 Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850 |
Good looking 500cc C5 Article RE C5cat
George in Easy Rider: "Oh, oh I've got a helmet! I got a beauty!"
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2 |
The REs are so sweet looking. I'm just not sold on the quality, reliability & dealer network.
Yet.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,968 Likes: 1
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,968 Likes: 1 |
Quality is the big problem with these.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
I think they need more fins.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Sure is a sweet looking little thing. I'll bet it would be great for in town, kickin around. I was dissapointed in the decision not to include a kick start, which is just the onery ole geezer in me. Every body is saying that the reliability is an issue. the article seemed to imply the opposite. Current word of mouth, or just old experiences with the previous models?
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Yeah! Those new C5s are kind'a cool lookin' alright. (BUT...because of some reported problems over the years with bottom-end "fragging", one MUST be advised to STAY AWAY from the "apply named" Royal Enfield "C4"s at all costs!!!)  
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8
New Tires
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New Tires
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8 |
Cool little bike, but for the money and lack of quality I'd rather have a Thruxton or Bonnie.
Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.
H. L. Mencken
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850 |
the article states that they've redesigned and engineered the 500cc. I'd like to see a follow up on one a year from now.
cool little bike, though.
cat
George in Easy Rider: "Oh, oh I've got a helmet! I got a beauty!"
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 59
Member
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Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 59 |
I have heard that the reliability issues were all ironed out in the 2003 models. The RE website has the C5 listed now and in the pictures they have of it there is a kickstart lever on the right hand side.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
Just another bike that I want to add to the garage...
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22 |
Here is an older one for sale ClickIts 60 miles from me, other than for resale he couldn't give me one. Maybe for wall art in a business or some other application rather than actually riding it.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
With that low a mileage it sure needed quite a few parts.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440 |
I hear that pushin' a bike is good exercise. 
'08 America Blue/White; Custom Headlamps, Custom Lowers, Clearview 20", Bafflectomy
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 688
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 688 |
I heard that quality is a concern as well. I would not buy one new but a cheap used one is tempting. There are a lot of parts to chose from and they are inexpensive as parts go. You could rebuild one and have your self a decent ride. Also I heard that they are easy engines to work on. If I get a opportunity I would like to have a crack at it.
She's a Lady and the Lady is 100% mine !
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
I wouldn't mind having a used one to play with either but wouldn't spend more than $500 on one so guess I'll have a long wait!
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
I heard that quality is a concern as well.
We'll all know once Peter Egan gets the loaner out of his garage and wrings it out for Cycle World. If they weren't at least fairly dependable daily driver the company wouldn't have survived for 50 years in a country where bikes are a primary mode of transportation.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22 |
90% of India would not be able to remotely pay for an Enfield. They make $1,000 U.S. per year. The same as those working in the Triumph plants in Thailand will never own a Triumph. Honda Eterno scooters along with 50 year old Vespa types are the main mode of gas operated individual transport on two wheels. The new 150cc Eterno cost about $750.00 vs. the 5k for the Enfield. Even at that its a years pay. I would submit that if "Royal" Enfield was not originally British and iconic the knockoffs would not be selling at all. I would also submit that you can sell junk for 50 years. Tang is a good example or candy corn or Sportsters. Heck, the Prince of Darkness did bad connectors and grounds for that long 
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Well!!! I must say I think you went TOO FAR when you denigrate the good name of TANG here, Ron ol' boy!!!  (I mean, IF it was good enough for Alan Shepard, John Glenn AND Wally Schirra, THEN BY GUM it's good enough for the REST OF US, fella!!!) 
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
90% of India would not be able to remotely pay for an Enfield. They make $1,000 U.S. per year.
So that leaves 100 million Indians that can presumably afford one. Not a shabby consumer target in my view.
Quote:
I would also submit that you can sell junk for 50 years.
One man's junk is another man's treasure; just ask three hundred thousand devoted Sportster owners.
Quote:
Comprehensive & Independent Auto News from India for Today’s Consumer: Royal Enfield's opens 147th dealership at Jalandhar
In a bid to expand its footprint in the Northern part of India, domestic heavyweight bikemaker, Royal Enfield (RE), on 13th February, 2009, has set up its 147th dealership in the country at Jalandhar in Punjab. The Jalandhar dealership known as 'Navyug Motors' will augment Royal Enfield's presence across the entire Northern belt of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh and Punjab, as told by the company. As RE's 25th dealership in this region, Navyug Motors endorses the company's intent and commitment to expand its retail network in a region which accounts for more than 32 per cent of its domestic sale volumes.
