Cracking little vlog , bike looked good when I called in the other week. Have you done commute comparisons yet? Bike looked to manage Holme moss, Monks Road, and Winnats pass ok. Not bad price either. 🏍👌👍
Hi Andrew. I’ve got the footage for the commute video, just need to edit it all. The results are really surprising. I’m really taken with this bike, it sounds very similar to my BSA C15. Thanks for watching my video and for leaving us a comment. We really appreciate your support 👍
53 years old bought the Meteor as my first bike 2 years ago. 5000 miles later I still love it, does almost everything I could want in a bike. Very rarely I wish I could do 75-80MPH on the Interstate for touring but that's riding I enjoy anyway so hasn't been worth a second bike yet.
Hi Chad. The size and power definitely suits the smaller twistier roads. But I think that also encourages to go down lanes that you otherwise wouldn’t have ventured down. Unless you were doing lots of motorway/interstate trips then there really isn’t a need for anything bigger. Thanks for watching my videos and thanks for leaving us a comment 👍
You can do higher speeds if you know how mine will show 90 mph but due so speed limits i don’t but if feels much happier when ur doing 70 its more flexible than it was when it was restricted,
Hi Lovey900. It is a great bike and an easy one to fall in love with because it has so much character. There is possibly no better bike for casually touring round the countryside. Thank you for watching and leaving us a comment. Hopefully one day you'll have your own Meteor 350 👍
Nicely done. I have ridden the RE 350s and I liked them. I wish for a 500cc version of them, though. Out here, in the wild west, we have long uphill grades with higher speed limits than you have. My 220 lbs needs just a little more grunt to make sure that I don't get run over by logging trucks while pulling a long hill against the wind.
Hi jRobbert. Royal Enfield have just released a Meteor with their 650 motor in, which would probably be better suited to your roads and speed limits. Hopefully we'll be able to get our hands on one soon so we can do another Royal Enfield video. Thank you for watching and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I rode the Super Meteor and, for the most part, I liked it. I've never owned a mid sized thumper, though, and a 500 Classic or Bullet would be something that might fit my back roads needs. Besides, that big single sound is something else to enjoy. It just needs to have more power than the smaller ones currently offered by RE. I have several larger displacement twins already, ( Harleys, Victory, and Guzzis) but it'd be nice to have something else for those other rides, too.@@mymoto-uk
Sing my song! I'd love a 500 version, but they couldn't get an air cooled 500 through those damned EU emission regulations. I've tried the Super Meteor and didn't like it, mainly because of the extreme feet-forward riding position which is designed to give you lower back pain. The answer may come in the new 450 Himalayan engine which pushes out twice the power of the J engine.
Ive just bought a 350cc Meteor last month , and i wish id have bought one before now , i just love the bike its great , ive been round Wales on it and i dont know how many times Around the Wirral Peninsula back lanes and little Villages passing old Churches and pubs on the way , its amazing what you see when you slow the pace down, which is what these bike where made for , I love mine and i enjoy it for what it is , and thats the pleasure it gives 😀 👍
Have one myself, excellent little machine so very comfortable does everything you will need, yes top end speed not as good as you may like but that's only noticeable on the motorway, but saying that it can kick along 70 all day long, taken in the fact this bike cost less than 4k, its a brilliant machine, I know this is a personal thing but I think it looks just lovely as well.
Hi Adrian. You're right with everything you say there and I'm sure you are not alone in thinking it's a lovely looking bike. I have been really surprised by the bike, mainly because I expected it to be slower than it is and with such a reasonable price tag I thought it would look cheap but it actually looks looks really well made. Like I said in the video, I wouldn't have any problem spending my own money on one of these. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment. 👍
Hi Barry. They are definitely a lot lighter than a Road King. I was surprised that the meteor actually felt lighter to handle and maneuver than I thought it would. I think that the weight being so low, as well as the ride height, it makes it feel incredibly light. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment. 👍
@@mymoto-uk Shorter wheel base means you can throw it left or right very quickly unlike the longer bikes, especially Indian. Indian frame is great but not meant for twisty roads
Really good review. I bought my yellow Fireball January 2022. I absolutely love it. I rode a Honda Shadow for years. I liked the Honda. But the difference between the two bikes is this, the Honda was a machine. My Royal Enfield has a soul.
Hi Astro. Yes, it had bags of character and like I said at the end of the video, I think that Royal Enfield should be proud of creating such a great machine at the price they do. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving us a comment 👍
As someone who went from a Honda Magna to a Fireball Yellow Meteor 350 myself, I have to say your comment captured it perfectly! These little bikes just seem to have a spirit like no bike I've ever had.
Astro6 .... I totally agree with your observation about the Meteor having 'soul'. I had a Meteor, and it was the most comfortable 'bike I've ever owned (I'm a pensioner of very average /slimish build, but slightly vertically challenge !). My local dealer (20 miles distant from my home) ceased trading (I live in the south of the UK) so I reluctantly exchanged the Meteor as there wasn't another viable dealership to do my servicing within a practical distance, especially if I needed to travel for servicing in winter or in pouring rain) . I have the start of arthritis in my right hip and have been unable to find a 'bike that has ergonomics that give me a comfortable ride over 50 - 60 miles distance in Hampshires country lanes, let alone a 'bike with 'soul'. In desparation I'm now part-exing my almost new 'bike ( I won't mention the brand but it is on the same general style as a Meteor or Honda Rebel) for a pre-owned yellow Meteor Fireball, albeit the dealership supplying isn't a R/Enfield franchise, but they assure me they will be able to carry out routine servicing on my behalf. I'm really looking forward to re-acquainting myself with the riding pleasure of the Meteor. (I sometimes view RU-vid vids put out by Economical Rides. The Gent, English but lives in Spain, owns a Meteor Fireball and a Classic 350 Reborn, but has just also acquired a Himalayan for more off-road excursions. When asked if he had to have just one 'bike which would he keep between the Meteor and Classic, he said for 'looks', the Classic, but for pure riding pleasure the Meteor. He said the Classic was an excellent machine but when he rides it it's just having a ride on a very nice bike, whereas the Meteor, whithin just a few minutes of starting a ride, transports him (literally !)to a beautiful, relaxed, emotional state.). Sorry about my 'wittering'. My forthcoming re-acqaintance with a Meteor has created a rather excitable state in my ageing brainbox !
