Author Topic: Post Recall Findings (Read 4217 times)

JamesC5 · « **on:** July 12, 2009, 02:08:49 AM »

I thought I'd start a topic for those of us who've had their bikes returned from the recall to post impressions and findings etc in one place instead of tacking them onto one of the various recall threads.

I've only ridden around the local area so far, as predicted months ago, soon as I got the bike back we got incredibly poor weather and torrential rain

Going from the loaner 07 Electra, the handling is just on another level. In fact I have had to take it really easy as to not over-steer as the C5 is just that much more maneuverable and sensitive.

Gear changes were rough on Friday when I rode last, but I have a feeling thats rider error not the bike. The biting point is at the very end of the range and the distance to engage the clutch so much shorter, that I was revving a little too much after riding the Electra. Within 30 minutes the changes were much smoother.

3rd-4th changes seemed fine, only did that twice though, but fingers crossed that the problems I had before have been rectified.

I'm off on a charity ride out right now around devon, so should be packing a fair amount of miles in today, will post any further thoughts when I'm back.

r80rt · « **Reply #1 on:** July 12, 2009, 07:21:47 AM »

Thanks for the news, and have a good ride today!

ace.cafe · « **Reply #2 on:** July 12, 2009, 07:33:02 AM »

Well James,
We're hoping that you have "smooth sailing" with your C5 from now on!

Cabo Cruz · « **Reply #3 on:** July 12, 2009, 12:18:06 PM »

Ditto and ditto, Br. James!

Marrtyn · « **Reply #4 on:** July 12, 2009, 01:06:56 PM »

Congratulations James, Pleased that you are back up running, I Hope you have many many miles of pleasurable enjoyment. You have had a long wait.
I cant wait until I myself am back in the saddle.
Have you been told exactly what WS have done, and has the warranty been extended.
I would also be interested to here (after you are fully run in) what sort of continuous cruising speed you are able to achieve.
Regarding the weather, Sods Law will dictate that we will have nothing but cr*p weather.
But lets hope we have an Indian RE Summer!!

JamesC5 · « **Reply #5 on:** July 12, 2009, 01:54:46 PM »

Hey all

I clocked about 100 odd miles today, the ride out covered much of the moores and unlike many charity rides the pace was really quite fast considering how bendy the moores can get.

To get to the meeting point I went on the dual carriageway (which is sub-highway/motorway but still a top speed of 70mph). There was some serious crosswinds, which made it hard to hear the engine. I got up to about 60 and kept it there for about 20 mins. I thought to myself more than once, what if... (the gears seized). Luckily it went without incident, when I got to the rally point the bike seemed more freed up, guess it blew some cobwebs out.

The ride was alot of fun, had some crappy downfalls of rain in spots but I guess it IS England. The dodgy 3-4th changes are still there, not nearly as bad, but from what I've heard from many Indian RE owners, that change always seems to be the quirky one so maybe RE just likes em that way.

One regret, I should have signed my bike up for the Best in Show.. the amount of crowds it attracted was just silly. Every time I walked past there would be a group of at least 3 or 4 people checking it out!

Martyn, Nah I've not been told exactly what was done, and no mention of any warranty extension or anything, which is a bit off, but maybe it's a case of them just being too busy right now and they'll sort that after, we'll see.

I did notice on my bike, several areas have got silver paint on them, I'm pretty sure the parts werent painted tacky silver prior to the bike going but I can't remember. The bracket on the silencer has a line of the silver across it, the top part of the break pedal (under the rubber with some visible), and at least one other "bit" which I can't recall off the top of my head. Dannie have you got any on your C5?

James

r80rt · « **Reply #6 on:** July 12, 2009, 02:23:47 PM »

James, yes I have some silver paint over some of the welds on chrome, but it seems it gets less noticible with time. I'm glad you had a good day of it and I'm delighted you have your bike back, I have 1400 miles on the clock now and it's free'er and smoother than ever. Keep it rolling!

JamesC5 · « **Reply #7 on:** July 12, 2009, 02:49:46 PM »

Ah ok then, long as it wasn't dropped or anything while it was out of my care

A couple of pics...

r80rt · « **Reply #8 on:** July 12, 2009, 03:24:32 PM »

Looks like you had a great time. Impressive line up of bikes, how did it feel to have the best looking one there?

Cabo Cruz · « **Reply #9 on:** July 12, 2009, 11:24:01 PM »

Good report and photos, Br. James!

