BSA Gold Star 650 VERSUS Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Which should you buy? 10 points to consider!

[@jameskeefe4797]

We the consumer benefit greatly, from having these two wonderful bikes to choose from! Head, heart, gut and experience come into separating these machines! Thank you Uncle Stu for spending the time, energy and effort to do that for us enthusiasts! Superb content! All in one take!

[@daniellantigua7659]

Greetings from the Dominican Republic,🇩🇴🇩🇴 I have a RE interceptor 650 Mark2 and it is great, it has 17,000 kilometers and no problems.

[@timsatchell6713]

Brave and difficult video, so well done. Your new found passion for the BSA was seeping through a little. We are all human. Neither bike is on my radar as I have downsized below that. The Interceptor has a revvy engine that lacks the grunt of a late 50s Redich 700, the plank seat doesn't appeal and the rediculess sticking up silencers are totally unacceptable. The BSA at a glance seems to have done well optically, but it has a Rotax engine. I ran a BMW F650GS for a couple of years. No thanks. The BSA seems to have some threaded hard points. This is a huge bonus wrongfully omitted from 98% of bikes. I added a Honda Grom to my stable recently and it is festooned with hard points for stunting accessories (not at 67). What an eye opener. As a retired tech, making and adding racks and rails is so easy. Both bikes look great but both are missing a few points. Good video, thanks.

[@stuartfillingham]

Glad its not just me that noticed this!

[@martinowl]

A good effort in showing the strengths & weaknesses of both models. When I got my Interceptor, the BSA hadn’t been released, so I didn’t have to deal with this conundrum, thankfully. In my opinion, this vid really highlights the need of a buyer to test ride each bike , to identify which one best suits their requirements from a motorcycle. Unless one can afford & wants to have one of each.

[@chrisbailey600]

‘Uncle Stu’, wow, what a superb video. Thank you. Years ago, not that desperately long ago in fact, we never had the likes of these sort of assessments of the merits of different motorcycles available to the ‘prospective average purchaser/consumer’. I remember back in the early ‘70s, there was very little (relatively) information available on the steed you were contemplating buying. The very obvious honesty of your comments without fear or favour, are exemplary. I am seriously considering buying a BSA 650 to add to my Classic 350 and this review (plus your other singular BSA 650 reviews) has helped me so much! Cheers, and safe riding. Chris

[@vijurajn]

That’s a fair and honest comparison, Stuart! Would love to see a follow-up once the Classic / Bullet 650 Twins come out. I feel they will fix many of the issues with the Interceptor / GT Twins.

[@dayriderschat]

Thanks again for an expert evaluation. Please keep up the good work Stuart, we all appreciate the honest work you put in all your video's ... (from Australia but originally from Walsall Staffordshire)

[@chriskay116]

Thank you. What an excellent analysis. I just bought a Gold Star, myself, and agree with your opinions. The Interceptor I owned, three years ago, is missed, in certain ways, but the BSA's engine excites me in a way the Royal Enfield never did.

[@gavinturner3838]

Where did you buy the BSA ? I googled BSA America and only came up with 1 location.

[@michaelgwynne8553]

Was looking at the BSA at the weekend but as you say the quality of finish is not as it should be, but you have convinced me to stick with my Interceptor which is a great bike.

[@jimmarshall807]

Appreciate the honest (as usual) review. Nice to see the BSA getting some love from your channel (and Mindful Motorcyclist), the mainstream press seem to pretty much ignore it.

[@johnrocker2986]

Stu spot on about pillion comfort! I did cure mine by using a passenger footrest locator which works very well and I'd recommend to all. I so much want to love the BSA but it looks blobby compared to RE.

[@collyernicholasjohn]

I feel like the Interceptor is far superior in every respect, with the caveat that I haven’t seen or ridden the BSA. 😂

[@Peter-Old-Dog]

Another great video thank you. Will you be keeping both the interceptor and the BSA? Out of all your bikes which do you ride most and which is your favourite. If you could only have one or two bikes which would they be.

