Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Review: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly

I've had the Royal Enfield Interceptor now for around 2 months and covered around 1500 miles. It's about time to share my thoughts: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly. An honest review of the Interceptor 650.
#royalenfield #interceptor650 #modernclassic #modernretro
Bike: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Euro 5 Model in Ventura Blue
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[@anthonyfairbanks1387]

A cracking review mate I have this bike in the same colour ....yes there is better and more expensive middleweight bikes out there I've done 1,300 miles on mine and had zero issues just fitted performance air filter and enfield precision silencers it's certainly as more poke and sounds even better 😀 I'm 53 the bike suits me for what I want to do ... anyway good honest review nice one

[@Fergutron]

Thank you for the kind words mate. Very much appreciated. I think when it comes down to it: only a very boring and narrow minded biker dismisses lower powered machines (in my opinion). There's an awful lot of fun to be had on this bike. I'm absolutely loving it. I had a classic 500 before the Inty and loved it too. It was a blast, but was a little under powered for longer journeys and group rides. It could just about beat a decent 125 in a race. I'd have kept it as a second bike if I had space, but I'm a 1 bike man at the moment. I do think that the 47hp Mark is about right for a good all rounder, and with the torque on the Enfield twins, they deliver decent power in a very fun and addictive way. Not winning many races, but just good clean fun! Appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment mate 👍👍

[@chrisgraham5186]

@@Fergutron They could so easily have given the bike more bhp… but it wouldn't have been available to A2 (European), LAMS (Aus/NZ), and other restricted licence holders around the world. Selling two versions would've put the price up. It was a move of genius by Sid Lal et al to give us an engine which complies, and yet as road testers and reviewers found and reported, feels more powerful in the real world by having its torque curve flatter than Holland from 2000 rpm. I took mine (2019, pre-covid) to SW France for a month (my brother lives there) and found it the perfect bike in the mountains and great country roads down there. Its engine's flexible enough to get away with the wrong gear on a mountain hairpin, while its chassis is stiff enough to get away with the odd missed braking point. All the while, it could trickle and split lanes with the commuter scooters in the Béziers' rush hour, or sit comfortably at the French autoroute limit (130kph).

[@busboy3232]

Did you notice any difference after installing the enfield precision silencers? Mine should be in on wednesday.

[@anthonyfairbanks1387]

@@busboy3232 the difference is the noise obliviously but power wise it definitely gives more power about 3000 -4000 revs you will be pleasantly surprised but no issues after fitting them just start the bike up and leave it for about 10 mins ticking over should be fine mate no problem

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

Better? I doubt that

[@alexandertodd9611]

Bought one in Australia, dropped it in 24 hours (forgot all abouot new tires being a returning rider lol) , then knocked out 3500 kms in the hills around Canberra in 4 weeks....the HAPPIEST days of my life ! Fabulous, fun bike to ride!

[@henryhartley9993]

Nice one, as you said, you could spend another thousand pounds on upgrades such as suspension, levers, exhaust and still be well under the cost of the competition.....

[@RichardsModellingAdventures]

Yeah I'm slowly doing just that. It's part of the fun of ownership with this bike.

[@motoheads1268]

Watching this from India feels funny how RE earlier producing strange bikes to awesome best selling bikes now. Glad y'all liking it.😉🙏

[@veritasvincit2745]

RE are smart enough to know what will make people part with their money as opposed to simply fashionable designs. The Continental GT is the only bike that's been capable of getting me to return to two wheels. The other marques haven't been able to do that no matter how competent their machines are. They know what they're doing and I very much approve and appreciate.

[@Michael-gw6nj]

Had the same problem just last week never seen so much grease balmed into a plug !! Cleaned them out started instantly . I absolutely love the bike rides really well handles like a dream and has enough power for me now ! I have been riding since 16 I’m now 68 and it reminds me of my youth !! And that is the best thing ever for me !🤔😁😁

[@burtvhulberthyhbn7583]

My 31k+ miles in southern California concur with this review. From sea level to 10,232 ft altitude. Freezing to 115 fahrenheit in the desert this bike works perfectly.

[@MichaelJLong]

I have the same bike (also Ventura Blue) and love it. I just did my 300 mile break in service and you’re correct: it’s a lot more fun above 4000 RPM. 🥳👍🏻

[@Fergutron]

I've had my 300 miles service, but have been trying to keep it under 5000 rpm until the next one. Trying is the key word though 😂 Thanks for taking the time to watch and subscribing. I really appreciate it.

[@kilburncounty]

Yes! Absolutely spot on review. Scrimping on electronics hardware is the dirty secret of pretty much every automotive manufacturer at some point or another. That said, my Interceptor has been flawless for it first 800 miles.

[@Fergutron]

Glad to hear it mate. Thanks for watching and ride safe!

[@johnbrandon9430]

Great review, all you said I totally agree with. I'm 72, have had all sorts of bikes since I was 12 riding old Brit bikes around fields and on the road when my parents were out, I've had sports bikes, cruisers and classics of all makes and capacities and loved them all. The interceptor reminds me of my old 1966 Triumph 650 Thunderbird but with a little more go. Keep it on two wheels bro, it'll keep you young.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I've fallen under the Royal Enfield spell when I bought my Himalayan. It's perfect for exploring the forest and mountain roads where I live. I ride a Vespa on the highway and around town because it's so simple and comfortable. But I've been drawn toward the Interceptor, Meteor, or Classic 350 for the road role. Your excellent review just reinforces my desire for another RE in the garage. Great review and commentary. Thank you!

[@Fergutron]

Thank you for the very kind words. My Dad has a Himalayan. I've only had a brief shot of it but so far it's great. I'm going to get a proper run soon and make a video of it. Perhaps as a direct comparison to the interceptor. We shall see! RE are fantastic. They can't get it wrong right now in my eyes.

