2008 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 Electra X review from United Kingdom

Head gasket went at 7000 miles.

Starter motor stator failed (it has a kick start though).

Rear light assembly including number plate and indicators fell off.

All fixed under warranty.

I bought this bike as a commuter in June 2008 for my daily 95 mile commute.

Petrol had just reached £1.20/litre and I needed economical transport.

It took the first 4000 miles for the engine to free up properly.

In 12 months and 16000 miles it averaged 74mpg.

I got an 18T front sprocket to raise the gearing; it would cruise at 60mph and do 75 if pushed.

A great bike, with real soul. Small though and consequently quite cramped for my 6'3" body.

Got a bit uncomfortable after an hour or 50 miles, but unbelievably cheap to keep and run.

Spares are ten times cheaper than an equivalent Japanese bike.