Hitchcocks Forum

After all my spragg woes i am thinking of changing to an EFI.Has anyone else made the change and if so was it worthwhile?

EFI owners, being perhaps the most defensive creatures on the planet, will probably say yes. Iron barrel owners will say no, go down the much simpler and reliable pre-electric iron barrel route. EFi's have their problems too.

Hi Martin, I currently own an Electra XS but have ridden very many EFI UCE Enfields - some for extended times since they were introduced to the UK.
Whilst I have persisted with my Electra there is absolutely no doubt to my mind that the EFI bikes are significantly superior in a number of respects.
The engine is smoother, quieter, more perky at low to medium revs and will certainly be more robust. The frame (although it looks similar to the Electra) is better in that the engine and swing arm mounts are of heavier gauge steel and therefore the handling benefits acordingly. Unfortunately this does mean that these bikes are of course heavier now though.
The finish of the latest bikes is much improved over the older machines and the electrics have been constantly improved to what is now, in my opinion, a very high standard.
On a day-long test ride I found that the Classic EFI coped with motorways very well, feeling planted, smooth and unstressed at an indicated 72 mph. Maximum speed sitting upright on a flat section of motorway was an indicated 82 mph (the bike had the standard silencer). Interesing comparison with my Electra XS, which has the Highway Kit and our hosts full Goldy system which will run just past 90 mph but is howling, straining and buzzing like a mad thing at that speed.
Handling was more planted than on my bike and I had no stability issues with the 18 inch wheels.
The EFI bikes are altogethermore refined than the Electras and I would recommend one. Can you get a test ride Martin?
Best of luck with your decision.
I'm waiting for the Continental GT 535 EFI to come out next year.......!

I agree with Stu. It's also worth noting how much simpler the servicing is with an EFI - only one oil instead of 3, no tappet adjustment required, automatic primary chain adjustment etc,

Rog

Thanks for your posts all.I only potter on my Enfield as a have a 1200 Bandit if i want to go faster/further.I do find the brakes fine for my type of riding and the only criticism of the handling/roadholding is the very poor ground clearance.I'm not too bothered about the finish as i only tend to ride my enfield in the dry and not in the winter.I often polish it so it's quite spoilt really.Servicing the thing is an acquired taste after years of mainly Jap bikes.I do think i need to take a test ride on an EFI but the main worry if i trade in is the money i will lose that i have invested in mods i have made to the Electra and of course the extra cash i shall have to find on top to buy the EFI-although i wouldn't be looking to buy new.

Hi MartinB, Had a 2007 Iron Barrel, upgraded to Big Bore. In 2012 bought an Efi B5. 6,000 km later- No sprag problems, overall performance is way better, power, brakes, handling, fuel economy, servicing. Only genuine problem was a warped brake since, since sorted under warranty.Love the old technology, but progress is progress. Cheers TrevorCH

I had a 2007 Electra Dl which was great, but my mates Electra at 12k miles had to have a rebore and needed 2 sprags, so I got a 2009 Electra Dl EFi. This is quicker, quieter and more economical. It will cruise at 70-80 and no problems so far in 4k miles.

Well today i've gone and done it!I booked a test ride at Arden Motorcycles in Alcester who allowed me to ride off into the sunset without any security.They seem friendly and chilled out-makes a change from some bike dealers i have experienced.I have arranged to part ex my Electra and hope to pick up the EFI (it's the non classic model) next week.I like the slightly more modern (but classic)feel and the simpler servicing.The bike seems a little bit more sprightly than mine and the ground clearance is much improved.And hopefully no more sprag problems!