Hitchcocks Forum

Well my 2009 Electra EFI was delivered by courier this morning and even though I'd like to spend a week or two checking it over before I put it on the road proper, obviously I couldn't resist a quick spin "round the block".
So, first impressions from an Enfield newbie?
The engine and box are great, smoother than I expected. The brakes are better than my 1987 Transalp. The rear shocks are presumably filled with concrete? The bars are too low (personal preference I know). Oh, and the mirrors are useless, although I guess higher / wider bars might help with that?
All in all, very pleased with my new addition, the smile when I got back says it was a good idea.

Good news! You might want to check out the Bullet Catalogue (in the left sidebar) for accessories but hide your credit card first, there is a lot of tempting stuff there. The standard rear shocks are renowned for being too hard, check out the accessory options for suspension. I think I'd just ride it for a bit (apparently we are getting some nice weather for a few days in the UK,) before you make any decisions.

REgards, Mark

I fitted the mirror extensions part number 92601 to my Electra X which made the world of difference. I can now see past my arms.

My advice? Get as much riding time in as you can before the winter comes along. That way you will discover what changes you want to make during the lay-up. The important thing now, is to enjoy the machine as much as possible before that time comes.

Thanks for the advice guys, but I'm in no rush to make any changes, I have a feeling this could turn into a long term relationship so there's no hurry. Luckily I have the Transalp to keep me on the road through winter so the Enfield can hide from the worst of the weather.

Yes, the mirrors are useless, try bar end mirrors, that will at least have them outside you hands; my one (200034) seems to be self-adjusting, I've now got a good view of the nearside verge behind my back. It's a good rear view, just not in the right place. Concrete shocks could mean the gas has gone and need re-pumping with nitrogen (not a diy job); they're supposed to be quite soft. The stock Enfield bars are pretty much sit up and beg, they are moveable but watch they don't hit the tank. There are taller bars but you may have to have longer cables. You may well find the Electra suits winter weather better than the Transalp.

"There are taller bars but you may have to have longer cables. You may well find the Electra suits winter weather better than the Transalp." Hiya, I think higher bars will be on the shopping list eventually, I just prefer em, I even put risers on the Transalp. Which by the way is the perfect winter bike, decent screen, hand guards, and at 28 years old with 70k on the clock I don't even feel guilty not bothering to wash it till spring! The Enfield can be reserved for sunny afternoon pottering.