[@ponchopower]

Dump that silly scooter comfort was invented for women (also you'd be surprised how comfty enfields are without making you look like a douche)

[@frankcherry3810]

Its a retro bike. As a 70 year old, thats what I want… with the modern touches, gas gauge, ABS, EFI

[@DirkGentley42]

Hi Frank - did you actually get one in the end? If so did it live up to your expectations?

[@30smsuperstrat]

Great review. As a rider weighing in at 207lbs and 6'2" the street twins additional power is significant. I believe that if Enfield wants to continue its push into the market an 865 version has to come into the market. I really think the cost over the 649cc would be minimal which would give them a price advantage over the street twin.

[@peterk6077]

Interesting what you say about riding pace. The only time I’ve though I needed more power was to make an overtake I probably shouldn’t. Agree with your comments. I’m 2.5k miles and nearly a year into ownership. I did have an electrical fault repaired under warranty. I’ve upgraded rear suspension (Hagon) That does seem to have made a difference. Spent over 1.5k on the usual mods and accessories so probably need to stop now! 😂 cheers

[@rikupatra1452]

Bro how do you guys ride only 2.5k a year ? ......I mean do you guys have cars as the standard mode of transportation? .....here we do about 8k a yaar on average ....more if it's daily driver

[@peterk6077]

@@rikupatra1452 hey Riku, yes car is the daily form of transport, bike’s just for fun 🤩 Although I did do a mini tour round the SW coast recently and clocked up 800 miles!

[@jimmymac9388]

Having previously owned a Kawasaki W800 and a Triumph Bonneville in my opinion the Interceptor is every bit as good quality materials and parts build.

[@daveoverton9300]

Great honest review, I have been riding mine for 2 and a half years (about 6,000 miles) no problems so far.

[@portagecommunicationscallc1417]

I bought pre-load adjusters for the front suspension from Marsh Automotive in India. Lots of other manufacturers make them too. 10 minute install, tune them in, and it makes a big improvement to the RE GT650.

[@bobmassey7227]

Good and accurate review. I've had my interceptor for a little over a year and a half, 4,000 + miles.The down side to the bike I would say is the forks, adequate nothing more and foot peg position, but you get used to that. It does get a lot of attention, and I've been told what a fantastic restoration I've done on that beautiful old bike. Not perfect, but no regrets.

[@michaelabernathy7013]

Excellent review Sir! Love my '20 INT 650. A few other "Goods", if I may, excellent economy (62-64 MPG, US gal.), low-cost OEM accessories, smooth gearbox and engine, ease of servicing and that marvelous Harris frame. I believe RE is redefining the middle weight motorcycle segment.

[@davomccranko]

Just curious, what is a Harris frame?

[@joshuarubus]

​@@davomccrankoharris performance collaborated with Royal Enfield to build this chassis

[@joshuarubus]

Have you done any upgrade for the economy? I get 58.79 mpg. If so do let us know so it would be useful. Thanks

[@michaelabernathy7013]

@@joshuarubus No upgrades save for PoweRage exhaust.

[@DirkGentley42]

@@davomccranko Harris are known as a manuafacturer/designer of race frames in the UK with absolutely shedloads of experience. They teamed up with RE for the design of the interceptor (and GT535). They know their stuff! As these things go in the strange world economy we live in, Royal Enfield now own Harris. RE have been very clever in searching out routes for improving their products over the years, in fact I believe that when they wanted a 5 speed box for the old 500 they had it developed at Cranfield University, better known for fiddling with 'planes (they also had a significant hand in the Quashqui or however you spell it).

[@Lovepreet_Singh93]

I love riding my interceptor 650. It's pure joy.

[@conordoyle2699]

Awesome review, its clear that you love your bike, and as you should! I came so close to buying one of these, and i mean multiple test rides, weekly visits to the dealership to view and too many conversations with awesome salespersons but eventually i backed off.. The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is a BRILLIANT BIKE! it really is... cannot get that point across enough. 2 things killed this awesome bike for me: - its brilliant value, especially when compared to guzzi, triumph, bmw, ducati etc for a modern classic/retro but you will inevitably and immediately begin to modify it. Maybe for aesthetics, maybe for performance but this is a bike that generally is geared towards customisation, and that drives your initial bargain price up. There already exists bikes at a price point in the second hand market that have the power, suspension, reliability and braking upgrades you might likely place on the R.E. interceptor, and more than often are cheaper than the ride away price of a new model, leaving cash for upgrades. - you didnt mention the service interval - its pretty small, when you compare it to some other market leaders in this segment. It is a beautifully simple machine to work on and R.E designed it that way however your looking at valve checks/adjustments very frequently (which i imagine if you want to maintain your warranty, need to be performed by a dealer, thus costing you more). Granted, other machines have an initial higher buying price new that offer higher intervals, but if you shop on the second hand market, its easy to find a second hand machine that costs similar or less than a new R.E interceptor, ultimately leading you to lower running costs overall. I love this bike, i don't want you to think i'm some panigale riding troll that is hunting down the flaws of an awesome bike, i just want get my thought across. if you are a new rider, and you like the retro/british/cafe scene, absolutely get on this, i would have, i still would, i probably will in the future. its such an awesome (re)entry point for riders to fall in love with motorcycling in a manner thats true to its core without unnecessary modern touches. It really is a true hark back to classic motorcycling through riding experience and pride of ownership and i believe if you bought one, theres a solid chance you wouldn't sell it (lightly at least!). Otherwise, my 2016 t120 bonnie with 39,000ks which i paid 2K less for than a new R.E. is probably the last model of motorcycle i'll ever buy. 16Km services, 32Km valve clearance (or other large service cost) intervals, ridiculous and useable power/ torque, and brilliant build quality. Its cheap to run and maintain, looks drop dead and puts a smile on my face. thanks again for the awesome review!

[@homewurks1]

It's funny how you call it a little 650 twin - when I started biking a 650 twin was a big bike

[@bobmassey7227]

Yeah, that's what I was thinking as well.

