Royal Enfield

[Bob_Roller]

Anybody have any information on current model Royal Enfield bikes ?

There's one up for sale here in Phoenix on Craigslist, it's an '03 model 500 cc single with 150 miles on it, for $3500.

Only thing I know about them, is that they are made with pride in India  

[fastcataz]

This is close, I think...http://www.realclassic.co.uk/enfield030320.html

[Bob_Roller]

Thanks Fastcat, if I don't work late on Saturday, I'm going to take a look at it.

Only dealer in the area is in Prescott, AZ., about 100 miles from home.

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

If it is the latest model(s), they have had a lot of improvements in engineering and quality control, according to the Peter Egan story I read in Cycle World last month.

The bike in the article was the army version, with jerry-looking cans for saddlebags.  Looks cool!

Not much of a shakedown, though, as Egan only got in one very cold ride before winter hit.  The bike arrived later than planned.


The older ones require a tinkerers' passion, I believe.

[nhmaf]

If it is a 2003, it could still be a cast-iron top end engine.   These aren't bad bikes, from what I hear, but they use a carburetor, tend to have little oil seeps from various places, get 60 MPG and have a top speed of around 77 mph..  The new "Lean Burn" engine version has an all alloy head that looks alot like a Suzuki Savage's head.  They are more oil tight, actually have fuel injection, get even better MPG than the carburetted version, and have 2-3 more ponies in the cylinder, enough to give you a top speed of over 80 MPH.

If you like to tinker with airheads, you'd probably be perfectly fine with an Enfield as well.  There are a number of enthusiasts and after market accessories for them, though the dealer network is pretty thin.  At least there are more Royal Enfield dealers around than Ural dealers.   It will definitely not be a good superslab bike, but a perfect around town commuter or backroads cruiser.

The top-end model is called the "Electra" and has electric start.  I'd go for the top end model though I'd probably use the kick starter most of the time just for the nostalgia...

[aussie]

The Bullets have now ceased production.

Me? I really like the Clubman.

[steve hawkins]

Bullets are still in production and are quite popular here in Blighty.

However the companies who import them new do a rigorous pre delivery inspection/shakedown.  But they are a lot better than they were.  There was a newer efi version produced last year to get around new polution regs.  It has another couple of horses and is reputed to be capable of 100mpg with restrained riding.  The new model certainly look like a Bullet bit has 5 speed box and a left foot gear change etc.

But it is true that the old model has cease pruduction.

[aussie]

I bow to superior intellect. The old 4 speed have now ceased production - as from this year only the 500 efi are going to be produced. My apologies for misrepresenting them.   I received my info from a magazine - not Royal Enfield themselves. I will double check in future. God I hate being....slightly incorrect....

They are quite popular here is Oz as well. Pretty well bullet proof from what I hear.

I still like the Clubman though.  [smiley=beatnik.gif]

http://www.enfieldmotorcycles.com/models/classic.html
http://www.royal-enfield.com/bullet-classic.htm
http://www.royalenfieldaustralia.com/bullet_electra.php
http://www.royal-enfield.com/bullet_uce_efi.htm

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

I still think this is the coolest one!  (for commuting)



http://www.enfieldmotorcycles.com/models/military.html

[nhmaf]

There was one of those very bikes for sale on CL right nearby in Concord, NH - but it is no longer listed now.  I think that the seller wanted $3K for it, and it had less than 3K miles.  But, if I were to find $3K to spend on a motorcycle I think that I'd get a bigger airhead to keep Tillie in Bavarian company in the garage, maybe an older but non-abused RT....

[MrRiden]

I'm with aussie. Gotta love the clubman. Of course that leads to a desire for a Belstaff jacket, pudding bowl helmet and goggles as well.
rich

[Lucky_Lou]

As far as i aware these are Indian imports?? I think ill stick to the curry
Lou

[montmil]

I'm with aussie. Gotta love the clubman. Of course that leads to a desire for a Belstaff jacket, pudding bowl helmet and goggles as well.
rich

I say. Rich fancies himself as Mike "The Bike" Hailwood. Ey, wot?  8-)

[SCJJR65]

As you can see in this '09 pic, they have finally made the leap into the 21st century!  (OK, well, maybe the 20th century!)

I'd still like one.  In British Racing Green, if you please!  

[Semper Gumby]

I've ridden the 2004 500cc Bullet.  It's a gutless wonder with weird brakes and tranny feel.  It's hard to describe but the only words that comes to mind is loose or sloppy.  It reminds me of a really good looking mini-bike (Briggs and Stratton) with suspension.  It is definitely not what you are used to but would probably make a good around town bike.  Definitely ride before you buy.

There are lots of parts for customizing it though so it could be fun.

This review worth 2 cents.  8-)