I have not owned an old-style RE, but I have followed the Enfield evolution for a few years before deciding what to buy. Before the AVL came about, I had decided on an iron head Delux. I also decided on a whole lot of upgrades and improvements I wanted to do right away, judging from what other Re owners were doing to their bikes. Over the years, RE owners were adding hi-floe oil punps, stronger bottom end, electronic ignition, higher comp piston, improved valve train, redesigned head, allow cylindar for better cooling. When I found out that the AVL engine was basically an old RE motor with all the standard upgrades already done, I was sold. I know there are some riders who poo poo the AVL as not being a traditional RE motor, but I think most RE enthusiasts are probably flattered that the company followed their lead and built the kind of bike they had been building in their garages for years. I still like the looks of the original, but it is still a long-stroke single with gobs of torque (the AVL actually has quite a bit more torque) and a geat sound. The CMW performance kit is great and costs very little. The addition of a 19-tooth front sprocket and you can ride pretty much any road you want to.