I bought a Fireball in August 2022, my first RE and still love it. I've had a few people take photos of it! It has a beautiful aesthetic that attracts people. I put it down to a harmonious blend of the old and new.
I've had my Meteor for nearly 3 years and it's been great! The standard tyres are fine, it's a big company that make them. BiBrembo is a subsidiary of Brembo brakes and are pretty good. Certainly better than any of my bikes from the 70's, *0's and 90's. It has ABS and the brakes are more than adequate for the bike. I've done a couple of mod's such as a de-cat pipe and a DNA air filter. I don't think it's increased the power, but the torque seems better and it sounds brilliant! I keep thinking of changing, but there is nothing out there that suits my type of riding (not interested in spending hours on the motorway, just buy a car if that;'s your thing) but A and B roads it kills!
Hi Paul. I’d love to hear it with a de-cat pipe on it. It already sounded good as it was but I can imagine it’s ten times better without the cat. Thanks for watching and telling me about your bike 👍
I will tell you the same as anyone else i talk to about the RE 350’s if you want a new bike but love ur Meteor stick a Fuel X optimiser on it and you’re gonna have a new bike that has everything that you’re meteor has but feels like a much stronger motor
Hey I also put the dna filter and it does sound amazing . It’s quite loud, but I like it. Maybe on full throttle for long distance trips might not be best? Haven’t tried it yet . I was looking at decat the pipe but not sure if that’s “legal” lol
Speed limiter kicks in at 73-75 mph on all J platform engines. Doesn’t matter though, because national speed limit is 70. Us old greybeards love em. I personally own a Meteor 350, and a Classic 350.
Hi TheNorfolkThunderbolt. It did go enough over 70 to allow a casual overtake on a motorway but it really felt like it was starting to over rev. It was definitely happiest bumbling along round tight twisty country lanes which can be quite stressful on performance orientated sports bikes. On this they were a hole new experience and became an enjoyable adventure though some stunning countryside. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I think the Hunter ECU is not restricted, or at least Meteor owners are fitting Hunter throttle bodies and reporting the speed limiter is removed. They claim to get up to 85mph but I don't believe mine has enough spare grunt with me on it to take it much beyond the limiter anyway. Great commuter, I take mine into central london it can just about cope with brief sections of free flowing motorway and then in the city it really comes into its own.
@@Sankara561 The speed input to the ECU comes from the front ABS and the engine cuts back the power at 73/75 mph. If you have an overreading speedo, you won't even get that fast. I don't think the ignition cuts, but something certainly holds it back. Amusingly there was a batch of bikes that went to Brazil that required modification to suit the local fuel and the Indian technicians forget to reinstall the speed limiter, so if you want a fast Meteor, get one of those Brazilian ones!
I think in India and in the USA they protected their motorcycle industry with import controls and import tax. therefore Royal Enfield and Harley are still around. Britain had motorcycles with four cylinder a long time before Japan.
Hi DyslexicArtistTheoryOnTime. Yes, funnily enough, Edward Turner actually designed Arial’s Square four but by the time he became a managing director, he had little interest in racing development and believed that the ultimate engine was either a single or twin cylinder. In fact, he told Frank Turner, who was Triumphs experimental department manager, that the Bonneville design would be the death of Triumph. Even with Triumph having a very strong export market it still didn’t save the company and I think that is often the fate of manufacturers who aren’t willing to innovate and adapt to the market demands. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Mark. Wow, that is high praise indeed. I'm so happy that you enjoyed watching it and I really appreciate you leaving me such a great comment. Thank you 👍
I've added a windscreen, heated grips and hand guards, rear rack and top case, side racks and soft panniers. The Meteor is the TOURING bike for those of use who love exploring twisty roads away from the freeways. What's not to like? 80+ mpg, bullet-proof simplicity, AND tubeless tires (which I've upgraded to 50/50 dual sport for cruising the gravel roads.)
Hi thegreatoutthere. It sounds like you’ve got the perfect bike for some “off the beaten track” adventures. It’s times like this that I wish our followers could post photos in the comments. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Matthew. So far, I’ve found that the only negativity around the Royal Enfields comes from people who haven’t owned one, and in some cases, never ridden one. They are great bikes and they have got a strong following because of that. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Uk 350's are restricted to just over 70mph South American versions have a different unrestricted ecu there bikes touch 80mph!!. Why we get the shit ones is anyone's guess!!!.
