Royal Enfield Super Meteor vs Interceptor 650: Which Is Better?

[@motobob]

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[@basedury]

Interceptor for me too, love mine! Super Meteor is beautiful but it seems like a more retro-inspired bike, whereas the Interceptor is straight up retro. If Enfield releases the scrambler version of the Interceptor or the classic version of the Super Meteor, I’d have a very tough choice.

[@rajaakashkumar7099]

Same here bro i live in India tha pot holes gonna break my back with SM but rode the interceptor it's was gliding over pot holes😂and looks awesome with chrome tank

[@ritwik0]

Scrambler is in pipeline

[@CesareTomasini]

Yes, really tough choice, since none of these two are 100% my bike. Anyway, I've tried both and my vote goes for the Interceptor (this chrome version is super stylish).

[@debabratahira6578]

They did exactly the thing you feared😂 lol

[@truelondonstory]

Definitely the Super Meteor for me, gorgeous looking bike and rides superbly, swapped out the OEM exhausts for a set of TEC cannons and now it sounds amazing! (Yes Im biased as I have one!) Done 200 mile plus days very comfortable. Really does handle well for its weight.

[@imroz19]

Better sound, yes but better looking? 😊

[@2ahanaf16]

@@imroz19ofc yea.. ;) 💯

[@skullcrusher8981]

​@@imroz19 everyone doesn't have the same taste as you🤷

[@HENDRY_FORBES]

Considering the price I want both of these machines in my garage to complete my collection 🤩

[@jandekelver7445]

I will be waiting for the classic 650! Have the classic 350 right now, everything is right about it, looks, comfort, sound, its just too weak with 20 HP.

[@SyleNth-C.O.D.M]

There's no better ,both bikes are equally amazing ,if anyone wants cruising in highspeeds your option is the SM 650,if you want more old school looks with the same engine your option is the INT 650 ,these bikes are just magnificent,not forgetting the beautiful parallel twin cylinder exhaust note

[@davetaylor4741]

Definitely the cruiser style for me. With the mid mount foot pegs. My days of taller, top heavy bikes coming to an end. My old 97 speed triple getting ridden less and less. In all honesty a bit much for me now. Had it something like 16 years. My grab and go bike now is a Honda VT 750. Low seat. Weight down low. Neutral pegs. Comfy seat. My confidence has returned. On the Triumph, now a bag of nerves. What old age does to you.

[@investlikeawarrior]

I hear yah. I was all into triumphs, but now that I’m about to turn 40, I might be done with cafe racers

[@davetaylor4741]

@@investlikeawarrior I am into my sixties.

[@Ishbikes]

It handles the highway pretty good? 75-80 without any issues?

[@nounoufriend1442]

@@investlikeawarrior I'm 64 and my ride is a Thruxton1200

[@yossidaniel76]

I switched from Interceptor to Super Meteor and really enjoyed it, Super Meteor is more Super Mario than Super Cruiser TNX Bob

[@treklocura]

se comenta quebes muy incomoda y duele la espalda con las horas de uso por la posicion usted le parece comdoda?me la recomienda? gracias

[@yossidaniel76]

@@treklocura So far 1200 km is much more comfortable than the Interceptor

[@randombully3798]

​@treklocura3156 it depends on your style and what you are used to. The way to ride a cruiser and a cafe racer type bike is different In cruiser your weight is on your buttocks and lower back while your legs do not carry any weight, on a cafe racer style bike your legs carry lot of your weight. So If your used to cafe racer style bike sudden increase of load on your lower back will feel uncomfortable when you switch to a cruiser. Another thing is in a cafe racer you lean forward more while in a cruiser you sit more straight, this can also cause uncomfort when your body sits in different position from what you are used to.

[@shubhankarbhattacharya1980]

The 2023 upgraded twins get all these modern touches, I own a gt650 and it's fantastic.

[@1MrBryn]

Saw a couple last Sunday during the DGR. I was really surprised at how much better put together it looks compared to the Interceptor.