[@sscbkr48]

@@Peter-Old-Dog great questions! 🤔

[@michalnemsak7886]

It is funny that yesterday I've decided to order my first bike today and I could not decide between these two bikes. I wake up today and see this video from you. Even though it made my decision making even harder 😀 I'm really thankful for your insight and effort to make this (and in one take!). I think there is no bad decision between these two bikes and I will go for the Interceptor purely based on my emotions I felt when I saw both of them in person. Thank you Stuart and wish you all the best.

[@BobSmith-eq9vs]

Buy them both.

[@michalnemsak7886]

@@BobSmith-eq9vs yeah right

[@Stefan_trekkie]

Checkboxes sometimes does not work, specially with that similar in class and price bike.. You can like the feel of one over the other and no checkboxes will make you change your mind. Bikes are more of a feel thing, you know this.

[@stuartfillingham]

comparing them based on emotion would be a dishonest representation.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

@@nearlypastit2385 Exactly. I made the mistake to buy the classic on looks, not feel .. I rode it for an year and exchange it.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

@@nearlypastit2385 small city scooter, to work with .. Nothing special .. I am selling it off to a friend at the end of the month and on a hunt for a new bike.

[@GT380man]

All true, but in addition to the emotional aspects, it’s important to understand the objective components. My favourite bike is not very good in most departments. It’d still be my final possession to give up voluntarily. I’ve owned my example since 1978.

[@thomascharnock]

Didn't know about the secondary oil filter in the INT. I don't think the RE dealer who has been doing my servicing has ever removed the bottom of the engine to clean that, and the bike still runs perfectly. Thanks for the interesting comparison.

[@stuartfillingham]

always that element of doubt though! one day it may clog and it will be game over for the engine!

[@doughoffman9463]

I couldn't find any mention of the internal oil screen cleaning in the Periodical Maintenance section of my 2023 INT650 Owner's Manual.

[@colinhailey830]

Interesting comparison, seems like in reality it all comes down to the intangibles that can't be measured. Given the choice, which we don't have here in Aus at the moment, just the personal nostalgia associated with the Goldies tank badge would swing it for me. Thankfully authenticity seems to be mainly about design and appearance, the old oil leaks and unreliability haven't been included to make them "properly" authentic. 🙂

[@olethorhermansen5696]

The lack of a centerstand is a miss on the BSA, especially when compared to Royal Enfield who is just about the last manufacturer that still give their bikes centerstands. The original Gold Star had a centerstand like all bikes back then, so it's strange that Mahinda didn't give it one.

[@stuartfillingham]

not really. it doesnt have one due to the emmissions controls mandated by law. i did explain that in a previous video.

[@olethorhermansen5696]

@@stuartfillingham I know, but Royal Enfield has been able to solve it on all their bikes, surely Mahindra could have too? Chain maintenance without a centerstand and the silencer in the way must be a bit tiresome?

[@JohnSmith-xw5qe]

Brilliant & honest review Stu, I’ve got an interceptor & I absolutely love it & have no plans at all to get rid of. Good luck to BSA There presence on the bike market again can only be a good thing!

[@clausentumsoton]

Agree.. wouldn't have a bike without one

[@BrianL84]

Could you do another video in a years time ? Let us know how you feel a year on after the honeymoon period is over . I do find you to be very genuine and fair in your reviews i really want a bsa but im waiting to see how they do long term before i commit . Have to say i love my interceptor and in my opinion would take a good bike to beat it .

[@johnratcliffe4105]

Hi Stu, been following you for 3)4 yrs now Look forward to your content, more than any bike magazine i have subscribed to over the years... Yep, it is that good, you probably cant see it the same way ... Trust me it is .. Hope this goes a little way to helping your channel on... I'll do more as and when i can, your worth every penny.. Thanks for all your time and effort, its enjoyed and appreciated more than you know.. Respect..

[@stuartfillingham]

Thank you john , much appreciated!

[@clausentumsoton]

One of the best reviews I've ever seen Stuart, congratulations! A well thought out comparison between two great bikes from someone who has had a fair amount of experience with both... you can't say that about many reviewers. I don't have any experience with BSA but a lot with the Interceptor so it's interesting to hear your take on the separate categories, and they seem fair. Love the front mudguard and fork shrouds on the Goldstar..oh and the seat. The Interceptor can do it all, been touring all over Europe on it with the standard seat without issues but I know many people don't find it comfortable..hence the sales of bar risers and aftermarket seats. The Interceptor has a fantastic range of aftermarket options.. recently fitted AEW horizontal silencers from India which allow for full Craven panniers to be fitted. Thanks Stuart!

