Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Longterm report, why aren't Triumphs made this way? 

Many owners have run 20k plus in India, where the traffic and roads are unforgiving. If it can last here, there should not be an issue in UK.

Is it only me who has the bad luck then?? My valves tore apart and my piston jammed just before my electrics melted......... Na, only joking, got all you re haters excited though didn't it!! I love this bike, I own a himalayan and love that too! It's going in for a good old servicing on Friday so taking the interceptor out for a few hours! Can't wait!

I live in southern California's mountains. I usually ride my Interceptor above 5,000 ft. A few days ago I rode it up to 10,236 ft. I also rode it to an indicated 90 mph at just above 7,000 ft. This 650 runs impeccably at temps well over 110 Fahrenheit as well. It is marvelous.

Stuart, my Ice Queen Continental GT, bought new on February 18th, has only 400 miles on the clock as I write this. Even so, she has had her first service, the dealership wanted to get to it as soon as possible after everything reopened here in my local area in California. They had a backlog in their service department when I dropped her off, and they ended up keeping her for almost a month. I've got her back now, and I've been riding as frequently as I can. I'm growing more and more fond of her each time I take her out. She's one of the friendliest motorcycles I've ever owned, as well as one of the prettiest. Yes, I'm old school, and she fits the bill - round headlight, round analog gages, spoked wheels, no plastic cladding, no odd swoopy body work, visible mechanicals. She's honest looking, a motorcycle, and she rides like she looks. She does everything well. I've noticed she has bit more "punch" at freeway speeds than she did before the service, and she's a bit smoother, as well. She reminds me she's still new, though, when I find neutral between fifth and sixth gears if I'm not positive enough with the upshift. Other than that, she is literally a dream. She reminds me of when and why I fell in love with motorcycles in my youth. Royal Enfield had me in mind when they made her! This is one very, very happy old women.

I finally got mine - waited 4 months in Czech Republic :-( I was thinking about getting classic bike or scrambler - Triumph - for couple years, but Interceptor was no brainer for me this year, due to price and more "raw and simple" construction. Selling point to me was also the design - my grandpa was restoring some classic bikes when I was a kid, so in my head this look is how motorcycle should look like. Modern plastic things just do not click for me... :)

Stuart is simply the definitive presence on Royal Enfields on RU-vid.

I going to buy one of them Being thinking about it lattley I am now 70 years old always had bikes and now I miss my bike

I'm glad you're loving the bike. Ride hard Ride safe! Love from India 🇮🇳

If I had any doubt, they are gone now. I will buy a bike again after many years and it will be the Interceptoer. Maybe we'll see each other on the Gentlemens Ride

In the United States it has been a similar experience with Royal Enfield. The bikes themselves live up to expectations but the dealership experience is horrendous. The dealers either have little to no knowledge of the bikes and simply hand you a pamphlet or will try to convince you to purchase any other brand motorcycle over Royal Enfield. I hope the situation improves because the bikes are truly great.

I've owned my Black Magic Continental GT since May this year and have put a faultless 10,000 km on it! I adore the bike and the experience and so do the countless people who stop to chat about it everywhere I go! Thank-you for your videos Stuart! Your in-depth instructional tutorials enhance the ownership experience even further!

Thanks Stuart, I live in Australia and have owned and still own and ride several bikes. I bought the conti 650 and absolutely love everything about it. I ride and your long distances at high speed with luggage over many different road surfaces including dirt roads and it handles anything I throw at it. It inspires confidence and always puts a huge smile on my face.

Hi Stuart , a fantastic summary of your impressions and a lot of true facts about the Interceptor. I ´ve got mine in April 2019 and it has now close to 15000 km. No problems at all and absolutely reliable day after day. A fantastic motorcycle "that is much greater then the sum of ist parts" (there you hit the spot). I´m now in the mid-sixties , been riding and racing bikes for all my life and own 14 motorcycles of all brands. Many of them very exclusive ones. That Interceptor is what I´ve been looking for ever since and now I´m proud and happy to have one and it puts a smile on my face whenever I open the garage-door. And that smile means more then all test-articles and horse-power numbers do ! Thank you sir for an other excellent review!

