Author Topic: What drew you to the bullet? (Read 17971 times)

cyrusb · **on:** December 06, 2007, 01:20:25 am

With all the talk about the new engine comming out soon, and disc brakes and electric starters allready here, I can see why some people are lamenting the end of the real bullet. I don't know about the rest of you guys but I bought an 05 bullet E BECAUSE it was an obsolete, low tech, antique, that I could ride on a regular basis. That was the only reason, and still is. With the multitude of highly advanced totally reliable motorcycles out there, I can not see any other reason to own one. Yes ,I wanted the old tech, something I could be the master of, easily fixed with common sense. Thats what drew me to the bullet, a trip back in time on two wheels. And I don't think RE gets it.

RagMan · **Reply #1 on:** December 06, 2007, 02:38:17 am

I am an older guy, and to me, a motorcycle looks like a Bullet. That was the only reason I bought mine, I did not want a retro machine, or one I could work on, just one that looked like a motorcycle, for the amount of money I felt like spending. The fact that I had a Bullet in the 60s helped the process a bit, but nothing else. If it was ultra reliable, I would love it more - as long as it was shaped the way I think motorcycles should look.

BanditRE · **Reply #2 on:** December 06, 2007, 03:32:09 am

Pretty much the same reasons as you guys. Classic styling, not a retro bike but actually an old bike that they still make today. I wanted the old technology, warts and all, because its easy to understand and easy to fix. Parts are relatively cheap and the entire bike costs about the same as a classic brit bike only it was brand new. Try finding parts or tools even for a mid-50's BSA! Its a long way from calling CMW! Add to that the good looks, the fact you don't see one parked outside every Starbucks, and that most owners of these bikes seem genuine, and it was something I wanted to be a part of.

If they turn from making these types of bikes into another manufacturer of generic small displacement bikes, I'm not sure how well they'll do. Japans big four have that market cornered. Having said that, I don't suppose the market for 50's technology motorcycles is exactly growing either. They have to serve their home market first as that's where most of their profits lie. It'll be sad to see the Bullet go.

willbarter · **Reply #3 on:** December 06, 2007, 05:07:47 am

After a 25 year break I was ready for another bike and found mostly uncomfortable crotch rockets and H.D. clones. I was looking for a Norton when I saw a Bullet with the rocket sidecar in a parade and that hooked me. A year later I found an outfit for sale in California at a good price and had it shipped to CT.
I like being able to work on the bike unlike modern engines. Eventually I'd like to get a 2 wheel 5 speed Bullet AVL and If I sell lots of stuff on Ebay a Ural for sidecar touring with passenger. Time to head over there to check my closing auctions, working on the downpayment. Don

mtrude · **Reply #4 on:** December 06, 2007, 12:54:04 pm

I like machines, maybe being raised on a old farm in the 60s did that? I like things that are simple and work as they should, without it being a big deal and without a lot of stuff added on. I like the fact I can work on it when it needs it. Many things today are disposable or we are told they are, I dont get that feeling with a Enfield. Have fun, mtrude

GreenMachine · **Reply #5 on:** December 06, 2007, 02:04:05 pm

I was drawn to the bullet when i lived in India for 2 yrs...was attached to the embassy and imported a 450 cc Honda hawk to buzz around ..this was back in the mid 80's and use to have fun racing pass all those 350 bikes...most of the Indians were amazed at the time of the size of my 450 (that was considered a big bike there)...Probably could had brought a enfield back but really didn't look into it..Either way, I have one now...I can now see why they brought the entire plant from england and continued to make them for their market...the road conditions, elephants, ox, cows, and human masses made it a perfect bike for the country...The bottom line is its a unique piece of history and fun to ride...I'm sure if i went back to India I would notice somethings are constant but significant change is in the air...The financial future looks much better than back in the mid 80's. That being said, it only natural that royal enfield starts to look at options relating to their market...We are currently just a minority recipient and if you like the classic, and current lineup, you better get it soon as changes are coming quicker than you think...Parts for all these bikes will be available for a long time as their basic components have been in circulation for 50 + yrs...From what I see of the newer bikes, they will be formulated to meet local expectations and cost. Rupee cost does not equate to dollar cost over there and 5k is probably considered a bit of money. Lets not forget that enfield would like to get their market set on the younger set vice reminiscing guys like us and their has been an increase in purchasing power at the local level....cheers

Mr_Gently · **Reply #6 on:** December 06, 2007, 03:10:39 pm

I have a certain fascination with old technology, and I'm drawn to machines that were built by companies with a certain type of philosophy: only change what needs to be changed, and only change it in a way that benefits the overall performance, reliability, and serviceability of the machine. As such, I have owned old air-cooled Volkswagens all my adult life. A few years ago I became interested in vintage Vespas, and have a garage full of those contraptions. I ran across an Enfield Bullet Classic in New Orleans with a matching sidecar a few years ago and thought that it was the sharpest motorcycle I had ever seen. The attraction was instant. I bought a Bullet military a couple of weeks ago. I've been reading the shop manual and the Pete Snidal book every night, as it lies on my coffee table for easy access. The simplicity of a machine that seems designed for easy owner maintenance is what it boils down to. It's the same thing that attracted me to old aircooled VWs and old 2 stroke Vespas.

Thumper · **Reply #7 on:** December 06, 2007, 05:37:43 pm

Welcome Mr_Gently! Sounds like you'll fit right in this crowd (maybe that's not such a compliment...;-)

I was drawn for many of the reasons mentioned. Mostly I wanted a classic looking motorcycle - and a thumper.