[@TheKRU251]

I was a potential BSA or RE owner. BSA were dragging their heals and having watched your videos on the RE I went that route. Well pleased. Beginning of the year I met a BSA owner in a car park. You start looking and wonder........ We talked and he said he wasn't happy with the local dealer as they'd not been very helpful with issues. Not the bikes fault. But, it sounded asthmatic in the engine sound dept. when it fired up ( I have a Bullet 500 single and that sounds far better). The decal finish on the sidepanels wssn't very good. I liked the style I said. He said he wasn't sure and was now tempted to get an Interceptor but thought he'd get poor resale price on the Goldie. Glad I went RE650 route !!!!!

[@georgezuss2925]

About time I crossed your palm with coin; another fabulous piece, friend thank you kindly for prep and sharing. Very much like your leaning more toward 'front-and-centre' presentation. It works well and offers a closer, stronger bond. It would be nice to see BSA flourish as I think the present price is a bargain and it could encourage RE to up the game on Interceptor and possibly do as they have done so well with the new models and offer something very special in new Interceptor guise to lock horns with the Goldie properly. If anyone can do it I reckon RE are the crew to do that task justice. Keep up the good work Stuart and thank you.

[@stuartfillingham]

Ah.... thank you very much George!

[@Dotax59]

My first ever bike was an interceptor. I loved the look of it. Felt good on it. After one year, i saw the bsa at a local dealer and tried it. It was a shock. I loved it. It gave me some feelings i did not have with the interceptor. In the end, i left the dealer with the bsa and exchanged my interceptor for it. Just love the bsa.

[@alanhesketh9265]

Very interesting video Stuart, I am picking up a brand new Scram 411 in two weeks, at less than 4k, great value, but now also got my eye on the new BSA Gold Star Legacy with chrome mudguards as well. I used to have a chrome 500 bullet classic, which I regret I sold. Keep up the good work.

[@ColinCarFan]

I enjoyed your video and appreciated the thought you had put into it. An additional factor often used in industry to select suppliers is to include a "weighting" column with a score out of 10 to reflect how important the feature is to you personally. Multiple the score of the feature by the weighting factor then add up the scores. This tends to highlight more clearly the best solution for the individual. Here's my presumptuous guesstimate of weightings for you!! - Brand 6, Quality 9, Authenticity 7, Performance 8, Cost 8, Handling 9, Maintenance 7, Comfort 10, Touring 8, Accessories 8 . Total scores are 730 and 705 which further suggests you really have a hard time deciding which is best, and you said you love them both! For me the scores are 700 and 635.

[@rockintigger]

This is where an old expression springs to mind, you can please some of the people all of the time, etc etc!! Unfortunately it doesn’t make my decision any easier, but you’ve given it your best shot 🤭 many thanks for your in-depth analysis an looking for to your next vid. 👍

[@supercomp7078]

I do love the BSs of old. I would love to see a modern BSA 650 or 750 twin, having a BSA name on the tank is a cut above. I do find the Interceptor does everything asked of it, chassis and engine work really well on NZ crap roads. For me and on NZ roads the handling is the fun factor and main point to consider and the interceptor is a really fun bike to ride in the twisties.

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

Everything you just said ^ 100%! Would it be too much to hope for a Rocket III complete with ray-gun mufflers - sigh? 👍🏻🙂

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

Great comparison. Thanks for taking the time to document your experience and share it with us. Job well done!

[@johnmacmillan2721]

Hi Stu nice to hear someone's comparasons on 2 bikes they actually own . I prefer the looks of the BSA and like I said on a previous comment some weeks ago, having praised the BSA so much and with very few addon parts available for this bike for customisation as a channel bike dont think we will be seeing many updates in the near future regarding the BSA

[@danieldayton3064]

Stuart--the "result I was looking for" was your "honest opinion," which you delivered in full, objective manner! My humble thanks. 👍

[@martinl6205]

Always an honest and most trusted independent review. Which should be always considered before making the purchase - for me I would pick the BSA after listening to the pros and cons! Nice balanced work Stuart. Thanks

[@michaelspencer6108]

With all due respect the local people looking at motorcycles and cars just look at the names or badges you could put a badge on virtually anything and people would think it's true . Good program. I'm 74 years old and rebuilding a triumph T100. 1963.