I keep coming back to this channel for Stuarts soothing narration.

It's - Built like a Gun, goes like a Bullet.

Stuart! 11.58 hundreds of Triumph owners jumping ship.I am one of them courtesy your review!

Honesty is rare in motorcycle reviews and your videos are of a rare quality overall. Thank you for your advice sir, I am now sure I will buy and cherish this bike as my first motorcycle.

I've heard the Continental described as 'The bike Triumph should have built' I was looking at a T100 to replace my Classic 350, but the price in Australian pesos was just out of my range, the Continental however means I can keep the 350 which is a fun bike once re jetted and a proper exhaust fitted and enjoy both.

Royal Enfield played it smart with the Horsepower landing in the Euro A2 and Australian LAMs learner limits and the right horsepower for any other riders. People have been surprised when I tell them it is learner legal here in Australia.

Bloody Cracking Review, good use of previous footage. A true modern classic that deserves the adulation. A bike for Grownups 🤪

I've got the Interceptor pinned as my next bike. Price, performance and style are spot-on for my needs. I'm not a rich boy so ease of home maintenance is a necessity as is fuel economy. I heard RE may be bringing out a version similarly styled to the bullet? Living in Wales a longer, valenced Bullet styled front mudguard would be appealing.

Aahhh Withernsea 👍🏻, a very nice review on the 650 long term Stuart, people also miss the point with the Himalayan, and it also brings questions when you park it anywhere as people don’t realise they still make them, it’s only 24.5 bhp but it’s sooooo much fun and for the record, I’ve had 2 BMW adventures in 1150 and 1200 flavours and I have just as much fun on the Enfield 😃👍🏻

Your videos are very helpful for everyone keep doing this great work

That music in the beginning.. felt really like retro ❤️

Have had my black beauty interceptor 3 weeks and love the bike carried out the 300 mile service found the tappets on the tight side have always service my own bikes for years Your videos prove one thing to me your never to old to learn and every days a school day Thanks and keep up the good work

Thank you Stuart. I’m a Canadian with an Interceptor that I really, really enjoy. This video is spot on as is all the advice given in your videos.

I think these days Triumph is more about selling image than a classic British motorcycle. Rather disappointing. Much prefer the RE approach.

Great review, Stuart. Your perfect pronunciation of all the syllables makes it a delight for foreigners

The Interceptor reminds me a lot of my 1972 Honda CB450, except with a little cleaner design. My preference is bikes that don't look like transformers and the specification numbers seem to appeal mostly to younger riders. Nice job Royal Enfield.

I agree with you, There is this feeling you cant put your finger on, when you ride a royal Enfield. I love it! Thanks for uploading this video it reminds of my days in India. Lovely machine.

The way you rhyme words to describe is just so captivating sir! Amazingly informative video🔥🔥

Picked up my Mark Two a week ago mostly thanks to you ! thanks for providing us with useful information and tips regarding motorcycling. I've been riding for more than half my life but I always learn something new from your videos. thanks Stuart and keep it up

I took delivery of my Interceptor yesterday, the 9th of October. I ordered it on the 23rd of July. It was well worth the wait, Stuart is right, you have to take a test ride. It's an amazing machine and a pleasure to own and ride. It's the bike that got me back into biking.

I tested the interceptor and the himalayan, a world of difference, the interceptor feels so well put together, I ride an mt07 and it didn't feel slow and underpower, just perfect. The only thing I didn't like was the foot pegs, they makes your legs open up a little too much. apart from that nice bike, if i had money for another street bike i would definitely get the interceptor

Good summary of your experience so far...I test rode the Interceptor and couldn't believe what a terrific bike it is. It looks great, it handles well, it's quick enough to be fun . And like you said, it's a bike to make your own and be proud of. Cheers, Steve

Well articulated as always sir. Looking forward to your next upload!