Chris-G5 · « **Reply #10 on:** July 13, 2009, 04:58:24 PM »

I have put 300 miles (625 odm.) on my G5 since I picked it up from the recall work Friday and everything seems to be fine. It seems to be loosening up and getting smoother every time I ride, or maybe it's me that is loosening up. Now that I am past the break-in, it's time to see what she's really got.

r80rt · « **Reply #11 on:** July 13, 2009, 05:00:38 PM »

It'll get better everytime you throw a leg over it.

Chris-G5 · « **Reply #12 on:** July 13, 2009, 05:08:58 PM »

Quote from: JamesC5 on July 12, 2009, 01:54:46 PM

Martyn, Nah I've not been told exactly what was done, and no mention of any warranty extension or anything, which is a bit off, but maybe it's a case of them just being too busy right now and they'll sort that after, we'll see.

I did notice on my bike, several areas have got silver paint on them, I'm pretty sure the parts werent painted tacky silver prior to the bike going but I can't remember. The bracket on the silencer has a line of the silver across it, the top part of the break pedal (under the rubber with some visible), and at least one other "bit" which I can't recall off the top of my head. Dannie have you got any on your C5?

James

I wasn't told what was done or about the warranty extension or anything either. Didn't have to sign anything. Just here ya go.

As far as the silver paint, it looks like they weld together pre-chromed pieces and then paint the welds silver, instead of chroming the whole assembly once it is welded together. Fit and finish is the only complaint I have with the bike so far.

clubman · « **Reply #13 on:** July 14, 2009, 02:08:04 PM »

I can well imagine the attention your bike got and thanks for the pic with the evidence. Nice to see a Morini 350 next to it too. I had one of them for seven years. Fantastic engine and handling, abysmal electrics!

JamesC5 · « **Reply #14 on:** July 20, 2009, 04:27:43 PM »

Well I went on a bit of a camping trip to the New Forest, I left on Wednesday last week and came back Friday. Covered about 400 odd miles, much of it in torrential rain.

Thoughts... Well, I'm still not sure about the gears. Often other gears, not just 3-4 don't seem to catch. I'll change up or down, and the engine will rev with no gears engaged, I'll pull the clutch in again to try to tip it up or down ever so slightly so the gears actually engage. Other times there will be a feeling as if the gears are being mashed together and not "slipped" into place with the clutch even when the clutch is still fully in and in theory they shouldn't be engaged at all.

During a ride today I had a consistent problem when the bike didn't want to go into Neutral or any other gear properly. During heavy traffic I often find the bike doesn't want to change gear smoothly. Unlike Jap bikes I've owned that can sit in traffic for long periods with just the clutch held in, I always put the RE into Neutral and let the bike idle, yet in situations when the bike is stopping often it just doesn't want to change gear at all while stationary.

Also I have rust showing on several areas on the bike from being out in the English weather for a few days. I'd not expect this to happen on such a new bike, but I guess the steel used is like that of chinese bikes which just isn't up to standard.

Other than that, handling and power are good, the bike is fun to ride while gears are working properly, but not consistently enough to make a non-issue out of it. I'm not sure if the work done to my gearbox has been utterly successful, prior to the recall the only gear related problems I had was the weird 3rd-4th gear changes.

Will report more as I ride.

r80rt · « **Reply #15 on:** July 20, 2009, 04:53:46 PM »

Keep us posted, I'm sure the gear box will smooth out for you.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #16 on:** July 20, 2009, 05:04:31 PM »

It was smooth when I got her back, I'm hoping this is just a blip in the break-in and it will start working correctly with more miles clocked. The power at hand is certainly much better than before my trip, lovely to have more horses at hand on the road!

r80rt · « **Reply #17 on:** July 20, 2009, 05:45:58 PM »

Yeah, This engine starts out good and just gets better, you gain power the more miles you put on. I think your shifting will improve dramatically in a few more miles.

PhilJ · « **Reply #18 on:** July 20, 2009, 06:08:36 PM »

When the clutch is engaged the gears are still engaged too, they're just removed from the final drive to the rear wheel.

Chris-G5 · « **Reply #19 on:** July 21, 2009, 06:53:15 AM »

On most motorcycles, the clutch is operated by the clutch lever, located on the left handlebar. No pressure on the lever means that the clutch plates are engaged (driving), while pulling the lever back towards the rider will disengage the clutch plates, allowing the rider to shift gears.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #20 on:** July 21, 2009, 07:49:08 AM »

What I meant is that when the clutch leaver is pulled in, ie the plates should not be touching, I have felt some friction as if the plates are engaged. That may just be a case of the cable tension needs adjusting now it's worn in, not sure if that would be causing the weirdness with gears not clicking in properly

ace.cafe · « **Reply #21 on:** July 21, 2009, 08:14:34 AM »

Quote from: JamesC5 on July 21, 2009, 07:49:08 AM

What I meant is that when the clutch leaver is pulled in, ie the plates should not be touching, I have felt some friction as if the plates are engaged. That may just be a case of the cable tension needs adjusting now it's worn in, not sure if that would be causing the weirdness with gears not clicking in properly

James,
I'd expect that any clutch drag might well affect going into first gear.
And it could have some effect when shifting into other gears too.
Typically can be remedied with an adjustment.

