bike in the workshop. Setting it so it can be budged is an old wrinkle, and the shoes do stay centralised in use. With both shoes working it becomes a good predictable and solid brake.

[@whorayful9361]

Hi Jeff, I now have 4,000km on my 'adjusted' rear brake, it's great. Very progressive, light pedal action, and if needed can easily lock the rear wheel with only moderate pressure. Free travel on the pedal would be only about an inch. Ray (Australia)

[@Rangsa21]

They now come in disc rear brakes.

[@casey360360]

I am so freaking excited to get one of these.

[@karandev01]

I own an old one and I love it it takes priming to start it in winter but I've owned it for 15 years

[@TheVestibulian]

I feel like it's really hard to assess these UCE bikes without spending time around a lot of different ones. My 2010 shakes and rattles like an old English bike and I assumed they were all like that, but I've since ridden others with no modifications that are as smooth as silk. Likewise the gearboxes range from lazy and full of neutrals to snappy, tight and responsive. I'm 25 so don't judge too harshly when I say I've put 35,000 thrashed and crashed kms on mine with only basic maintenance, electrical tape and zip-ties and it's still going strong. A couple in the club have clocked up over 100,000 before catastrophic frame-related failures and other members have had their engine throw their rod at 40,000km (2012 model). More recently one has required a complete rebuild after just 12,500km (2015 model), and that one was owned by a mechanical engineer in the navy for god's sake. If you can get a good one you'll have the most trusty bike you could ever own, but get a dog and it might bite (blow) your leg off

[@andybryant1772]

That has me worried. I'm considering buying one.

[@davidinghram2494]

I wish I hadn`t gotten old, because I would sure love to have one of these.

[@FredEricS-Moto]

I bought a Classic 500 Desert Storm last year in October. A 2019 EFI with anti-lock disc brakes. I've had 5 rides on it since then (it's winter here and bloody cold XD), but I've put 1300km on her already. I own a BMW K1200GT and Suzuki Katana 750 as well. The Classic 500 ist by far the best bike I own. It's the most comfortable and the most fun bike I've ever had. I will not sell this bike, it was love at first ride :-)

[@santifresnel2320]

It is the last of its breed. Mid cc thumper, a mechanical bike, metal fenders, no modes, no lcd, tick tick OHV. Best way to see out the ICE at the dawn of the age of electric. It is not perfect, it doesnt have shaft drive :) Best way to enjoy it is after you had your fill of crotch rockets and big cc highway munchers. Just to rediscover the pure joy of riding. And now it is out of production.

[@scootergeorge9576]

Suddenly it's 1950!

[@mohammadnoor8429]

*1955

[@scootergeorge9576]

@@mohammadnoor8429 - Mine was a play on the 1957 Chrysler Corp. ads that screamed, "SUDDENLY IT'S 1960!" on introduction, implied the '57 models were 3 years ahead of the competition. Think "Christine" but single headlights. The movie car was a '58.

[@mauserwinchester]

I was talking bikes with my mate in work the other day, and Royal Enfield came up as a joke really.........now I have my heart set on the classic in military green, it's a gorgeous bike.

[@arildsolemdal6966]

Thanks for the nice review. This was only one of the many reviews that made me order a brand new Desert Storm - unseen - last october. Picking it up at the shop after Easter, the last (perhaps the only) Desert Storm sold in Norway. In the meantime I enjoy RE Classic videos and order accessories, such as sports silencer, luggage rack, panniers and crash bar.

[@MikesMachines]

You are welcome.

[@vijaycharan3771]

This is one of best reviews ever. Thank you

[@williamsherfield7807]

Love the look of this bike I really hope to own one soon maybe

[@hershchat]

Great review. “Zen and the art of motorcycle review”

[@amith6659]

Royal Enfield it's an EMOTION

[@andybryant1772]

The 2022 classic 350 looks interesting to me. Has the same style but a more modern engine and chassis. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

[@rcoj6748]

Waiting for my driving licence to come... Without it, I can't make an order and registration. I never felt that time is no going to me. I already felt how this bird flying.