An RE press release claims that for the people of Punjab, the Bullet 350cc continues to be a favorite and a brand that has become an alternative lifestyle statement.It is to be mentioned here that on the occasion, Royal Enfield also introduced the Thunderbird Twinspark 350cc in the Punjab market. The Thunderbird Twinspark with its unit construction engine will offer the bike enthusiasts benefits of reduced transmission losses, reduced friction, higher reliability and lower maintenance.
Inaugurating the dealership, RE head - sales & marketing Shaji Koshy said that Jalandhar has a very vibrant community of bike lovers who have consistently backed its products and positioned Jalandhar as Royal Enfield's highest selling township all across India. Its efforts at increasing its product's visibility in the northern region are geared to ensure that there is at least one dealership dotting every 40-kilometer stretch of road, he concluded.
Royal Enfield (RE), manufacturers of the renowned range of Bullet motorcycles, and a part of the Rs. 1500 crore Eicher Group, has announced to introduce four new models by 2010-11 out of which two models will be earmarked for International markets while the rest of the two will be catering for the domestic market. The motorcyles for international markets would be 500cc vehicles. Well-placed sources have indicated that the company will scale up its existing production capacity at Thiruvottiyur from 40,000 units currently to 60,000 units by 2010.
Incorporated in India in 1955, Royal Enfield has been manufacturing motorcycles that offer a true motorcycling experience. The Company entered into a strategic alliance with Eicher and eventually became a part of the Eicher Group in 1994. In its manufacturing plant in Chennai, the company today offers a variety of models catering to the needs of traditional segments, the enthusiasts and more recently the urban youth. The company with accreditations under its belt meet the stringent norms of the western world also has several products for the global market. The company works with technical assistance from world-renowned engine design Companies like Ricardo and Vepro of UK.Royal Enfield exports its bikes to over 25 countries including developed countries such as USA, Japan, UK and several European countries. Royal Enfield is the only motorcycle company to be certified with the coveted ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 for quality and environmental systems.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
I have heard mixed reviews of these bikes. Some owners seem to really love them while others think they are junk. All depends on your point of view. I love the old style and would rather own one of the older kick start models even if they are not mechanically as good as the new model. Not like I would be using it for any long trips just short hops around town and made some solo mountain road riding like I do with my BMW now.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,695 Likes: 22 |
You are right, some folks love junk.
The Enfield looks like a late 30s Triumph and has name recognition. That is why it sells at all. Its a cheap little collectible.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 2,671 Likes: 15
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 2,671 Likes: 15 |
Quote:
...The Enfield looks like a late 30s Triumph and has name recognition...
To whom, other than perhaps you? From my perspective it looks like a 50's RE. 
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,730 Likes: 6
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,730 Likes: 6 |
I think it has potential as a starter bike. Relatively inexpensive, small and lightweight. Probably not going to go on long trips with it, but good for around town. Learn the basics of motorcycling on it. The red one sure is pretty.
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964
Stickman Yogi
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Stickman Yogi
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964 |
I would love an Enfield. Classically classy. Head turners and conversation starters. People meeters.
Live to love, love to live.
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440 |
These are small bikes. My local dealer had one hung on chains from the ceiling about 15' in the air. On the day I was there, several folks were standin' around with cameras, and the dealership was hoistin' the bike down for some reason. It looked really small, way up there in the air. As it came down, I remember thinkin' "Dang... it's not gettin' any bigger." Personally, I'd rather have one of these:  Warning... Warning... Hijack in progress... 
'08 America Blue/White; Custom Headlamps, Custom Lowers, Clearview 20", Bafflectomy
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 Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 850 |
lawnmower? man that's a sight. is that the BOING model? cat
George in Easy Rider: "Oh, oh I've got a helmet! I got a beauty!"
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8
New Tires
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New Tires
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8 |
Is that a Mustang? The little MC that they outlawed from racing, because it was winning.
Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.
H. L. Mencken
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440 |
Yep, it's a Mustang. Some of the better examples will set ya back $10K or more now. From what I've read, some or all had a British tranny. 
'08 America Blue/White; Custom Headlamps, Custom Lowers, Clearview 20", Bafflectomy
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Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
Was an Enfield tranny, wasn't it?
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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 Re: Royal Enfield C5
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 807
3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 807 |
Saw a new RE at some traffic lights last week. Dunno which model, couldn't even tell you the colour, I just know that it sounded fantastic...not very loud but really deep.
Unusually, it was ridden by a girl, of the female persuasion.
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