Didn’t think that I would be buying a 350 but decided to get one after all the rave reviews. As always, Marty at GoMoto in Minneapolis is amongst the best and most dedicated RE dealers around….bike was ready to go at the front door.
First impressions devoid of all the social media influences and freebie magazine sales pitches…..
1. Fit and finish is excellent….very nice compared to the previous RE 410s, 500s and 535s, and clearly a bit better than the 650s…..very similar to current bikes manufactured by the mainstream Japanese companies.
2. Other than the metal fuel tank, the side panels, mudguards, throttle body covers etc. are all plastic but well made.
3. Nice idle sound.
4. Engine smoothness is no different than a 410, maybe a bit lumpier but in all objectivity this was my first 50 miles on an unbroken engine at under 50 mph. The twin 650 is (as expected) way smoother. The media hype suggested a Tesla like smoothness
5. Gear shifting is more precise than the 650s and 410s
6. Bike is larger than expected and the first few miles were very comfortable (6 ft tall), but the seats were terribly uncomfortable for the lower back after 25 miles, and for a mere couple of hundred bucks RE will sell you less terrible seats.
7. Why BROWN seats on a blue bike?
8. Navigator paired up easily but the app requires your DOB and phone number…..this privacy intrusion was disappointing.
9. LED tail/brake light is good. Nice color and intensity.
10. Lovely instrument cluster with blue numbers that match the blue bike
Overall a nice little bike that seems well made. Ride and handling is good….almost a touch too nimble at slow speeds.
The interceptor 650 still remains my favorite after minor handlebar and footpeg relocation, and a better aftermarket seat. Thanks.
GSS