[@lukebalasingh3477]

One of the best reviews I've come across

[@Fergutron]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it

[@markfortin8286]

I've had one since 2019, and I my experience lines up pretty closely with yours. Great review, and good observation about all the colors available. I was looking at Honda's 2022 street bikes available in the US, and every single one I was interested in was only offered in black. Insanity!

[@Fergutron]

It is madness isn't it! The customer can have any colour they want, as long as its black.

[@clausentumsoton]

Great and honest review, well done! Had my interceptor for 2 years now, done 18,000km, been to Croatia and the Polish Baltic coast... NO issues whatsoever. 10,000km dealer service was done.. but when I checked the valve clearances at 17,000km ALL were VERY tight... The bike though was running ok even so.. Check your valves ( Not the fault of RE)

[@Fergutron]

Thank you for the kid words and for taking the time to watch! Im at 1500 miles right now, so about half way to the required inspection if I remember correctly! Il be sure to keep an eye out!

[@telcobilly]

I'm watching these bikes with great interest. What type of valve adjustments does the RE use? Shims or screw & locknuts?

[@Fergutron]

@@telcobilly screw and locknut buddy

[@PeterKGray]

Brilliant review, a great watch. I picked my new Interceptor 4 days ago, it had to be the chrome tank for me so £500 extra cost. I've done the 300 miles ready for the service and have loved every minute of it. I have a '61 BSA A7 500 twin, the 2 bikes look so cosy together in my garage. This is an equivalent bike without the oil leaks, dodgy clutch etc. and I already know it's a keeper. By the way I just turned 72 !

[@markhendricks5894]

I had to have the Chrome tank also and yes I am also 72.

[@PeterKGray]

@@markhendricks5894 It's great being 72 years young isn't it ! I've added some black knee pads which sets the tank off nicely.

[@SgtBrewdawg]

Thanks for sharing your review. I appreciate an honest review and opinion, touching both the positive and negative aspects. These bikes seem to be an overall good bike with simple but reliable technology. I think you got a great bike there. Ride safe and ride on!!!! 😎👍

[@martinholt2844]

Very fair comments I feel. I have just bought one, but not experienced any electrical issues…….yet! I am not happy with the rear suspension and will also sort out the bracket and indicator colours myself. All in all, I am very happy with my purchase and is definitely VFM!

[@denlsgoulden2307]

Done 7000 miles now on mine a 2020 model. No issues except relays like you mention, cleaned them up and sorted. Replaced the rear shocks with Hagons, fitted the MK2 touring seat and just changed the tired stock Pirellis for Avon road riders.well worth while improvements,great bike, slot of bang for your buck 😊

[@user-ot1dv6ri4f]

You're so right. All the debating and energy spent thinking about hp and torque is for the 1% of the time you ride at peak power curve and let's face it, that's some straight line overtake on a dual carriage way for most people

[@oldgeezerproductions]

Excellent review, I agree with nearly everything you said. Here in California, I have a 2022 Enfield with 2K miles already and is the same color as yours. I too had the 'excess greased relay sockets' problems that initially gave me a lot of problems, but it was so easy to fix once I knew what was wrong. I could have afforded any bike I wanted, but this model reminded me so much of my beloved Triumph 650, I just had to have it. When I brought it home on a trailer (+200 miles from the dealer), my neighbors came over and thought it was a beautifully restored classic and others have spoken to me about the bike when stopped at intersections. The "bad" and 'ugly" aspects mean nothing to me, I love the bike, but the only thing that would make it better is if it had a kick starter and a little more low-end torque with a four speed transmission like my old bike. Six speeds are a bit much, but it does take off like a scalded cat.

[@stevegoodwin5841]

I am on my second Interceptor. First one owned and rode as a commuter for 3 years /30,000 ks. Due to a write off not my fault, I am now on my second Interceptor. I really enjoy this bike. They are hard to fault and easy to own and maintain.

[@Barnie104]

Bloody oth mate a cracking great review I have a 2020 Interceptor and have had issues with the electronics however I resolved the problem without spending any money and have clocked up 8000 kilometres a real relaxing easy ride and always people coming up to talk about the bike bang for buck a very good bike and easy to make it your own. And by the way hello from Western Australia waving at ya.

[@romeldias]

Bravo! So well put...and clearly the passion you have for this bike comes shining through! Love this for you!

[@paulabraham8724]

You have a great way with words. Well written and presented review.

[@Fergutron]

Very much appreciate this comment mate. Thank you

[@peterhollis8291]

First time watching your channel and I have now subscribed, very fair and balanced review of a popular bike. Had mine for two years now and in the beginning had all these ideas of customizing to make it my own, two years later all I have done is remove the two plastic mudguard extenders, rear grab rail and the fork reflectors. I sprayed the ugly matt silver brackets black and installed a couple of spacers in the front forks to sharpen up the damping, I came to the conclusion that the bike is pretty much as good as it can be and why spend £££s when the reason for buying was an almost perfect bike at a reasonable price. Keep up the sterling work and I'll now work my way through your previous vlogs 👍

[@Fergutron]

Thank you for the kind words!! Completely agree with you and I think I'll be following the same mods! Lol. I'm fairly new here, so not much to catch up on, but lots still to come I promise!

[@pricklydingus8604]

I had electrical issues on my US INT 650. For me- using di electric greese on the connections after making sure they're clean fixed all issues for me. Also a set of iridium spark plugs helped with performance.

[@jfro5867]

Enjoyed that review. I test rode one last year, liked it a lot and almost bought it. Still very much on my Radar. Seems there’s a few more in dealers now which helps with getting the colour we want rather than going onto a waiting list. Trouble is RE keep bringing out more stuff I also like, the 350 Classic and now the Scram!