Hi Steven. I did get it up to 75 at one point but it felt like it just ran out of power. The Kawasaki 125 we had hit a limiter at 73 that felt like the brakes went on because it was so abrupt. I can imagine that with some performance parts and a change of gearing, it could definitely hit 80 without an issue. It also felt just as stable at 70mph as it did at 10pm which shows how good the chassis is. Thanks for watching and commenting, it is much appreciated 👍
I would like to add to your review speaking as one that has owned one now for about 3 years. Bought my 2001Stellar Red Meteor 350 in August of 21. I currently have just a little over 11,000 trouble free miles on mine. When you were struggling to find something wrong with the bike you really couldn't find anything. (Except the cables when you lock the handlebars. lol) My one complaint is the halogen headlight. The first time I rode mine at night, I couldn't wait to get home. Really dim, I couldn't see anything. I fixed it by putting an engine guard on it and attaching a couple of LED lights to it. Really helped and I have no fear of driving at night now. Not to mention people see me coming and I haven't had anyone pull out in front of me since. I live in Texas, and you are right about the top speed. Not going to break any land speed records but I will be 68 in November, and I did all my fast motorcycle riding when I was younger. I had a Triumph 750 back in the 70's. I have the Tripper navigation on mine, and you can put in a destination and avoid highways and toll roads. I get on mine and ride the country roads. Over the years I have added a windshield, saddle bags, touring foot pegs, and just got a touring seat today. In conclusion my son who rides an Indian Scout 60 and I are planning a trip from here in North Texas to my home state of Iowa in October. About 800 miles one way. This is a great little cruiser, and I have no fear of making a long road trip with this bike. The tripper navigation will keep us off all the busy interstate highways and we can enjoy the less traveled roads. I agree with your review. The one statement I hear on almost all the RU-vid video reviews is "when I ride this bike it puts a smile on my face". Smiling here in Texas.
Hi Abadan. I’m so glad you agree, hopefully I’ve convinced a few people who’ve never ridden one to give it a try. Thanks for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Had mine for over a year and as a "downsized" 67 year old, it's perfect. Can't push the big stuff around any more. The heel & toe gear shift is a bit quirky, but I would highly recommend one of the upgrade kits. A precision linkage and mounting shaft totally transforms it. Best £40 I ever spent. Lovely bike.
Hi Tim. I didn't know there were upgrade kits available. I can imagine that it would improve the shifter quite a lot. The gear linkage is one of the few areas where you could see it being built to a budget, but that's to be expected at the price they charge and with it being an easily upgradable item it's perfect. I'd love to hear how you find the bike after a year of ownership because I'm genuinely interested in getting one of these now I've had a few weeks with it. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving us a comment, it is much appreciated 👍
@@mymoto-uk I love the Meteor. I live in Germany and it has no problem keeping up with the traffic, even on the Autobahn if you have realistic expectations. I have removed the pillion seat and fitted a 40L adventure top box. Gt back rest. Glyn Owen's channel featured fitting the gear changer upgrade and I found it on eBay from that. The upgrade highlights what a beautiful gearboxes these RE-Js have. Considering how simple the upgrade is, one wonders why RE would rather the bad press than spend £5 at the factory. Anyway, very easy fix.
@@mymoto-uk You can buy an upgraded linkage which is a real improvement. But I replaced the heel/toe shifter with and extended conventional shift lever from TEC
Great review. I've seen a few on the Meteor. I'm so tempted at the age 64. ive nit ridden for 20 years and this looks the perfect fit for me. How did you get the overhead shots? They were great. I've subscribed and looking forward to seeing more of your reviews.
Hi Tony. First of all I'd like to thank you for subscribing to our channel. The over head shots are done using a Insta 360 x2 on a selfie stick. The X2 camera makes the stick invisible and so it looks like the camera is following me. The 350 Meteor is by far the easiest bike to ride that I've ever been on. It isn't super light, but because the weight is so low down, it does feel as if it is light. It's a great bike. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
The 350 platform is sweet but the Meteor isn't the one for me, the low seat always makes me feel awkward coming to a stop, my knees are too bent! I think the Classic 350 is actually a better overall design than the Meteor in terms of riding ergonomics and suspension. Can't beat the current £3k offer for a Meteor from MotoGB though.
Hi Geshmaal. I did see that offer from MotoGB but I didn't want to mention it incase it stopped and viewer's wondered why I was quoting that price. The cruiser style was new to me and surprisingly comfortable to ride, it did take me a while to get used to walking it with bent legs. I think that the 350 motor is a cracking engine and it really reminds me of my BSA C15. Thank you for watching our video and for leaving me a comment 👍
I’ve been riding over for 40 years I absolutely love mine supernova handling turn into the corners I love you toe heel shifter no it’s not fast yes there are a few tweaks you can do to it is it worth it if you want more power you buy a bigger bike I don’t have a problem with the rear suspension even though I’ve got a bad back yes the fuel gauge isn’t accurate you work round it for the money You can’t go wrong you just wanna do the back roads have some fun not a problem
Hi Trevor. There are so many positives about this bike from it being agile enough for tight twisty lanes, great fuel economy, sounds fantastic, cheap to buy and when so many owners of them are coming on here and leaving comments about how much they love theirs after months or years of use, it just shows how good they are. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Bib. Yes. Fun little bikes, with loads of character and you don’t need to remortgage to get one. Pound for pound, these are great fun for the price.
Really well put together video review of what is a lovely bike. Great engine, comfortable and looks good. Enjoyed the gear references also. I had no issues with the sound and readily recognise that video production is not your main business. Well done and thank you.
Hi Terry. I was really surprised by how comfortable it is. I jumped on my old Yamaha Diversion yesterday, which I always think of as my comfortable winter hack and the first thought that came into my head was that the Meteor was more comfortable 😄. It's a great bike and I'm sure it would surprise anybody who has a go on one. Thanks for watching my video and thank you for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi David. Good choice. It’s got loads of character and it’s such a fun bike to ride. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Thanks for the vid, it’s been a long time since I’ve been in that neck of the woods! As an auld phart I was looking for a smaller bike with some character, saw the 350 classic and fell in love! Then, tried all three 350s and found the meteor was the one for me. I’m 6’4” and it has to be one of the most comfortable bikes I’ve ever owned. What was really unexpected was what a sheer joy this little bike is to ride! It’s just so much easy going fun, sure footed and very confident. To add to my joy, a got a new one for a bit over three grand with the present offer, what’s not to like?