The classic feel to a Royal Enfield is what clicks for me. Proud and Loyal Royal Enfield owner 😊

Love the look and simplicity of this machine, reminds me of my bare 1978 Yamaha 650 which took me for 1000s of carefree miles many years back.

I love how you described the bike as being "Friendly" - I have one as well and it's the perfect way to describe it.

Good video Stuart (As Always), agree with the 'horses for courses' approach you're spot on, your comments about the importers and the lack of any standardisation across servicing and general attitude is also bang on mate, lets hope they sort that before it gets too much of an issue.

As a long time Triumph owner, I must say that I love the looks of the Interceptor, I agree with most of the things you said, there's room enough for both on the roads, each to their own is what I say. By the way Stuart, I sold my T120 and replaced it with a Speed Twin, I made the mistake of taking a test ride on it.....that'll teach me! cheers bud, keep them vid's comin' Dave

Air cooled is the way to go. Spot on. Maintenance free.

Another great video and I just keep watching your videos. Thank you for producing such great content.

Definitely one of the best reviews I've seen. Thank You!

The last time I owed as bike like this was the 76 Norton Commando Mk lll. Love it

I'm looking forward to test riding the RE 650's. At the moment I love my 500 Bullet EFI with Watsonian sidecar. First chair for me and the slowest thing I've had since my moped at sixteen, but one of the most enjoyable rides ever.

Stuart Fillingham sir-your videos about the interceptor are amazing and very knowledgeable-keep up the good work

Thank you for an honest report, I am considering buying one of these soon and appreciate your report on how you are getting on with the bike.

Love your review. I currently ride an 03 Triumph Speed Triple. While I love it, I also love modern classic bikes. I love classic as well. Yes, I like to hear my triple sing with its SP Engineering can on it. However, I like simple easy riding. In the future, I can see myself with one of these in my garage. Along with my Speedy and a 1977 Honda CB750F Super Sport. I fell in love with them as a young boy back in the early 80's. I always wanted a bike from the year I was born. Thank you for the video. I am saving for one of these so when Spring arrives I can enjoy one just like you. Cheers from Pittsburgh.

yes! ANOTHER video! You make the best content I’ve seen in a long time, your style is superb.

As usual, informative and clever !! Thanks sir !

Hello Stuart, thanks for the video. I am on the fence regarding this bike, but your confidence is pushing me towards getting one home.

2:52 The average waiting period here in Chennai, IN (manufacturing plant location) itself is close to 3 months, so I would say that waiting period in UK is understandable. I totally agree to your point on "knowledge about the bike with the dealers", they simply announce the CC, ABS, parallel twin (don't even know about power delivery) and other features about this great machine

I want this guy so bad. The interceptor is absolutely beautiful.

Thanks for your intelligent and clear review. The music is sublime..

I absolutely love the way you maintain it. Thats the uniqueness of your videos.

The tank rack really suits the bike. Reminds me of the old Triumphs T90 etc which had one. RE have found a niche with this bike, I want one.

Ye I've jumped ship, pick up mine tommorow, can't wait Changing from an old 900blade to something different and more upright to help my back and shoulder, Been for a test ride and loved it and ordered straight after 👍

Another spot on review Stuart, there's a lot to be said for back to basics bikes, with modern reliability they can be a lot of fun and very satisfying.

I will get mine next November. Mr. Fillingham, your videos helped me a lot as I decided if I should buy an Interceptor. Thanks again for your content and the time you invest producing it!

Just got my Interceptor from its 1st service today .....Riding it , loving it 😍

Had a test ride of the Interceptor and Conti GT this weekend from Haywards of Cambridge and tried to keep an open mind. I was very impressed, especially by the Interceptor which was obviously a bit more comfy than the GT. Excellent smooth gearbox and engine - surprised how flexible the engine was compared to the Triumph (I used to own a Street Twin so can make a fair comparison). Motorcycling as it should be. Great video Stuart.

Thanks Stuart. I am looking to buy one and this was really useful. Stay safe!

Wow such a amazing video man. This is probably the best review I’ve even seen. Not unlike others who just concentrate on specs not experience.