[@focusfocus8966]

Very fair comparison. Great job. I have booked highland green yesterday in India.

[@JackPeters-yk9wg]

At 69, I've owned a few "British" bikes, including a new 75 Norton 850 Commando back in the day...I did buy a new Triumph Speed Twin in 2020, a beautiful bike..Nostalgia compels me to hope the BSA makes it..The name alone conjures a day when British machines were among the finest on the planet (I personally believe Triumph has hit that mark again)...And for what it's worth, I remember the add where Chuck Connors (the rifleman ) was perched on a Royal Enfield)...I've owned north of 30 new motorcycles in my life of all flavors, including 7 new Harleys...But the one that shines brightest in my over half a century riding, was that 850 Norton Commando..A British gem for certain...

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

Hard not to love an 850 Commando and I wish I could afford another. Had to settle for a Triumph T-140, so not too bad. 👍🏻

[@stevewalker2047]

Good morning Stu. I’m late to the party again. Just got back from a camping trip on my Interceptor. My second camping trip on this bike with a lot more kit and am really impressed how the bike handled even in slow roadwork traffic. I really liked this video. The way you have carried out this comparison of the two bikes was very good. I know that it is based on your views but being armed with this information if looking to buy either bike could make a big difference. Well done Sir.

[@motormikeb1047]

The BSA hasn't hit our showroom floors yet ( Minnesota ) and no one knows of anyone taking on the machines. It'll take a lot to pry my Interceptor from my .... and based on this review I'd keep the Ceptor'.... even though I'm a fan of big one kung thumpers. 😎

[@drmachinewerke1]

Great video . Wish the bsa was for sale my side of the pond . I own Nortons , triumphs, victors and A65 not counting many many others . To me each bike is each it's own . Motorcycles are like guns here in the states We can never have enough

[@jgordoncooper7112]

Excellent effort. You have the unique advantage in owning both bikes. For those with fragile personalities, they can just take your list and apply the numbers until they get their preferred result. Still very happy with my INT650. Life is great.

[@alpinewiz]

I would love to see the BSA be sold in the US. I think whichever bike, between the Gold Star 650 and the rumored Classic 650, make it here first will get my dollar. Thanks for the videos, they have been extremely informative and entertaining. Cheers!

[@nathanhenry.]

From what I have read the BSA should be available in the U.S. within the next few months.

[@stanwbaker]

@@nathanhenry. They had a booth at AIMExpo and at least one other convention. There just isn't any interest from distributors. With RE moving 8000 units annually in NA, an alternate may not be that attractive if you're in business to move raw units.

[@andrewclark9499]

Calm, considered, honest. Perfect, keep it up Stuart!

[@johnrickards1908]

Ohh, Uncle Stu', do I detect a touch of the new broom syndrome?

[@stuartfillingham]

Nope! I like fish and chips but i dont only eat fish and chips!

[@danielmcneil3004]

Excellent video,Stuart and I would say the most comprehensive and detailed review of these two bikes. I have a much better appreciation of the pros and cons of both. Two great looking and popular bikes. Many thanks for the time spent on the analysis. Cheers, Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦

[@toddfleury7324]

I’m not looking to buy either of these motorcycles but I want both. Great comprehensive review.

[@spencerbookman2523]

With a radiator and all the plastic covers on the engine, I can't help but think the BSA has to suffer compared to the RE in the "authenticity" category. I understand that the BSA is probably a better motorcycle, overall, but I can't agree with this particular rating.

[@Matt-hm9uo]

Great vid as usual Stu, thanks for the comparison. Hoping that BSA manage to find more dealers to sell their bikes as we are a bit bereft in the Southwest.

