Finally gave in to the itch...

[Gromit]

Red chrome green orange by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

Back at Haywards for its first (300 miles) service yesterday - I can do 50-55 mph now.

First service time by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

20 bhp of utterly charming, smile-inducing joy.

[ianc53]

Well done Richard. It looks perfect weather for it.

All the best

Ian

[dave the german]

My mate has just bought the 450 Himalayan and absolutely loves it.

[Gromit]

It's a delightful little thing - took various bikes out on test rides, nothing of any significance performance-wise (Speed Twin 900 was the most powerful) but none made me smile in the way the 350 does. Within their own niche, RE are knocking it out of the park at the moment.

Pretty as a picture by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

Classic in Thorney by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

[RiceBurner]

Nice! I've seen the photos on FB too.

Good to see you out and about again mate!

[Paul]

Welcome back to the world of two wheels with an engine Richard.

Cheers,

Paul

[Gromit]

Thanks fellas.

Not been out on the bike for nearly 2 weeks but when I have, it's been thoroughly enjoyable. It's a very different take on motorcycling - there's not enough power to feel any dynamism in performance (although it will nip along) so forget any rush of adrenaline.

On the flipside, it steers and handles beautifully - this has been a huge, and very pleasant surprise. The rear suspension is clearly over-sprung and under-damped but some better shocks will help there. The best thing is that it's just great fun - and that brand new J Series engine is wonderfully smooth and sounds rather nice with it. Added the Hitchcocks' de-cat pipe a few weeks ago which has helped.

These motors are recognised as being very tight straight out of the factory and benefit from careful running-in - I can vouch for this - but every 100 miles or so it seems to go through a change in feel, becoming more responsive. Getting upwards of 100 mpg isn't such a chore either.

Classic 350 by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

Classic at Cadwell by Boxertrixter, on Flickr

In England's green and pleasant...

Royal Enfield Classic 350 by Boxertrixter, on Flickr