It would be so easy to turn the Hunter into a café bike, but I do wish they would offer it as a 500cc single.
@captainklutz3427
Жыл бұрын
Or even a nice big soft single like the old Yam XTZ660......or for some a more frentic KTM style engine?
@Myndi78
Жыл бұрын
Make it a 500cc 2stroke and TAKE MY MONEEEEEY 🤗
@kyakaruvlogs2784
Жыл бұрын
Hopefully a Hunter 450 will also be in the works
@m.n.d5949
Жыл бұрын
The interceptor 650 is something to consider if u want a 500 cc hunter as its got good feedback
@Myndi78
Жыл бұрын
@@m.n.d5949 yeah it seems really nice, it doesn't have a single cylinder engine though 😑
@nathanhenry.
Жыл бұрын
I can't wait to see what people do with this bike. RE said it was supposed to be easy to customize this bike.
@sissydreams7494
Жыл бұрын
I hope the Hunter 350 comes to the USA soon!
@Thunder_Bear_mg
Жыл бұрын
Probably April.
@oblivion_007
Жыл бұрын
No point in launching this puny bike in US
@wobblybobbly5901
7 ай бұрын
I just picked mine up! Hopefully you got yourself one
@easyier
Жыл бұрын
Coming soon "Stuart Uncle's customs" :)
@Lanes-Explorer5733
Жыл бұрын
Yes I agree, Stuart - as soon as I got mine I felt that it would become the basis for different styles. As I've been through that whole 'modded bike' thing in the 1960s I'm leaving mine exactly as it is because it's what I want for the riding I do. And the Hunter does it wonderfully well.
@ericweber1969
Жыл бұрын
Outstanding observations, Stu! The removable subframe is a great idea, and I agree, this will make a big difference for customization. Looking forward to seeing some customization magic from some of the pros! I think the Super Meteor will become a major platform for customization in the US, as it’s perfect as a starting point for builders who would have in the past used a Sportster or Bonneville. Lots of potential in all the Enfield machines for customization.
@cecildeville6950
Жыл бұрын
I purchased new, and rode a 1995 Triumph Thunderbird for about six years. Triumph at that time offered performance silencers, saddle bags, grab rails, chrome side panels, etc... . Considering my Thunderbird was a retro bike from a relatively new Triumph company, the factory offerings to improve and dress the bike up were actually surprisingly good. Otherwise I rode Harleys and Meriden Triumphs which allowed a whole plethora of aftermarket offerings. I now ride a RE Interceptor and changing it up is as easy as buying the parts and installing them.
@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555
Жыл бұрын
Be nice to see Hull with no A63 roadworks in this lifetime. 😁 Another good video, thank you.
@normangauld116
Жыл бұрын
I've never bothered customising any of the bikes I've had over the past 45 years. I'll change the seat if it makes a comfort difference, or add a rear carrier, top box or panniers to make it more practical but customisation for looks alone is lost on me. It's amazing what some people can create though, works of art really. Excellent. I prefer my bikes to blend in with the crowd, less likely to get pinched then... Sometimes, when a spot of rust appears on my chrome rims or exhausts, I leave it on just to annoy my OCD friends. It's really funny...
@garykyle5750
Жыл бұрын
Another great one. Would love to see an RE parts kit to turn this platform into a Continental GT just like the wonderfully historic 250 of 1965. Always look forward to your latest video. Great job of laying the historical background.
@grahamtricker4103
Жыл бұрын
Even straight out of the box the RE Hunter is a cracking motorcycle... 👍
@steveraynard5114
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for your well balanced and educated presentations on the Royal Enfield HNTR 350. Please keep producing excellent and informative videos.
@dickiedum
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video and a Happy New Year. I think Bobbers , flat trackers and Desert Sled are really popular currently. I think the Hunter has a lot of potential. Cheers, ride safe
@MrJulianneave
Жыл бұрын
Here in Australia there are plenty of no-name cafe racer type bikes of small capacity that people seem to buy. I could imagine the Hunter taking their sales, even if it was a bit more expensive.
@martinblizard1882
Жыл бұрын
Another good vid. thanks I have an itch to go back to a single, which where I started. Enfield is the way to go for me.
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
If you don't want to live in Oceania under a brother you could always emigrate to America. In the west we have to have big fast motorcycles because we have humongous distances. My home state of Florida is bigger than the UK. That is why we got all of the bigger export bikes like the 650s when the Home Market was restricted because all of the top-of-the-line motorcycles were exported.
@Warrior6504
Жыл бұрын
I think the 3 Royal Enfield 350s let’s people with one motorcycle have two, I have a 2022 Suzuki sv650 and would most definitely run the hunter 350 along side it. Great channel Stuart 👍🏻
@davidmacgregor5193
Жыл бұрын
Hello Stuart, The H-D Sportster is the king of customisable motorcycles, it was in production for 65 years and there are thousands of off the shelf customising parts available for the Sportster. There are also bolt on hardtail rear ends available for the Sportster if the owner wants a bobber look. It's easy to make a Sportster your own unique ride, there is a saying that the rarest motorcycle in the world is a stock Sportster. For decades, H-D themselves have been producing an aftermarket parts and accessories catalogue that is thicker than my bible. Good on Royal Enfield for producing custom parts for their motorcycles too, it means that their buyers can express themselves by customising their RE and putting their own personal stamp on it and making it their ride. Now that's something that we Sportster owners have been doing since 1957.