2:00 Since I first started driving I've always dreamed of the chance to zoom underneath one of those big sprayers going down the highway.

I recently enquire at my local Enfield dealer about the Interceptor in the black and red and was quoted 6weeks + wait.

Hi Stuart, Your video content talks more than u describe. And, You became as a role model to keep my Interceptor in pristine condition. OMG - I wonder how you maintain all your motorcycle in this condition. It's really based on passionate work. Thanks for the great knowledge sharing content through this platform. Thumbs up !!! Looking forward for future contents.

I love the look of the 650 interceptor .. Going to look at one this weekend

Great review ! I'm in France and actually riding on a classic 500. I will test an Interceptor next week 😉

This will be my first time buying a Royal Enfield superb quality mileage handling overall perfect Namaste from India Very nice information

Cool review thanks for posting Stuart!!

Great review! I’m 800km into my new Interceptor and I couldn’t agree more.

Loving mine - nearly 1000 miles in 5 weeks... Thanks Stuart- you were one of the three reviews that MADE ME buy the bike after 32 years since my last bike!! HAHA! It took fi ve whole months of waiting for my Orange Crush to turn up!! I have also added the Motone Custom tank pads and purchased the SS tank bag frame. Also purchased the RE compact Engine casing guards and the taller bug screen. From NZ!! I have posted some 1080 HD but low quality amateur videos of riding in NZ.

U r doing a great job sir

Morning mate. What started as a general browsing session led me to watch all of your videos. You speak nice and slow, that soft music in the background and your gliding by the British countryside, makes me wanna watch these videos all day long. I ride my Interceptor each day to office. Even though i have to pay parking on it. My car on the other hand has a sticker and is allowed into the office premises without me spending a dime. An yet, I cant resist picking up my helmet and keys to the Interceptor, I am glad i bought this beautiful machine. I love the point you made about people complaining about high speed and fairing, well they dont know what leisure riding is. At my age I need something relaxed and not something i live in fear off everytime i open the throttle. Needless to say, another gem of a video. Cheers

Excellent Summary,Thanks !

I've had my ice queen since July, Continental GT. 3500 kilometres later, the bike continues to impress. I'm getting 70 miles per imperial gallon 58 miles per US gallon + 3 litres per 100 km all equivalent values

Even we people bullet fans were flabbergasted by this innovative bike

Thank you for the great review. I still have my 1959 Bullet 500 and it has been a great raw old school classic. English chassis and crank that I bought rebuilt in Delhi. You either love or hate an Enfield, I love the basic ride.

Awesome review Stuart!!! New fan of yours from India ✌️ Subscribed already

I got mine about 4 weeks ago, after a 3 month long waiting period. I went for the Orange Crush and let the dealer fit the fork gaiters and the small crash guards. After the first 500 km I fitted the DNA air filter kit and the stainless steel exhausts that I had ordered from Tec Bike in the UK, long before I got the motorcycle. The next improvements over the winter will be a new taillight and matching rear indicators. At the front I am opting for the Tec Bike headlight brackets and matching indicators. I won't spoil the classic look of the bike with some LED headlight, as some RE650 owners are planning to do. Further ahead I am thinking about the S&S big bore kit and a power commander to fine tune the factory engine setup. And a classic looking single speedo is also on my wishlist for the future. I'd like to see the bike reduced to the max while still keeping it's classic appearance. Unfortunately we have TÜV in Germany, a technical inspection every 2 years. They allow only officially tested and road legal accessories - which my exhaust is definitely not. But hey, no risk, no fun. The exhaust was a perfect fit and easily installed in 15 to 20 minutes. Looking forward to hearing more from your experiences soon, Stuart. I really appreciate your time and efforts in making these videos. I find them very helpful, informative and entertaining at the same time.