What keeps me enthused is that pounding exhaust note hammering against the pavement as I lean hard into right-hand on and off ramps with visions of the Isle of Mann dancing across my field of view.

Matt

LJRead · **Reply #8 on:** December 06, 2007, 06:28:04 pm

Good thread! It sort of puts a personal base to things. My perspective is a little different, but the Volkswagen analogy is quite apt. We don't have VWs here in Tonga, but I often wish we did. For the same reason - basic, easy to understand and repair - I bought an Indian Thunderbird. Purely practical reasons, really, as it will give me good reliability and yet be easy to fix. A perfect combination for a place where parts are a problems and we need to learn to fix our own!

Yes, welcome to the forum Mr_Gently - you'll fit right in!

indian48 · **Reply #9 on:** December 07, 2007, 01:09:09 am

Very good thread indeed, and most of my reasons are just the same as others have stated so well. Maybe one that has not been stated is the opportunity that this bike offers you to complete its manufacturing - via running in and maybe mods to get it rid of the restrictions imposed on it by law. I think it gets to be more unique from one used bike to the next, based on how well it has been used. And of course, the joy of thumping along where the journey is what its all about, not the destination!

VMAX · **Reply #10 on:** December 07, 2007, 02:58:19 am

Interesting thread. Thanks for asking a pertinent ?. My first car was a 57 VW. I never did own a bike. I retired recently, saw an ad for an 05 Bullet & sidecar. When the guy drove into my driveway I wanted it immediately. Since that day my learning curve has been high; I've made some good RE friends; and found this site. All positive things in my book.

scoTTy · **Reply #11 on:** December 07, 2007, 03:10:26 am

Quote

My first car was a 57 VW.

giGGle

mine was a 56 with the opera window and I broke the hubcap taps off and reversed the wheels.. gave it that WIDE track look.. 36 horsepower.. too much fun

I've an Electra, i am especially fond of the electric start , I do find the kick starer to be good exercise , sometimes it actually starts.. that way.. it was probably my last BMW that took me this way.. it no longer looked like a motorcycle.. 2 wheel engineering.. not that that a bad thing..

I wanted to enjoy just riding again instead of going somewhere

VMAX · **Reply #12 on:** December 07, 2007, 03:53:25 am

Scotty:

I know I'm drifting away from the immediate thread but you brought back some good memories: My 57 had the ioval rear window, no gas gage (emergency flip level), no gas pedal ( just a plastic wheel). The Bug was a good beach buggy didn't get stuck in sand or snow. Nothing passed me going down hill, especially if I had a tailwind. Sort of like my Classic RE.

LJRead · **Reply #13 on:** December 07, 2007, 04:37:29 am

It is interesting (sad) how something seems adequately fine, like the VW, and man can't seem to keep his mitts off it. The "New Beetle" is nothing like the old one except a closeness in shape. I had two old ones, a 60 Beetle and a still older Van and got on well with both. I don't think I would get on well with the "New Beetle" because it is sure to have gone 'high tech'. This seems to happen as a pattern in technological evolution. Our Enfields are museum pieces, and we should value them as such because, seemingly, from all that we read just recently, we are right on a watershed of change. I hope to always keep this in mind as I enjoy the old thump, the old ride.

Roger · **Reply #14 on:** December 07, 2007, 09:30:20 am

This may sound a little corny; about 30 years ago I found a tank badge off a Royal Enfield, it is the one that appears with my posts. I hung on to it and it spent about 25 years hanging on a nail in my garage. I used to take it down and look at it from time to time and wonder which model it came off. To this day I have not seen another like it.

Perhaps I was destined to own a RE and this tank badge was that star in the East that guided me to it, who knows, but I now have a “kick start only” ‘05 Classic that has been virtually trouble free since new and it is such a pleasure to ride.

Roger

RagMan · **Reply #15 on:** December 07, 2007, 03:14:13 pm

Technology. What exactly is the benefit - things ALWAYS cost more, have more expensive problems, and can't be worked on under the shade tree. Throughout the last 150 years, things have just got more complex, and harder to maintain. Pity we humans didn't stop messing with things in the 60s.

BanditRE · **Reply #16 on:** December 07, 2007, 07:39:34 pm

Couldn't agree with you more Ragman. There's also a direct correlation between an increase in techniology and a decrease in brain function in adults across the country! I swear you can watch people getting dumber.

Anyway, that has nothing to do with Bullets. The trade off between technology, reliability and simplicity was at first acceptable, but it seems now we are well into technology for technology's sake. That and all the safety Nanny's out there, but don't get me started on that!

sewerman · **Reply #17 on:** December 07, 2007, 08:17:22 pm

I have always had a weakness for THUMPERS. I had a SR500 for years and it was great. When I saw the "new Bullet" I knew I had to have one. When I looked in that "DAMN CATAALOG" and saw the goodies I was hooked.! I added the Continental packge 'cause my other weakness is English style cafe bikes with aluminum goodies. I also like to tinker with motors and to see if I can coax a little more power out of them. What better bike to do this than a Bullet? To me you MUST see the motor on a bike and to me the Bullet is one of the nicest looking ones ever. Oh yeh, my 65 BUG was one of my best cars ever! How could you be dope smokin, long hair surfer in the day and not have a BUG with board racks?