Hi Steve. It is so great to read the experiences of people who own these bikes, especially as it confirms everything that I've thought whilst I've been riding it round. It is incredibly comfortable and an absolute joy to ride. Thank you for watching my video and for giving me and our subscribers an insight into what it is like owning one of these bikes. 👍
Great vlog and relaxed i thought the sound on your video is fine myself looking at other comments.not easy getting the sound right, i know! im not a fan of the green meteor myself but its definitely a cracking machine along with the classic 350 ... atb phil
Hi Phil. I have a few classic British bikes and this offered a similar experience but without any worry around its reliability or even getting it covered in dirt on a winters ride. I think the Classic 350 would be even closer to that classic bike experience whilst still being a all weather, any journey bike. Thank you for watching my video and giving me some feedback, It is hugely appreciated. 👍
Had mine a year. Love it. But being 5 foot 4, with a 27 inch inside leg and having low seat fitted, I was still struggling on tip toes. Have had the touring seat in at a specialist getting medical gel and lowered by 30mm, that’s made a difference, for sure. Not fun being a short arse. Lovely riding position and big fat seat, which I feel, gives, what’s claimed as a fairy low seat, a higher level due to width of the seat. But, once the DNA filter and plate is fitted, its torque is vastly increased to pull up through gears. Another big noticeable change was after fitting a de cat pipe and Red Rooster exhaust….😊 Ceat tyres were once a subsidiary of pirelli, don’t know if they still are. Great video.😊
Hi WeeMark. That's fascinating, thank you for sharing all of this. I can imagine that the seat width will play a part in how hard it is to straddle but I think it is also one of the things that makes it so comfortable. I haven't herd of Ceat tyres before so ill have to look into that and I'll mention it if I get another Royal Enfield in the future. I can imagine that it would sound really good with an exhaust and air filter fitted and it would probably make it sound even closer to how my BSA C15 sounds. Since posting this video I've had nothing but good comments about this bike from people who own them, it's a real testament to how good they are. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment. 👍
@@mymoto-uk something about it. Puts a smile on your face. I plan to get the Kent cam and fuel X fitted, it will hit the Rev limitor with ease, if required. Making overtakes and hills much easier and saver. Reports from some owners who have fitted the throttle body from a Hunter, and have the filter n exhaust etc, have seen 86 on the speedo. Normal is an indicated 75 and it hits the Rev limiter.
Simple way to lower it is to fit 30/40mm lower rear shocks , im a short ass too and can flat foot it with those on and it does have way more rear travel than it really needs as its intended primarily for Indian roads , you could hide a badger under the rear mudguard with the standard set up 😂
@@NoelRoots-t1u then you gotta lower front also. I lowered my GS500f, back in the day, and it not felt right afterwards. And that was a dealer that did it for me. So really don’t want to go down that route.
Sadly with the fact that we are all coming back to single and twins means we could say the brittish bike industry was right all along. We got tempted by inline fours etc which flew like rocketships and accident rates went skywards and the heavy hand of legislation came in to control us. These small capacity bikes take us back to where we should have stayed, the real enjoyment of the trip,not the high spec of what we ride.
Hi Googlecontrolled. I think that the advancements made, regarding balancing shafts, has greatly improved the usability of the single cylinder engines. As for all round usability, it would be hard to argue against a twin cylinder. If you are nostalgic about the old British bikes and also looking for something you could ride every day, then this is the perfect bike for that. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving comment 👍
Hi Gary. I found it really comfortable and I’m 5’11”. If you find Steve Bernard’s comment below. He owns one and he’s 6’4”. It might even be worth asking him how he finds it in a reply to his comment? Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment. 👍
The Meteor is fitted with a speed limiter at about 72mph. (I have had one for two years). There is a way to get around it though. As with most singles, it matures and improves with age and mileage. Enjoyed your vid btw.
Hi John. I actually got a bit more than 72 out of it in the end. It was really struggling with a headwind after 65 though. There have been quite a few owners commenting on here who have listed all sorts of modifications that they’ve done that could really improve the bike. I think it’s a solid little engine and it really does remind me of my BSA C15, not in sound and how it pulls.Thank you for watching and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Great review of the 350 meteor, I’ve subscribed. If there was a tad more power, if it was capable of 80 mph, I would have one. Perhaps the Himalayan 450 engine in one, perhaps they will one day.
Hi Paul. I’ve got a similar opinion as you. It has made me really want to try out the Interceptor. Hopefully it would still be nearly as nimble and have just as much character as the Meteor. Thank you for watching and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Very encouraging. I just bought one to replace my old 500 Bullet. See, I got old (70) and the Bullet was getting to be a bit heavy and my hips and back couldn't handle it... The centre of gravity is a lot lower on the Meteor and it handles wonderfully. It'll do for me!
Hi Exiledk. It isn't the lightest bike but it is very easy to maneuver and it does feel light because, like you said, the weight is low down. Thank you for watching our channel and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
The engine is speed restricted via theECU mine will go well over the legal limit even though i don’t want to go that fast it just feels safer and more reassuring having that little bit extra if needed
Hi UserRD. I can totally agree with that. I've never been keen on forced restrictions on bikes, even going back to the old 125 two strokes. It would be good to have a ride on one of these without the restriction. Thank you for watching my video and I really appreciate you leaving me another comment 👍
Hi Caahacky. I have read nothing but good things about this bike from owners who have left us a comment. Riding to Finland will be a great trip to do on one and an adventure to remember. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving us a comment 👍
The Meteors are limited to 73 mph at the factory. If you fit the Scram throttle bodies, it removes the restriction. But why? Just enjoy the A/B roads and the journey.