[@davgb7904]

I'm totally impressed with this review - it comes across as an authoritative, comprehensive, thorough, fully researched objective opinion of the model. As a young rider, in honesty, I always thought the 500-650cc class was perfect for the mix of UK roads, although we all hankered for the litre class around then. Coming from bigger machines for many years, I've returned to the lower capacity for a variety of reasons. Not only personally returning to this reality, I think the market (with eco and all other pressures) is returning to some practical reality and the super capacity/power class mainly appeals to those with their head in the clouds. An 'aha!' moment on your video, I traded in a Z900RS for the Interceptor (and also a Scram - value, two great bikes for the price of one great but doubtfully practical machine). A test ride on the Interceptor confirmed what so much of my thinking was telling me of late. You so eloquently encapsulated all those thoughts that I can't (it really IS a well planned, produced and presented video in every respect). Comparisons to Honda and others. Quality. Value. Need for power - or rather not. Easily corrected weak points in the product. Excellent. Thanks.

[@Fergutron]

Thanks Dave - again I appreciate the feedback and the kind words. I've been a little busy lately so I've been quiet , but hoping to get a few vids up over the next couple of weeks 👍

[@DirkGentley42]

Good points, for me its not so much the cc's but the tractability of the bike. My old Honda CB750 was OKish around town, but only really started to feel happy once you'd got to 60 or so. I hated riding it in the wet due too the top heavyness. At the time I also had my 750 Bonnie which was good from 0 mph till vibration stopped you wanting to go faster, but it would pull regardless of revs. On the Bonnie I didn't need to change down to overtake, open the throttle and you're past. Basically it was much better tuning for all around riding. I was disappointed with my Ducati 695 at first as the EFI was causing the throttle be be rather on off, which caught me out on roundabouts getting the speed and revs just right. I installed a DIY powerplug (or is it powerbooster) which largely cured the low rev slump - so it is better but still not a tractor. I was even wondering if the Classic 500 might be suitable, but cruising at 60 might wear thin after a very short amount of time. I think the interceptor might be the sensible choice, but I'm wondering if the Euro 5 models are to be avoided if I run into a similar need to tune as per the Ducati. I've yet to see a real world comparison between the two versions, but I don't like the feeling of being locked in to something I can't modify (give me a carb any day). I all for emmisions being reduced but it feels like this doesn't entirely work for motorcycles (BTW my Ducati now runs cooler and returns better MPG).

[@DirkGentley42]

Ha! I've just realised this is a Euro 5 model!

[@BilgemasterBill]

Thanks! That was not only a fair review, it was one of the more articulate and entertaining ones I've come across. Sure, that Scottish accent helped keep it nice and crisp, but turns of phrase like "vegan banana leaf sandals" really warm up those synapses, you know? Frankly, you're so good at this that I'm astonished you have only 250 subscribers. You just earned yourself number 251. Now I'm gonna go check out your other stuff.

[@Fergutron]

You've just made my day sir! Thank you very much for such kind words Bill. I'm new to this...and I'm very grateful for your feedback and your sub! Top man.

[@SeamusMacMattain]

Here on the west coast of the USA, WA St to be specific, I pay less than 175$USD for all costs, maybe not every drop of fuel, but close enough, and that's for the slightly more costly GT650 in Dux Deluxe. I agree and disagree with you on all of this, and by that, I mean, some of the subjective stuff. For my bike, the shocks look great and, in my area, (so far) I haven't needed any better. I am slowly getting all the things I want to upgrade it, but the only real mod I want to do is the exhaust, I want the TEK 2-2 headers and slip-ons. Everything else is cosmetic, like removing the rear pegs, I need to make or find a cool badge to cover the bolt holes, etc. In my case though, this bike had nearly everything I wanted in a bike, the cafe style and mid-sized engine, decent top speed and acceleration. I'm sure over time the brakes and suspension will need to be fixed or replaced and that's when I'll worry about better performing parts... Overall, I bought the G650 because I could not find a retro classic bike with real heritage, at a deal I was willing to pay, especially since I was determined to buy a new bike and not used. Great honest review though, thumbs way up!

[@ruahinesrider]

TEC sell rear peg delete dress kit for not much.I think R.E bar end finishers might fit.

[@ruahinesrider]

Check out Reverlry Cycles headers. Cost abit more but shaped to frame down tubes like 60's Interceptor & look cleaner, better & more authentic.Tec headers ain't the best quality but their 2-2 are 45mm front to rear as Hitchcocks & most others are 45mm reducing to 41mm.Reverlry headers are 45mm front to rear & work great with S&S slip on's which are 45mm so no gasket needed same with Tec.

[@daweshorizon]

I bought a three year-old Interceptor, in gorgeous Orange Crush, just over 3000 miles on the clock from a reputable nationwide dealership, with six months warranty for £3995. Bargain of the century in my opinion! It's shiny as new and is simply brilliant. Downsides? The ride is a bit hard, as is the standard seat. The bike can be a bit twitchy on poorly maintained roads, so you have to choose the best line. The bar grips are a bit hard for longer distances, but I'm looking into that one. It will easily do motorway stuff, but I won't. It's far too boring. Thankfully, I live on the edge of the Peak District. Happy Days. But such a fun, reliable bike! Love and peace.

[@markyharley]

I got a new Interceptor last March and it is now my favourite bike, even though I have a 1997 Harley FXD and a 1954 Matchless G3LS. Blue is the best colour too. 💙

[@gilesshort1093]

Best review so far on this bike, a thoroughly honest review. I’ve got a cb650r but will be test riding an interceptor this afternoon, so it’s really good to know the ugly before hand!👍

[@RanMachlof]

Nice and honest review 👍. I love your little bag on the side panel.

[@tonybritten3070]

Great review 👏 I've had my Interceptor for a couple of weeks & it's a great bike & for what you get for the money it's a no brainer I have a BSA 650 Lighting as well & if I were to compare these two then my BSA is Ray Winston & the Interceptor is Hugh Grant 😀 great effort Royal Enfield 👍

[@jamessexton4288]

Ive owned my Baker for over 3 yrs and covered quite a few thousand miles, and i agree with virtually everything you say. An excellent review, in my opinion, with thoughtful and well made comments.