[@OzzieDeWitt]

Interceptor 650 is the " proper retro" . Waiting for the 850 Interceptor. If it ever materialises. Super Meteor is a wannabee Harley. If you want a small cruiser, get a real Harley. The small 2023 Harley Iron 883 is a nice way to go. But it is more expensive. Much better sounding though. However, the nicest most comfortable ride ( distance) here is the Interceptor. But, I would like to see a "larger" engined version with a slightly lower centre of gravity and a similar power to weight ratio. ( Don't make it too damned heavy !!).

[@AsmodeusT]

To be honest, I would be happy with either. They are both lovely bikes. So far, I am not overly keen on any of the SM colourways. In saying that, I also really don't like chrome tanks, but the interceptor does have a lot more colour options that I like. The blue and black is one that I love. If they started producing more colours for the SM, it would be a tough one. But for now, I would be forced to go for the Interceptor.

[@Bangaliyana2024]

SM is also available in Astral blue and Astral black, so am a bit confused what you are saying. Also clearly the Astral black SM is featured in this video itself. So if you saying you liked the black and blue, then what is the issue.

[@AsmodeusT]

The astral blue is an awful blue. The black is the best they currently have for the SM, but it's boring. RE usually release a plethora of mixed colourways with their bikes. I'm just a bit underwhelmed with the current options compared with the interceptor, hunter, meteor, etc.

[@paulluciani]

I bought a super meteor and thanks guys for this review. I bought it without watching any review. I have had two RE. a 350 Rumbler and an Interceptor 650. I went from the test ride back onto the interceptor and I was instantly sold! The feel of the Super Meteor just felt way more substantial, "expensive" and it had more than enough launch and mid range to compliment the stable top end ride feel.

[@andrewblack9153]

Your videos on the Super Meteor have made it look very attractive and, as you might say, “a bit more premium” than the Interceptor. However, here in the Midwest I can ride an Interceptor in the stylish Baker Express finish away from the dealer for actually less than $6000 with the accessory package ncluded, while the Meteor is going to be closer to $7.5k with dealer mark-ups, so I’m picking up my Interceptor from Indian Cycles of Central Illinois tomorrow!

[@larrywade9041]

is where you are purchasing your new bike located in Charleston, Ill. ?

[@kevskibiz]

Just on looks from this vid the meteor for me ✌️it looks like a mini R18.. great quality finish, probably need a test ride of both to confirm 👊

[@bharadwajl7879]

R18 lite exactly

[@ChadWinters]

I’m torn on this one, I prefer the looks and the seat on the SM, but the weight and better performance of the INT is hard to give up

[@LGTVQHD]

get an int, save some money and modify it to your liking. i did the same

[@ChadWinters]

@@LGTVQHD good thinking, now I’m also considering the new Triumph 400. Much lighter and almost as much power as the INT

[@AyushSingh-zw2nw]

​​@@ChadWintersbut it doesn't have that classic look of interceptor. Build quality would be best(Triumph).

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

Interceptor is the better machine

[@deltabluesdavidraye]

​@@AyushSingh-zw2nwTriumph build quality is not better than R.E. worse by far.R.E. is much more reliable.

[@davidbesant]

Reviewers seldom mention the SM has the front disc on the right. I like that. It makes the bike look better when on the sidestand.

[@stevegee218]

I think the Super Meteor also has style lines very much like the old 30's 40's bikes in some ways. The Interceptor is very 50's 60's with the flat seat.

[@tripeee58]

The joy of these motorcycle for me, will always be their price. I can literally purchase 3 of these for the price of any of the TOP 4 manufactures 1 liter bikes! I am a sucker for the chrome tank and that would be my choice though the sound of the other was quite enticing! Cheers!

[@prakharsahu1384]

Proud hunter 350 owner❤❤❤it suits my personality as a college student

[@silverback3926]

i would go for the interceptor. i think the pipes should be like the meteor. better look and more space for paniers.

[@avisrivastava9544]

Continental Gt for me. ❤️🔥

[@brown7583]

Do you have one?

[@tingtongtingtong1450]

CHAPRI

[@anandchatterjee5652]

I do

[@avisrivastava9544]

@@brown7583 yes

[@avisrivastava9544]

@@tingtongtingtong1450 ban lia cool ?

[@seaninness334]

I'm definitely a retro fan and decidedly not a cruiser fan. Weirdly, I'm more attracted to the Super Meteor here. They are intriguing but, for now, I'll keep passing the RE dealership. I'm just in excruciating frustration at not having ANY bike to ride at the moment. I'm sure either of these would making me happy in the short term.