Hi Paul. If had a bit more power through doing some performance modifications to it then you could change the gearing and loose the limiter. I honestly didn’t get off the bike thinking, I wish it was better on a motorway, like you said, it does the A/B roads so well you don’t want to do anything else. Thank you for watching my video and I really appreciate you leaving me a comment 👍
Singles and twins are great bikes. The British motorcycles industry was killed by cheap cars . Incompetent management and employees sabotage nota good combination. Our cities were pedestrian friendly but not anymore 😢.
Hi Frank. They are great bikes and they do sound great. There was an era around the late 70s when popularity shifted to more cylinder’s and with them starting to dominate in the racing championships it was no surprise. Honda even went on to make the 6 cylinder CBX in 1978. I do feel like the trend of have 4+ cylinders started to reverse in the 90s with Ducati starting to dominate in the world superbikes. Thank you for watching our channel and thank you for leaving me a comment 👍
Frank, Having worked on the 'shop floor' in the British motorcycle industry (for a major British motorcycle company)in the late 1960s I can concur with your comment about poor management . e.g. All production 'bikes were road-tested before being signed off as ready for sale (a good thing). For some unknown reason (to us workers on the test and fault rectification side) some machines started coming through with oil porosity issues in the rocker-box area. The management's instructions to us were : Clean the relevant area, then smear Araldite epoxy glue on the affected area, then, when the epoxy had cured, overpaint it with silver paint to blend with the cast material !!! We workers , even if not keen 'bike riders, were horrified at this dishonest bodge, but if we wanted to retain our jobs and put food on our tables for our families, we had to 'put up and shut up ' ! .
Frank, I did a 'reply' but I must have forgotten to activate the 'Reply' button 'cos, my missive isn't attached now. Doh ! I'll try again : On the topic of incompetent management : In the late 60s / early 1970s I worked on the shop floor for a well known UK name (manufacturer) in the motorcycle world. Each completed 'bike was road tested before being signed off as complete and ready for sale. For no reason I ever discovered, an oil porosity problem started to present itself in the rocker-box area on the cylinder head of some machines. As soon as the problem presented itself, the Test and Rectification Unit notified the Parent Factory Quality Control Dept. The instruction came down from On High: Clean the area and then apply Araldite epoxy glue over the porosity site and once the Araldite has cured, paint with silver paint (to blend with the surrounding metal ) ! The shop floor workers who knew about this 'bodge' repair (and were mostly bike enthusiasts, if not 'bike riders) were horrified at the instruction, but with families to feed and rent to pay etc, there was no viable option but to comply (Put up and Shut Up !). (Any adverse publicity would most probably have ended all our jobs, certainly at our remote outpost, and the company folded there and then). To my knowledge, the faulty casting problem was never resolved. And some people blame the Japanese for the failure of UK motorcycle production ? !!! . Now to tap the 'Reply' button.
Thanks for the video. Although I think for some it is sacrilege question, I am between this and a mega scooter, TMAX 300. What should I get mostly for 2 persons commuting ?
Hi Angelos. I think it would be easier to commute on an automatic scooter, especially 2 up. I think the Royal Enfield would be more fuel efficient because it can pull from a low RPM. Dare I say that the Royal Enfield would make the commute more enjoyable because it’s go so much character to it. I hope this has helped in some way and good luck with your bike hunting. Thank you for watching and for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Geoff. If you want a bike that feels and rides like a genuine 1960s classic, but you could happily ride every day, in all conditions and run on E10 unleaded. Then this is the bike for you. If it doesn't have enough performance for you then it just isn't the right bike for you. Thank you for watching our channel and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Stuart. Thank you for watching our video, leaving us a comment and subscribing. It is really appreciated. You’re definitely not late to the game, our channel has only been going for a couple of years and we’ve got loads more videos to come. I hope you enjoy them. Thank you 👍
I got mine for much less than £4000, just got to find the right retailer 😉. Great bike I’m chuffed to bits 😊 and what a great review, you did it credit sir.
Hi Adam. Yeah, I saw that you could get them cheaper but I thought it was best to just quote the recommended retail price. Still a mega bike for 4k though, even cheaper is even better. Thanks for watching my video and for leaving us such a great comment 👍
nice review... but one issue, your video lags alot.. and let me be clear i have super fast wifi and a top end laptop.. i think its some buffering or bitrate issue on your videos.. anyways superb job
Hi Subodh. Thank you for letting me know, I have asked a few people to check it for lag issues and we haven’t had anyone else have a problem. It is possible some technical issues with RU-vid. Thank you for watching my video even with it not running seamlessly and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I wrote a long comment that seems to have been deleted. You mentioned it had similar power to a 125 several times, it doesn’t. It has twice as much as a ybr125, 70% more than a Cbr 125 and 25% more than the most powerful 125s on the legal limit. This combined with almost 2 and half times the torque of the most powerful 125s it’s very different, as you mentioned. It was one of if not the best selling “proper”motorcycles in 2022 so gladly not overlooked.