I'd have the dealer take care of it at the next service, or before.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #22 on:** July 22, 2009, 05:47:33 PM »

Gears were acting up again today but this evening working fine, so a bit odd, but I guess it's not always like it which may be a good sign.

The little left light next to the headlamp has stopped working, will check to see if it's just a bulb tomorrow if I get the chance.

bob bezin · « **Reply #23 on:** July 23, 2009, 11:28:13 AM »

the slightly longer ones from an auto parts store work and fit right in.. replaced both of mine ( 06 delux )

Rusty · « **Reply #24 on:** July 23, 2009, 12:52:51 PM »

Well it's back and looking as shiny as ever

Managed 20 odd miles tonight and all seemed well. Gearchanges are smooth and power seems unaffected by the engine strip trauma, looks like they got all the bits back in the right place.

A few scratches I didn't have before (oddly on the front of the crankcase) and a bit more gasket sealant oozing out than I'd like but I can rectify that easily enough.

Suspected a head gasket leak after ten miles but I think it's just assembly oil so I'll keep an eye on it.

The biggest improvement has been the removal of the screen. I took it off after my small accident and haven't put it back yet. For such a small screen it must've reflected back lots of engine noise because things are a lot quieter now.

All in all I'm glad to be putting the miles in again and look forward to finishing the running in, 534 miles so far.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #25 on:** July 23, 2009, 02:18:17 PM »

Glad you got your baby back Rusty

My casing on the right side has a massive scuff I noticed which wasn't there before it went to WS, not sure what I can do about it though as I didn't mention it when the bike was dropped off, I was too eager just to get it back.

Ok now my gears... today it's started making a new noise. When I pull the clutch in I can actually hear the plates spinning around, sorta high pitch like a squeeky wheel but going quicker. Is that normal for RE's or have I got something else wrong

Chris-G5 · « **Reply #26 on:** July 23, 2009, 02:55:25 PM »

It seems the mechanics weren't too careful when they disassembled and reassembled our bikes. I also have some good size scuffs and scratches on the right side engine case, and a big chip in the silver paint on the engine block at the front mount. The left side of the front engine mount looks like it has been dragged across the concrete, but the right side is fine. There are also various scratches on the frame.
I also thought there was an oil leak on the top end. On one of the first rides I noticed some oil running down from the top end, but I have not noticed any since. I too have quite a bit of orange sealant protruding from every seem.

Rusty · « **Reply #27 on:** July 23, 2009, 03:33:19 PM »

Quote from: JamesC5 on July 23, 2009, 02:18:17 PM

Glad you got your baby back Rusty

It's not my baby just yet James, it's on probation and e-bay is waiting.

Your clutch sound. Most engines get quieter if the bike is stationary and the clutch is pulled in because a number of gears and the inner clutch drum stop turning. If yours is noisier then it could be something to do with the clutch release mechanism, possibly the thrust bearing. This would be consistent with your gearchanges getting more notchy since the bike was returned.

I would take it back to your dealer and let them have a listen. It's not normal and I doubt it's being caused by the clutch plates.

Rusty · « **Reply #28 on:** July 23, 2009, 03:40:24 PM »

Quote from: Chris-G5 on July 23, 2009, 02:55:25 PM

I too have quite a bit of orange sealant protruding from every seem.

The goo they used on mine was clear, maybe bathroom sealant? Nice to know that recall recreation periods included crankcase deck quoits.

r80rt · « **Reply #29 on:** July 24, 2009, 06:15:06 AM »

I hope you find a good dealer and get on the road fast, I'm sorry for all your trouble.

ace.cafe · « **Reply #30 on:** July 24, 2009, 07:49:21 AM »

I hope that all of you get the best possible results.