@stuartfillingham
Жыл бұрын
But they don't customize them as café racers do they. As a Harley café racer would look ridiculous!
@davidmacgregor5193
Жыл бұрын
@@stuartfillingham Hello again Stuart, I've seen several Harley Cafe Racer builds over the years. one was even a "Harlton" , with a Sportster motor in a Norton featherbed frame. Also don't forget that H-D produced their own Cafe Racer in 1977 in the form of the XLCR 1000, it was designed by Willie G Davidson in jet black livery with polished brass bar & shield badges on the tank. These European styled Harley's didn't appeal to American customers and only about 1120 examples were built during it's three year production run.
@themoog3889
Жыл бұрын
I think the current crop of "catalogue customs" are far classier than the slap a load of blue anodized bits on my bandit ! ( I did have one ) I love the way I've got my Interceptor , although it could do with some levers ( subtle hint Motone ) and a bit more black ! This Hunter I feel is going to be massive and with that removable rear end it must be ripe for a bobber kit ? If I end up ditching my car like I've got in mind it'd make an ideal commute bike .....now, where's that parts catalogue ??
@54macdog
Жыл бұрын
The Japanese used to make fantastic 350/400 machines. Now their offerings are el blando. Maybe the R3 cuts it but that sportsbike build would be off putting. RE have schooled them completely.
@denlsgoulden2307
Жыл бұрын
Probably too busy planning for the two wheeled milk float Revolution 🙄😐
@Thegeordiemonkey
Жыл бұрын
We need the GB350, its gorgeous and Honda will sell loads if its priced right, just need them to sell them in Europe.
@Commonsenseprevails23
Жыл бұрын
Honda released a cb400 hness which looks retro in India and I'm hoping they release it over here. Iv not ridden for ten years and getting my first bike in April. Been to look at an interceptor and fell in love with how it looked.
@paulpate6858
Жыл бұрын
My 1980 CB400T Hawk is wonderful. 400lb, 43hp, nimble, and comfortable. TBH, bikes really have not improved much.
@user-rf9me7xm1w
Жыл бұрын
The looks are not to everyone’s taste but the Yamaha MT03 runs rings around these offerings in terms of power, weight and proven reliability.
@KRAM-zb2vc
Жыл бұрын
brilliant video as always Stuart and I think your right, the 350 HNTR will be a default bike for customisation 👍
@carlarthur4442
7 ай бұрын
I remember in the 60s you could do anything you liked to customise your bike , one favourite was a Triton , could never afford one even now , trouble is i think theres a new law whwre you cant change a bike from its original manufacturers designe , and now the E U are thinking about stopping you from getting a vehicle fixed when it breaks , especially with cars , its another excuse to get you off the road , I have a B M W k75c they are a good bike to customise , seen some really nice ones . Great video as usual Stu 👌 👍
@Thunder_Bear_mg
Жыл бұрын
Is it wrong that I hope Royal Enfield produces a hunter and classic single 500cc?
@54macdog
Жыл бұрын
A proper cafe racer with plenty of ponies.
@viswasrujith8426
Жыл бұрын
They are doing the 650 versions of those two in the future, but 500 would not be possible in the future as of now.
@BakaFeniksu
Жыл бұрын
Yes They’re doing the 650s.
@Thunder_Bear_mg
Жыл бұрын
According to who? The same Indian based KZitemrs that photoshop re badges on triumphs? I’m calling it now…RE will not do a classic or hunter 650. Doesn’t make sense, too much redundancy.
@viswasrujith8426
Жыл бұрын
@@Thunder_Bear_mg Zigwheels a popular channel revealed the news, until now all of their predictions regarding RE were true.