[@colinbailey4185]

Can't agree more Stuart especially about riding small bike's I'm enjoying myself more now on my 350 enfield than in year's im73 and been riding all my life and will never voluntarily give up for sure,

[@peterjeffery1587]

Brutal honesty! Thankyou

[@GeorgeShepherd-c1l]

Absolutely well said

[@Orwellianbiker]

Yet another fab video. Well done with the one take ( I stayed right to the end, like a marvel film ha)

[@c55dap]

That was the best comparative review of two similar bikes I have seen. Looks like I am heading to the BSA dealer, rather than back to RE!

[@martinowl]

One point that some viewers may be interested in, is the weight or comparative easy of manoeuvring the bikes in & out of the garage. The Interceptor can certainly feel top heavy with a full tank, when pushing it around a confined space. Light as a feather when riding.

[@stuartfillingham]

bsa is easier to move around

[@martinowl]

@@stuartfillingham cheers for the reply, interesting to hear.

[@05gt99]

I know you have covered it before but for me personally I’ll not consider any bike with tubed tyres so both out for me. Good review, thanks for sharing.

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

I’ve successfully done tubeless conversions on spoked wheels and the gear is available. I like the safety and convenience.

[@wayneknodel3347]

Great comparison! I don't know if the BSA is availabile in Canada, but I have ridden the RE a short distance, and although it really felt like a nice bike, your comments regarding the character of the engine matched my brief experience. Seeing the 2 side by side, i was immediately taken with the BSA's appearance, especially noting the extra length and uncòmpromised luggage area. Your description of the engine character and performance were the icing on the cake for me. Now, to see if they are available here!

[@AliasMrHackenbacker]

A very comprehensive comparison. I find myself agreeing with your observations despite not owning either bike(at the moment!) I found the BSA to be the most comfortable during my extended test ride, seat, footpegs, reach to the bars etc were more or less perfect for me. Whilst I enjoyed the RE twin engine I thought the BSA gave me more smiles and had more character. I think your summary toward the end of this video really summed up the difference in that the RE is a bike that hit the market 5 years ago and was part of the evolution for RE moving forward from the niche bullet to a wider audience, the BSA has only hit the market 18 months ago. Friends who own the BSA have said to me that the BSA feels like a more premium product. I'm very tempted to go down the BSA route which is something coming from an RE fan.

[@ballaservices9275]

You have to qualify virtually every remark with 'this is my opinion only', otherwise I guess you'll be swamped with abuse!! Keep up the great work!

[@jeroldkohl4094]

Thanks for taking the time to make this video it is very helpful. My son has the intercept, I like it but not comfortable for me. Would love to try the Gold Star but no idea if or when it will come to the states. Keep up the great work .

[@jimbo4375]

I hope the neighbour was having those breeze blocks covered up 😂

[@stevecoppin4278]

Good Morning Stu , thank you for your honest review today , take care

[@kepa504]

The BSA does look impressive , it looks slightly larger than the Enfield.

[@DAB009]

because it is slightly larger than the Royal Enfield

[@kepa504]

@@DAB009 Thanks for that ,I do not think they will arrive in Australia soon if at all so probably will never see one for real.

[@jypsumfantastic]

As an owner of a new model motorcycle, ive found that the lack of available accessories has frustrated me more than i expected. I would advise others to consider that one carefully

[@hemantakaushik4635]

True indeed. On the otherside, I had too many aftermarket accessories as choices for my Himalayan. Neither is ideal.

[@lorrainepierce9312]

Hi Stuart. Took delivery of new Gold Star last week, didn't ride until after I bought and was very pleasantly surprised on my first ride. In addition to your comments I find the balance of the bike spot on. Rear Suspension not so great on rough roads, how have you adjusted yours. Trevor.

[@Nick-y3k]

Hi Stuart, I have a legacy and love it, the Tank panel is actually chrome paint as are the mudguards plastic chrome painted. Great channel ❤

[@stuartfillingham]

no the tank is chrome plated, the mudguards are vacuum plated, big difference from paint

[@Nick-y3k]

@@stuartfillingham sorry I was misinformed regarding the tank. 👍🏍️

[@EvanHeisler-w6l]

You have done a great job comparing the 2 bikes. I have bought bikes in the past based on technical comparisons like you have demonstrated and have regretted my decision. For me personally, I have come to the conclusion that one must follow the heart. How does the bike make you feel? On paper my Enfield 500 Bullet is nothing to write home about but I would never consider parting with it - flaws included.