[@Caledon1314]

I'm surprised you didn't mention the wheels. Spoke tubed vs Alloy tubeless?

[@lawfighter2023]

2023 models of both interceptor & continental gt have tubeless tyres with alloys. So that's been solved. Even though some might prefer the spokes for its retro look.

[@abilashkumaran7810]

Owner of Interceptor . I think it is a very good all-rounder. I got sunset black.

[@linopontes]

Upside down forks on the GT would make a big difference to the handling.

[@_audacerider3838]

Rob and Tim collaboration only means one thing the content will be fun

[@letni9506]

I'd take the meteor every day. It just comes down to personal taste. Both are great bikes.

[@WIlliamHawkes-l1f]

I've been eying the Super Meteor because of the cruiser style and the marginal increases in fit, finish and equipment. I've got about 4,100 really enjoyable miles on my 2021 Baker Express and consider it a great, affordable ride. Love it. I'm struggling with whether to trade in on the SM. Not sure of the forward controls. Apparently, US customs is holding up a shipment in California. The local dealer is still awaiting deliveries

[@barrygoodson4952]

Super Meteor all the way. It has that look like a 50/60's Triumph that someone hot rodded back in the day. I would add some pipes , mid pegs and maybe do a few other little things to it and it would be good to go !

[@chrisfitzmaurice7484]

I've had an Interceptor for 10 months and about 2,400 miles. I'm still happy with it. It checks quite a few boxes for me: it looks great, sounds great, great gas mileage (about 55-60mpg) handles well, lots of aftermarket stuff. It'll cruise all day at 75mph no problem. Power and torque are plenty for most purposes. The six-speed gearbox is nice. The brakes work fine, the ergonomics are fine. It has a likeable personality. But it's not a bike I'd want to ride to Alaska on. Or probably even 200 miles. The reason being that the suspension and seat are both stiff and kind of cobby. Around town it's fine but it wouldn't be fun riding it all day long. That and the right mirror vibrates... and it's hard to impossible to read the digital gas gauge in bright sunlight. Those are my only complaints.

[@TheLucas2696]

Interested to see an updated interceptor. Already released in India I think, too bad they put cast wheels on it though. If they added LED lights, USD forks, and kept the spoked wheels that would be perfect.

[@coc-i2r]

You can modify them easily tho

[@Amitn94]

The cast wheels are one of the options coz of the many punctures one faces on Indian roads and the demand of the Indian customers for a tubeless tyre. Spokes are still available with the older colours.

[@collyernicholasjohn]

My interceptor is upgraded up the Wazzu. I love it. ❤

[@ayedee6681]

I want both, I'd be very confused if I had to choose, and would no doubt regret my decision ... briefly ... when having to choose. I'm a cruiser guy, but love the interceptor.

[@philliprobertlawman2232]

Interceptor for me, especially the Mk2 version, Meteor looks like a poor man's harley, Interceptor looks classic Brit 👌

[@rafaeltavares6928]

The Interceptor is the poor man Bonneville... An Harley alternative makes way more sense than a Triumph in terms of cost...

[@jyothikumar811]

For me Super Meteor is nice and cool cruiser, RE need to increase its power more to improve the feel and ride.

[@thechanneldave]

1:16 The oxidation on those engine cases 😮

[@Mezman999]

Thought the same thing.

[@gradientO]

got that "retro" feel lmao

[@libraeotequever3pointoh95]

I imagine someone sells products to protect the shiney surfaces on motorcycles, eh?

[@RichardSimpson-w3p]

Many thanks for your review. I own an Interceptor and was considering changing to the super meteor for better comfort but realised that with feet forward you cannot easily move around in the saddle because you cannot stand on the pegs to sit forward or back to alleviate stress.

[@ianhalliwell8604]

I've tried 2 feet forward bikes in my time, an American and a Vuclcan and have to say i just struggled with the feet forward position so it's the Interceptor for me, every time.

[@scout8112]

Deciding between these bikes isn't easy for me, but for the video, it is.