@geraldscott4302
Жыл бұрын
If I had that bike, and a few thousand $$$, I would keep the basic design, probably even the bars, but I would have almost everything chromed, and what was left would get painted in bright shiny colors (ANYTHING BUT BLACK) I'm so sick of black I'd probably even paint the frame silver. I am for the most part a cruiser rider. My very first brand new motorcycle was a cruiser, a 1980 Suzuki GS450L. This was before the Japanese made v twin engines. And to this day, my favorite cruisers of all time were not v twins. They were the late 1970s/early 1980s Yamaha "Specials". I had a 1980 Yamaha XS1100 Special, and no less than three XS650 Specials. The XS1100 was an inline four, the XS650 was a very Triumph like vertical twin, but with an overhead cam instead of pushrods. Sadly there is no way to get that look with this bike. I see it more as a standard with about 50 pounds of black paint that needs to be gotten rid of. Most of the stock parts could be repainted and/or chromed. I spent many hours doing a Photoshop makeover of this bike, and it's lines actually aren't bad, when you can actually see them. The one motorcycle brand that stands out like a 20 foot tall neon sign as far as "catalog customization" goes, is Harley Davidson. In fact, you can literally build an entire Harley Davidson motorcycle without using a single Harley Davidson part. Very few things would make me happier than to see the speed limits in the U.S. reduced, and actually rigorously enforced. I would love to see speed limits of no higher than 65 mph nationwide, including on the interstates. Most U.S. interstates have a 75 mph speed limit, with traffic going very close to, and sometimes over, 100 mph. Driving or riding on these highways is like being on a NASCAR track. It is literally, in every sense of the word, a race. Idiots constantly (and usually very unsafely) changing lanes to "beat" the vehicle ahead of them. And they do this with impunity, with no fear of any consequences. The police seem to have literally given up. It's like, who are they supposed to stop when over 95% of traffic is going 20 mph over the speed limit? If you don't have to deal with this insanity in your country, count your blessings. I ride for fun and relaxation, not to race, and it is virtually impossible to do that anymore without getting killed. You would be putting yourself in serious danger by trying to ride a 350cc motorcycle on U.S. highways. They are pretty much city only bikes, unless you live out in the middle of nowhere with a lot of country roads.
@petertate8366
Жыл бұрын
My only cafe racer was a 1972 Honda CD175 it was all I could afford,but it was great and accepted by all my fellow riders.I think your right Stu, this is a good base to make a new small safe cafe racer.
@paulmears5330
Жыл бұрын
Just took a demo ride on a Hunter 350 today, and it was all I could do not to buy it right then and there. I couldn’t fault any of its features or qualities, and was impressed by the comfort and sense of solidity it has. I have a couple other bikes I’m going to demo ride as I test the field, but the Hunter 350 is presently #1. I appreciate the same qualities in a bike as you, Stuart, and I can’t argue with any of your observations.
@paulmears5330
Жыл бұрын
Excellent review and summation of the virtues of these bikes. I am in a similar boat, age and experience wise. With perhaps more dedicated off-road riding, then and now. I’ve had a Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 for about 3 years, and am seriously looking at a Hunter 350. It has all the modernity I could want, but is a simple and elegant design. And the price is extremely reasonable!
@InnocentMan99
Жыл бұрын
I’d love to see some decent hard case panniers for the Hunter that don’t look like an office paper shredder case.
@alexugur
Жыл бұрын
If at some point in time a bike such as the Hunter once again becomes my sole mode of transport, I'd be tempted to mount a single sprung saddle, a large rear rack, and two large side mounted racks (doubling as rear crash bars), turning the bike into more of a pack mule. Being immensely practical, I wonder if such components will be forthcoming from Asia? And will even minor Asian catalogue suppliers start advertising globally in English and other languages?
@paulroberts7561
Жыл бұрын
Hi Stu, your channel is great I watch all your videos and enjoy them. However, not a complaint, but I have to disagree with you saying most cafe racers in the day were 350cc. I was there, I was originally one of the rockers, tearing around town. Certainly around my area the 350cc bike was always concerned to the halfway house, most were 500cc bikes that had a smaller engine, making them a bit underpowered. Most of my 'gang' had 500 to 650 bikes. I had a vellocette venom clubman, one mate had a 500cc gold star, another a Norton dominator, they were mostly 600cc twins another a matchless 500 twin. It wasn't till the Japanese Honda arrived that 250cc bikes could compete the us. They took a 250 and but a bigger engine in making it 350. There was about 8 to 10 in our pack about 8 of us survived, lost touch with all of them now. I am coming up 80 this year, but I can still remember crashing on one outing, sliding down the road on your bum can be hazardous to your health. I was lucky, but still have a scar on my arm to remind me not be such a fool.Maybe my recollection is different to yours, it was a long time ago.
@johnriley8713
Жыл бұрын
The Hunter 350 is still very compelling, but it's not clear to me who's going to be buying it. Time will tell. I think the "sweet spot", and coincidentally the point at which Royal Enfield broke into the Western market, was with the 650cc twin models, the Continental GT and Interceptor. That's the balance of power, economy, sound, and the top-end of the A2 license. Seems perfect, and is both interesting enough to customize, and not too pricy to start with.
@Thegeordiemonkey
Жыл бұрын
Said some of your points on a facebook page yesterday regarding the Hunter, some great customs appearing online, if my circumstances change i will get one and mod the hell out of it too.
@sreerajmohan2034
Жыл бұрын
I have Just booked it.. by the look of it.. it's a great machine.. but i gotta see how it performs on the roads.. am looking forward for a great ride... Thanks for this video as well..
@PhilipBallGarry
Жыл бұрын
Morning Stu 👍
@kimkock-hansen2531
Жыл бұрын
Happy newyear, Stuart. Thanks for a good episode on your Channel. If didn’t have the Interceptor, the hunter is a must have to me.
@Rally1800
Жыл бұрын
I think most people like to add something to their bikes and make them their own. Even the current oficial Hunter accessories look damn nice. White blinkers, grey sump guard and bar end mirrors can give it a totally different look.
