After watching loads of videos on the new Enfield 350, I decided to take one out for a test ride.
I had seen them at the NEC Motorcycle Live Event along with so many other cracking looking bikes of all shapes and sizes. Being a thumper fan I thought the Enfield Classic 350 looked particularly pleasing to the eye, well finished, sensible money and nicely proportioned. My interest had been alerted!
Yesterday I test rode one in Malvern. Without going into too much detail all I can say is that I came back with a massive smile on my face. It was one of the most comfortable and easy machines I have ever ridden.
The modest 20hp was surprisingly perky and took the bike quickly and effortlessly to 60mph, accompanied by a lovely sound from the pea shooter exhaust. There was no discernible vibration from the engine. The gearbox and clutch action were superbly smooth. True, it’s never going to be a speed machine, topping out just over 70mph, but it’s not intended to be.
The riding position is upright and footpegs give ample room for stiff knees. Balance is great and makes slow manoeuvres a doddle. Overall a cracking piece of modern thumper kit, and I loved it.