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which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 11:53 am
by jamie dodger
I am new to the enfield scene & would like advice please,l think l want an EFI model (2006 onwards ? which l believe is electric start, 5 gear, which is what l want) looking on flea bay some models are listed with 16bhp/19bhp/27bhp,
is that
16bhp - 2002 - 2005 350cc
19bhp - 2002 - 2005 500cc
27bhp - 2006 efi 500cc
I have had bikes for many years but not really been into Enfields, also how do l tell an indian private import (which l believe to be of a lower spec' than the UK models) from a UK model ?
Any comments from your experience will be gratefully recieved.
Thanks
JD

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 11:59 am
by Michael
Hi JD... first up, I think your years might be out. The EFI bikes were first registered in 2009 (unless you got a really early one in late 2008, like me). All EFIs are electric start, and I think all are 5 speed as well (they benefit from going up a tooth at the gearbox sprocket in my opinion).




In terms of EFI imports, I *believe* that UK importas have a lambda sensor in the exhaust pipe at the bend, but the initial Indian imports did not (open loop?). Not so sure about the older bikes - I had an electra X for a while too. It benefotted from a 'highway kit' which uprated the carb, exhaust and a few other bits and bobs which meant for a higher power.

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 12:21 pm
by MartinB
Like you a few years ago i had been into bikes for many years but was not into Enfield except a Cruasader as a second bike in the 70s.

I tested the water with an Electra which i bought virtually new off our hosts but it was by then a deleted model as the EFIs had come in.

Not being very used to "British" type bikes i wanted an electric starter,left hand gear change and disc front brake.

For what it was the Electra was a great introduction to the brand but they do have their problems- mainly the very fickle sprag clutch on the starter. Mine packed up twice and was expensive and sessy to fix and i could never rely on my kick starting technique after years of mainly reliable Jap bikes.If you want to tinker though these are better tahn the EFI but otherwise the EFIis a much more modern bike with no particular problems.I've had mine for 12 months now and it's been mostly great. I haven't messed about with it unlike the Electra.The EFi can potter or cruise at the motorway legal limit and servicing is very easy.The kick starter actually works without trying to break your ankle and touch wood the electric start is much mor reliable.

Our hosts sell a great range of spares and upgrades for these bikes and are usually very helpful with any queries.

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 1:21 pm
by Alan R
Hi Mr "DODGER" and welcome to the fold !!...... First off,}-- you're doing the right thing by coming on here and asking for help and advice...As you've noticed these bikes--- be they the early Classics , or an Efi Unit Construction Engine one ----- do require a tad more "Owner Input", beit on the tech. side or when out on the road....Secondly,}----- why not have yourself a test ride at a dealers ??? They have all the info you'll need ( and a degree of sympathy as well, LoL !!), plus the occasional "previously owned" one for sale....Third,}----- How about joining your nearest Enfield Owners Club Branch ??...They're a great bunch 'o lads ( and lassies !!) and can help with advice and Tech. problems right there and then................and Last}---- Until you are savvy with these machines, (or you have a friend who is certified) er, sorry I meant knowledgeable, I would steer clear of E-Bay and the like.....Of course there is also the brand new Continental GT to consider ?????????...NICE !!!!!!!!!!

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 1:52 pm
by jamie dodger
Alan R,
THanks for the response, joined the club last week. With the demise of the last distribitor set up it seems the dealers are very few & far between, my nearest one is 70 + miles away in London. I have contacted Motogb for information several weeks ago - still waiting ! Will give them another call

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 7:38 pm
by PeteF
From what you say I'd seriously look at the new GT Continental. I wish I gad room in the garage!

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 9:30 pm
by Mr h
Hi Jamie dodger I have had a 2009efi just covered3000 miles in 21days and no problem so go for it it so easy to ride regards mr h

which one to buy ?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2013 10:02 pm
by Alan R
-------- Hello matey !! Back from your travels ? Why not start a thread and tell us all about it then ??