Royal Enfield reviews

From the first day, my Enfield has started faster than my car. Yes, it had to go through an extended break-in, just like any '60s style bike. For the first 500 miles I took it easy, kicking it up a bit every 50 miles or so. Now 80 mph is no problem, this isn't a fast bike, so if you're looking for a screamer, buy a Japanese bike. Problems-- The day I bought the bike it was raining hard, the 125 mile drive home in the back of my truck was wet, to say the least. I had to unmount the amp meter and dry it off. The only other problem was a slightly loose valve tappet, 10 min fix. The only real complaint with the Enfield is from my wife, she thinks the seat in back is too narrow for a long ride. I might look into getting a seat from the new sixty-5, if it will fit the classic frame. The only other problem I've had is explaining to on-lookers that it is NOT 40 years old! Show less

The Indian version produced for export over the past few years are well built and well finished machines. I would know after restoring my fair share of original Brit Iron. Except for the adaptation of an alternator and 12v electrics (and a few details for emissions), the bike is built to 1954 Royal Enfield specs (1955's had an oval air cleaner but are identical to the 1954's). All of the parts to "DBS" the bike are available like the shorter non-emission exhaust and a few details to bring things fully to 1954! Down to the riding part. If you have ever spent time on Brit bikes, there are no surprises here as most ride similar regardless of brand or model. These bikes carve and flick around quite well. The engine is easily kicked over (or with the press of a button as mine has electric start) and after a couple minute warm up, its ready to go. The 500 has a good torque curve and can certainly accelerate with traffic from a stop light with no fuss. They can cruise at 60-65 but are by no means highway bikes as the gearing is suited for the back roads and scenic routes. Mine has been very reliable but you must do some mechanical prevention by adjusting the tappets, timing (points and condenser unit, and keeping the oil clean. These tasks are quite easy and fun at the same time. don't beat it up with long stretches of high RPM's and the bike will last. Show less

While I am no mechanic or professional restorer, I've managed to restore a few British Machines over the years namely a '69 Bonnie and more recently, a '67 BSA B44 Victor roadster and enjoy these classic bikes. There is a feeling (especially on the great Brit singles) of sheer pureness of purpose. A "pure" machine if you will. I think it is fortunate that the Bullet is the last surviving original British bike standing. The design allows for Trials, off-road/enduro/scrambler, cafe racer, 60's street style, and early 50's springer street configurations. A versitility that can not be matched even in the "heyday" of classics. You can easily build yourself that BSA Goldstar or Norton you've always wanted. I've owned a few 60's bikes but always wanted a 50's rig looking similiar to the first few years of the swing arm suspension when the deeply valanced fenders and springer seats of the ridged frames of the 30's and 40's and the swing arm rear suspension of the early to mid 50's overlapped. All of these parts can be easily (and cheeply) added to the Bullet to create a customized motorcycle of your dreams. I've read a few of the negative reviews here and can not believe what I am reading. These machines are the only ticket in the world to another era. Not a modernized "version" of that era, and certainly not somebody's interpertation of that time as a modern bike clothed in vintage skin. Yes that era required some mechanical skill and yes that era required you to maintain your bike. This is nothing new to those who enjoy tinkering with old cars or improving things for the sake fun and enjoyment. Taken on these 2 counts, the Bullet is a dream come true for many including myself. The bike itself is somewhat crude by by todays standards. The engine sounds a bit like a riding lawnmower, the valvetrain is noisy and the gearbox is not switchblade precise. But this is part of the charm of riding this time machine. Eliminate this and the character of the bike is lost and the experience diluted. The Bullet is suprisingly lower on vibration when compared to a few BSA singles I've owned and with its low compression, starting is easy (I have electric start but still "kick it" most of the time). This bike will run on cough syrup! Handling is crisp and predictable similiar to every 50's and 60's Brit bike I've ridden. My Bullet has prooved quite reliable given carefull and proper break in, frequent fluid changes (with high quality oil's), proper carb and ignition tuning. Those points are the key. None of this is hard or difficult but the drive and forget mentailty of owning a new Honda can not be used here. Take care of the bike and it will take care of you. Show less

Anyone who's reading this knows a little about this bike already. It's made in India in the same factory with the same techniques they used when starting production in 1955. The newest versions have a higher output alternator and electric starting to go with the kick starter. The bike is slow by modern standards, with 55 mph as the upper comfort limit. The engine is stone simple, but does require some maintenance (just like the good old days). You can learn how to gap points, set timing, adjust brakes, adjust valve lash, adjust the clutch, and all that fun stuff. I've got almost 1000 miles on my 2003, and have been averaging 72 mpg so far. I've had some trouble with the forks leaking from the top, and the dealer is on their second attempt at fixing it. As delivered, the front hub was also out of round, causing pulsing of the front brake, but that was fixed under warranty. It's a true classic, with all the advantages and warts included. If you're a "real" motorcyclist, and don't mind turning a wrench as much as you enjoy putting along, then you'll love it. If you want a "hit the key and go" modern type bike, spend a whole lot more money and get one of the modern Japanese bikes or the Triumph Bonneville. This one's the real deal, classic wise. Show less

I've owned my Deluxe 500 for 3.5 years now. It has 7,000 good miles on it. Admittedly, the first 150 miles were...er, uh, rough. Why? The fuel in India & England is not the same quality as our gas here stateside. So, upon firing of the engine, the carburator would "pop" off of the intake manifold. Secondly, the battery was crappy right out of the box. It never really held a charge to begin with. I had many confusing breakdowns the first 3 weeks of ownership. BUT...After I figured those two things out. Understood the machine better. I have had nothing but really positive, enjoyable cruises on it. It has taken me to the Oregon coast, up the mountains, the valley etc. This bike is soooo nimble. It handles extremely well. Not to mention, it IS the prettiest bike currently in production. It will get noticed. Whether you want it or not. It is a darling little bike. If you want a cookie cutter, run of the mill Japanese bike, don't BUY THIS. If you want to be like all the "trendy" down-boys, get a Guzzi, Ducatti or BMW. If you want to enjoy being a loner-Clint Eastwood style unique bike, BUY THIS ONE! Show less