[@Fergutron]

Thanks James. Appreciate you taking the time to comment too

[@stevefleming4450]

Really good, straight honest review.

[@ruahinesrider]

Relays a shite.I cleaned the grease after loosing power a few times & starting issues.After cleaning starting problems fixed but I think fuel pump relay faulty so replaced with Hitchcocks upgraded one's twice the current & no more problems.Also bike started stronger & idled better & ran better with upgraded Hitchcocks Relays. I put Yss fork upgrade on it but stock was adequate but I ride agressive sometimes in the twisties & Yss fork upgrade made a major difference. I also got TEC LED lighting kit,replaced cast mud guard holder with Baak but could of painter it & headlight bracket I used was a Twinton hinged type cause I thought TEC one not beefy enough.Left cast tail light shroud as my bike Silver Spectre & got black TEC tail light. Lot's of R.E products & S&S slip on's & air filter & booster plug & a new Trip Machine Suede seat & a few more mods.New owners get the upgraded relays from Hitchcocks also saw video where guy cut a relay in half on a Himmy & it was corroding & bike only done 1300km.

[@kdsowen2882]

Spot-On ! they say 'follow-the-money' and as You point-out , sales-figures dont lie .The Development of this bike ,was an amazing-story , it was no-accident that they got it right . Some people have had very-good-results with adding 20mm or so spacers to the front forks (internally, on top of springs) and experimenting with different-weight oil in the forks, it doesn't have to be fork-oil any oil can be used, for those of us who aren't rolling in cash . Good luck and have fun ,that's what it's all-about . Dave NZ

[@canopus101]

A fair report, I've done 6000 miles on my 2021 bike. I agree with much you say in the video but differ on some aspects. Before buying the bike I did some research and made a list of things I would bolt on to make the bike mine. Incidentally that is a quality of this bike, it is easily modified. number one, where I differ, is the suspension. My little list included changing the shocks to YSS and changing the internals of the forks. I have not bothered because the suspension is adequate and I do throw mine around. The rear shocks bottom out under stress when I am lugging camping gear around but are are okay with just me on the bike. I may change parts when money allows but there is no rush. I've not had any relay problems but the engine management light did come on once. Put the key in the ignition, turned on and off three times and then start the bike. Light goes off and this has only happened once. I have changed the air filter to DNA performance, Lextec silencers, fitted RE crash bars, TEC bike parts rack, bar end mirrors (original mirrors were useless when carrying luggage} and Motone Custom tank pads. I also own a BMW 1200 RT and find, although the Beemer is much quicker, I take the same time to do familiar routes on the Interceptor. This is a bit spooky but true. I also enjoy myself more, and you are right in saying that the general public show much more interest in the cheap RE than the dear BMW.

[@ralfybaby]

This is a good real world review. Looking to get back on a bike at 60 years old. Had a Z1000 back in the day and fancy a Z900RS but that may be too much bike right now. This one checks a lot of boxes and is less likely to turn me into a statistic. It's just that at 6.2" and 245lbs I may be a bit too big for what seems to be a smallish bike ....

[@marksheppard8933]

I am 6' 2" and 250 lbs, but my legs are shorter than most men my height... The bike will not be too small for you AND you will be able to flat foot at red lights and stop signs!

[@Beanerds]

Perfect review brother , I have the 2021 ' Orange Crush ' with 3000km , and I love mine . My daily rider is a de-restricted CFMoto 650nk with 75hp at 9k , redline 11k and like you I find my Interceptor a safer bike to ride . Value ? , hell I walked into my local bike shop in September 2021 to buy a new pair of boots ,, and this beautiful Interceptor in Orange Crush was sitting on the floor ,, I was drawn like a fly on shirt , it had just been traded with 200km on the clock , I snapped it right there for $8000 Australian ,, a gift and a beautiful motorcycle . Thank you for a good solid review .

[@matthewhodder3029]

Thank you for a balanced and reasoned review. No hype and no cheap jibes at what appears to be a really reasonable bike. I am off to test ride a 350 meteor and my son is coming along to try a Super Meteor too.

[@markellott5620]

I'm a motorcycle instructor and am often asked what bike a new rider should choose - especially for younger A2 riders. I keep pointing at this bike and advise them to take one for a test ride. There are so many upsides to it.

[@stevegoodwin5841]

And you are correct. The ABS is essential for a new rider and best for any rider. So with ABS and EFI on a classic style you can't go wrong.

[@davidbidgood3987]

Great review beautiful bike. The way you put it together made it relaxing to watch, thank you .

[@Fergutron]

Thank you for the feedback David! Much appreciated

[@anthonyfox5337]

Fantastic review mate, probably the best I`ve watched on the RE650.

[@Fergutron]

@anthonyfox5337 So many thanks for the kind words. I'm trying to find the time to keep making content. Hopefully you check out some other videos. I have a young family and a busy job and they have to come first, so im not uploading super regular yet. Really appreciate you watching and taking the time to leave such kind feedback mate.

[@anthonyfox5337]

@@Fergutron I`ll be watching all your content and subscribing too.

[@gcprost]

Many of your comments would apply to my Himalayan. I’ve had no problems with my relays so far but I do carry a premium extra just in case. I have 10,000 kms so far. If I could squeeze it I’d add an Interceptor to my stable.

[@longjonwhite]

Great review, thanks mate. Another point re value vs rivals is that Triumphs and other “premium” marques are not perfect straight out the crate. People still spend money on uprated shocks, levers, seats, exhausts, all kinds of farkles. It is big part of bike ownership to want to customise your steed to some degree, however well equipped it might be already.

[@alanjohnson2528]

sometimes whether it needs it or not

[@onecookieboy]

Nice review, beautiful videography, you live in a beautiful part of the world, sensible and honest commentary.

[@Fergutron]

Such kind words Mark....thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm still learning the ropes here, but comments like these make me think it's worth it!