[@galerinha]

It's sad they were discontinued because of emissions regulations. Here in Brazil they started being sold around 2016 so there's not enough of them here and all spare parts will need to be imported from India. I just wish we had it for 5 or 10 years more I would certainly be able to maintain two bikes and the classic would be the second one. Even if they make a 650 twin version it won't be the same. Not classical nor single bore or as versatile as the classic 500. There's still the 350 one but it's more like a urban motorcycle

[@jamesmcgrath1952]

It came down to the Royal Enfield and the Yamaha SR400. I went for the SR400 but I'm getting a Royal Enfield in the spring.

[@theyash.padmashali]

My favourite model of RE...Classic 500 Desert Storm

[@robjl2809]

A very honest & comprehensive review. I enjoyed watching!

[@sagargondane9642]

if you remove vibrations, you're really killing the machine's character

[@mikehouser2518]

Beautiful machine . Every bike that catches my eye , looks alot like a Bonneville I had early 70's .

[@stevetaylor8698]

Italian bikes also had right hand gear change until the US authorities determined that the brake lever should be on the right side, as most people are right footed, they felt the brake needed more delicate touch than did the gear lever and that it should be placed on the right side.

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

OK so highways are in the. US are faster that 100kph. I mean 130kph is not uncommon especially between major cities. I really like the looks of this bike and I am thinking of buying one as my first bike but will it be able to do those speeds for multiple hours at a time? I mean the nearest dealer to me is almost 100miles away. And I would like to take this on trips and not just putting around town.

[@McShaggswell]

That bike is so cool. Really like the color.

[@vibhorsharmax]

These are are really fun probably one of the best cruiser bikes, plus these bikes are made like gun.

[@parratt-world]

This is very informative. Thank you. I am.in Thailand where they only import the 500cc models. Have you tried the 350 or 250cc Royal Enfields?

[@MikesMachines]

I haven't tried the smaller models so far. We don't get the 250 in Australia but I am planning on riding one of the 350s in the future.

[@bideshpaul8474]

There is no 250 cc in india

[@Kar90great]

I don't think there is a 250cc model, RE lowest range is 350cc

[@iandouglas451]

excellent review - vibration puts me off really, ok for a short time i suppose. When i sat on one, in a showroom, the footpegs felt too far forward, for me anyway. in the UK, some of the most crowded roads in Europe, cruising isn't really an option, you are obliged to go with whatever the flow is not really able to troll around in an oblivious way. angst is the name of the game in mid UK Haha.

[@tomaszbudnik521]

Nice motorcycle... Would be nice to have such next to my old VFR800vtec

[@bfarm44]

Used to fit a length of garden hose through the bar capped at one end and filled with sand then capped at the other end. Bars stop shaking period. The rest is “character” you either love it or don’t understand it. If the former you’re quite happy if the latter you probably sold it to me🤣

[@n3rdf0xx04]

Is it a good beginner's motorcycle? I'm starting to like that bike...may be some young guy in his 20's sitting on his laptop, but I appreciate old school looking stuff such as the 500

[@andychauhan6544]

There's 650 twins out too...might want to look at that too.

[@n3rdf0xx04]

@@andychauhan6544 sweet

[@MrYaatri]

If it has a fast idle lever, it must not measure intake air temperature sensor which would help it achieve proper air fuel mixture according to air temperature and pressure.

[@manjucs2331]

Excellent review Mike. Good narration. Good onya..

[@marcj6265]

Excellent review Mike. Your analysis was spot on.

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks, much appreciated!

[@İkitekerşart]

Hi Mike. Can we say that the vibration is quite disturbing?

[@northindian344]

Very nice review A proper analysis of a product Well done Mike

[@crowluck7072]

What these bikes are made in India? I also own a Thunderbird but I thought it's an American brand.Damn

[@alankarkhare12]

Yes.. They are built in India and one of the most celebrated brand among Indian youth.

[@vibhorsharmax]

Actually Royal Enfield is an indian brand now

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

@@vibhorsharmax nothing says that on wiki or the Enfield page.