Hi Kfkwal7. We’ve not deleted any comments although some comments are held for review by RU-vid, which we have not yet checked. With this bike having a claimed 20hp and it running 17bhp on a dyno id say it is very similar to a 125 when they put out anything between 14bhp as a 4stroke and the de restricted 2strokes putting out over 25bhp. The video has purposefully focused on getting viewers to disregard the HP in favour of its Torque, which is what makes the bike so rideable. I think the main reason it is overlooked here in the uk is because as a learner you are allowed a 125, but moving up one category of license allows you to ride bigger more powerful machines. Leaving the 350 somewhere in between. Thank you for watching our video and we appreciate any comments from all bikers with a wide range of opinions. 👍
Had my yellow & black " bimbling bumble " ( complete with cartoon bee sticker ) as commuter for 16 months , after 11,000 miles no problems , but motorways were a no no . sadly p/x for an Honda ADV350 , twist and go , go , go , i do miss coming down through the gears for a tight corner though . 2 guzzis are now even less used
Hi Colin. We have got a couple of Moto Guzzi's and they are full of character just like this 350 is. I think that when we look at getting a bike, it is often about what it can or can't do, but we often don't consider the character of it's got. It's always the bikes with character that I have fond memories of. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi CrazyLegs. I thought you might be up that way, some lovely roads around there, and cafe’s 😄. We got a ride out round Derbyshire planned on the 13th April, finishing at our Derbyshire store for cake and coffee. Hopefully you’ll be able to make it? Thanks for watching my video and thanks for commenting 👍
It's a great bike with a brilliant engine, I've got the Classic 350 ,I ride it more than my other bikes, it's so pleasant to ride, at the moment you can get the Meteor for 2,999 plus on the road charges. Absolute bargain! 👌 Great review 👏 Cheers Mel 🍻
Hi Mel. There have been a lot of Royal Enfield 350 owners leaving comments on here and they are nothing but positive and there is no better representation of what a bike is like than the feedback from its owners. The only negatives are coming from people who clearly haven’t ridden one. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
@@mymoto-uk yes, the main whinge from the nay sayers is it's only got twenty horse power , to which I reply ignore the numbers just ride it ,the feeling and connection with the bike contradicts what's on paper! 🙌👍 paper?..is that even a thing these days? 😂😂.
I went out on my mz earlier today. I was almost grateful that it was "only" drizzling. You can have the best bike in the world, its always gonna be a miserable ride if the weather's horrible.
Hi Tom. Riding in all weathers isn’t for everyone and there are some of my bikes that never see a drop of rain. But, I think you can still have an enjoyable ride if you get the right kit so that you stay warm and dry. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
@@mymoto-uk _Some_ of your bikes? My bike's a Jawa 350 and not interested in riding anything else cuz I love it so much. I also have a little MZ ts125 but that's just back-up. Without bragging, I could buy a three grand fazer thou any time like but I don't wanna know. I'm a Jawa man.
Hi Deadhands. Funnily enough, it is actually quite a big tank. The whole bike looks bigger than it's capacity, other than the with of the back wheel, which makes it look like a 350. It is something I think would grow on you and having a big tank is a bonus if you're doing any long distance trips. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I love my vintage BSA C-15 250 singles in both street and dirt versions. 25 HP and 100 lbs lighter. No electronics waiting to have a expensive failure. Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2.😢
Hi Frank. I have also got a BSA C15 and this bike really had a sound like it. I think the HNTR 350 would make a great little retro green laning bike with a few simple modifications.
@@mymoto-uk if you have a C-15 250 why buy the RE 350.? I have 4 in both street and dirt versions. If you are going to buy a RE. 350 get a used one with low mileage and a cheap price.
I’d get the RE as a commuter. I’ve got another video coming out soon on how much it saves me if I use it to commute and even though I knew what to expect, it still blew me away.
@@mymoto-uk The valve adjustment is a pain. The chain and sprockets replacement costs money. I just do fluids and filter. Hydraulic valve adjustment and belt drive is so much better and cheaper per mile.
@@mymoto-uk Chain drive is expensive per mile cost. With lubing& cleaning as well as replacement costs. It was designed with manual valve adjustment so riders had to do it themselves or pay the dealer to do it for them. A built-in money maker for the dealers. Once the bike is out of warranty watch the electronics start failing expensively. ABS costs almost $2,400 to fix. Most people disable it instead of fixing it. What costs 2 pounds to make in India costs 100 pounds per hour to fix in the UK.
Hi UserRD. They aren’t needs as much as people think, but they can be handy to have. For instance, the ZX7R’s that I own are renowned for having a flat spot in the rev range. In that situation I find that if I’m tootling along, I’ll generally be under the flat spot and if I want to overtake or pick up the pace, I’ll be above the flat spot. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Allan. We are very fortunate to have some great contacts in the industry who we do our best to look after and they look after us. Thanks for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
What a lovely review. Potential first time buyer here, and I have looked at this bike for months. The reviews really are all so different. Some who focus on the lack of power, and some even deem it unsafe at times because of this. Others absolutely love it and can't speak highly enough. I guess the message I got here was to know what to expect from it. If you want a quick off the mark bike, then get something else. If you want a sunday rider to explore the backroads and get some fresh air, then it is for you. Would you recommend it for something to get into touring? My dream is to get a bigger bike one day and ride around Europe, etc. Thanks for the great review. I love the jacket as well! Keep up the great work 👍🙏🏻
Hi user-ql. You could tour the uk on it if you were purely sticking to A and B roads. It can handle a short run on a motorway or duel carriageway but it feels like you’re over revving it if you do. I think that a twin cylinder 500 would be the least you want for comfortable motorway mileage. If you are thinking about getting one then it’s well worth a test ride. Thank you for watching our review and we really appreciate you leaving such a great comment for us. 👍
Should have tried Bamford Clough. Now thats the steepest road in Derbyshire. Only a few miles away from winnants pass. Would be impressed if the meteor got up there!!
Hi Crossers. I did notice that a road down in hope valley had recently been tarmacked and claimed to now be the steepest but I wasn't sure if it was open to motor vehicles. I'm guessing that is Bamford Clough?? Next time I get a small bike to test I'll head over and try it out. Thank you for watching the video and thanks for tipping me off about Bamford Clough 👍
Hi Charles. I can definitely recommend the Meteor 350. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to ride a Himalayan for a future video. Given how good this meteor was, I can imagine that the Himalayan is a great bike. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Royal Enfield bikes take 1'200 miles to run in and loosen up properly, test bikes don't have enough miles on them to reveal the bikes true capabilities.