scoTTy · **Reply #18 on:** December 08, 2007, 03:02:40 am

reaLLy nIce Tank badge... yea U were destined

Blackthou · **Reply #19 on:** December 08, 2007, 05:08:21 pm

I Have a Fazer 1000 (black of course) and broke my collar bone in July 07 on the eve of our wedding anniversary and a two week holiday (which didn't happen). It is to be sometime before I could ride her again (prob Jan 08) In the meantime I was looking for something smaller to get back on the road to recovery on. Other than 125's or less there was nothing then till 600cc. I was looking through MotorCycle News and chanced upon a 350 Bullet. Unfortunately it had been sold 30mins earlier.
I then began my quest for a Bullet. I found one 10 months old with 500 miles on the clock fairly near to home. My wife took me to see it and I had to have it. A friend rode her home due to my injury.
She sat in my garage for 6 weeks until my shoulder was strong enough to take her out. Been out four times now and each ride gets better. The first ride I had bad clutch drag so adjusted it. Also decided front brakes were an optional extra and not fitted

Sorted them and now they are improving with use. The second ride was better but still had clutch drag. Stripped and sorted the cluch and the third ride was much better. I could change up and down smoothly and easily. Last week I plugged the vacuum take off on the carb and reset the mixture. Tried it out today and she's much better. Just ordered sports exhaust system so hopefully she will be even better still.
The Bullet is motorcycling at its most simple really and a complete contrast to my Fazer 1000 (which goes a lot faster in 1st than the RE in top) but I really enjoy it. The spares availabilty and specialists in the UK are amazing and incredibly cheap. I guess it's because the whole ethos is enthusiast lead as you probably wouldn't want one otherwise. May the world of the Bullet continue to thrive. I hope you all enjoy yours as much as I do.

BanditRE · **Reply #20 on:** December 08, 2007, 07:26:01 pm

Get well soon Blackthou. Hope you enjoy the Bullet. Sounds like you have the right frame of mind to enjoy one fully. Sorry about the Fazer. I lost an ST1100 the same way. Now I have a Bandit for commuting and fully understand your comment about the top speed in first gear!

cyrusb · **Reply #21 on:** December 09, 2007, 02:02:44 am

I bet theres an old VW beetle connection in a good many bullet owners. I drove em right up till the pans went away. Certainly, details like pre unit construction and 19 inch wheels were not available on any new bikes I knew of. Couldn't resist...All that plus points ignition!

mdobson · **Reply #22 on:** December 10, 2007, 10:28:15 pm

Quote from: RagMan on December 06, 2007, 02:38:17 am

I am an older guy, and to me, a motorcycle looks like a Bullet. That was the only reason I bought mine, I did not want a retro machine, or one I could work on, just one that looked like a motorcycle, for the amount of money I felt like spending. The fact that I had a Bullet in the 60s helped the process a bit, but nothing else. If it was ultra reliable, I would love it more - as long as it was shaped the way I think motorcycles should look.

Exactly,sir. Dont own one yet, but it's gonna be this springs project. The reliability longevity class&style the fact that it is a well engineer'd enough of a design to warrant continious production for 50 years...To me, it seems the pinnacle of simple functional transportation when motorcycling was the working mans wheels. Its like my swiss army knife and my waterproof steeltoe'd oil resistant electrical hazard rated American made Redwing hiking boots...
kind of...LOL
The Bullet I get is going to be ridden serviced repaired and enjoyed by ME. How Zen is that? ...And THATS what its all about.

RagMan · **Reply #23 on:** December 11, 2007, 01:54:24 am

My total ideal motorcycle would be one that looked right, didn't need constant tinkering with, and didn't cost much.

GreenMachine · **Reply #24 on:** December 11, 2007, 03:49:51 am

well the enfield is 2 outta three (inexpensive and great looking) ..tinkering and having to actually repair something hasn't happen to me yet...just under 3 k miles on the classic..So far from reading the post the past year, I haven't seen anyone blow out their engine yet..so I'll take that as a good thing to expect in the future.

fredgold52 · **Reply #25 on:** December 19, 2007, 05:56:03 pm

The amazing looks of the machine is what initially got my attention. Then after a bit of study, I realized the styling was not the result of a designers whim as much as it was the product of almost no evolution taking place with a 1950's/60's bike. This is an actual old technology bike still being manufactured today. The history and heritage are wonderful.

I share the sentiments of others about the direction motorcycle styling has gone in recent years. RE in general and the iron engine bikes look the way a motorcycle is supposed to. And as an added feature, it's possible to do actual and constructive work on them. I used to ride a Honda 1100 Shadow. All there was to do on that bike was change the oil and bolt on chrome goodies. Boring, boring, boring.

Bullet500Dude · **Reply #26 on:** December 20, 2007, 01:10:43 am

Simple. INSANITY

Foggy_Auggie · **Reply #27 on:** December 20, 2007, 03:34:18 am

Quote from: Bullet500Dude on December 20, 2007, 01:10:43 am

Simple. INSANITY

Yeah, we're all a little whacked out!

RagMan · **Reply #28 on:** December 20, 2007, 09:14:59 am

Insanity is buying one with kickstart only.

prof_stack · **Reply #29 on:** December 22, 2007, 04:47:25 am

Quote from: RagMan on December 20, 2007, 09:14:59 am

Insanity is buying one with kickstart only.

OUCH! When will you be able to kick-start again?

