Discussions and Questions Royal Enfield - Page 7
Is Maintenance and Reliability a deal breaker with the Thunderbird 350X in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
Face it, nobody buys an old RE for its reliability. It’s about the experience, and the character. If maintenance is a concern, you’re probably better off with a Japanese bike.
Is Maintenance and Reliability a deal breaker with the Thunderbird 350X in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
I haven't had many problems with the Thunderbird and it has 50,000 km on it. It comes down to treating the bike properly. It goes a long way to have regular oil changes and basic maintenance.
The Thunderbird 350X, is it really worth the nostalgia factor in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
If you’re into the classic RE vibe, it’s absolutely worth it. It’s not the smoothest ride out there, but that’s part of the fun. It lacks modern bells and whistles, but the thumping engine note and head turning looks more than make up for it.
The Thunderbird 350X, is it really worth the nostalgia factor in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
Nah, it's time to move on. Longer rides are a real pain with the vibrations and the lack of ABS is a safety concern. If you want the feel of the RE then something like the Meteor is better.
The Thunderbird 350X, is it really worth the nostalgia factor in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
That depends on what you want. Probably not the best choice if you want a reliable daily commuter. Yet the Thunderbird's character makes it hard to beat for weekend rides and the odd tour. So be prepared to be wrenching on it yourself.
The Thunderbird 350X, is it really worth the nostalgia factor in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
Even so, I’d say it’s still worth considering, given that you can find a well maintained one. In fact, the simplicity of the bike is a plus point - fewer electronics to go wrong. Now, let’s be honest, there is nothing quite like that RE thump.
The Thunderbird 350X, is it really worth the nostalgia factor in 2025?
13 January 2025 09:56
I'd say look elsewhere; I was a former Thunderbird owner. When you’re dealing with constant niggles and vibration fatigue, the nostalgia wears off pretty quick. There are so many more performance and comfort aspects of a modern bike.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
If you’re not in a hurry it’s still a solid touring option. It's a great long haul machine with its relaxed riding position and comfortable seat. Just be ready for more fuel stops.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
I wouldn't suggest for serious touring. Even long rides become tiring, thanks to the lack of wind protection and cruise control. And after a few hours, those vibrations really wear you down.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
The whole thing is a journey, not a destination. The Thunderbird may not be the quickest or the most advanced, but it’s dripping with personality. There is nothing like cruising down an open highway on a thumper.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
For shorter tours, it's fine. For multi day trips something more modern is better. Limitations are real: small fuel tank, no luggage.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
I’ve done a couple of long tours on my Thunderbird and it’s been great. Yes, it's not as refined as the newer bikes, but if something were to go wrong it's easy and reliable to fix. If you don’t want to, just invest in some good aftermarket accessories.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
The Thunderbird is all about the experience, not so much in the practical sense of it. It's perfect if you're the slow type that likes to enjoy the scenery. However, if you want to travel long distances quickly, it probably isn't for you.
In 2025, how does the Thunderbird 350X fare for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 09:56
It all depends on what you want to expect. If you come from a modern tourer, you will miss something. If you think of it right, though, it can be a rewarding experience. So be prepared for a more 'analog' touring experience.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
Upgrading to a Corbin seat is the best mod I’ve done. It totally changed the comfort level on long rides. It's expensive, but definitely worth it for touring.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
I put a small flyscreen on and it made a world of difference to wind protection without spoiling the look of the bike. No more buffeting at highway speeds was one of the benefits.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
I swapped the stock exhaust for a Remus slip on, the stock exhaust is pretty quiet. Now the sound is much better and I swear I can feel a bit more pep in the engine.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
In fact, just changing the handlebar grips made a big difference. I chose some chunkier, softer grips and it really helped cut down on vibration and make it more comfortable.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
For night vision, I installed some auxiliary lights. Not only does it look cool, but it makes me feel safer on dark roads.
What modification or accessory have you put on your Super Meteor 650 that makes it better?
13 January 2025 09:38
I think the best 'mod' I ever did was just getting the suspension preload correct for my weight. It's free and the handling and comfort difference is night and day.
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