@henryhartley9993
Жыл бұрын
Nice one Stuart, spot on as always....
@motormikeb1047
Жыл бұрын
You stirred the old grey matter with the potential of customizing the RE 350. If the right components are produced with the proportions to fit the machine it could work. Old school " Triton ",, or Bobber could be pulled off. The chopper look should never be attempted. Some of us remember the Cx500 Honda which had the style of picnic bench. I've seen some stunning examples of these in " Cafe' " trim. I have the Classic 500 and recall RE offered a cafe' kit that really gave that vintage look-style. Our local RE dealer said 350's and 650 twins are selling well. :)
@williamgorry6330
Жыл бұрын
I like the Hunter. This frame feature is a revelation. Things will, as you say, get interesting when manufacturing custom gear wakes up to this Hunter. I don't believe the speed limits in the US will drop like the UK. Drive west of Kearny, Nebraska to find out why all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
@hctim96
Жыл бұрын
The ability to change the seat frame just got me thinking. I'm a dedicated solo rider and a custom seat frame and a single seat would be right up my alley. I'd rather have a nice rear rack right behind the seat instead of a passenger seat..A tail tidy would be nice also.. Then again that's me..
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
People who buy a motorcycle because it is cheap and economical are not going to throw money at it. They will live with the cheap parts on the bike because that's the reason why the bike is cheap. Once you start down the rabbit hole of throwing money at your motorcycle it doesn't end until you are at a loss big time. Look at the Harleys for example they're not cheap but people put a lot of money into Chrome and paint and engine work and then they sell it for half of what they paid for it.
@ruahinesrider
Жыл бұрын
Zeus custom's & other custom bike companies in Thailand & Indonesia have done some great stuff with the Royal Enfield Meteor & Classic as well as Interceptor,Gt Triumphs & Honda 🐒 Monkeys.
@herby4215
Жыл бұрын
Royal Enfield make good classic design
@andrerobertdrouin3642
Жыл бұрын
If i travelled on long trips with a Honda CD 175 T Bone frame in the aerly sixties. The Hunter slightly motor customized ( cam air filter muffler ) this Hunter will be a good looking ride with no limits at a low price and good looks
@thatdustinleblanc
Жыл бұрын
I guess when all I could find in 2020 was a CB360, I was just thinking ahead for the small/medium capacity future!
@mattjones5817
2 ай бұрын
Makes sense. it's the essence of what cafe racers were supposed to be. Quick city bikes. I live in Mexico and I think it's gonna start selling like hotcakes here too. It's not much pricier than Chinese 250's and some of the fancier Japanese 125's here. I saw the other week that Mexico has the Honda Highness CB350. It's about the same price. Do you guys get the Highness or the GB350 in the UK?
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
Let's not forget in Asian countries a350 single like a Royal Enfield is a year's salary. A country that could not afford a $13,000 American made Harley Sportster can afford a chinese-built Stormbreaker which is rebuildable forever with a much bigger aftermarket for both performance goodies and accessories.
@franklowry4852
Жыл бұрын
Back in the 1970s, the Arab oil embargo and the energy crises brought the U.S. government to lower the national speed limit to 55 m.p.h. My father owned a Honda CB 350. These 350 motorcycles had all the power needed and I believed helped many people to become riders.
@alancrane4693
Жыл бұрын
RE hit the mark with their motorcycle's. They affordable and you can customise them a lot easier. HD always had a catalogue custom accessories for their motorcycle's. One reason I appreciate them. Remember simple things ie honed barrel needed a lot of leg work for your Japanese two stroke. Second hand Japanese bike would love to replace the seat well good luck with that. When I got my first HD I could not believe how easy it was in comparison to get replacement parts. Unfortunately they are expensive now like triumph BMW ect motorcycle's and here is were Royal Enfield steps in. Royal Enfield motorcycle's old style with a touch of modern stuff 👍 personally I don't want Wheely control traction control this and that. Decent seat and suspension two wheels and nice thumper for engine to enjoy the day on the motorcycle. 😃 Also they look amazing compared to those God awful things that looks like been designed and 3D printed from the computer.🤮
@Workingmomvlogrvrg
Жыл бұрын
You are right Stuart- this is selling like hot cakes here with a waiting time of 60 days or more, sales averaging more than 15000 per month and selling more than all other non RE 350cc bikes in india by a 50% margin
@pinkiewerewolf
Жыл бұрын
Europe is seeing speed reduction but here in the States there isn't the urgent call for it. Is big brother coming after us, yes, the evidence is everywhere. I know ticketing is a revenue generation model for governments but our Tractor Trailer Rigs regularly travel at 75+ mph and traffic moves at that speed and above as well. With larger expanses of less populated areas, we need to cover some ground. Harley never had that customization lag you were mentioning, in my lifetime... especially the Sportster lineup. That all being said, I like the lil 350cc single and have a 300cc dual sport in the garage with my larger bikes. I could end up buying a 350 to putt around on and have a good time.