RagMan · **Reply #30 on:** December 22, 2007, 08:45:22 am

I am building up strength in my ankle now - the bones are healed, it took about 12 weeks to get healed, now all I got to do is get the strength back in the muscle. I should be able to start the bike, when the weather is good enough to ride it.

charte · **Reply #31 on:** December 24, 2007, 08:01:50 pm

For me it's the whole aesthetic of the RE that y'all described above better than I can. Frankly, I bought a Bullet, not a motorcycle, in my mind. They're are my first real bikes, and I wasn't searching for one. Kind of like when I met my wife....I wasn't looking for one........just hit me like a ton of bricks suddenly and I really had no choice.

Anon · **Reply #32 on:** December 25, 2007, 01:00:16 am

Quote from: cyrusb on December 09, 2007, 02:02:44 am

I bet theres an old VW beetle connection in a good many bullet owners. I drove em right up till the pans went away. Certainly, details like pre unit construction and 19 inch wheels were not available on any new bikes I knew of. Couldn't resist...All that plus points ignition!

Well, my most recent was a '70 VW Bus, but it's the same thing (except the poor engine's gotta work harder)! Yeah, I have to say that aside from the Bullet being one of the only bikes made that still looks like I think a motorcycle should, the simple technology was a very big part of the appeal. I always tried to do as much of my own work on my VW's and it seemed that a Bullet would treat me the same. They are also similar in that they are underpowered by modern standards and neither is suitable for modern freeway speeds. The funny thing is, I never felt it took too long to get anywhere in my VW Bus and I feel the same with my Bullet - the ride is too fun.

Eamon

fredgold52 · **Reply #33 on:** December 25, 2007, 07:44:25 pm

I had a 72 Beetle as a family car for a few years and lover the thing. We kept it around for a long time. I'm older and more fragile now so having a decent heater and AC is something I wouldn't want to do without.

Having admitted to being captured by many of the modern conveniences in my newer car, aside from the electric start feature of my 65, there is nothing a modern motorcycle has that I would want more than what my RE already has. And I must admit, that includes the blistering power and speed of the new bikes.

I believe this is the most pure form of motorcycling there is short of restoring your own 'barn find' classic bike.

C.C. · **Reply #34 on:** December 25, 2007, 11:20:00 pm

For me it was two things. 1. Identity theft is out of the question and 2. Untainted by technology. There is nothing that looks or sounds like a Bullet. The bike is old school all the way. The feeling of satisfaction you get when you have everything working perfectly on these machines. The satisfaction you get from working on it when everything is not perfect. I absolutely love this bike

C.C.

Chuck D · **Reply #35 on:** December 26, 2007, 09:12:26 pm

As was remarked on elsewhere on this site, the bike chooses you. when I went to the dealership on saturday (formula 1motorsports on Long Island), the first thing that greets you when you walk in, is the Ducati line, in all it"s brutal and muscular glory arranged at various dramatic angles. Say what you will, the Italians have style. Next up a small flight of steps you come to a sea of generic looking cruisers, and plasticky crotch rockets so cowled over that you can't see the engine. Then at the far end of the room there she was. It was like that scene in West Side Story when Tony first sees Maria at the dance ( I swear). The rest of the room got all gauzy and out of focus. Sitting there waiting for ME was Magic Black in all of her quiet elegance. I just hope that things work out a little better for us!

fredgold52 · **Reply #36 on:** December 26, 2007, 09:35:06 pm

Isn't it great how the RE Bullet, in whatever trim, just stands out in a room full for the latest technology iron!!

These things are simply classy. The others are nice (faster, more reliable, etc.) but they don't measure up

VMAX · **Reply #37 on:** December 26, 2007, 10:59:54 pm

So Chuck & Fred:

Have you christined your new "lady's" with a name? Seems like most of us have. Some male, some female, & some I have not quite figured out yet!

Chuck D · **Reply #38 on:** December 26, 2007, 11:17:40 pm

To quote Dragline (the late great George Kennedy) in Cool Hand Luke, "anything that beautiful just gotta be named Lucille!"

birdmove · **Reply #39 on:** December 27, 2007, 02:01:26 am

What drew me to the RE Bullets first is that I think they look exactly like a motorcyle should look like. The bike looks great. I also like the looks of the old Triumph Bonnevilles,BSA 441 Victors and the street thumper (Shooting Star I think?), the old Nortons and the RE Intercepters etc. I also like the HD Sportsters-at least the standard models-not so much the "Customs". Also I like thumpers.I think right now in the USA there are only the Bullet and the Blast as far as street thumpers,though there are plenty of dual sport thumpers.I think the Blast is a fine ride too, but it feels a bit small in physical size to me and my 5'9" and 170 pound self, while the Bullet feels roomier.The old Yamaha SR500 was another nice street thumper as was the Honda Ascot 500 and the MZ/MUZ Scorpian,Traveler and tour. The Suzuki Savage is a good ride, but its a cruiser with forward controls etc.Hey, the Bullet doesn't have to use a cam chain tensioner since its a pushrod motor.Those tensioners are notorious for having problems.So the relative simplicity of the Bullet also grabbed me.

And also having the electric start AND kick start capability is a very good thing in my opinion.

Jon in Puyallup.

2007 RE Bullet 500 Classic

cyrusb · **Reply #40 on:** December 27, 2007, 02:08:14 am

Quote from: VMAX on December 26, 2007, 10:59:54 pm

So Chuck & Fred:

Have you christined your new "lady's" with a name? Seems like most of us have. Some male, some female, & some I have not quite figured out yet!

One ride and I had the name "LUCIFERS HAMMER"

fredgold52 · **Reply #41 on:** December 27, 2007, 03:16:24 am

Quote from: VMAX on December 26, 2007, 10:59:54 pm

So Chuck & Fred:

Have you christined your new "lady's" with a name? Seems like most of us have. Some male, some female, & some I have not quite figured out yet!