It doesn't snort and roar. It doesn't race. But it does putter comfortably around town with a certain gentle yet head-turning style. It doesn't leak oil either! The new Bullet is modernized in many ways, but it's still an old kick-start bike with that distinct vintage class. And it's a fun ride that brings a smile to your face. It can be a little grumpy during break-in, and since it's all-mechanical, it can demand a bit more work than a modern bike. But for riders looking for something different, the Bullet is a great choice. Show less

I think the reason so many people here have gien this a bad review is that they are comparing it to modern Japanese bikes. The Enfield is how ALL bikes used to be! It is a classic bike for true motorcycle enthusiasts who know how to work on their own bikes, and who are looking for something more unique and classic than a plastic rocket on wheels. If you actually maintain this bike and ride it like it was meant to be ridden (nice steady cruising), then it is great. If you are comparing it to a goldwing or a Ninja, it is hardly a fair comparison -- the two styles have different purposes. This bike, a single cylinder 500cc, actually has plenty of power for a thumper, and the brakes are more than sufficient. Again, this is a classic bike, not a modern plastic bike. It is like comparing a 1956 Checvrolet Belaire to a 2003 Ford Taurus. Sure, everything on the Taurus is better, cleaner, smoother, more reliable and efficient, etc., but man, the chevy is a classic! See what I mean? You cannot honestly compare the two. People buy a 1956 Chevy Belaire for different reasons -- they are classics, they have a great feel, they are cruising machines, etc. But for a moden day business commuter, I would say go for the Taurus. this bike is to modern bikes what the Belaire is to modern cars. Trust me - if you are a classic and vintage motorcycle enthusiast, you will absolutely love this bike. If you prefer modern plastic rockets, you will hate it. You should decide which type of bike you want. Show less

This is essentially a 1950s motorcycle -- literally! The engine is purely mechanical, with pushrod, adjustable valves, manual point ignition, kickstarting, etc. Let me put it this way: if you are a true motorcycle enthusiast, and WANT to do ALL the repair work and maintenance yourself, then this is the bike for you! If you want to ride without any hassles and maintenance-free, then go for a Japanese bike. But if you enjoy motorcycle maintenance, then you cannot go wrong. This is a classic, British thumper -- 4 stroke, single cylinder 500cc engine. The compression and vibration are enormous. It is quite solid on turns, feeling like you are riding a brick. The drum brakes are MORE than adequate, and I am a large person. I have never found braking to be a problem, if you properly apply rear and front. I have had to jam on the brakes twice, and never found it to be a problem. The acceleration is very good for what you would think a single cylinder would be. Common problems are leaks (some call it the Royal Oilfield, though mine does not leak) and electrics getting vibrated out of place. Stock seat is ok, but many prefer the spring loaded solo seat. Pegs are in good place for cruising, and the bike will lean reasonably far before scraping. Gearing is pretty good..1-3 are fine in town, and 4th is a straight 1:1 gear for highway use. Top speed is supposedly 70m.p.h. although I would be...wary. The feel is totally 50s retro. Suspension is pretty good, with some nice Hagon upgrade shocks available. Chassis is stable, and engine is SUPER easy to work on with basic tools. Headlight is sufficient, though certainly not like a Goldwing or something. What else can I say? It is basically a single cylinder mounted to a chassis with a seat, with classic British styling (meaning quirky shapes and not much else). Imagine a seat on an engine with wheels, and you have the Enfield. Again, if you want a truly classic bike, not just a replica, that you can (and must) work on yourself and maintain at regular intervals, you will LOVE the Bullet as I do. If you are not interested in retro elements and do it yourself work, you will hate it. Oh, one last thing: people who ride these are enthusiasts, so there is no lack of support and advice on the internet, and parts and accessories are very readily available, and VERY cheap compared to other brands! Show less

Ok, so mine is a 2000 and not a 2002. However, it is the EXACT same in every way. In fact, 99% of this motorcycle is the exact same as the 1956 model. It is built using the same technology, processes, and materials, by hand, as the 1956 model. This is a modern-made, vintage classic bike. It is British, but is now made only in India. For the true motorcycle enthusiast, you will be thrilled with this gem. For the average pleasure-rider, you may go insans. This very simple engine requires regular maintenance, and you should do it yourself. It can all be done with simple tools, but requires some effort. Nothing on the bike is that complicated, and the average man can really learn alot about mechanics and engines through the Enfield. It is a true joy to ride, with the literal feel of a classic 1950s bike. It handles beautifully, and there are countless modifications and accessories you can add. This bike is NOt for the casual rider who prefers no maintenance, or who does not know much about his bike. Hint -- if you have never taken apart your carburettor, for example, then this is not the bike for you. Go Japanese. However, for the person who really wants to be one with his bike, and who is interested in performing minor and major maintenance and repairs himself, and who appreciate a true classic, this is a true pleasure to own and ride. I would highly recommend for anyone who is serious about motorcylcles. Show less

A simple bike with lots of character. I get comments EVERY time I ride it. Always lots of fun. However, needs frequent maintainance that can be done at home. Not very fast... it won't make it on the interstate. Plan to spend some $ on much needed accessories. Show less