@RD-Mudasir.tm0117
Жыл бұрын
Super bro ❤️❤️❤️❤️ love frm Kashmir ❤️❤️✔️
@markymarknj
Жыл бұрын
Everything you said makes sense. I can see the Hunter 350 becoming a big hit!
@philroberts5537
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing. I will be interested to look at the sales rates. The Hunter will undoubtedly be a huge success in India with many younger riders wanting a more modern look. Similarly the meteor for riders wanting a custom look. In the UK I’m not so sure that higher volumes of sales will occur. I can understand the sales of the classic 350 and Interceptor in the UK as bikers are an ageing demographic who in many cases want to recapture the classic look of years gone by. Clearly the model of bolt on ‘ custom’ parts has been around for years , Harleys and Enfields are prime examples of that. Be interesting to see if the Hunter or Meteor fall into this category.
@stuartfillingham
Жыл бұрын
There is already a huge waiting list in the UK.
@nikoscosmos
Жыл бұрын
How are RE going to organise spare parts distribution after May when the outgoing importer bows out? Neither the said outgoing company nor a prominent third party spares supplier appear to know at the present time! TTFN, Nick.
@davidforsdike4343
Жыл бұрын
Hitchcocks are great for OM. Parts , along side thier own parts. Hopefully they will carry on . Very helpful to.
@nikoscosmos
Жыл бұрын
@david forsdike yes indeed. I need a part for a customisation project which is not yet available in the UK. They referred me to the current importer who will not place any more orders on RE India. I'm therefore waiting for the new distribution channel to magically appear on May 1st!!
@stephenfleming7056
Жыл бұрын
I don't think there ever was a gap in customising bikes, be it bolt on goodies for your Bandit, huge market from 95 to today, previous all those expansion chambers, fork braces, steering dampers for RD's X7's KH etc. Then the sport bike market along with streetfighters and of course Harley Davidsons, Its always been done. Smaller affordable machines now seem the popular choice now though as you say due to bikes being a leisure item at least in the western markets and the regulations imposed and pending. being a leisure item its a hobby so extras are added as and when the owner desires or can afford. Long may it continue and with RE selling so boatloads of bikes the selection of parts should be good.
@aruncv1373
Жыл бұрын
I could afford more expensive bikes, but this Hunter 350 is so charming and cheap. Even for India! This thing is cheaper than or same as most of the lower level bikes here. Don’t know how they did such a good finished product at this price.
@manuelferreira3744
Жыл бұрын
Good Stuart; I am writing from Portugal, and I would like you to give me feedback on the Hunter, because I am interested in acquiring one, but the Royal is not a well-regarded bike here, we are more for Japanese motorcycles and now for BMW, and Ducati. Because the price is attractive on the bike it's funny, and I'm 68 years old, but with the biker bug because I had a yamaha, in the 70s/80s. Good curves. Hug
@artiecisneros4691
Жыл бұрын
I'm still waiting and hoping someone will make real forward controls for the Meteor 350.
@dava222
Жыл бұрын
Happy Easter Mr Fillingahm, I am thinking seriously to buy a meteor but I am worried about maintenance as I have watched videos of high cost service and also that in early services they open engine. Is it true or refers to previous model's?? Thanks a lot for your videos - very helpful. 👌
@dr.chrismort8448
Жыл бұрын
Very interesting 👍
@jeffreyhurst9552
Жыл бұрын
Customized means personalized to me.
@reyhansingh1942
Жыл бұрын
I want to customise my bike hunter 350.. please suggest some pics please or share link ..I can't find good modification for my bike sir
@aruncv1373
Жыл бұрын
Did you come to india for cruiser review?
@johnpoe5569
Жыл бұрын
how does the scram compare as far a pep goes? Cheers!!
@varnatkins6584
Жыл бұрын
I sincerely hope that you are right about the longevity of our freedom to buy and ride bikes, Customisation,- has the anti tampering bill slipped under the carpet, I wonder? Even worse, what if the 'Welcome Every Foreigner' gang who are filling our hotels decided they want our stuff when they are unleashed, Sorry to start New Year as a misery (but realist)
@anthonyprice5596
Жыл бұрын
Dear Stuart, on many things I agree with you, however saying there was no customisation in the 80's and 90's I feel is a little inaccurate, I rode a Harley during the 90's until recently and I've been getting custom bike magazines from America for years before that, In fact I built a bike which won BSH bike of the year back in 1995, so I have to disagree there was no customization going on, because I was doing it, the yanks have been doing it and I remember going up to Dorking to Southern Cycles to their very well appointed shop selling Custom Chrome parts for bike from 1945 to that present day. It's only in the last few years with THE BIKE SHED that started the Triumph and low cost custom bike scene. Its now gone the way of the Harley, and everything's got a bit expensive!! I'm not one to disagree with you on many subjects but this one I feel your doing the custom scene an injustice.
@stuartfillingham
Жыл бұрын
I think you need to take into account the type of customization im referring to Anthony rather than just taking my words in a literal context. A Harley Café racer would be an offence against humanity!
@bsimpson6204
Жыл бұрын
17:27 It's likley RE themselves have designed another rear end for the Hunter otherwise why bother making such a complicated frame.