No, I won't be naming my bike. Other than to call it "Mine!" If I were to name it, I'm sure it would be a feminine name to go along with what I believe it's personality will be. I may be jumping to conclusions or making false assumptions, but I've found motorcycles - especially the older ones - to have many of the traits of my dear wife. You can fill in the blanks from there, I'm sure.

Fred

cyrusb · **Reply #42 on:** December 27, 2007, 09:40:40 pm

Heres something you'll get a kick out of. When I bought mine, riding friends really did not know how to react. They did not understand and generally had no comment at first when I described the new ride. They slowly came by to see it, still no comments. Now they come by just to see it, and cant wait for the weather to warm up for a test ride. Go figure..

LotusSevenMan · **Reply #43 on:** December 30, 2007, 12:38:10 pm

I bought mine having never ridden a British bike having lived in UK all my life!
I bought my 2003 bike about 4-5 months ago on a bit of a whim of having ridden a Yamaha XT 500 a long while back and then suddenly seeing then what people saw in a large single 'thumper' and saying to myself I must have one one day. OK, so it took twenty years.
I wanted a 'modern' classic not a retro looker; one still in production for getting spares easily as all my machines (be it car or motorbike) tend to be two or three or more models back in time etc. Well now they have stopped making the iron lump too so I caught the RE just at the right time I guess. I had to have an Army for the utilitarian looks and all that storage space with crash bars as std. It just 'looked right' IMHO.
Can't say I'm unhappy with my choice so far!!!!!

VMAX · **Reply #44 on:** December 31, 2007, 01:20:31 am

Cy, Chuck, & Fred:

Just saw Cool Hand Luke the other night. Yep there's nothing like a "Lucille". I wish I could watch her wash & wax my RE

I fully understand about a bike having the temperment of a wife

That's why I named mine Bernadine. Afigment of my imagination

When my wife asked about the name & why I didn't name the bike or my boat after her,

I just bit my lip and decided no response was better then the alternative.

prof_stack · **Reply #45 on:** January 01, 2008, 01:16:35 am

What drew you to the bullet?

Some 20 years ago a RE was parked nearby. I was drawn to the simplicity of the design and light weight.

Although I don't yet own a RE, I am most attracted to the Electra-X. Somehow that design moves me whereupon the Classic versions look old and frumpy. I know I'm in the minority here ("INCOMING...").

In fact, the one I test rode in '06 is on consignment at Vince's (unless it sold already). But the bills around this house will probably keep me on the Buell for a few more months. Sigh.

birdmove · **Reply #46 on:** January 01, 2008, 04:02:51 am

Prof, I also really like the looks of the, now discontinued, Bullet 65. Vince had two, but both had some add-ons that I didn't want.I actually like the looks of the Classic very much, and like it better than the Deluxe model. I like the Electra also.I like them all.The Electra is supposed to have uprated main bearings which is a good thing, and a bit more power and speed.Sounds like a good ride to me.The old Classic......if I didn't own one I probably wouldn't believe an engine with a 6.5 to 1 compression ratio would even run. I had a 2001 Kawasaki KLR250 that actually came from the factory in a pretty hot state of tune.It had either a 12.5 or 12.0 to 1 comp ratio! Thats pretty radical for a general production bike.But run my Classic does, and idles well.

jon

JLR · **Reply #47 on:** January 03, 2008, 04:52:17 am

VMAX:
Probably a wise choice. After pondering it a bit I conclude that it MAY be safe to tell her that naming something after her would "objectifying" her, and you don't see her as an object.

But I'm young still and need all the browny points I can get after 1 1/2 years of marriage!

VMAX · **Reply #48 on:** January 03, 2008, 04:23:56 pm

JLR:

Cracky, it doesn't matter how long you're married (37+ here) we can always use "brownie points"!!!!!!

jonapplegate · **Reply #49 on:** January 09, 2008, 05:01:29 pm

The year before last, a persistent but hardly perceptable thought had begun in the back of my mind. I almost always get around by myself and gas is getting more expensive by the day, it seems. If only there were a bike I could find that didn't look like the others, a bike that didn't carry the stereotype (in my mind) baggage of the Harleys and crotch-rockets. It needs to be reliable, not worn out and unique. An old Triumph Bonnie would be Ideal except for I couldn't trust anything I could afford and was that old to be reliable unless I could have the confidence of rebuilding it myself. Wasn't going to work. I had my sights set on a vintage Vespa that would be modifiable and as a bonus have plenty of cool style points here where I live. If a W650 rolled into my life that would work too.
I was driving home from work, stopped at a stoplight and there she was. THE BIKE OF MY DREAMS! I knew it had to be new because, well just because. I don't think I cared at this point, I had to have one of these. Rushed home, hopped on the computer and Voila! it was everything I had been looking for and more. It sung to me. It was the Bullet. Like someone else said and I'll paraphrase, I hardly think of it as a bike, I think of it as a Bullet. Thanks everyone for their insights and also, after reading this I believe I have cleared up some confusion for myself as to name my Bullet as male or female. Ithink I will name her Duchess... Her ROYAL DUCHESS!

NorEaster · **Reply #50 on:** September 07, 2013, 07:29:33 pm

First an apology to the moderator for bringing an old thread back to life.