[@vibhorsharmax]

@@dimesonhiseyes9134 it was a British company RE started even before Harley, but now RE is ownd by india ,and if your eyes are working fine then kindly check wiki again lol, people these days have digestion problem

[@vibhorsharmax]

@@dimesonhiseyes9134 en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Enfield_(India) here check it and make sure your glasses are on

[@peterpyke1213]

i just bought a 125 grom.surprised me how much i enjoyed going slower and just enjoying the view.i guess this bike is a little like that.

[@Canadianlofivibes]

you can also do loud bulletshot sound by on\of quickly the engine at 60\ 70 km speed by kill switch.. it sounds like bullet shot very loud.. we do here in india ...but dont do near police its too loud shokewave type

[@abbaby555]

These bikes have made over the hymilayas, I test rode one and it was a really fun ride, under powered and all there was just something fun about it like other small displacement bikes

[@ybulach]

Nice review, as always. Is it a 2017 model ? If so, it surprisingly doesn't come with ABS and rear disk brake, as in Europe.

[@MikesMachines]

I believe that it is a 2017 model. There appears to be some variation on specs between countries depending on regulations.

[@marcj6265]

2017 models for Canada don't have ABS. The regulations are not the same as in Europe with euro 4 regs. I guess that we still have euro 3 equivalent regulations in Canada (at least for now).

[@slowpokebr549]

I live back in the toolies far from pavement. I ride a Heritage a LOT on gravel. I would dearly love to throw a leg over one of these some afternoon. I love to putt up and down dirt roads at thirty miles per.

[@splodge57]

Looking to buy one. Great review. Cheers.

[@gauravdebbarma6891]

You know what am a 2 wheeli begginer and i have stuck alot in gears which is quite annoying. But who cares, I love my thunderbird and i will be perfect for her very soon...

[@MrTarmonbarry]

Meditation on a motorcycle , perfect

[@robfninh]

I owned a Bullet 500 and Classic 500. They are fun to ride and just plain cool. BUT I did have nagging problems with both. Poor rubber quality(rotting/cracks) in boots peg rubbers, tire that had to be replaced etc.. The chrome gets rust really quickly. I always clean my bikes and all I can say is don`t let it get wet. I had a starter relay problem and got a new one that is wired different. My Classic had the battery mounted backwards and was impossible to service easily. I do like these things but I`m done...…………...

[@hansbachtold1966]

Vibration, what the hell, its good vibration. Who needs a ricedish. I love it.

[@kartikkaushik1705]

Amazing review. ❤ this bike is a true beast ❤

[@mickeycrilly1839]

Vibration was becouse it is running in after 500-600 miles it will smooth out,same with suspension it will be stiff to start with all bikes go through this it’s just that multi cylinder are smoother even when running in also most of them have counter balance tech ok

[@arjunsheoran7]

Perfect review! Will probably buy one after watching this video. Thanks!

[@nikhilsvlog5655]

What should be the price of Royal Enfield Classic 500..BS IV.. 2017 October Model.. 4500 KM. Is it good buying or not... Please guide

[@suryav4994]

Amazing review❣️

[@MrBenHaynes]

Nice countryside. Looks like Central West NSW, I was thinking Kangaroobie road, March (just north of Orange). Where tis? I really like your videos and the "non-sensationalist" delivery. Emailed a link of this video to a friend who has just purchased a RE Pegasus 500 (which really looks the part). Cheers.

[@MikesMachines]

Thanks Ben. The roads are Northeast of Melbourne between Warrandyte and Kinglake

[@TheAlexmercer360batmanfan]

This is a very quick bike with an incredible torque.

[@teslaedison6236]

Seriously?

[@TheAlexmercer360batmanfan]

@@teslaedison6236 For its Price that is. Also yeah its quick as fuck.

[@refinraju]

Yaaaa U said it Meditation on the motorcycle. I was thinking for the last one year y I love this byke. It's meditation. 😍😘.

[@robertnelson9621]

Please also review the Classic 350. And does Aus import the Thunderbirds ?

[@alobosk]

I've got a 350. Basically the same thing but a little less oomph. What is very noticeable after about 3500 kms on it, is that vibrations almost disappear at practical rev counts. Going 100km/h feel very relaxed and only after 110 km/h is when you feel a little bit, but nothing like when it had only 500 kms in the odometer. You have to let them seat to truly enjoy them. I do want to sell my 350 to get a 500 just for the big difference in torque and bhp. BTW it's my only means of transport and I use it all day midweek. For weekends I have a MKVII VW Golf.