@richard2951960
Жыл бұрын
yes mate you are so right ,. it is in our blood Stuart ! like your video's , good thinking ! and life experience mate from Australia !
@peterbell5556
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@peterbell5556
Жыл бұрын
Stuart, what's that bridge you ride over. Sorry you've probably already said and I missed it. Love the Hunter. But can't see myself convincing wifey that I should have one. Already have 2 RE s
@stuartfillingham
Жыл бұрын
Thanks peter! Its the Humber Bridge!
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
How would you say the hunter 350 compared to the sr400 Yamaha single that they still make in Japan? There are many Indian built 350 singles that are much more contemporary Royal Enfield the BMW and the KTM for examples. England and Europe were not made for high-speed motorcycles. In the Glory Days of the English motorcycle industry 500 shingles and 650 twin ruled the day. Especially when you hook a side car up to them so you can hold your family around. You can buy a nice low mileage real British single for less than the price of an Indian copy so why would one do that?
@thelayoffm965
Жыл бұрын
Hunter 350 modification parts are already flooding the market in India, you guys will see them soon!
@68orangecrate26
Жыл бұрын
RE represents why I never understood why western industry walked, headlong, into a malevolent, communist, country to set up shop. I wish that ALL current Chinese production could be moved to India - with the proviso that the Indian workers would be paid a fare wage. Utopian thinking, for sure…🏍
@vick8914
Жыл бұрын
👌
@peterroda4181
Жыл бұрын
You're going to laugh but I think the cb650r is a great choice for mods. Parts are cheap and very cease to add yourself.
@PhiMie91
Жыл бұрын
Don't think it'll become very popular due to its huge lack of performance and durability.
@mailmeabhilash
Жыл бұрын
Stuart, you haven't come to India for Super Meteor Launch in India? I was hoping to get your opinion man.
@Myndi78
Жыл бұрын
In my country you cannot cut the frame in any way without getting in trouble with the law (and forfeiting insurance etc), and any other customization has to be cosmetic. The bolt on rearframe is a stroke of genius in that regard, because it could provide a loophole around those laws! But I think they will have a very hard time selling them here, because the power is so low compared to other bikes in the class and pricerange. There is not much pricedifference between a RE 350 model and something like a Ninja400 but the performance difference is HUGE. The RE wins in alot of categories (mainly cosmetic wich is subjective of course), but for a small amount extra you can get a bike that will go highway speed all day, and have better performing components overall. Old gits like me will give the Royal Enfields more of a chance, but I don't think the younger riders are ready or willing to make the sacrifice in power, especially since speed and performance versus price IS the benchmark these days. The popularity of the MT07 is clear evidence of this, EVERYBODY around here has one or wants one. I am more optimistic about the Super Meteor, wich I really think will be VERY popular! Because it will be an oldschool looking midsize cruiser, and right now it will be the only midsize cruiser that truly LOOKS like a cruiser. We have the Rebel500, Yamaha Bolt etc, but while they have the cruiser stance and branding, they are also covered in plasticpanels and they are very hard to do any work on by yourself. With the Super Meteor we get a highway capable bike that is easy to work on and actually looks like a REAL beefy cruiser 😍 And we get all that without the HD/Indian pricetag that stops so many from venturing into the cruiser genre.
@morganzola100
Жыл бұрын
Your fault Stuart ! Just put a deposit down on the Hunter.. before the prices go up. When asked by the memsab why I need another bike I'm blaming you 👍
@haxan6663
Жыл бұрын
Custom biking was alive and well in the 90s, thanks to the growth of Back Street Heroes and AWOL magazines. I attended many custom shows and rallies at this time and up to about 2012. I have owned a number of custom bikes and trikes, including XS 650s, a GS850 and a Goldwing 1100. All of these were home built (not by me) or came from a small custom shop that I used. I no longer follow the custom scene but I will be interested to see what can be done with the Hunter.
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
I love a wall magazine they were such a good rag
@haxan6663
Жыл бұрын
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 AWOL was my favourite. I liked the attitude and the philosophy of the mag as well as the coverage. It appealed to my hippy roots. I still have the magazines and was sad when it stopped publication.
@melfzs
Жыл бұрын
Morning Stuart, yes it's an ideal sized bike for customising, it's an ideal capacity for new riders, it looks like a proper bike yet hasn't got all the weight of a larger capacity bike so is much more manageable to move around, so whatever style owners choose to change it to it's going to be easy to live with , can't wait to get ours which we'll be leaving standard though as it looks great as it is .