[@stuartfillingham]

if id used that method the interceptor would have come out of it much worse then it did

[@EvanHeisler-w6l]

@@stuartfillingham Good answer!

[@SteveBernard42]

Interesting comparisons, thanks. I think BSA will have to find ways of regaining consumer confidence, perhaps the bike was launched a little early as quality control seems to be behind their initial problems. There are also very real concerns (at the moment) with both parts availability and the lack of dealers, hopefully these too can be resolved. I’ve not ridden the BSA, though have looked at one close up, and there are some quality parts for sure. I think the Interceptor is a more ‘honest’ bike and easily lends itself to customisation and modification. From my own experiences and those of friends, RE has won the hearts of many riders and Enfield’s modern machines have certainly proved to be robust and reliable. As a last point, RE are exploiting their already proven platforms into new models, something BSA may struggle with, certainly for the time being. Looking forward to having a go on a BSA, would certainly consider one.

[@Paul-67]

Well done Mr Fillingham, a good well balanced review.

[@RocketMan_Moto]

Interesting comparison. Sounds as if the BSA is the one to go for. I just wish the one and only dealer in Portugal was more than just a bloke sitting in his shed in Lisbon.

[@tiger-rose-rides]

Excellent comparison Stuart thank you. i have two Brothers in-law. one has the Goldstar and the other has the interceptor. i can almost hear their conversation now after they have seen your vid 😄

[@Marmaduke693]

Hi S, sadly, it's not a very good comparison in a few respects, not all, which I politely mentioned, he deleted my post 😅 no allowance for constructive criticism or response..

[@tiger-rose-rides]

@@Marmaduke693 i have only been riding for a short time, it seemed good to me

[@anthonywillcox9864]

Well done Stewart. This said, concerning maintenance this (very attractive BSA) seems to lack a center stand, very important for me. I am eager to see what a future Bullet 650 will offer us. Regards from France.

[@robertbeighter6336]

Yeah, Nah, I got one of the first BSA 650's in NZ. I LOVE it. Just done the 1000 kms service and wow, its loosening up so much. Thought I wanted a RE Meteor, which is a nice bike but the Goldstar, I cant stop & fuel up without someone talking to me about it.

[@Phiyedough]

I suppose for me familiarity breeds contempt. I didn't have an actual DBD but I used to ride a 1954 BSA B31, the cooking version. To me this thing looks like a Bollywood representation of a Gold Star, good enough to fool race spectators but not those who rode the original bikes.

[@madbrianthepirate]

As a meteor owner I can confirm that they work the same way. Stop anywhere for longer than two minutes and old boys sidle up and want to talk. Gets way more attention than my sportster.

[@pauliedavid817]

Thanks Stuart for this amazing comparative analysis of both bikes though I was always leaning towards the Gold Star 🤩 Also, I've given a Super Thanks for this video ❤️

[@BillCook62]

I was in the market for either one these bikes but after seeing the (lack of) quality on the BSA's switchgear I went for the Interceptor.

[@stuartfillingham]

Lol you chose a motorcycle based on your perception of switch gear quality? Seriously? And i thought i had heard it all!

[@BillCook62]

@@stuartfillingham Every consumer has the perfect right to make a choice for whatever reason. Just because YOU don't agree with it doesn't mean its not valid.

[@thomasomahony.7394]

Hi Stuart, congratulations on an honest review, it is never easy when you have bikes that are as close in all aspects like these two, however, I am in agreement with your assessment, also I was very happy to see you addressed the BSA lack of accessories and quality with what is available, I do hope BSA wake up to this asap, and acknowledge the importance of accessories, as it is not just a generic motorcycle people are searching for, surely Harley Davidson example has proved that.

[@BlackdogADV]

After seeing the video I’m glad I went with the Interceptor!

[@davidmacgregor5193]

Hello again, Stuart, So far I'm very happy with my BSA Gold Star 650 Legacy, I have an instrument raising bracket from Moore Speed Racing in Poole. The bracket and cups for below each clock are machined from billet aluminium, the bracket is black and the cups are mirror polished, they look far classier than the stock black plastic items. The bracket raises the clocks higher up and tilt them towards the rider, I will install them soon.