[@FATBOY692011]

My money went on the Super Meteor. Sat on the Interceptor and found that seat too hard. Didn't even take it out for a test. Ten minutes on the SM I went back to the garage and ordered one. The rear shocks are firm, however after 1200 miles they've eased off somewhat and the bike is super comfortable. It can hustle in the twistys too thanks to the slightly stiffer back end. For reference I'm twenty stone and the shocks are on the softest setting. I don't regret buying it.

[@razzle1964]

How’s the Meteor feel ‘bout you sittin’ on it tho’, lol. At least I know I can get the missus on the back. Big girl.

[@FATBOY692011]

@raymondeve it doesn't mind a bit. My missus doesn't do pillion so the bike is all mine.

[@oliverleifadams2003]

Great format-Rob & Tim Review clearly works. Keep ‘em coming. 👍🏼

[@DuruConsigliere]

That gas tank on the interceptor reminds me of a 750CB Honda. Both are nice looking bikes.

[@omarbegreen]

I can't believe nobody talks about the Yamaha XV250 in my country is sold and I have one and it has a motorcycle that has been there for decades and I can tell that my 250cc vtwin is a serious competitor if you in terms of sound comfort and style

[@farmoboy83]

interceptor. Never could confortably ride a chopper because of the pressure on lower back. Meteor looks amazing though!

[@luizgiao652]

Cruiser x roadster, nothing to compare. Depends on what use you prefer or need.

[@larrywade9041]

Definitely the Super Meteor of the 2 bikes. I totally dislike the degree of sweep on the Interceptor mufflers. I could live with a slight degree of sweep like on the latest/new model (Shotgun), which look's to be approximately half way between the S.M. & Int.. Thanks for the video & have a great day!! Illinois

[@wangkapa6078]

i still fixed with my interceptor. more retro and legendary and yet awesome.

[@braveclyde]

Interceptor for me.

[@matthewfrancis8825]

Watcha great vlog. I love these two Enfields loads infact I have just watched a vlog for all the new 2024 Royal Enfield bikes and what can I say but for looks price and build quality they are just amazing. My choice between the Interceptor and the super meteor is the super meteor no question. Both are great bikes but the Super Meteor just does it for me.

[@georgebamforth7372]

I have a 2019 Interceptor and really thinking of getting a Continental as well.

[@louisdelossantos6827]

Love the video! Just a tiny word of advice which feel free to ignore, but... After watching 100s of bike review videos, i got im a habit of just listening to the videos like a podcast. In the video, you both tend to refer to the bikes at "that one" and "this one here". That makes it pretty tough to know whats going on if the video is up infront of your eyes lol. Super dope video! Thanks for it

[@savihas4708]

Hilarious when you compared yourselves and the bike… both are great bikes ..

[@joel8034]

Of the two, tho I prefer the depth and tone of the super meteor, the exhaust note if each seems to fit their respective bike. Each bikes sound fits its a esthetic.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

For the retro looks Interceptor! ❤️‍🔥 For everything else then it’s the Super Meteor! ❤️‍🔥 If I didn’t have an Ultra Classic in the garage I’d go for the Super Meteor but in my situation I want to buy an Interceptor or a Continental GT. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[@tonymarcella13]

Having had 3 Royal Enfields, I would actually give the price points to the Super Meteor. Yes it's a tiny bit more expensive but the quality feels a big step on from previous RE's, which in turn is worth it for me.

[@donaldsoncole3095]

Buy both and ride with a friend!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@borokhagogoi1159]

I picked interceptor just because comfort,milage and Indian city so big 👍 interceptor 📍

[@bradhollywood8305]

Just bought a W800 Cafe 😮although wish I had the funds for the meteor!!! Enfield have come a long way.

[@jamesgordon4433]

I would go for the Medeor 650. Waiting for it to hit the usa

[@mrmoon1482]

I’ve test ride both, and for me the interceptor was the one, it’s now parked in my garage 🙂

[@MrJpb2000]

If the Super Meteor had been launched before the Interceptor, then without a shadow of doubt I would own 1 Today… However, it didn’t & I inevitably purchased an Interceptor. Would I ever change? Absolutely no way…the thing is every time I look & ride my Interceptor I’m in heaven. Both bikes are amazing & if I could afford to have more than 1 bike, it would definitely be an Interceptor, a Super Meteor & Classic 350. 👊😎👍

[@jameswaterhouse-brown6646]

A classic 650 would be very tempting. Hopefully they will make it.