I am a new Enfield owner and decided to start reading the threads from last to first.
I have been attracted to the Royal Enfields for a few years now. I like that they look like a vintage bike. I have had other bikes and those have come and gone. I went a couple summers without two wheels under me and knew I needed to fill the void.
When I saw the new 2014 tan and maroon, I went on a quest to find one. Happily I did and now enjoy it thoroughly. It's the most comfortable bike I have owned as the roads in my neck of the woods leave a lot to be desired.
It turns heads wherever I am going. Yesterday, it was parked in the lot where I work. A road crew was out on the street working and when they took a break, a number of them came over and began looking at it and taking pictures of it with their phones. A number of people have asked me if it was a restored antique.
Now the task of adding the bits to it that makes it all the more unique for me.
http://www.enfieldmotorcycles.com/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=4278

neil · **Reply #51 on:** September 07, 2013, 10:36:03 pm

My Bullet 65 is named Buzzy. Because the vibrations turn to a buzz after the bike was broken in and going 55 or better is possible. Handle bars and foot begs tend to transmit a buzz to your hands and feet. Hence my bike buzzes and therefore it's called Buzzy - - nothing to do with Gender.

I owned an old R. E. way back when I was in high school. I figured they were long gone, never to be seen again. I was looking on the internet and by chance I came across R.E. I wanted another one. The rest is history. I own a bullet 65 new since 2004. Just to hear someone my age, complete stranger, walk up to me and say "that's beautiful, did you restore it?" and "Boy, don't see many that look like that anymore." That's enough to keep me and Buzzy close pals for the rest of my life.
Neil and Buzzy the Bullet

Chuck D · **Reply #52 on:** September 08, 2013, 12:59:06 am

Quote from: NorEaster on September 07, 2013, 07:29:33 pm

First an apology to the moderator for bringing an old thread back to life.
I am a new Enfield owner and decided to start reading the threads from last to first.
I have been attracted to the Royal Enfields for a few years now. I like that they look like a vintage bike. I have had other bikes and those have come and gone. I went a couple summers without two wheels under me and knew I needed to fill the void.
When I saw the new 2014 tan and maroon, I went on a quest to find one. Happily I did and now enjoy it thoroughly. It's the most comfortable bike I have owned as the roads in my neck of the woods leave a lot to be desired.
It turns heads wherever I am going. Yesterday, it was parked in the lot where I work. A road crew was out on the street working and when they took a break, a number of them came over and began looking at it and taking pictures of it with their phones. A number of people have asked me if it was a restored antique.
Now the task of adding the bits to it that makes it all the more unique for me.
http://www.enfieldmotorcycles.com/forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=4278

Don't apologize. It was good to see so many old names again, especially the late great LJRead. I miss that guy.
Chuck.

ace.cafe · **Reply #53 on:** September 08, 2013, 02:21:50 am

It was the only "real motorcycle" left in the world to buy.

Merrill · **Reply #54 on:** September 08, 2013, 05:15:07 am

For years I've known the short comings of Royal Enfields. I've ridden and owned many bikes but never considered an Enfield. Then one day I read an article about Royal Enfields. The author cautioned that this was not a bike LIKE your grandfather rode, this IS the bike your grandfather rode. Suddenly I viewed the Enfield in a different light, call it a Desire to know, to partake of that era.
.
Maintenance of an Enfield takes longer and must be performed more frequently. At one point I considered selling the bike, It is one of several in the stable. But alas, the Enfield is still with me. At various times my
curious young coworkers have watched me check valves, drain the amal
float bowl, replace spark plug , adjust idle, all while curb side at the office. Occasionally they watch me disappear in a cloud of blue smoke after a good wet sump episode.
.
Life is not static, nor is it easy to explain. After out growing may different motorcycles, one from the past was waiting in the future for me. This is the first motorcycle I've grown in-to. Hard to explain, Maybe Royal Enfield knew when they dubbed it the "Bullet".

merrill

Ice · **Reply #55 on:** September 08, 2013, 05:19:10 am

Quote from: Merrill on September 08, 2013, 05:15:07 am

~ Life is not static, nor is it easy to explain. After out growing may different motorcycles, one from the past was waiting in the future for me. This is the first motorcycle I've grown in-to. Hard to explain, Maybe Royal Enfield knew when the dubbed it the "Bullet".~

This one is going on my shop wall.

RGT · **Reply #56 on:** September 08, 2013, 08:06:32 am

it is the perfect hotrod platform, just like the old chevys from my younger days, there are lots of them, they are cheap and there is no end to the parts available and being made available for them. It was a solidly engineered simple bike whose production quality screamed out to be improved. It has classic styling that is timeless and can suit so many people's needs and wants...

charte · **Reply #57 on:** September 08, 2013, 01:12:40 pm

Been a while since I've been on, glad you brought this string back!

I have 2 Bullets, both out of commission. I hope this week to get parts for my 69 to get her on the road again. Been a while since she's been out. This string reminds me why I keep going!

I might go ahead and sell the 63 because I just have too little time to maintain both, and it's a shame to see them sit. But I'll always have 1!

Mike_D · **Reply #58 on:** September 08, 2013, 05:43:00 pm

I had never even thought about owning a motorcycle until I saw a Bullet. I was in India, I bought one and rode 5,000 miles and fell in love. I wanted to bring her back to the states. People who knew better talked me out of it and I returned to the US surprised to find them quite available here so I bought one (an Iron Barrel of course). I found this message board and couldn't figure out why y'all were here. It seems that most of you have come to Enfield a different route than I have; its interesting -- I'm glad this thread has been resurrected.