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

Brilliant video as always Stuart and side by side, my heart goes to the BSA 😌👍🏻

[@BlakesPipes]

Solid review. We'll thought out and very personal. Cheers! But the RE is orange, so I will pick that! 😂

[@thedhanno]

What a wonderful data driven comparison ! If only the Interceptor had a better front suspension, it would have topped all charts hands down ...

[@adriantorres3221]

For me, I would give it to the interceptor for one reason, you can get a 900 cc big board kit from s&s and that is a huge plus for me being that I’m a big guy and I’m American and we have a lot of long open highways for getting a little bit extra speed especially passing trucks and what not. For the name I love BSA but you’re not gonna really be able to upgrade, a single cylinder anywhere near that size. If they come out with a twin though different story. But the one upside is, you could buy both of those bikes for the price of a Harley and have two better looking more reliable bikes that are Harley Davidson on the long run. I’m a triumph guy. They’ve got everything I need in a bike right now, except lower prices

[@stuartfillingham]

For what that costs you may as well biy a different bike

[@SameSh1tDifferentDrain]

You would be better off buying a 865 bonneville rather than fitting a big bore to the RE and I'm a big uk guy 350lbs and the BSA Has plenty of power for cruising and overtaking....I also own 2 865 bonnevilles and find that I barely use them since buying the BSA

[@Legotruck82]

for the money buy a Triumph Speed twin 1200. Or if you don't care if it's a twin or not, a Kawasaki 900RS. You'll have more power and torque than even the most modified RE would have, while still having a retro look *shrug*

[@silverback3926]

Ì have been lusting after int 650 as an upgrade for my classic c5 500. It would have cost me more to change things to look more like this BSA. There really doesn't look like i would change on the BSA. Maybe mirrors and remove baffle but that would be about it. It looks like this bike won't reach the USA for a couple of years. It will give me time to see how the BSA holds up. I really like a single 650. Now to see what the RE classic 650 looks like but thia bike really ticks all the boxes. Can't wait for it to see one in person. Excellent comparison. 74 mpg with a pillion wow! I would hope to realize that kind of mileage on roads here.

[@berryslokker8949]

Thanks uncle Stu for this review. Love both of the bikes. I will have to take both on a long ride to make a good comparising but bsa is not available here. Both looking stunning. Greetings from Holland

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

The BSA is a beautiful looking thing! Aesthetically it definitely has the edge. TBQH I didn’t notice the radiator initially.

[@paulkiley4667]

Finally, I made a decision. Yesterday in fact I bought a used Royal Enfield Interceptor in Barcelona Blue with Powerage exhaust (upgrade?!) From Appleyards in Keighley. And what a beauty she is too, delivery next week. At a price really too good to pass up too and in absolutely pristine condition.

[@kirankumar6361]

Interceptor is a great bike but sadly the Manufacturer have become complacent have stopped updating the it. For one the bike has a parallel twin engine yet produces less power and torque for its segment. Hope BSA does well in Indian market. Also, great point about the buying a bike based on feels rather than going by specs as most of us are tricked into thinking twin cylinder is always better than single but it also depends on the price and product.

[@regaz1486]

Hi Stu, I'd like to see a Shotgun / Goldstar comparison. Keep up the good work.

[@timsapper8030]

Fantastic informative Video, Thanks Stuart I’ll be in the market in a couple of Years 👍👍👍

[@_aakashpandey]

Goldstar looks like a justified replacement for a classic 500 in India, though not sure about the character as it ain't a pushrod long stroker. What if royal enfield takes that sherpa 452 tweak it to power a new classic 500, and boom it will be over for the Mahindra.

[@stuartfillingham]

hmm sidhartha Lall has said categorically the will be no c500 single made. so its a moot point really

[@stephensalt6787]

I really like Royal Enfield as a brand and I’m considering a Meteor 350 as this would be perfect for my needs, saying that I think the BSA looks stunning and I like the idea of a big single. Good review with all the salient points covered.