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
Triumph is also facing a backlash for moving all of their motorcycle production to Thailand while at the same time having Union Jack's all over the bike as well as insinuating it is a British motorcycle when it is not many people canceled their orders for motorcycles upon this discovery
@micksmith1984
Жыл бұрын
Hi Stuart, hope you are well. Wasn’t sure of the best way to contact you so hope you don’t mind me adding a comment here. I picked up a new Classic last week and while doing the usual fettling that one does with idle time, I noticed a problem and so wanted to share just in case it turns out to be a common one. The front brake line has a protective sleeve at the end closest to the lever where it comes into contact with the frame. Near the end of the sleeve is a metal bracket, about the same level as the indicator. This bracket holds a grommet that the brake line runs through but on mine the grommet was not in the bracket, it was below. This resulted in the break line rubbing against the metal bracket which has already rubbed into the line, quite concerning considering I’ve only had it a week! I’m confident the line would have worn through given a little more time and so hoping your followers may see this and check theirs. I’m not sure if the grommet was never fitted correctly or the sleeve has pushed it out whilst moving the handle bars back and forth? I’ll be bringing it up with the dealer once they open next week ( the same dealer that wants $935.00 for the 300 mile service on the INT 650 bye the way) and will be happy to update you. Just wanted to put it out there, apologies if this is not the right place but didn’t know of another way.
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
I don't see how they could charge $1,000 for 300 MI service which is basically just an oil change $1,000 is a big percentage of a $7,000 motorcycle I remember when you bought a brand new Triumph the first service was free. I cringe when I hear about some of the ridiculous prices for simple services on a simple motorcycle I had an argument with a Harley dealer about his $99 oil change saying I could change my oil in 30 minutes in my driveway for $25 where is I would have to work all day to make $100. From what I understand in order to not void your three-year warranty on your Royal Enfield you have to have the dealer to all the service and if they do that you end up paying more for the service than what you paid for the motorcycle. Any of my BSA 250 singles would clean the clock of a350 Royal Enfield. My C15 with a B-25 Barracuda engine cruises to up at 65 miles an hour with plenty of throttle leftover it is not going flat out. It is said the top speed on that motorcycle is 90 miles an hour but if I want to go 90 miles an hour I ride one of my bigger bikes. The only good part I can see about having a new Royal Enfield is that it is an Expendable motorcycle that is easily replaceable if it got totaled by a car.
@stevecoppin4278
Жыл бұрын
Hi Stu i think your dead right , i would like to see a Hunter scrambler tbh , take care & ride safe
@markrigg7038
Жыл бұрын
It would look really cool as a scrambler/desert sled with a high level exhaust 👌
@Hsp44
Жыл бұрын
Yeah and a sporty roadster like speed twin
@BlakesPipes
Жыл бұрын
I am not one to change things on any of my new purchases. Had a Hugh problem years ago with alarm and auto start I had installed. Prior was a sound system. Any ways. I buy it the way I want and the older I get, the less I like to play with things. But, I have a bike for every need. Love your videos and keep up your purpose with this thing you do!
@ccooper8785
Жыл бұрын
It is just over £1,500 (equivalent) in India ! RE is doing a fantastic job, long may it continue.
@Hsp44
Жыл бұрын
No its 2000
@FielderTerry
Жыл бұрын
Good UK centric summary of historic events. Cafe custom began in the UK. True. In the US, Harley powered motor cycle gangs customized their Hogs starting after WW2. In Asia, the Indians were customizing their old Bullet 350’s by the 80’s when I first went there. In the Philippines, they were adding custom made side cars made from rebar made for concrete. They could carry people, sacks of rice, live pigs and more. In the late 90’s I saw them with 125cc motors and 16 people riding on hilly gravel roads in rural areas. Customizing motorcycles meets many needs in many countries Beto d the borders of the UK. People can be very inventive and gone the skills needed, just as the English did and still do. Hats off!
@jameskinsey7866
Жыл бұрын
I agree. You wouldn't want to ruin the looks of the classic. The classic is classic and I wouldn't want to change the look of that bike.
@timsatch9198
Жыл бұрын
An excellent ramble as always. I like the term catalogue customising. I don't see it as derogatory, more like appropriate. I have a family member who is a master welder/metal worker and has been builting "from the ground up" choppers for years. This is the extream end of customising. On the other hand buying a rack or crash bar is assessorising, not customising. I'm in the process of fitting an early 80s Krauser pannier system to my Meteor. For me they are assessories but do require some custom bracket fabrication to have them fit neat and Snug. Bottom line is, love your bike and it's yours to do with as you please. Just be safe and get a good techy to check what you're doing if you are not sure.
@markhinde6187
13 күн бұрын
Great post Stuart. Lots of riders like to individualise their bikes to look different. I have had my meteor stellar Blue 350 (chosen specifically for the colour) for 2 weeks and have already deleted the pillion seat with flat Black aluminium checker plate, removed the back rest for the standard hand rails, Tail tidy, Rubber fork gators, black fly screen and 2 bags (made from 2 canvas shoulder bags fitted to home made black aluminium plates), I had all these planned out and made even before I bought the bike, I will also say that doing all this work myself was very very therapeutic.
@thomaseaston9711
Жыл бұрын
Great bike. Survives the crazy traffic and roads of Mumbai. Couldn’t be happier. Do you think, though, it is viable in America? It isn’t very fast. That is the issue with a 350. I’m seriously thinking of bringing it back when I return from India but what if you need to be, however briefly, on a highway? Otherwise it is just an unending source of pleasure. Haven’t seen modifications emerge yet on the Indian streets but I give that another month - people don’t tend to tinker until after the initial free maintenance checks.