I remember getting back to the states and almost talking myself out of getting another bullet: it won't be fast enough, I'll have to fix it myself etc....But I know I made the right choice and couldn't be happier to be here. I've since ridden other bikes and know mine is right for me. People can say what they like (and they do) but I do believe that the Bullet is a great, unique bike.

tooseevee · **Reply #59 on:** September 08, 2013, 08:17:19 pm

I got mine in 2010 (an unsold, zero miles, orphan '08 AVL Classic) for all the reasons that the great multitude of people in the U.S. now would NOT want one or have any clue how to maintain it or take care of it or appreciate it for what it is.

Can I do wheelies?

Can I do 0-60 in 4 car lengths?

Can I ride 1/2 naked girls around on the back? (Well, I 'spose I Could, but I prefer girls with their skin ON ).

And I'm SO glad I picked the orphan AVL & not a UCE.

Voyager AL · **Reply #60 on:** September 10, 2013, 11:57:08 pm

I am like the rest of You...I sold a KLR650 , my second one in 2 years.And missed the simplicity of a 1 lunger. I remember seeing a RE back when they first came stateside, and always was intrigued by them. I rode a Ural sidecar rig, and knew that it wasn't for me. I currently have a 1987 V65 Sabre, which when new was the fastest bike in its class. Its wickedly fast. I had a fairing on it, as I rode to and from work in all weather, prolly 10 months a year. Well, I found a mint 03 Classic Deluxe, with 5k on her, and it had never seen rain. I rode it the next day to a Mods vs Rockers meet, in the downpour. Its been fun, adjusting and improving the power. Improving the shift,etc. I now have removed the fairing from my Sabre, as I enjoy the wind, and I have a company van that I must drive daily. Motorcycling is my relaxation after work. I enjoy going to local "bike nights", and parking beside a $20K HD, only to have a group around my RE, admiring it, snapping pics, and asking questions.( and not paying attention to the HD). Im loving the bike. I WANT a newer one, with FI, higher speed, and reliability. Ill trade in my Sabre to get one.And keep the old Iron Barrell. Thanks, RE, for making a fun bike!

cyrusb · **Reply #61 on:** September 12, 2013, 02:14:42 am

Wow, zombie thread! I can tell you I still feel the same way about my bullet as when I started this thread in '07. In fact even more so. While waiting for Musket Cases to hit the market I pickled the Bullet and rode a 750 Duc for almost 2 years now. Brought it back to life yesterday, and man , I was home again! But here's the rub, I don't want it to weigh any more than it does(365lbs kick only)or get any longer. It's just so damn maneuverable the way it is, and I think the hiatus made it really noticeable. Compared to the "Sausage Creature" the 500 bullet is like a trials bike, and I cant bring myself to change it. Cheers..

ace.cafe · **Reply #62 on:** September 12, 2013, 02:20:50 am

Quote from: cyrusb on September 12, 2013, 02:14:42 am

Wow, zombie thread! I can tell you I still feel the same way about my bullet as when I started this thread in '07. In fact even more so. While waiting for Musket Cases to hit the market I pickled the Bullet and rode a 750 Duc for almost 2 years now. Brought it back to life yesterday, and man , I was home again! But here's the rub, I don't want it to weigh any more than it does(365lbs kick only)or get any longer. It's just so damn maneuverable the way it is, and I think the hiatus made it really noticeable. Compared to the "Sausage Creature" the 500 bullet is like a trials bike, and I cant bring myself to change it. Cheers..

Cyrus,
Not to try to "tantalize" you, or anything, but we have been talking with Aniket about casting some of these things in magnesium. Also contemplating doing some Bullet engine cases and covers in magnesium, in small specialty runs.
No cost estimates yet, but Aniket does have his first seven aluminum cases cast, and in the process of finish machining, so we will have to be seeing some pricing come out of him pretty soon.
I don't have any sway over him with his pricing. He's going to pick the figure.

Lane · **Reply #63 on:** September 12, 2013, 02:49:34 am

Someone asked me that once at my first Rally at the River (now defunct). My quick answer then was because I liked antiques. It's a small simple bike that has a lot of forgiveness in it for non-expert riders like me. I appreciate that I can do some work on it and not break the budget.

I have an 2008 classic frame AVL just like tooseevee's. I just got back from a 7 day camping trip of 2055 miles. Except for a blown fuse problem which was probably my fault, it was trouble free. I can't really describe why it is so fun to ride a bike like this across country but it is.

cyrusb · **Reply #64 on:** September 12, 2013, 03:20:26 am

Ace, sounds good, probably some alloy cyl's would help too. I have to find a beat donor bike for this project. I have been to the musket website and the new 1000 is awesome. But, alas, still no prices. I also like how the new mill lengthens the wheelbase less. I think i'd like to see if a wishbone type double down tube could be used in stead of the recurved single. Any side views with the tank off?

ace.cafe · **Reply #65 on:** September 12, 2013, 03:29:15 am

Quote from: cyrusb on September 12, 2013, 03:20:26 am

Ace, sounds good, probably some alloy cyl's would help too. I have to find a beat donor bike for this project. I have been to the musket website and the new 1000 is awesome. But, alas, still no prices. I also like how the new mill lengthens the wheelbase less. I think i'd like to see if a wishbone type double down tube could be used in stead of the recurved single. Any side views with the tank off?

Yes, if you used a double front downtube to straddle the front cylinder, I think you could keep the wheelbase the same as the Bullet, or very close to it. Aniket isn't doing that because he doesn't want the downtube crossing in front of the pretty engine he made.
But it most certainly could be done that way to keep the wheelbase shorter. Care would have to be taken to ensure that you could get the head and barrel off the front cylinder with the double downtube.
And the frame mods are up to the owner to do the way he wants it, and Aniket's bike is simply one example of the ways it could be done.

