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Royal Enfield 500 Classic reviews

4.3 (6 reviews)
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Reliability
4.3
Overall quality
4.3
Performance
4.3
Comfort
4.3

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6 ratings and reviews

Voted most helpful review

Wayne

Lake City, South Carolina

Reviewed on January 15, 2009

Motorcycle reviewed 2006 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

5.0
I got my Classic about one month ago and recently completed the break-in oil changes. I have to put this bike into perspective before rating: It's a step back in time, so a reference has to be in such a manner. My other bike is a Suzuki with a drive shaft and plenty of modern features. On the other hand, the ... read more
I got my Classic about one month ago and recently completed the break-in oil changes. I have to put this bike into perspective before rating: It's a step back in time, so a reference has to be in such a manner. My other bike is a Suzuki with a drive shaft and plenty of modern features. On the other hand, the RE is a new mindset that pushes me into the relaxation of truly enjoying the ride. It's not very quick from start, so it takes patience to get up to speed. I get plenty o' looks from other riders, especially Harley people. I get stopped constantly by people who want to talk about my Classic. I mean from everybody - even those you would not expect to be a rider. With all the emotional hype aside, the bike is good and dependable. I had to get used to simply feeling the shifter: you don't have to shift hard at all. It was an adjustment at first because the shifting was tricky. Turns out to require only a gentle touch with a little feel. The bike is a breeze to control while steering in a parking lot or other tight spaces. I plan to take it into the mountains of NC soon and will see how it handles in curves and varying hills. I also (surprisingly) like the seat height. I see SUV drivers at eye level and see upcoming surroundings with ease. This makes me feel safe because I feel that I am more visible.
Reliability
5.0
Quality
5.0
Performance
5.0
Comfort
5.0
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Voted most helpful review

Adam

Middleburg, Florida

Reviewed on July 20, 2007

Motorcycle reviewed 2006 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

4.0
Just wanted to give an updated review. I've got 500 miles on the bike now and it's been pretty enjoyable and fun. No major mechanical issues except a wire that came loose and caused some frequent stops for a day or so trying to figure out why the motor kept shutting off. I was able to take care of it prett... read more
Just wanted to give an updated review. I've got 500 miles on the bike now and it's been pretty enjoyable and fun. No major mechanical issues except a wire that came loose and caused some frequent stops for a day or so trying to figure out why the motor kept shutting off. I was able to take care of it pretty quickly myself without having to take her into the shop....which is the wonderful thing about these bikes. They are so simple that as long as you have taken care of them and done your preventative maintenance, if anything does act up chances are it is nothing major and can be taken care of yourself pretty easily. Still, if you are looking for 75mph+ speeds, look elsewhere. You'll just tear up an Enfield in it's stock form. But for 50mph or so cruising it sure is fun!!! You will be surprised at the number of folks who stop and talk to you about it.
Reliability
4.0
Quality
4.0
Performance
4.0
Comfort
4.0
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Voted most helpful review

Adam

Middleburg, Florida

Reviewed on June 23, 2007

Motorcycle reviewed 2006 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

4.0
First off, I've rated it as a 4 star just because that's what it seems to have earned so far. If my opinion changes I'll let you know. Now, I've only got 70 miles on it but I am pretty pleased. Over all workmanship seems pretty good. As good or better than several Japanese models I looked at. Sounds like a... read more
First off, I've rated it as a 4 star just because that's what it seems to have earned so far. If my opinion changes I'll let you know. Now, I've only got 70 miles on it but I am pretty pleased. Over all workmanship seems pretty good. As good or better than several Japanese models I looked at. Sounds like a RE, and runs real smooth. Starts with the push of a button and usually on the first try with the kick starter. It's pretty comfortable all things considered. I'm a tall guy and I don't feel cramped or uncomfortable. Granted I haven't taken any long runs. I haven't had it over 50 mph yet just because I plan on breaking it in nice and slow and the roads I travel to work on are 45mph anyway. But it cruises nicely and seems to have some good bottom end. I don't think this would be a bike for someone wanting speed and intersate highway commuting and what-not but for cruising the backroads it's a good choice IMO.
Reliability
4.0
Quality
4.0
Performance
4.0
Comfort
4.0
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Voted most helpful review