@philtucker1224
Жыл бұрын
Even if a slower motorcycle like the RE 350 range becomes a niche success in the States I don’t think RE would be able to satisfy demand sufficiently. They’re already over selling in India and the waiting list in the U.K. (REs second main customers) is already around six months…
@philtucker1224
Жыл бұрын
My OCD is still struggling with one lop sided gauge on the 350 ranges…
@chrisweeks6973
Жыл бұрын
@@philtucker1224 Agreed. That's one of the mods that I'd do, too. Change the bracket angle and fit a tacho alongside. Ok, it's not really needed, but... symmetry restored.
@stevecambers3190
Жыл бұрын
Having chopped & tuned stuff in the extreme over the last 40 years. These days I tend to leave things alone & keep it all standard. However, I still admire some of the customised bikes...
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
JC Whitney catalog had everything that you could need. Custom Builders like Arlen Ness became leggings for the parts that they made for their own bikes and then sold to other people you had Drag Specialties you had V-Twin the British manufacturers had accessory catalogs that you could buy windshields a crash bars xcetera. Harley-Davidson put out catalogs of parts and accessories for their motorcycles dating all the way back to the 1930s. Flanders has made handlebars for over 100 years. Customizing your motorcycle would you not difficult many guys made Parts in their own garage
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
In England in the old days a 350 with charged the same insurance and Road tax as a 500cc motorcycle. Most 350 singles people bought because they were easier to kick over than a 500 single. My 250 BSA singles kick over and start much easier than my 441 Victor. I don't need the extra horsepower of the victor I like the fact that I can kick-start the 250 much easier than the 441 and I don't miss the little extra horsepower the bigger bike makes I would rather have the easy starting nature of the 250 as my preference. If the old BSA and Triumph company we're still in business producing the bikes they produced in the 1960s they would be selling every bike back they could build. Trying to keep up with the insane horsepower race started by the Japanese made the company's push their parallel twins to the point of unreliability.
@colinhailey830
Жыл бұрын
I can't remember the term Cafe Racer ever being used in the sixties. Apart from anything else we went to Caffs not Cafes. If your bike could do the ton you were a Ton Up Boy, and they were a small select group, if not you were just an ordinary Rocker. Necessity was the mother of invention so if your bike couldn't take clip ons you turned the bars upside down or borrowed a pipe bender from a friendly plumber. Most "customising" was really repairing a clapped out bike, 'cos we couldn't afford a new one, with whatever bits we could get our hands on. As you say most bikes of the time were single 350s or 500s but even the humble BSA Bantam got the "racer" treatment. A Bantam going flat out at 50mph with the rider flat on the tank, which necessitated his posterior being raised above his head, was a sight to behold.
@scottt8258
Жыл бұрын
I had a look at one today while dropping my meteor off for his 5000km service. I think it’s such a shame that RE seem to be concentrating so heavily on the hunter and classic and seemed to have abandoned the meteor. Still no rear rack, a very disappointing plastic side box where we hoped for decent panniers etc etc.
@bobberdaddy
Жыл бұрын
Craven do side panniers and rack for Meteor.
@scottt8258
Жыл бұрын
@@bobberdaddy unfortunately not in Australia. The only options we have is to chance our luck on eBay imports or paying the price of the item and then about the same again for postage and import duties
@bobberdaddy
Жыл бұрын
@@scottt8258 That's a shame as the Craven set up is excellent quality but of course at a premium price even here in the UK. I have experienced similar coming into UK, there is some great custom products being manufactured in Oz but the postage costs/VAT tax/import duty on goods over £135 are prohibitively expensive.
@JohnSmith-xw5qe
Жыл бұрын
I agree with you stu the Hunter is prime candidate for customisation! I was looking at a pic of the lovely red one a few weeks back just staring at it & all of a sudden the penny dropped lol I thought This Bike Is Absolutely Set Up To Be Customised!! & it’s bloody affordable too am sooooo seriously considering one! Great video!
@frankmarkovcijr5459
Жыл бұрын
I remember the old Triumph company had a whole catalog of stuff you could put on your Triumph as well as little Matchbox side car models patches coffee cups etc etc.
@STho205
Жыл бұрын
If it was 45kg or 100lbs lighter it would be a good swap for the discontinued Honda CB250 mild commuter bikes, and the Meteor for the Rebel250. Similar sit frame and style. Much better brakes and fuel injection over drip carbs. Get's about the same street power as the 234cc Twin...but that was a lighter total bike. 20hp (18 useful daily) for 400lbs is a pretty plodding ratio. Bigger rear sprocket limits top speed, but delivers better slow torque. Wonder why these bikes are heavy with modern metallurgy vs 1980s bikes. The motor itself is quite heavy. Rode one in this line (Classic) and it was OK. In our markets I don't see any others in this historic niche. However for a 400lb bike I'm probably heading for a CB500x as I live in mountains with some steep roads and some occasional dirt...not counting my steep gravel private road every day. I may try the Himalayan first.
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