I don't have any side views with the tank off. But all it consists of is a section of tubing that is welded in to the top tube under the tank to lengthen the backbone of the frame, and then the front downtube bent to fit down to the front motor mount. It's pretty wide-open to do it any way you want.

RGT · **Reply #66 on:** September 12, 2013, 08:58:48 am

like this could be cool

Buckeroo · **Reply #67 on:** September 12, 2013, 09:43:26 pm

The need to ride....anything. At this point I am questioning my decision. But it is an adventure. Mostly it sits in my garage suffering mods.

rvcycleguy · **Reply #68 on:** September 12, 2013, 10:30:36 pm

Quote from: RGT on September 12, 2013, 08:58:48 am

like this could be cool

That's a great looking machine.

charte · **Reply #69 on:** September 12, 2013, 10:41:17 pm

Inspiring guys, love the old thread!

Ok, got my drive shaft this week (doubt it's really called that, but the thingy the gears slide on). Other one shattered.

Hope to get it in the 69 very soon and get her on the road again. Still time for nice Fall riding.

Khecari · **Reply #70 on:** September 13, 2013, 05:38:20 pm

This thread's a joy to read, thanks all for writing, and to NorEaster for the revival.

A lot of resonance for me. With no mechanical experience nor inclination I picked up a copy of Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, years ago now, just because it was a classic, you've gotta read Tom Sawyer at some point in your life, right? I worked my way through it, relishing the gems that shone through the tedium, and sure enough caught the bug, only it was a '74 bus.

I wasn't up for a motorcycle at that point in my life, and figured an old aircooled VW was the simplest engine I could find short of that. (And in all honesty at the time I was a raging neo-hippy: you can't carry a didjeridoo on a motorcycle.) With a quickly dogeared copy of the Idiot's Guide and numerous trips to Moab under my belt I worked my way through pretty much everything, from the regular valves and timing and points work to replacing clutch, carburetor, and finally engine. It was a joy and frustration, fabulous trips through the desert, making coffee streetside in Berkeley, stranded in the middle of nowhere in pre-cellphone days wracking my brain or elated with a mechanical eureka.

Anyway, I never had much interest in motorcycles. My girlfriend and I got into scooters a few years back; we'd talk to friends who'd "graduated" from scooters up to motorcycles; I thought, why's that a graduation? I'd watch something like Foyle's War and see a WWII motorcycle and think, now that would be a motorcycle to have. Then I saw my first Enfield, a 2012 classic battle green, and I was in love, which surprised me; I didn't think I was a guy to fall in love with a motorcycle. In the end we picked up a 2007 with under 1000 miles on it, painted a bizarre and gorgeous blue by the previous owner. It was serendipitous because at the time I had no idea about the evolution of Bullets and am grateful to have gotten one of the last of the Iron Barrels.

And yes, it's already been frustrating - the mysterious compression loss thread elsewhere on the site - but I've gotten my hands gratifyingly greasy again after years away (the bus is long-since buried) and when she's up and running, riding that Bullet is incomparably sweet.

D the D · **Reply #71 on:** September 13, 2013, 05:56:27 pm

My Uncle had a BSA and a Triumph in the '50s and '60s. My brother had all the motorcycle mags and a Triumph in the '60s. I just loved the look of the Enfields then, so I got one when I growed all up. Just took about 45 years and some lesser makes in the mean time.

rvcycleguy · **Reply #72 on:** January 27, 2014, 07:12:18 pm

What drew me to the RE was the look and the feel of the bike. I had been hunting for a vintage bike for many months. My preference was late 60's to early 70's. My initial search landed on bikes like Honda CL360 or Yamaha DT400, bikes from my youth. My everyday ride is a Suzuki Vtwin 800cc cruiser. It's set up with loads of accessories that allow it to be comfortable for touring and 2up riding. I wanted something that was much different and something that I could tinker with and keep me off the major highways speed wise. Something I could ride down to the local ice house as we call them here in south and be unique and talk cycle speak with friends.

I saw the vintage RE online with a series of photos and realized that was the one. I had no history of British or European bikes. The bike showed it had been refreshed with high gloss paint, wheels, levers, handlebars, cables, tires, electrics and was also de-badged. Very unique look. One of the best features was a solo springer seat. It was set up as solo and wife was not interested in being a rear passenger on this little bike. We look to add a sidecar but that's another post. I bought it within days of seeing it online. The seller was 20 minutes away and he was ready to sell due to a growing family and baby on the way. It's taken me months to understand the special characteristics the bike has and is a wonderful addition to my personal transportation. Wife loves the look of the bike and how it keeps me busy tinkering when she is distracted with family and work. We've met some new friends at a Vintage European rally in the TX hill country and we plan more outings with the BMOA rally in May. I've been offered twice what I paid for it and I don't hesitate to answer, NO.. I'm having way too much fun.

Phlakaton · **Reply #73 on:** January 29, 2014, 12:01:02 am

My wife turned me onto my Bullet. In fact - she told me I should get a bike - so I went out the next day and got me a nice black '08 500 Iron. Still running great.

single · **Reply #74 on:** January 29, 2014, 01:51:18 am

I bought Jolly for the reason that ,obviously,it needed me.

Author Topic: What drew you to the bullet? (Read 17971 times)

LJRead

LJRead

Roger

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