Tim Frigon

Chandler, Arizona

Reviewed on October 12, 2003

Motorcycle reviewed 2002 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

4.0
Anyone who's reading this knows a little about this bike already. It's made in India in the same factory with the same techniques they used when starting production in 1955. The newest versions have a higher output alternator and electric starting to go with the kick starter. The bike is slow by modern sta... read more
Anyone who's reading this knows a little about this bike already. It's made in India in the same factory with the same techniques they used when starting production in 1955. The newest versions have a higher output alternator and electric starting to go with the kick starter. The bike is slow by modern standards, with 55 mph as the upper comfort limit. The engine is stone simple, but does require some maintenance (just like the good old days). You can learn how to gap points, set timing, adjust brakes, adjust valve lash, adjust the clutch, and all that fun stuff. I've got almost 1000 miles on my 2003, and have been averaging 72 mpg so far. I've had some trouble with the forks leaking from the top, and the dealer is on their second attempt at fixing it. As delivered, the front hub was also out of round, causing pulsing of the front brake, but that was fixed under warranty. It's a true classic, with all the advantages and warts included. If you're a "real" motorcyclist, and don't mind turning a wrench as much as you enjoy putting along, then you'll love it. If you want a "hit the key and go" modern type bike, spend a whole lot more money and get one of the modern Japanese bikes or the Triumph Bonneville. This one's the real deal, classic wise.
Reliability
4.0
Quality
4.0
Performance
4.0
Comfort
4.0
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Voted most helpful review

Matt Miller

Lafayette, Louisiana

Reviewed on April 7, 2003

Motorcycle reviewed 2002 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

5.0
Ok, so mine is a 2000 and not a 2002. However, it is the EXACT same in every way. In fact, 99% of this motorcycle is the exact same as the 1956 model. It is built using the same technology, processes, and materials, by hand, as the 1956 model. This is a modern-made, vintage classic bike. It is British, but is... read more
Ok, so mine is a 2000 and not a 2002. However, it is the EXACT same in every way. In fact, 99% of this motorcycle is the exact same as the 1956 model. It is built using the same technology, processes, and materials, by hand, as the 1956 model. This is a modern-made, vintage classic bike. It is British, but is now made only in India. For the true motorcycle enthusiast, you will be thrilled with this gem. For the average pleasure-rider, you may go insans. This very simple engine requires regular maintenance, and you should do it yourself. It can all be done with simple tools, but requires some effort. Nothing on the bike is that complicated, and the average man can really learn alot about mechanics and engines through the Enfield. It is a true joy to ride, with the literal feel of a classic 1950s bike. It handles beautifully, and there are countless modifications and accessories you can add. This bike is NOt for the casual rider who prefers no maintenance, or who does not know much about his bike. Hint -- if you have never taken apart your carburettor, for example, then this is not the bike for you. Go Japanese. However, for the person who really wants to be one with his bike, and who is interested in performing minor and major maintenance and repairs himself, and who appreciate a true classic, this is a true pleasure to own and ride. I would highly recommend for anyone who is serious about motorcylcles.
Reliability
5.0
Quality
5.0
Performance
5.0
Comfort
5.0
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Voted most helpful review

X X

Indianapolis, Indiana

Reviewed on September 8, 2002

Motorcycle reviewed 2002 Royal Enfield 500 Classic view listing

4.0
A simple bike with lots of character. I get comments EVERY time I ride it. Always lots of fun. However, needs frequent maintainance that can be done at home. Not very fast... it won't make it on the interstate. Plan to spend some $ on much needed accessories.... read more
A simple bike with lots of character. I get comments EVERY time I ride it. Always lots of fun. However, needs frequent maintainance that can be done at home. Not very fast... it won't make it on the interstate. Plan to spend some $ on much needed accessories.
Reliability
4.0
Quality
4.0
Performance
4.0
Comfort
4.0
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