[@raythirkettle4155]

Lack of a centre stand on the BSA hampers maintenance and also impacts touring, a big factor for me. Great revue, thanks.

[@cliffstark1792]

I always enjoy watching your videos and this one was no different. Being a man about to enter my 6th decade I find myself being drawn to the bikes of my youth, for example the early 70's Honda CB750 and Kawasaki KZ650 and the like. At the time my riding buddy had a Bonneville 750 which was a great looking bike but seemed to need work every time he roda it. To my point, before I get sedetracked into nostalgia, with all the modern retro motorcycles these days I was wondering if you have ever tried the Kawasaki W800? I've been riding Harleys since 1992 and have had the same Dyna Wide Glide since buying it new in 1999 which fits me like a glove. However I've been considering adding a modern retro to the stable and that W800 is one fine looking bike. I like the Triumph Bobber too but that seems to be a super model as you said and I prefer the girl next door so to speak. Keep up the good work!

[@charlesbradley2943]

Thanks for the thoughtful evaluation. However, the question remains, when will the BSA come to the States ?

[@malcolmmyatt9092]

Another great re review Stu, I would hole heartedly agree with you on the result based on your criteria. I own neither bike, just can’t afford one. However the quality control of finish is critical in my mind, to the point of if what you can see on the outside is poor finish what about the stuff you can’t see? Particularly when visiting a showroom. Even there they may have the best finished looking bike where you decide to make a purchase only to receive as you point out would be very disappointing. All the same the BSA for me would be based on comfort and riding position. Leaning forward on my Yamaha diversion at my age is not so good.

[@chrisdagnall8666]

Nice comparison and I think being an owner of both put you in a good position to do this. For myself I simply like this type of bike engine size, power, riding position and price means there is nothing not to like about them. I have had an Interceptor and currently a Continental GT and like Royal Enfield but that wouldn’t stop me getting the BSA. I am looking to match one with a side car. 😊

[@sunyrj25]

Hi this is Vishal from india. amazing comparison. i watched this video very carefully.its very detailed comparison and I am 100 percent agree with you. Now I am planning to buy a BSA gold star in black colour which is just launched here in India and it's almost 50000 Indian rupees cheaper than the interceptor. Thank you for this great video ❤

[@roberthambly9926]

Excellent review. Thank's

[@kasperkjrsgaard1447]

I’ve never owned either a BSA or Royal Enfield from “back then” so I’m by no means coloured by yesterdays memories. I haven’t seen the BSA “in the flesh” but the Royal Enfield have always in my opinion looked “cheap” made. The seat looks like a plank on a cafe racer made in a shed, nuts, bolts and fasteners are of a dubious quality but it looks okay if you steps a generous handfull of steps back. Would I buy a Royal Enfield? Nope, absolutely not. The BSA got the looks. It look finished. Okay, it has a radiator, but that’s a testament to keeping a healthy engine temperature. The exhaust doesn’t do it any favours either, but that’s not the hardest job to change. The only thing I would change - if I was to get one - is to move the rear light and number plate further up towards the seat and then I’d hitting out the road. The BSA looks finished. If I’m not mistaken, the Rotax engine used here is the same as what Aprilia used on the Pegaso 650, which was a fine solid engine which could take some beating - and some tuning too if you should need some extra power. But the same goes to the Royal Enfield too. There’s plenty of solutions to go faster.

[@nigel-rs6ny]

I agree we disagree but interesting

[@JPWest020]

Since the BSA will not be for sale in the EU (at least for now), there is no choice but to get the RE The BSA imo is better looking, but I would probably get the RE because of the beautiful 270 crank twin.

[@sb7707]

Thank you for your honesty Sir.

[@petersimmons3346]

Pays your money...both excellent bikes Enfield for me all be it a continental GT ...all points conceded would be happy with the BSA so who knows might get one yet ... thanks for comparison 👍

[@johnfitchie9892]

Hi Stuart, enjoyed the video, I am on the horns of a dilema with the Goldstar, I know of two places who have given up their BSA dealer ship, also the factory has been very quiet, about updated models & has failed to really expand the dealer net work and get a foothold in the UK market, until I see some positivity from BSA I will be keeping the cash in my wallet

[@paulmeeson1003]

Top review as always. 👍