Kevin Mahoney · « **Reply #31 on:** July 24, 2009, 09:30:43 AM »

I realize that the two of you with problems are from the UK and your issues are with UK dealers, but I would ask a couple of questions of your dealer about any marring of your bike. Every story has at least three sides so asking the question would be the way to proceed.
For what it is worth I think we are over thinking this procedure. Perhaps R80rt could comment because he as done a couple, This isn't rocket science. When you reassemble this engine and transmission there really isn't anything to adjust. The only internal adjustment is the cam lash and you don't need to disturb it to do this job. This is one of the upsides of modern design. Beyond that it is straight forward disassembly and reassembly. There is very little you can install incorrectly and if you do it kicks you in the shins right away. If you install a gear backwards or forget a spacer (tough to do, but anything can happen) you are reminded right away as it will not shift correctly. Not a small "I missed a gear" issue, it truly won't shift. There isn't really anything you can do to make it shift poorly, it either works or it doesn't no middle ground. I know the engine can be a mysterious thing, but this is a very simple engine. More simple than the older iron barrels which probably set a record for simplicity.
I would bet a T-shirt that Jame's issue is solved with a clutch adjustment. As for a leaking head gasket, it is theoretically possible but highly unlikely. In this engine you are mating two flat surfaces with a very high quality head gasket. We are aware of one that ran for over 300 miles with no head gasket at all and the combustion and oil were totally sealed. It did finally start to weep oil. The gasket has crushable beads around the combustion chamber and oil passages which really helps it seal even if the surfaced are not perfectly flat. Of course anything is possible.
I guess we'll see.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #32 on:** July 24, 2009, 10:04:37 AM »

I guess I will have to call WS, if I could buff out the marring myself I would just to cut back on hassle. Not really acceptable but at the same time I'm a bit tired of it all and just want to enjoy riding my bike.

As for the whirring sound, I took it to Torre and the mech took a look with it stationary. Def something going on there but he said its possible its just a small bit of grit or metal on the plates and may clear with some more riding? I'll see how she rides next week, off for the weekend so wont get a chance to play.

I must say though... BOY. Is the bike fun, the more through the break in the more fun it gets, even with the doubt and concern I've got with all the recall stuff and what not theres no denying the bike is something else!

James

r80rt · « **Reply #33 on:** July 24, 2009, 11:09:41 AM »

James, I can tell you from personal experience that it's virtually impossible to remove a engine from a bike, disassemble it and put it all back together without leaving a few scuff marks. I've tried to cover everything with rags, old carpet on the floor to set the motor on, gloves. Nothing works, you're gonna get a scratch or two, it's just a fact of life. Perhaps they owe you a T shirt and a free oil change later to make up for it? I think you are on the right track to just get on with enjoying your ride, these bikes are a ton of fun as you are finding out.

t120rbullet · « **Reply #34 on:** July 24, 2009, 01:51:50 PM »

If I can add a bit to what has been said already when the factory mates the engine to the frame they only have the 2 components to deal with. They have the motor on a stand and the loop of the frame hanging from the conveyor. They can jockey the motor and the frame around and mate the 2 without any trouble. When the dealers are removing the engines from the frame they have the front and rear ends of the bike attached so they are basically jockeying the engine sitting on a stand or a floor jack out of a stationary frame.
Not rocket science like Kevin pointed out but hard to do with bumping into something creating a nick here and there.

All that said I brought my G5 home today. Took the long way home from the shop and thrashed it for 55 miles. Runs just as good as it did before. Shifts flawlessly.
Sealant is grey, the same color as the engine.
Guess I can't ask for much more than that.
CJ

PhilJ · « **Reply #35 on:** July 24, 2009, 03:45:27 PM »

CJ, you going to quit buying bikes when the forum program won't let you add new ones?

r80rt · « **Reply #36 on:** July 24, 2009, 04:58:08 PM »

Glad to hear that G5 is back running the roads, great bike eh?

t120rbullet · « **Reply #37 on:** July 24, 2009, 05:31:19 PM »

Quote from: PhilJ on July 24, 2009, 03:45:27 PM

CJ, you going to quit buying bikes when the forum program won't let you add new ones?

Got no more room in the garage.
I have been thinking about selling the Harley but here in Detroit there is a million of them for sale. Most of which haven't been ridden farther than the local Starbucks without being waxed again.
Good time to buy toys around here, bad time to sell em.
But if I did I'd have room for another Bullet or 2!
CJ

ren · « **Reply #38 on:** July 25, 2009, 06:12:52 AM »

I'm in the UK and am considering a new Enfield but I am appalled at James' and others experiences. The recall was bad enough, okay that happens, but worse is the damage done to the bike during the repair work with apparently no comment from the dealer or importer. Then there's the continuing mechanical problems.