[@richardkeen6151]

Thanks Mike great video going to get one 👍

[@lonewolfi6986]

Thanks for the info, I'm looking to get this as my learner bike. Living in Ringwood, so it's right around my corner😂😄

[@kamal9492]

Nice review

[@malo1996]

Whats tue difference between the classic and the bullet? Just the additional Seat?

[@NoahJJ24]

Hi Mike, great in depth review that covered all aspects of the bike. I am buying my first bike this week and I know they seem worlds apart but I'm going to buy a Honda Grom or a 350 Classic. I want something that looks cool and can get off the line at a red light and stay ahead of the average car. (Lane splitting is legal here in QLD). What would you recommend out of the two bikes being my first ever geared motorcycle (been riding scooters for 25 years). Thanks

[@MikesMachines]

Well the Grom with it's small wheels handles like a scooter and would certainly be perfect for lane splitting around town. Hondas have a good reputation for build quality too. The major negative for the Grom is its top speed. 100 kph is it's limit in stock form, it's much happier at 80 kph. I haven't ridden the 350 Royal Enfield but I can say that even the 500 is not a performance powerhouse so the 350 may be a bit disappointing in traffic. I really like the Classic series from Royal Enfield though. They show what motorcycling was all about in the past. The shear joy and freedom of two wheeled transport. The two bikes instil two different mindsets in their riders. When I get on a Grom I just want to ride it like a hooligan. On the Classic Enfield on the other hand I just want to sit back and enjoy the experience.

[@NoahJJ24]

Thanks so much for your in depth reply. I live on the Gold Coast and the traffic is getting worse here every year. I will look at both bikes this week and make my decision. Thanks again. Mike

[@Sadasanjhaparpaar]

@@NoahJJ24 hey brother i want to ask yu then which bike do yu bought ......because yu asked good questions to mike so thats why i hv same question ...Thank you m from Adelaide

[@NoahJJ24]

@@Sadasanjhaparpaar Hi, I bought a 1989 Honda CBR 250R... its a 30 year old super sports bike but WOW! Only cost $2500 but has 4 cylinders instead of 1 or 2 that the new 250cc bikes have. Its fast, loud and strong and the bikes from that era look so good. Highly recommended

[@Sadasanjhaparpaar]

@@NoahJJ24 thank yu soooo much bro .......

[@lostmysoultoday9005]

I agree with others, good review. Could you please tell me the seat height, I'm 5.6".

[@MikesMachines]

I believe that the seat height is around 800mm

[@jeffslade1892]

The seat can be lowered. I'm 5'9" but have 27" inseam. I could ride it as-is, the seat and suspension does compress when you get on (& I'm about 113kg), but I removed the springs and big rubber bush (the main supports are not the springs) with strong steel brackets nose and tail thus lowering by maybe 2 inches or more. I did that because I have short legs but then found the ride was more comfortable, with no pogo wallowing now, or feeling like being ejected after clouting a bump, better able to control the bike by shifting weight and far more connected to the road. It doesn't handle like a sports bike, it certainly doesn't turn in as quickly but can usually just drive through a nest of bends in a relaxed manner quicker than a sports bike can. That may seem illogical but I often get held up by sports bikes on twisties. The bike is sure footed and well planted on the road.

[@whorayful]

I'm 5'7" with 28" inseam, no problems at all in standard set up, only time I have to be careful is stopping on deeply rutted pavement, we have a lot of heavy truck traffic that can push ruts up to 2 " or more into the tarmac, to make sure I don't stop with the bike wheels on a 'high spot'

[@jeffslade1892]

Therein lies the problem. The number of times I've put my foot down only to find no road there is ridiculous. We cannot always chose where we have to stop. So I lowered it, end of problem. But then I found it was far more comfortable to ride, with better handling. Which is from replacing the springs with solid brackets which stops the rider's weight bouncing around. It may seem counter intuitive but there are a pair of perfectly good shock absorbers and the seat springs are purely cosmetic; the seat 'suspension' just makes the bike wobble.