Over the past several years, I’ve modded the bike to fit me, my riding style better, and provide me better comforts. I still have plans to do more. I’m approaching nearly 6,000 miles (9.6 kilometers), have commuted, and taking several day trips, including a good 7 hours on the bike give or take. Here is where I am with it all.
Crash protection. I highly recommend crash bars, and pick your flavor as far as that goes. There’s a saying with lots of motorcycle channels: “It’s not if but when” as far as dropping the bike. If it came at a time I expected it, I probably could prevent it, right? So, to me, that’s a no-brainer. I used eBay (their support sucks), and since the bike is made in India, I’ve had mostly good luck with shipping far faster than one would expect and shipping quality very protected. Royal Enfield parts are typically plentiful and decently priced. Be prepared to pay the Trump tax if you go that route and live in America.
Wind and weather protection. Some people enjoy the wind, and I do as well albeit controlled. I have stints on the highway that are long, and I need a bit more comfort. I opted for a wind screen (also Royal Enfield) and generic hand guards. I found both helpful with wind buffeting and weather. These updates were reasonably enough priced that I’d recommend them if you’re seeking more comfort.
Mirrors. I swapped out the original mirrors for something that provided a little more stability and better view.
Pillion back rest, rear rack, and attached Apache 2800 case. The rack is extremely useful for carrying any kind of gear. The Apache box is large enough I can store things and keep them locked on the bike while (hopefully) provided weather protection.
Crampbuster. I wear medium gloves, and I noticed some cramping when I rode for an hour or more. This mod helped me keep my wrist straight and reduce cramping on rides. I would say be aware in stop-and-go traffic; if I leave it alone rather than twist it in a neutral position, I often rev accidentally. There are other versions of this mod; it’s cheap enough to do this if you do not have cruise.
Hitchcock adjustable levers. This mod helped me reduce long ride discomfort. (Note: This is also a good opportunity and time to adjust clutch free play.)
Reflective tape. I use this on various positions from the hand guards to the back rest and DIY top box to provide greater visibility.
Open air box and Fuel-X Lite. I had my eldest 3D print an air box cover and use it. If you own an Enfield and research mods, you’ll notice people doing the DNA air filter kit. I have the original filter and open air box. I notice a difference. This one is paired with the Fuel-X Lite. Everything I researched about this proved true. While the open air box provides a bit more growl, the Fuel-X Lite steadies out the throttle across all gears, reduces gear changes on this single-cylinder 5-speed, particularly on inclines. Further, I find the bike easier to get to speed on ramp-interstate exchanges. These mods are both easy mods to do. Just make sure the connections are good on the battery (yes, speaking from experience).
Delkevic exhaust, decat, and Hitchcock’s modified center stand replacement. I kept the center stand off for a while. The weight loss is significant with both the pipe change and stand/cat removal. For convenience, I wanted the stand back. My model requires a modified stop, so I added one from Hitchcock’s (great company). Now, the exhaust may be one of my favorites. It took a docile, anemic-sounding bike and gave it growl. It’s bassy and deep. Around 55-60 mph, it purrs, becoming almost nonexistent. Changing both the sound and looks, I just love this pipe!
Sheepskin. While I do use and recommend this, the seat and comfortability have been the hardest thing for me to “fix.” I’ve tried additional cushioning. I’ve tried variations of the skin. I’ve adjusted the rear suspension, which helped some. I started using a back brace, which has helped some. I’ve really struggled getting this part right, though. It’s a work in progress.
I’m not a mechanic. I am slow and not mechanically inclined. I can mostly follow videos and instructions. I can revisit things again (and again and again). When I do mechanical stuff, I really try to enjoy the process and learn things. I even hum (which helps me). I say all that to say: Don’t be afraid. One of the joys of owning a motorcycle (and I see this with other vehicles) is modding it, making it your own. If you are unable to ride or maybe it’s your off-season, consider mods.
Whatever you do to make it yours, enjoy the process as much as the ride.
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