[@Cholan6898]

In one month now (March 25th, 2023) since I've bought interceptor, I've ridden over 4300km

[@carljoyce2580]

Relays played up on both my 21plate and 22plate 650 interceptors.. Yes two, traded one in for kawasaki 900zrs retro. Nearly twice as much money different feel.. But the enfield got the red and chrome one, everyone loves it.. In Stratford perhaps 30plus people took photos in 20min coffee stop.

[@tonymartin3780]

Great honest video,has mine over two years .agree about the relays and they have been cleaned then changed to HMC which were a bit expensive imo . Enfield should have recalled these bikes . They recalled the euro 4s for callipers but I feel mine were fine . Well done

[@justlookingaround9834]

Brilliant review, well observed, funny and informative.

[@DirkGentley42]

One of the best reviews I've seen yet, thanks. Actually, it is the best, a really good experienced riders perspective. The only other ones really of note are from Stuart Fillingham. There are a lot of reviews on this bike but they are generally appalling. Even the MCN review is by someone who admits it is his first bigger bike. Many of the others appear to be by people who want to see how much they can spend on upgrades before getting out for a ride. Others are "First Impressions...", And then there's all the clickbait ones...... "five things I hate", "what Enfield got wrong" etc etc. The way a lot of reviews go you'd think you need to upgrade forks, shocks, seat, tyres and exhaust before even getting off the driveway. You seem to be running completely stock even down to the CEAT tyres and yet are enjoying the experience hugely. This gives me much more confidence to just go for it and upgrade as and when I find something lacking. My current bike is a Ducati Monster, which is great in many/most ways but I fancy something more suited to carrying luggage for touring, and more forgiving (I'm still getting used to the - for me - overly powerful front braking) and yes looking like the kind of bike I remember is also a plus. In fact something closer to my old '79 Bonnie, the bike that was so universally good I stopped needing to look for what might be "better". This may surprise readers but I must have covered around 80,000 largely trouble free miles on that Bonnie. As it is older tech, I did use to give the engine a strip down every two winters though, to check bearings and give it a de-coke, but that what I considered to be treating the bike as a friend rather than a consumer durable. I felt I was on the bike riding from your video, rather than just watching, and it reminded me very much of my Bonnie days. Top notch, and thank you again, I'm glad I found this review.

[@Fergutron]

Very kind words, thank you. You'll notice I haven't been very active recently. A few reasons a) i lost a bit of the enthusiasm for sitting editing several hours at night b) mostly just very busy at work and parenting but also I'm without bike at the moment. Sold the RE (miss it dearly!!) And bought a Tiger 1200 as I needed a workhorse. I got rid of the Tiger a few months ago and have been holding off buying another for a while as we are looking to buy a house in the near future. I do have my old man's Himalayan that I'll be riding when the nicer weather comes in and I may start to consider a potential direction for this channel in the future. I appreciate the kind feedback

[@DirkGentley42]

@@Fergutron Thanks for the reply. I can see how hours of sitting in front of a computer after your day job might loose its appeal after a while. I think it says a lot that you miss the RE. I cant say I especially miss any of my former bikes, apart from my first Triumph - which got stolen. I still have my '79 Bonnie which is currently being bought back to life, in fact the Ducati was only meant to be a temporary thing until the Bonnie was resurrected. But I've gotten to wondering if relying on a 45 year old bike, with around 100 or 120K on the clock is altogether sensible and if the Interceptor might be a decent modern alternative. Glad to hear you have the option of a Himalayan to satisfy the itch. I imagine they are fun bikes to pootle about on. You can have fun on pretty much anything with the right mindset (no offense intended o the himalayan), back in the day I thoroughly enjoyed a DT175 which came my way and weirdly enough a Jawa 350. I'd be interested to hear your take on the Himy if you feel so inclined! Cheers.

[@AB-qc6pf]

I’m currently torn between the Interceptor 650 and the Suzuki sv 650. I really do love the styling of the Interceptor, but as I’m looking for a reliable commuter, the sv 650 seems the more sensible solution with also some classic style attributes. Any suggestions ?

[@17losttrout]

I posted this elsewhere, but thought it worth a repeat: A friend just bought one. Drove from the dealer and the oil light came on. Drove back and they sorted it. In 30 miles it occasionally cut out. He put it down to teething problems. Dealer called him and he mentioned the cutting out, was told that it wasn't right, but they needed a diagnostic machine that they'd have "in two months"... He did a 1mph turn to park it up and it cut out, dumping him on the road, putting his back out (went to doctor), scratching the crash bars, crankcase, exhaust etc. It appears to be an ECU issue (searching on problems, it might be down to leaning the fuel to get through the emissions legislation). It seems to be a known problem... The dealership are collecting it and opening a case with RE... The other thing dented is his confidence in the bike. 36 miles and he doesn't know when it will be resolved. I like the retro idea, but it seems like 'a hard time waiting to happen'... Just like some Italian bikes. That said, another friend bought one last year and hasn't had a problem. Searching on problems is always helpful.

[@Fergutron]

Sounds like a poor experience. Thankfully, that's the worst I've ever heard and a million miles from what I typically hear.

[@17losttrout]

@@Fergutron Well, the dealers have been good (it dumping him probably made all parties pull their fingers out), and it looks like he's getting it back fixed, tested and all scratched parts replaced. So, so far things are looking up... It may well be a story of joy yet!

[@Fergutron]

@@17losttrout I really hope so. What a rotten experience so far.

[@17losttrout]

@@Fergutron He's got it back and all seems well. He's happy now.

[@toddswain7459]

Good review! Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and feelings about the bike. Will def keep you in mind as I continue to do my research. I do have one question for you. “Would you purchase the bike again, knowing what you do today”?

[@Fergutron]

100% no questions asked! Thank you for the kind words 👍

[@densil101]

Great review, entertaining and down to Earth. Words and phrases like “Flickable” and “confidence inspiring” omitted unlike most reviewers...thank you! 😂

[@Fergutron]

Or “the brakes scrub off speed well" 😂. Thanks for the very kind words my man. Its funny, I hadn't even considered the clichés until you said that. Now I'll need to go back and watch it to be sure I haven't slipped any in there!! Appreciate you taking the time to watch. Just had a look at your Mutt! Lovely wee bike. Mutt are another company getting it absolutely right in their respective market segment!!

