Forum

[Andy C]

Contemplating going back to RE ownership as I eluded to on a posting some time ago and was looking for some help in deciding what model to go for.

I like the look of the Continental, and the fact that it has discs all round and "improved" frame, as well as the 535 motor.

But then again I also like the look of the Electra models, which are available with the lean burn carburated motor or 500 EFI motor.

I would be using the bike mostly in fair weather, and will be doing all my own maintenence. Probably will not be doing any really long runs apart from the odd one or two.

Based on this should I go for a carburated Electra, Electra EFI or the Continental ?

Guessing that the Carburated version would be easier to maintai, and perhaps more reliable.

Finally, and idea on power output / performance of the carburated Electra Vs EFI version - is there big difference ?

Just looking for opinions at this stage.

Ta

[MartinB]

I can't speak for the 535 but as the previous owner of an Electra lean burn i found the EFI replacement to be far superior : sprag is reliable,no oil leaks,clutch much improved,better ground clearance(my Electra had after market folding footrests),starts much easier -kick or electric.Maintenance at the mileage i do is an annual oil change whereas the Electra needed fettling all the time(Amal carb instead of the Mikuni).However if you are used to traditional Brit bikes a lean burn may suit you if you can live with the kick start-the sprag on the electric start went twice on mine which i bought virtually brand new whereas my EFI was 3 years old and had 7K on the clock when i bought it.

[apparently lucky eddie]

You'll find as many differing opinions as there are visitors and regulars here, there ain't no simple answer. The original RE single was extremely reliable and so simple a child could re-build it. It was n't very quick though so if you like tinkering maybe there's your answer. On the other hand some like the later models and once they've got them they start tinkering too by changing bits and re-mapping the ecu. I suspect whatever you get you won't be happy and you'll soon be delving into Mr H's superb catalogue looking for go faster parts or customising bits 'n' bobs. I'd say go for an early one or a late one and understand the Helectra is called that for a reason. Maybe you should hang slack and see what the new 400 or new twin is like. Or if you really, really want a superb, quick classic single go for a mid 70's 450 Ducati Desmo single - prices start at about 12 grand for a tatty one!

[PO51UHD]

Hi Andy

I've had my 07 ElectraX from new and never had sprag clutch problems (either luck or careful starting using the decompressor!) As Martin says, the carb allows you to fettle and fiddle in ways you can't do on an EFi, it depends what you want. I've fitted MrH's Amal kit, free exhaust, TCI and filter and I'm happy with performance. Like Martin, maintenance is just oil & filter plus the occasional tweak on the carb - just like an improved old Brit Bike really!

Happy shopping!

Stephen

[dottyone]

I ran a 2002 Classic 500 for some years and, with my rose tinted spectacles on, I loved its simplicity and genuine vintage feel. In reality I did not like the 4 speed gearbox, the barely adequate brakes, mediocre main road performance, its refusal to find neutral when hot, and the embarrassing habit of stalling at busy traffic lights. When a change of direction dictated the need for a totally reliable bike, day in and day out, I swapped it for a Honda CBF500 ABS. Absolute revelation in terms of all round performance, quality and reliability. BUT I never really liked the Honda, and when I retired I swapped it for an Electra EFI. It is on an 09 registration and I really like it so far. I've upgraded the front brake, invested in a new battery, fitted a new starter solenoid, and ride it just for the smile factor. Happily I've got a genuine old bike in the garage for tinkering with. So, as they say, really think through your expectations, be honest with yourself, consider it deeply, and then buy the best EFI that you can afford!
Regards, Stephen

[apparently lucky eddie]

...like I said, fiddle with this, change that, alter the other and buy Mr H's spare parts! And have differing opinions (which is quite right too). Maybe you should just go and drive them all Andy and see what suits YOU.

[Adrian]

The Electra-X was the very last of the old-style Bullets with the separate gear box. I won't go into the main problems with the model, but they're all fixable, get one that's set up right and it's a good fun to ride bike. If utter practicality and having a current model is more important to you than heritage, I have no doubt that an EFI Bullet ought to give you equal pleasure. Have a really good think about what you are actually looking for in a later Bullet. There does seem to be a spate of low mileage Electra-X bikes coming onto the market, which are being snapped up by discerning(!) enthusiasts.



A.

[Andy C]

Thanks for all the differing views - a mixed bag which is pretty much what I expected.

I did have one of the classic bullets which I did a lot of work on, culminating in fitting one of Mr H's 612 kits after which it really did go like stink.

Fast forward 8 years or so, and I find myself drawn back to Enfields.

Luckily enough I have a dealer nearby and they sometimes have a few 2nd hand bikes, and certainly demonstrators available so I'll get around to trying a few out at my leisure.

I am still getting over an accident I had back in August which wrote off my MZ 660 Skorpion, as well as that I have 2 other bikes I need to fettle for 2016 when hopefully I'll be ready to get back on the road again on a bike.

Cheers.

[Scalyback]

I have had three RE's now.



My first was an EFI Woodsman. strong fine bike Inamed Thunderbolt. Reliable (for me), powerful enough, and ok at 70MPH. Not as original as earlier models, but a very loved ride.



My second is Tornado, a 1994 Bavanar special import iron barreled bullet. the gears and back brake took some getting used to, but this extended my biking experience into 'British Layout" This bike I won't part with



Kevin is my third. I know you didn't ask about these but I will pop him in anyway. Kevin is a 1959 Meteor Minor de luxe. A Redditch built 500 cc twin cylinder dream.



With Thunderbolt, I started on a journey. Tornado pointed me in the direction and with him and then Kevin, I believe I have arrived at my destination.



I guess you are not here for speed, so if it is the novelty or nostalgia value, then go for either an iron bullet or the lean burn. That seems to be a popular 'stop' on the Royal Enfield journey of blissful satisfaction. (Till the bugger acts up, that is). And... You can fix them... Yes you can. undo all the screws and it comes apart. change over the worn bit, put back together and fill with oil. I can do it, so it not need a lot of brain, just brawn sometimes!



Above all, remember the RE smile when you are out riding! Nuff said!

[Thack]

I've owned three REs: a 2002 ES (basically the original iron barrel), a 2006 Elextra X, and now a 2014 Bullet.



The engine has improved each time. In particular, the ability of the engine to stand up to modern driving speeds. The current (UCE) engine is somewhat similar to the AVL-designed engine which was in the Electra X, but with a number of improvements. The first is the lubrication system, which flows a healthy 9 litres per minute at 5500rpm, compared with the 2.4 litres per minute of the AVL and the laughable 1.2 litres per minute of the original engine. This means that hot-spots are GREATLY reduced; for example there is no tendency for the exhaust valve to overheat like it did in the originals.



The clutch is a massive improvement - MUCH lighter and MUCH better in every way. It doesn't drag, and it never slips.



Some things are different but not better. The hydraulic lifters of the UCE engine are maintenance-free, but generate more tappet noise than the solid lifters of old. From a sheer driveability point of view, the fuel injection system isn't as good as the CV carb on the Electra X. However, the EFI engine delivers noticeably more power, if that's important to you.



In summary, I think I'd go for the current UCE/EFI model, not least because I think it'll be more durable and reliable than its predecessors. If you don't like EFI, you can always fit a carburettor. HOWEVER, I'm afraid I would not recommend the Amal our host sells. Mikuni make FAR better carbs, for a similar price.