Hi Suscom. I would say that the difference between how a new bike and a run in bike performs, is barely the equivalent to a couple of extra CC’s. The main point is that these Royal Enfields are great bikes. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I'm just short of 25,000kms on mine and still loving every minute. It's been absolutely fault free to date. Mine averages about 100mpg (UK gallons) and I got 20,000kms on the original tyres, which were just as grippy as the Bridgestones I have on now. I have kept on top of chain maintenance and the original chain is still in good order. I agree with you about the motorway performance - it's definitely not that, but here in New Zealand the speed limit is a strictly enforced 100kph (62mph) so it's a fairly realistic mini cruiser here. The bike is vastly improved with a larger gearbox sprocket, 'decat' mod and performance air filter, all of which can be installed easily and are off the shelf from Hitchcock's. Although it's made in India, the design, development and prototyping are done in the UK so it's as English as it is Indian really. A couple of corrections: There is indeed a speed limiter on the bike which is set at ~75mph. I'm told that early test bikes in the UK would do nearly 90mph without the limiter. The British bike industry wasn't beaten by the Japanese. When BSA/Triumph went broke they had full order books! So, the Japs never took away their market. Instead, they collapsed due to short term cashflow problems which requires an economics dissertation to understand and which I won't bore you with. Suffice to say that it was essentially an own goal.
Hi Andrew. Reading through the comments on here, it seems like de-catting and a change of sprockets can vastly improve the bikes ride-ability. Which was already pretty good. Like I said in the video though, if someone was complaining that the bike isn’t fast enough then it’s just the wrong bike for them and no fault of the bike. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Kim. If you are looking for an easy bike to ride, that's comfortable and great on tight twisty country roads, then this is a perfect bike. It was such a joy to ride and it almost had a calming influence because it was so happy to just plod along with a beautiful single cylinder soundtrack to go with it. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment. 👍
If we are going to be very very honest at 71 years young I think I can speak my mind without getting blown out of the water ??? If you are old in mind they will fit If you just want to trundle about they will fit If you do not like speed in anyway at all they will fit If you do not want weight they will fit BUT AND A BIG BUT If you like a bit of style they will not fit if you want to blast past a few cars in safety they will not fit Hope at this point you get where I am coming from ??? So in other words if you have a sports bike for those days when you want a real blast then this bike will do but please please don't tell me this is the only bike to own and you will be happy because if so you are not a biker with biker blood you just ride bikes and thats just fine but not for me !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Alan. I think you bare right that if you are looking to trundle around country roads in comfort then this is the bike for you. You are also right that if you are wanting to fly past other traffic in the same way a sports bike could then this definitely isn't a bike for you. But his bike has plenty of style and if it does what you want from your bike then it's perfect. Regardless of whether you are riding trials bikes at walking speed or racing round the isle of man, anyone who gets out on a bike and enjoys the ride is has got "biker blood" in them. Thank you for watching our video and thank you for leaving us a comment, we appreciate all of our followers and their wide range of opinions. 👍
Hi Wallyman. That is very true. Hopefully I got that across in the video so that people understand the Royal Enfield 350 engines a bit better. Thank you for watching and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Tsingtaoist. Yes, it was over Holme Moss, down Woodhead Pass and then cutting across the reservoir at the top and down Woodhead Road to Glossop. They are a great bike and if you are thinking of getting one then I would definitely recommend having a test ride on one. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment. 👍
Hi positiveandoptimistic. I’m glad you enjoyed it, there are some great roads with great scenery around the Peak District. Thank you for watching and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
I really like this bike, just getting back in motorcycling...I live in western Canada and this bike is $6500.00 canadian dollars. Too much for me for this bike, and the fact that they are now made in India...
Martin, Don't let the place of manufacture deter your interest. I'm a pensioner that, many years ago, worked in the UK motorcycle industry, prior to that I served an engineering apprenticeship. I've had many 'bikes over the years, and, even excluding the bargain Royal Enfield new cost of purchase element, Enfields are a very soundly put together machine (to withstand the rigours of use on the rough roads/tracks in their Country of manufacture). Yes, it is possible to identify some areas where manufacture has been kept down to a price, but there are now a number of You Tube videos that evidence how well the Royal Enfields stand the test of time. Many well known motorcycle brands now sub-contract manufacture to eastern countries. I've owned several Triumph Bonnevilles, and they are made in Thailand, to give just one example. On the topic of cost of purchase ..... Because the initial purchase price of a new Royal Enfield is extremely competative, this has a knock-on 'lowering' effect on the purchase price of a 'pre-owned' machine.
Hi Martin. It is a fantastic bike and worth way more than what they are charging for it here in the uk. I think, like I mentioned in the video, the fact it’s made in India is the only reason we still have Royal Enfield. Had it been left in the uk I’m sure it would have ended up going bust before someone bought the name to turn into a quirky clothing brand. If you have been looking at them it is worth taking one out on a test ride, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Niall. I didn't know about Kirkstone pass until I read your comment. It has a maximum gradient of 24% to Winnats pass' 28%, but it is a lot longer climb and it definitely has better scenery. I can see why it is on your bucket list to cycle up, although even on google street view their are cyclists walking up it 😄. I think it will be on my list for possible hill climb tests in the future. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi hello first time watching one of your videos and all I can say is wow what a great lovely video I own a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and I am loving it on a 22 plate but that was it really entertaining video brilliant nice one well impressed
I really enjoyed watching this video, lovely countryside despite the weather being lousy. The camera you are using is great for the different camera angles. Interesting you mention cables, they could be intensionally longer to cater for handlebar risers.