When I saw her over 18 months back, I decided.......I want her ! When the bookings started in November '18, I hopped over to the dealership and without even looking at the bike or test riding it, I paid the booking amount first and then took a test ride ! My confidence in the bike was unshakable. Basically, I detest the Bullet ! Yea, true, that. Though in my time, I have owned three Bullets.....I still hated them. What was there to like about them anyway ? Rickety and clackety old engine (sounding nearly like a diesel engine) with everything else outdated. But then, did we have a choice ? Having owned a Triumph, BSA, Norton and such bikes during our time, the Bullet fell woefully short in everything. But then, I observed the changes in the Bullet and the improvements being incorporated and I was impressed. Much later, sometime around 2015, I saw the Bullet Thunderbird and the X too and this bike really really got me. A new respect came over me for the Bullet and I looked forward to something good from the company. And soon enough, my eyes fell on the Interceptor 650 and I was swept clean off my feet ! I got the bike on 27 Feb 2019 and can't stop loving it. With my wife pillion, I cruised at 120-130 to Mahabaleshwar, without a miss, without any strain or pain....mind you both of us are 70 now ! Do you know what falling in love with a bike is ? Try the Interceptor 650. As the Bawa's would put it.....tu mhari guitar le ja, mhari baide le ja, pan mhari bike ko touch nahi karneka !!

Another quality video, Sir. Congratulations.

I've got one of these in my near future for sure. Your videos have taken me from RE not on the radar to very much wanting one. I have a great touring bike now but want something lighter, simpler and customizable and the Interceptor is ticking all the boxes. Thanks so much for your videos, well produced, amusing and love your taste in music. Over and out from the USA.

how imagine if they make a himalayan of this. Expect massive sales.

I really enjoy my 650. The only other bike I have, and do, own is a RE500, the 650 is light years ahead of it in power, smoothness, comfort and usability. I still ride and enjoy my 500, but it is more of a quirky statement ride than the 650 which is an utterly competent piece of transportation art.

Nicely said in the background..... Loved your honest thoughts..... thankyou 😇

Stuart, you have been an inspiration for older riders like me. Your videos inspired me to buy an orange INT 650, started riding after 25 years and just 2 days ago did my Half Fillingham cleaning. By half, I mean I don't have access to the superior products you use, but I try to find as close a product as possible to your recommendation. And I am finding my meditation while cleaning the bike. And yes, it makes me turn back and look twice every time I walk away from it. I decided to call the bike Rusty btw.. Thanks for beautiful video.

Another wonderful review - imagine how perturbed I was when I sat on my first RE (the Interceptor) at the dealership and struggled to get it off the side stand. Clearly haven't developed the right muscles just yet. My 2017 Triumph Scrambler centre of gravity is much kinder for this 52 kg weakling ;)

Hi Stuart Any thoughts on what the bike would be like two up, particularly the room on the saddle.Thanks.

Great video and review,I've just got a 06 t100 in molested,spokes,carbs,no fancy stuff,it looks and drives brilliantly, and I love it,your videos helped me decide on it,now you are tempting me again,I'll have to stop following your advice,or extend my garage.!!!

Good review. Nice to hear a Hull accent on the internet! I'm definitely interested in a interceptor after having 2 bullets.

Yesterday y went to see it in a dealership and they had the model with the crome plated tank , it looks stunning and beautifull besides it all the bullets and the old continental faided pale . Y ride a customized Ducati monster 2006 y love it , but this interceptor just atracts me ,seems to say "take me for a ride , you wont be dissapointed"

Great review Stuart, the value for money is incredible compared to Triumphs entry level street twin which is way over priced, look back twenty years when sports bikes were all the rage and Suzuki came out with the Bandit, Solid incredibly reliable and cheap! Sold like hot cakes.....winner...

Nicely summed up. Like your long term review

I’m 34 and I will be buying this as my first bike, a beautiful machine that’s looks proper. A fantastic review as well.

I would buy one if the price is right. Here where I live in Malaysia, the interceptor is just shy of $2k less than a brand new 2019 Triumph Street Twin.. I'd rather go with Triumph..

The Triumph's are sulking in the garage Stuart lol.

I've had mine now since February '19. Fabulous bike!

Nice to hear honest talk, well spoken as usual.