[@densil101]

@@Fergutron haha I wrote the comment before I’d finished watching the video so was praying that you didn’t drop any in! Ah I love the Mutt! I’ve had that a few years but still love it. Something great about caning a small capacity bike. Similar to what you learned on, I also have a Honda CBR650F and it’s also a great bike, but a touch soulless. Looking for a potential replacement for both. Hoping the “Super Meteor” 650 and/or refreshed interceptor will be along before too long!

[@andrewwhite5377]

Excellent honest and no bulls**t review. Fine scenery too.

[@Fergutron]

Thank you Andrew!!

[@carljoyce2580]

Great review on a perfect package for the money, stylish bike and some small upgrades and good to go..

[@johnstanley7442]

Certain Italian armaments firms have created a rabid following making replicas of the firearms of The Old West, and, of COURSE, a modern H&K or CZ or Glock would outdo them, on rapidity of reloading, higher-visibility sights, and rugged durability, but that's hardly the POINT, now is it? You're spot-on, about the retention of the authenticity of the period LOOKS of these bikes, albeit that they have fuel injection and electrical starters, but many of us LIKE the look that they've maintained. There are people who are unfamiliar with the Royal Enfield brand who VASTLY overestimate the selling price of these bikes, when they see one, on the road, or, perhaps overlooking such obvious visual clues as the DISK BRAKES, they just assume that you've done a superb job or restoring a VINTAGE bike. I think that you'd get virtually unanimous agreement from others about those dull silver bits over the front fender and the headlamp mount. Why NOT just do them in black, as with the rest of the frame? No effort, no real expense, and better results. As to the review? Good stuff, Sir.

[@andynicholson2493]

Great review, pretty much covered everything there. Think I might make my return to biking after a 5 year absence 👍

[@Fergutron]

Thanks Andy! Glad to hear it! This winter feels like a 5 year absence for me!!

[@stephendove5306]

I fully agree with your review , had my 20 Glitter & Dust Int for nigh on 2yrs , and like others have spent a bit on accessories , the best ones in my opinion being DNA filter Booster Plug & S&S Slip on pipes ! so impressed I have bought 2more as an investment IE 120th Special Edition Interceptor AND 120th Special Edition Continental GT ! Beautiful in the Black Chrome !

[@Fergutron]

Ohhhhh you lucky lucky bugger! The special editions are stunning. Sadly I'm a one bike man at the moment due to not having a proper garage :( thanks for watching mate. 👍

[@jimbo4375]

I love the look of this bike and the Continental, they're two of the best.

[@bigred8438]

As far as over taking capacity or capability is concerned, no engine size under about 850 will allow you to do it without having a few concerns. Do you over take in every situation available that is safe except for distant on coming traffic? No I bet you don't. Same as in a car. Extra torque is the difference between riding safely and taking risks, unless you are prepared to sit behind people going slower than the speed limit. My regular ride at the moment is a R1150GS, plenty of torque and plenty of power two-up for over taking, no stress, no risk taking with wife on board. The best bike I had in recent years for over taking (lines of traffic up to 8 or so) was my Yamaha XV 1900 Roadliner that had 168kw of torque. Unless you have ridden something with that much torque, you will never understand what it is like. But opening the throttle and instantly accelerating to 100kph in moments and then passing a line of cars like a freight train is something else. There is a compromise in engine size at about 1000 - 1200cc though it doesn't have to be 1854cc's, but 650cc...... nah.

[@garyives1218]

6:35 Thanks for mentioning this. This is brought up all over the Himalayan group. Some still have issues after replacing the relays, and I had wondered if Royal Enfield's 650 models were free of such issues. Really sad to hear they're not, as I am considering one as an upgrade. Then again, my Himalayan is a cold blooded starter, and stalls every so often while slowing to a slow speed while down shifting, but I still love it for what it is especially compared to what other bikes cost, and with 10,000 miles, never failed to start. I think I would really love a 650 too, even with a few quirks. I mean Triumph wants like $9900 for a Street Twin.

[@Fergutron]

Yeah it does seem to be a problem that pops it's head up across a few models. However, it does seem a clean or replace of the relays does the trick, so for the cost and time involved, it's really a minor thing and I wouldn't let it put you off. You should definitely go get a test ride.

[@chrisborona5063]

Cold blooded engine. Some people recommend a diff spark plug or a module that tricks the computer into thinking bike is running hotter. Look into it may solve the problem of low rpm stall.

[@PezSWRP]

On the styling of the rear lights and the front indicators, i wish they were round which would suit the aesthetic of the bike better in my opinion

[@ashishrajkumar1209]

Excellent, genuine and honest review!! I have been riding interceptor (only for leisurely, warm Sunday rides) for nearly three years and never had any issue. Its about the time, I need first MOT and hopefully it will fly through the test. I still am not too impressed with your colour choice (blue) 😁...

[@Fergutron]

Thank you! Well You'll be glad to know I'm just waiting on a date to get booked in for a colour change

[@jonsherry6289]

Cracking review bud, pick mine up next week hopefully, will have a look at this relay issue on you tube 🤔

[@Fergutron]

Thank you Jon! Happy New bike day when it comes :)

[@chriscarroll3470]

The starting issues are because of the use of grease instead of Electrical grease on the relays and wiring, clean them out then use Electrical grease, lightly afterwards

[@alangordon3314]

Excellent video bud, well done, look forward to further vids.

[@Fergutron]

Thanks Alan!

[@spellacy29]

Excellent review fella. Very thorough 👍

[@pacodawg9879]

Great review my friend! I am biased for sure, because I fell in love with the Enfield years ago. I love and have only owned Japanese bikes, but my Mark II is the only one that causes be to go to my garage for no reason at all. Could we buy a bike that has everything we want on it? Of course, but the Royal Enfield tics every box that (for me) the triumph, bsa, and the “throw back” others could not. I love it!