[@gustavmeyrink_2.0]

The cruiser would look better with the polished engine side plates from the Interceptor than the matt black ones it has.

[@kavaka0068]

Iconic of Classic Motorcycles 1. 2005-2006 Honda CB600 Hornet 2. 2004-2008 Ducati S2R Monster 1000 3. 2017 Yamaha XSR900 4. 2013 Harley Davidson Fat Bob 5. 2010 Harley Davidson Fat Boy Where is Royal Enfield Continental GT650 Top 180KM/H?

[@ananddarnal6702]

Love to see those USD forks in Interceptor & continental gt. That will change the whole bike

[@teteakhiangte6015]

USD forks for a classic bike??? Reallly

[@ananddarnal6702]

@@teteakhiangte6015 they updated those twins with like all blacked out look with alloy wheels & others & super meteor is not a retro bike?. They should give it as option in future update especially there are soo many sources hinting at a faired conti GT, that will be a must for that bike it will only improve its performance & I would love it along with all the customers

[@teteakhiangte6015]

@@ananddarnal6702 not all customers love that

[@lgwappo]

I'd take the Interceptor. For me forward pegs feel awkward & uncomfortable. Also the Interceptor looks different. The Meteor looks like dozens of other cruisers.

[@jezza1421]

When I bought my Interceptor, I was in two minds as to whether I should wait until I could get a Super Meteor. Having ridden one, I'd certainly consider getting one, and may well do - it's a really nice bike - but would I have one instead of my Interceptor? Nope.

[@richardmurrell]

Exactly my thoughts.

[@palashkale]

Interceptor looks beautiful, I was always a classic guy never a thunderbird/meteor guy

[@KrishnaPrasad-hg2ip]

Iam a thunderbird guy..I like interceptor

[@Broad-Spectrum]

THUNDERBIRD 350X all time fav. White color limited edition ❤

[@russellleggatt4269]

Love the style of the Super Meteor, and looks solid

[@javiervar494]

Good job 👏👏👏 Super Meteor is not for me. That position is not natural. In that way, I prefer Interceptor ✌️

[@ilikelampshades6]

I don't think the touch points on the interceptor are good enough and it feels heavier than it is. I think the styling on thr meteor is better

[@sameerkharade7750]

Interceptor it is for me❤ Love the name Interceptor too

[@paul_london]

Tbh interceptor looks and feels just a bit better than meteor

[@estaban3248]

Can you ask RE if there are any plans for a Hntr 650?. The styling of the Hntr 350 with a 650 would be my purchase all day long.

[@breandanwheeler5267]

Agreed!

[@georgebamforth7372]

Interceptor all day!!

[@mindbomb2000]

Looks wise, while they are both really good looking bikes, the Interceptor wins in my humble opinion. I feel like the Super looks a bit like it's trying to look like a big cruiser, and ends up looking like a wanna-be. Again, I love it's looks and would be proud to own one, but the Int. just looks right. It's a retro classic that isn't looking like it's trying to be that... it just is. Clean, simple, no frills, just a motorbike. I'm 5'10" and my Interceptor fits me perfectly. So for the shorter riders, the Super is a fantastic way to go. But hey, throw you leg over either of these, and you won't be able to stop smiling.

[@dilip_s]

Im 6ft1, so Id go for super meteor, so that I don't look cramped, can stretch my arms and legs and look super cool 😎😎😎

[@tnargs57]

I bet if you chaps bought one you would swap out the exhaust cans to get the sound you want, and so would any buyer who *actually cares* about sound. Hence I say scratch the points for sound and you have 6-6. In addition, you should assess sound as an experience when actually riding, because the different rider positions and muffler angles mean that different sound attributes reach the rider’s ear on the road, plus different engine sounds getting past the different tank shapes, different knee positions, different helmet angles, different wind roar. Cheers

[@christucker1224]

Got the metor650 still running in at 60 mile nower an love it 😊

[@navy4315]

Will go with Interceptor ❤

[@MeAndMyRoyalEnfield]

I full time tour on my 2020 Interceptor 650 and LOVE it with 37,000mi/60,000km. I want to test ride the Super Meteor so bad but I haven't seen any dealers in the USA with one yet. I was really hoping with the Super Meteor being a cruiser that they would go to belt drive to do away with always having to stop to clean and lube and adjust the chain, not to mention the mess. As soon as I saw a belt drive conversion I installed it and it has been maintenance free for over 18,000mi/29,000km. In my opinion a cruiser should be able to go long distances without any maintenance. With the chain I have had to stop twice a week for just chain servicing.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Who makes a belt drive conversion for bike?

