Discussions and Questions Royal Enfield - Page 8
How is the Interceptor 350 made for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 06:36
The Interceptor 350 has been great, I've done a few 500+ mile trips and it's been great! I am comfortable all day in the upright seating position. All you need to do is add a windscreen and some soft luggage and you’re ready to roll.
Is the Interceptor 650 a really good daily commuter?
10 January 2025 12:29
It's been over a year that I've been daily riding my Interceptor, and to be honest, it's been great. It has a super smooth engine, an upright comfortable position, and handles city traffic like a champ. It’s a bit heavy, but you get used to it after a bit. It's not an amazing fuel efficiency, but it's not terrible. I'd say go for it!
How does the Interceptor 650 fare as a two-up tourer?
10 January 2025 12:29
I've tried it stock and modified and I'd say it's decent but not great for two up. The bigger issue for me is that there aren't luggage options. If you’re riding with a passenger, you probably are going to want some stuff, and the Interceptor is pretty limited in that department without some serious customization.
Are the reliability worries about the Interceptor 650 overblown?
10 January 2025 12:29
I haven’t had any catastrophic issues, but I’ve certainly had more niggling problems with my Interceptor than I would expect from a new bike. The odd false neutral, little electrical gremlins, things like that. It isn't unreliable in itself, but it isn't quite as bulletproof as some people would have you believe.
How versatile is the Interceptor 650 compared to retro styled bikes?
10 January 2025 12:29
There are lots of parts but the Interceptor seems somewhat limited compared to something like a Triumph Bonneville. Some more radical changes are restricted by frame geometry, and performance mods don’t appear to provide as much benefit. While it is good for light customization, it is not good for full blown overhauls.
Do people really mean what they say about the Interceptor 650 being beginner friendly?
10 January 2025 12:29
For a first bike, I wouldn't recommend the Interceptor as a first bike, as someone who teaches new riders. As you can see, it’s too heavy for many beginners to feel confident with, particularly when moving slowly or picking up. What's more, some models lack ABS. For learning, there are better, lighter options out there.
Will the Hunter 450 get modern amenities like ride by wire and riding modes?
10 January 2025 12:20
I hope they keep it simple. What I like about the Hunter is its back to basics charm. That could be ruined by adding too much tech.
Will the Hunter 450 cannibalize sales of the 350 model?
10 January 2025 12:20
I do not think it will cannibalize sales much. Newer riders and those on a budget will still reach for the 350. For more experienced riders looking for a bit more oomph, the 450 will probably be their preferred ride.
How will the suspension of the Hunter 450 compare to the 350?
10 January 2025 12:20
It's going to be a compromise, I would guess. A bit softer than the 350 for comfort’s sake, but not too plush for sharp handling. Thicker fork tubes and a better rear shock maybe.
How much power will the Hunter 450 have for highway use?
10 January 2025 12:20
Depends on what you mean by "highway use." Yeah, for short jaunts between cities. If you’re taking long interstate trips, maybe something bigger would be better.
How will the Hunter 450 price relative to competitors?
10 January 2025 12:20
They will price it premium I think, around 2.6 to 2.7 lakh. People will pay for the bigger engine and the RE badge and the Hunter brand is strong.
How does the Hunter 350’s pillion comfort fare in its segment?
10 January 2025 12:16
It's better than I expected. In fact, the compact size actually makes it easier for my wife to get on and off than larger bikes. We've gone a couple 2 hour rides without issue.
Should new riders consider the Hunter 350, or are there better options in the market?
10 January 2025 12:16
If you want something, it depends. The Hunter's a nice bike if you're looking at the RE experience without the bulk of their other Bikes. If you need just a simple commuter, there are cheaper options.
Is the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 really worth all the hype or is it just another overhyped Royal Enfield?
10 January 2025 12:16
I am a long time RE fan, and so I was a bit skeptical at first. I get it now, though, after riding my friend's Hunter. It’s not perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction for the brand. If you understand what RE is doing here, the hype is justified.
One thing that wasn’t obvious until you ran into a few people who had owned one of the Hunter 350 is that, even with Royal Enfield’s notorious recent reliability then and consistent records now, the new Hunter seems even worse.
10 January 2025 12:16
It’s reliable if you stay on top of maintenance, I think. I’ve seen a lot of the issues from people not riding according to the service schedule or pushing the bike too hard too soon before the break in period is completed.
Is the Hunter 350's lighter weight and nimble handling somehow a trade off of the classic Royal Enfield 'feel' that we're used to?
10 January 2025 12:16
It's just different 'feel' but not necessarily worse. I think it's more playful and less intimidating, and will attract new riders to the brand. It's still got RE DNA, just evolved.
Will the Bobber 838 cut into sales of the 650 twins?
09 January 2025 11:03
In fact, it may increase 650 sales. When people see the price difference between the Bobber and the Interceptor, they will come for the Bobber and leave with an Interceptor.
Can the Bobber 838 take on established cruiser brands?
09 January 2025 11:03
It’s not about competing face to face. Riders who want something different will find their own niche in the Bobber.
Is the Bobber 838 style girder fork all style and no substance?
09 January 2025 11:03
You don't know till you try it. Girder forks can be a great source of stability and braking dive reduction.
Is the Bobber 838 a turning point for Royal Enfield’s reputation?
09 January 2025 11:03
Diversification is a smart move, but don’t forget where you came from. The Bullets and the Classics have to coexist with the Bobber.
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