Hi Quentin. That is a very good point. They would certainly allow you to change the type of handlebars. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving ma such a kind comment. 👍
Hi Jez. Yes, everyone has said it's limited. When you are riding it, it feels more like it just runs out of power, rather than hitting a limiter. When I rode the 125 ninja in an earlier video, it got to 73 and then cut out and dropped at least 3mph before it got going again. Thank you for watching our video and thank you for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Team-Fabulous. It was Royal Enfield that offered it to me when I asked them which of their bikes they thought was the most overlooked. If it is overlooked then it should definitely not be because it is a great bike. The only reason I think it could be overlooked is because it’s engine is too big for a learner and small in comparison with other A2 licences eligible bikes. Do you own a royal enfield, what do you think of them? Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
@@mymoto-uk iv a collection of bikes from superbikes to a honda c90. Iv two RE, a 500 bullet and a 350 meteor. Bags of character and smiles per miles. Keep the videos coming 👍👍😃😃
Hi Bob. You won't be disappointed, It's a great bike. It is also one of the easiest bikes to ride that I've ever been on, which is perfect for anyone who has just passed their test. Good luck with your test and your new Royal Enfield. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Very much enjoyed your review and the scenery.Got back into riding as a 70 yr old after a thirty year lay off so got myself a Meteor after riding much bigger bikes when I was younger .Just wanted something to potter around the backroads , country lanes ,commute to work which it’s ideal for.3,000 miles later still love it .Only major gripe is the rear suspension .The state of the roads where I live is so much worse than I remember and no matter how I adjust it bumps are a literal pain in the arse .Bought myself an inflatable seat pad which helps to cushion the ride.Interesting what you were saying about the cables.Mine were too tight , initially couldn’t full lock right without revving the engine !
Hi Kipa_chu. They are available in the UK. By saying that they are overlooked, I mean that they are way better than you might think if you just looked at the specs on them. I think it's an incredible bike for the price and the next video we are doing on it is really going to highlight that. Thank you for watching our video all the way from India. I hope you enjoyed it and thank you for leaving us a comment 👍
Royal Enfield in name only, this is another example of a once great British marque being hijacked by "johnny foreigners". People buy these not for the nostalgia first but because they are cheaper than a real bikers bike. Wait until you want to do a part ex. with one of these you will only be offered pennies....
Hardly hijacked, Enfield India was set up by Royal Enfield UK and Madras Motors years before Royal Enfield UK closed down, It simply outlived its parent company.
You have no idea, do you? RE India was set up by RE to supply Bullet bikes to the Indian military in the 1940's, using the original tooling from the factory in Redditch. Whilst the British parent company withered away the Indian offshoot remained in business and continues to produce bullet models to the present day. Mine does 70 miles a day, five days a week on B roads and motorway, all year round. Two and a half years old, 35,000 miles and no problems.
Hi Auldflyer. I was hoping to clarify that it was the original uk Royal Enfield company that set up a manufacturing plant in India and I think they did well to keep that going through into the 90s when they had long since stopped production in the uk it’s self. I learned a lot about Royal Enfield during the making of this and it’s well worth looking into, they are doing a great job and really giving the Brand a bright future. Thanks for watching my video and thank you for leaving me a comment 👍
At 3 years old they book at around 50% of original rrp, taking into account you lose the vat straight away sorry your comment doesn’t old up. How old are you?
Hi Meditatewithme. Yes, a few people have said that now. I wasn’t aware of it but it certainly explains why they performed so well. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Motorizedstuff. It’s the latest out of Royal Enfield’s 350’s. It’s really surprising how good it is when they are only charging £4000 for them brand new. Thank you for watching our video and thanks for leaving us some comments 👍
a great review and thanks for that. I started with the Meteor 350 and loved it. I now that the super Meteor 650 and love that too. The only reason I upgraded was the fact that here is Australia riding on motorways cant be avoided when travelling huge distances and the 650 is better for that.
We have the same issue in the western U.S. For example, to get from Reno, NV to the next town 35 mi. east and avoid the interstate completely, you need to go 60 mi. on a northern route or 80 miles on a southern one. An odyssey on a 90, an adventure on a 125 and a cautious day trip on the Meteor.
Hi Chris. I can imagine there are some huge distances you can travel in Australia and that would definitely be better on the 650. I haven't had a go on a 650 yet but I can imagine that it is just as comfortable as the 350. It is great to hear feed back from owners of these bikes, they definitely have a very strong following. Thank you for watching my video and thanks for leaving me a comment 👍
Hi Mark. We have lots of old road networks here in the UK, which are perfect for the 350. I am sure the 650 would be a much better bike for the U.S and it is probably still considered a small bike at that, over there. It is amazing to have you in the U.S and Chris in Australia leaving us comments on our video. It is very humbling and we are so appreciative of you both. Thank you for watching 👍
Hi Chewitt. I have had a bit of feed back from our viewers and so I am going to try and reduce the amount of background music and also make it a bit quieter. I really appreciate you watching our video and thank you for giving us some feedback. We are a community led channel and store, so any feed back we get from our followers is greatly appreciated. Thank you 👍
@@mymoto-ukI very much enjoyed the music but music is such a matter of personal taste so not everyone’s going to feel the same way.Probably best to make it less intrusive .
Sound balance was not good so had difficulty in hearing what you were saying when riding. Also music too loud and too intrusive. Shame really as I'm interested in these bikes and I like the presenter. Thumbs down for this one 😞 sorry
Hi Michael. Yes, I realised that the sound of the bike and the background music where too loud in places. I've made some improvements on the in helmet audio, so hopefully our future videos will be a bit clearer for you. Thank you for watching and giving us some valuable feed back. We are all about our community of followers and creating content they they like to see so any feed back is always welcome. Thank you 👍