[@MeAndMyRoyalEnfield]

@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Bandidos Pitstop. Sorry it took so long to reply I've been riding a lot.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

@@MeAndMyRoyalEnfield I love the belt drive on my Sportster I get 100,000 miles+ out of one.

[@MeAndMyRoyalEnfield]

@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Good to hear. I just checked my mileage and I'm at 34,000 with mine.

[@Alex-io6ky]

good quick review ..like both

[@kevinschuiteboer6367]

I love the 650 Meteor it seems to be a good beginner bike for me I weigh about 290 I think it would be a okay bike for me

[@eddiebrr3]

Which one is better is really dumb question! It's simply a question of personal preferences is the answer.

[@twistieslayer3592]

I like the Super Meteor

[@tonybland9226]

Had the interceptor and traded it for the super meteor, I really like both bikes but would agree the super meteor is a bit harsh on the rear, I will be looking for some softer after market shocks in the future. What really sold me was the fit and finish to the super meteor, which really is superior to the interceptor.

[@terribleusernameidea]

Both great bike. but when it comes to buying one...i chose the RE continental GT 650 over bother of these.

[@imroz19]

Great content.. I would love to see Continental GT comparison as well but that might not be worth it for you guys anymore. Still a great video folks 👍🏼

[@nickloftus9079]

Great video guys.

[@sohelshaikh6165]

Have the newer ones with the upgraded tyres and alloys & led headlight reached UK? Would love to see a comparison between them

[@DougBrown-h1n]

The Interceptor "Dark"? Yes it has. It's lost a bit of the old-school charm, but there's a lot less polishing and worrying about punctures, and with LEDs, better switchgear/levers, and a USB socket there's less that needs upgrading. It's probably where I'll end up, though for me the looks of the Super Meteor are very, very tempting.

[@Michael-gw6nj]

Got the interceptor love it 👍

[@manueltumamao8643]

well i think if were talking here of having a long ride journey... then i would say ill choose the super meteor all day... cause of its comfortability position while driving...... but if were talking to just go on a place near your location and make an statement... then it should be the interceptor coz of its classsic look... a lot of head will turn.... its a head turner...

[@jimmarshall807]

Think I'd go for the Interceptor, although the raw alloy engine casings don't look to be holding up too well

[@SodiumSyndicate]

The patina on the casings makes it & you look more manly & rough & tough.

[@libraeotequever3pointoh95]

​@@SodiumSyndicate and polishing the chrome or aluminum parts is an exercise in Zen meditation, eh? :-)

[@SodiumSyndicate]

@@libraeotequever3pointoh95 Hey, once you sweat to clean up your bike, it is a source of great satisfaction - just like putting in the sweat to give multiple orgasms to a chick.

[@ridingdreamer]

I dont like the cruiser style and looks, interceptor any day for me. In the twisties I am sure which one handles better and fun!

[@straightup1234]

Lovely bikes cant pick between them! Great value super retro just how i like them. 👍

[@Yanuaradil]

if meteor use spoke wheel, it gonna be best looking production bike of the year

[@nounoufriend1442]

Like the frame on super Meteor looks more retro than the angular Interceptor frame , for me an Interceptor with Meteor frame would be perfect , don't like the forward foot pegs like on cruisers though

[@morri03]

Bit of a silly comparo as cruiser guys just buy cruisers and those who like motorcycles because of their handling will never consider a cruiser. Despite your score there will be no comparison for handling due to weight, rake and wheelbase differences

I would wait... As you said, interceptor is around for 3to 4 yeasr and some of the fit and finish of the meteor might trickle to the Interceptor/continental GT line.