How to Buy a Used Enfield

Which Enfield to Buy

Enfield's come in a variety of models, namely the Bullet, Electra, Machismo and Thunderbird. Enfield is introducing some new models like the Twin Spark but I would avoid them for a few years until they sort out all the nasty problems they had with the new production run.

Personally I think the Bullet is an overpriced, outdated technology on wheels. The design almost hasnt changed since the English designed the bike in the 1950's....

It still uses the old point timing system. This means the timing of the spark plug operates manually, whereas all modern engines use electronic timing. Almost no mechanic will have a point timing device- He will just fiddle with until it sounds ok, thus it will never be set properly. Also the points system are prone to failure, and need constant maintenance as the timing changes.

Even the new Bullets still have the right hand side (RHS) gear lever. Damn awkward gearbox to use and its only a 4 speed. People tell me they often hit false neutral when trying to shift gears. Kick start doesnt fold back and gets in the way when placing your foot on the peg. Bullets typically have an older type of rear suspension system which becomes an issue if your 2-up on the bike. I wouldnt bother with a Bullet.

The Electra model does have electronic ignition and the newer models have a LHS gear lever 5 speed gearbox. Electra, Machismo and Thundebirds come with better suspension.

Machismo and Thunderbird have gone afew steps better. For starters they have an improved carburettor. (A Constant Velocity flow. Same type as all Japanese models and like most other bikes in India). This means these bikes will get better kilometers per litre, which is a consideration for some given petrol in India is expensive by Indian standards. Currently around 45Rs per litre as of Sep 2009.

These 2 models also have an alloy engine head. (again, just like any other modern engine). The other models have cast iron engine blocks and they sound like a coffee grinder, especially when they age a little. The engine of the Machismo and the Thunderbird sound like a sewing machine and dont feel or sound like its going to fall apart soon.

Front disk brakes are the best but many Enfields have drum only. In India the riding speeds are generally slow so I have found that while the drum breaks lack feel and dont give the confidence the disk brakes give, they do their job ok. (Even 2-up with luggage). However the Big issue I had with the drum brake was when I was coming down from the Himalayas. There were many stream crossings and drum brake got water logged, so I had next to no stopping power. It was a bit scary as I was coming down steep hills and it wasnt until the sun was warmer did the brakes dry. Disc brakes dont have this problem.

However Enfield does offer an after model disc brake kit to replace the front drum brake. Its a picey 5000Rs plus. (Dec 2008)

Only Thunderbird and the very new Twin Spark are modern enough to provide a fuel gauge, tacho meter and a trip meter. On all other models its a bit of guess work (or faithfully writing down the kms on the teller when you tank) to know how much fuel is left.

Some models (other than Bullets ofcourse) do have electric start but I havent seen many of them around.

350 or 500cc
You dont see many people with 500cc Enfields around India. And from what I heard it can be a problem with spare parts for these bikes. For this reason I have bought a 350cc and till date never had a problem getting spares.

I would consider a 500cc if you are planning to do alot of riding in the Himalayas, with passenger and luggage. The roads in this region pass over 5000m, and a 350cc Enfield, 2-up and luggage struggles at these altitudes because all engines lose power as the air becomes thinner.

In the Himalayan region one does see alot more 500cc Enfields so I would guess spare parts for these bikes are not a problem.

However, it is possible to ride in the Himalayas 2 up with luggage on a 350cc, but some precautions should be followed. See Touring Info for details. (Till now I have ridden upto 4260m in Zanskar Valley, 2-up with some luggage and it was ok.)

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