[@AdyRider]

A very good review, enjoyed your thoughts ,Thank You

[@bigred8438]

The the variety of colour-scheme-available, question is a valid one. I have found that I liked a colour scheme on a lower spec bike that I can't have because it wasn't on the spec bike I wanted to buy (Suzuki dl 1050 XT vs standard), while Honda puts out its NT 1100 with three bland colours which is, a take it or leave it or ignore the colour while you ride the bike affair, but don't look down. I appreciate what Royal Enfield is doing with that colour range, noone else is.

[@joeln6861]

It also makes it more fun to see other INT 650 riders and what color scheme they have. Mine is ravishing red, and while it makes me sad they dropped that color, it also makes mine more special!

[@neilallsopp3332]

Hi,great down to earth honest video..love the intro.. can't wait for more content.. totally agree with the comment on riding speeds on different bike's,👍ps.love the colour and bike👍👍..Neil

[@davidmuir6849]

Fantastic review ,thanks for sharing . Regards Dave from Cupar

[@bluepeter1519]

really enjoyed your review .i think i want one .

[@whiskey-twonineone9265]

I have another take on those crappy/ugly/cheap bolt on parts (indicators etc). Royal Enfield knows that bikers love to customise their bikes, and I think they very cleverly added borderline bizz bits giving the owner the chance and almost baiting the owner to change them. The even provide the customisable parts. I was just about to buy a interceptor but took the plunge on a XSR 700, it's has some nicely made bits and bobs, and I still changed them haha. Super review bye the way, I really enjoyed it ☺️

[@Fergutron]

You're probably spot on mate! Happy new bike. The XSR700 is a phenomenal bike. I'm basing that on having ridden the MT07 and the XSR just being a good looking version lol. Thank you for the kind words. I'm so glad you enjoyed it mate!

[@hugostare8695]

Hi mate, greetings from way down south in Hampshire. Just wanted to say I really enjoyed this review, don`t know why you`ve not cropped up on my utube radar before, but I`ve liked and subscribed and will be playing catchup on everything else you`ve done. I ride a 1990 500 Bullet and I am seriously tempted to get an Interceptor to keep it company in the garage... Kepp going with the channel mate, you`re a natural! PS:- "vegan banana leaf sandals", haha, excellent!

[@Fergutron]

Thanks!! I only started uploading videos a couple of months ago, maybe less. (I had made a few videos before in the past a couple of years ago, just motovlogging while commuting and garbage). There's a few videos here, and will definitely be uploading more regularly going forward! Thank you for the kind words and for subscribing!

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

One of my daily drivers is a 1965 Triumph TR6 it has a bolt on hardtail with a sprung solo seat and is more comfortable than my Sportster with shocks. In the old days Triumph came with good shock absorbers and good tires. When a Japanese motorcycle like a Honda first thing you did was replace the tires and the shock absorbers. These pieces while being cheap and contributing to the lownes of the price still you paid for them when you bought the bike and then you had to replace them with real part and that cost you money. As for a plastic Fender I would rather pay a couple of dollars more and have a metal one so I don't have to spend $100 or more on a nice metal Fender to replace the cheap plastic one which is very very short I don't see it keeping crap off the bike at all. I like the heavy Valance d fenders that actually keep Road grime off your motorcycle.

[@rogersims188]

Well done. Brilliant review

[@andersbarfodsvaneskolan9378]

it an understressed 650cc shorter stroked engine. It is made to run on indian 91 octane fuel (hence the low compression ratio). With high grade European fuel, beter airfilter and a remap it should easily push out 10% more power and torque (with around 52bhp instead of 47bhp).

[@Bob-xc2us]

The Interceptor is certainly good value for money and probably fun to ride at the same time. My W800 is not as good value for money but the torque characteristics and sound of the 360 degree W800 are intoxicating and that was too much for me to ignore.

[@edwardwilliammorris1340]

Lovely looking bike , I went with the meteor simply because if the cost of fuel , the meteor is returning an average of around 100mpg . But the interceptor 650 is not the only midsize bike that's just to thirsty , modern bikes should do much better than cars but don't . I don't know when this video was made but this bike is nearer £7000 now . Thanks for the video 👍

[@Rayraysplums]

£7000? You can get brand new for £5500 lol

[@BobfmBali]

An excellent review, I would buy one if there was space on this island (Bali) to ride one. After years of riding/touring on bikes that feel like a barge. I'm now on a 6 speed Yamaha XSR155 and it must be one of the best bikes I've owned in my life and now I'm buying a classic 350 for touring with my partner. Wanted a Triumph originally but at 900 or 1200cc and the equivalent of £21,000 (not a typo) just too expensive, heavy and over complicated for the way I like to ride 👍

[@Tildog59]

Great review. I'm really drawn to the Interceptor. My riding now is day rides on A and B roads often with son as pillion. Also considering a used Bonny 865.

[@Fergutron]

Both great choices! I do love my interceptor though. My sons reaching that age now too. Had his first ride last summer and planning to do a few this year too!

[@noisefuljoy]

I find the piggyback on the shocks handy for hooking the corner of a bungie net onto.

[@Fergutron]

Good point!!

[@stratpod]

great video, a good honest review indeed. I'm assuming a great deal of the research and marketing is done by RE in Bruntingthorpe, and they certainly know their stuff when it comes to making desirable products for a world market, you only need to look at the huge success of the Himalayan, and now the new kid on the block The Scram Seems they can't do a thing wrong at the moment. Looking forward to your review on the Himalayan :)

[@upnorthrider]

Great vid mate, awesome bike! I’m looking at buying one in the near future, so this vid is really helpful, cheers 😎

[@Fergutron]

Thanks for the kind words! It's a brilliant bike, you should definitely get a test ride!