After all the inconvenience forced on customers by the lengthy recall, you'd think that they would have gone out of their way to make sure it ran perfectly upon return and fitted new engine cases where the old ones were damaged by them, plus corrected any other damage due to their work. Outrageous behaviour and contempt for a customer spending £4,500 on a new bike.

This whole thing has made me reconsider whether I should go ahead or not and I really feel for for those owners who have been put through this ordeal yet even after all that, still ended up with a substandard damaged bike due to the poor service from WS or whoever did the work.

What happened to James has confirmed a fear expressed by some recall owners that their bikes just wouldn't be the same as the later VIN bikes which do not require recall. And even assuming the damage can be rectified, which seems difficult from what James says, there may well be a stigma on recall models, a feeling that they are not as good as those manufactured with later VINs where the gearbox fix was done from new.

I know that buying a new model now avoids that problem, but the fear is that if something else major happens, the quailty of service leaves a lot to be desired.

mark · « **Reply #39 on:** July 25, 2009, 07:10:46 AM »

Hi guys,

I am just wondering is anybody at watsonian aware of any of these issues?
Do they read the posts on this site?
How about a spokesperson from watsonian posting updates on here,as this site is their greatest asset for advertising their machines.

My machine has not come back yet so can't comment on any issues.
I had done over 3000 miles on my bullet in six months before the recall,and I can say it's a fantastic machine.To use a pun it was bullet proof

.

clubman · « **Reply #40 on:** July 25, 2009, 02:38:11 PM »

Quote from: mark on July 25, 2009, 07:10:46 AM

Hi guys,

I am just wondering is anybody at watsonian aware of any of these issues?
Do they read the posts on this site?
How about a spokesperson from watsonian posting updates on here,as this site is their greatest asset for advertising their machines.

Watsonian should definitely brush up on their PR. My dealer speaks well of them and I trust him but the casual observer on this site would not get a good impression. In general, RE need to get this recall over with and have a few hassle free months. It's clear enough that the actual riding experience will serve them well as long as the bikes are perceived to be reliable,

Rusty · « **Reply #41 on:** July 26, 2009, 09:53:55 AM »

Quote from: ren on July 25, 2009, 06:12:52 AM

I know that buying a new model now avoids that problem

Not so ren, my dealer's entire stock of unsold UCE bikes will be going back to have the recall work done, he can't sell any yet and is not pleased. The engine number range of affected bikes is on here somewhere, if you do decide to go for it best to check the engine number of your potential purchase.

On that subject I wonder whether dealers unsold bikes will just have a new engine slotted in rather than the existing one stripped? Wouldn't be good to have gasket sealant oozing out and chipped crankcase paint on a showroom bike.

As regards the bike well there's no doubt it's a brilliant ride and I guess the early buyers are always going to bear the brunt of any early recall work. We've had different experiences, some are happy with the outcome and some aren't. My bike is running well and I'll live with the case scuffs but I find it hard to understand why the bloke who fitted a new front mudguard didn't check that it wouldn't foul the fork shroud on compression. One big scratch later and I need a new fork shroud

Watsonian and my local dealer keep saying all the right things, I just wish the end result would be as they said.

Would I buy another Enfield? At the moment I'm not sure, I need to put some trouble free miles and time into the bike so that in the future I can look back at these experiences as minor issues. Right now I feel pretty fed up.

JamesC5 · « **Reply #42 on:** July 26, 2009, 10:45:52 AM »

My scuff is really quite deep, I could probably grind then sand it smooth but definitely too deep for Autosol or anything to fix. I have clear sealant in one place and I think red stuff on the main plate.

You'd think we'd have gotten something for all the hassle in the UK, a reassurance of an extended warranty, heck even a mug... right now I wouldn't buy a new RE again, but maybe that will change if I get a few thousand trouble free miles under my belt.

I just hope the sounds coming from my plates when the clutch lever is pulled in go away without the bike having to go in again.

doomed1 · « **Reply #43 on:** July 26, 2009, 11:04:05 AM »

Quote from: JamesC5 on July 26, 2009, 10:45:52 AM

My scuff is really quite deep, I could probably grind then sand it smooth but definitely too deep for Autosol or anything to fix. I have clear sealant in one place and I think red stuff on the main plate.

You'd think we'd have gotten something for all the hassle in the UK, a reassurance of an extended warranty, heck even a mug... right now I wouldn't buy a new RE again, but maybe that will change if I get a few thousand trouble free miles under my belt.

I just hope the sounds coming from my plates when the clutch lever is pulled in go away without the bike having to go in again.

um... i would NOT leave that and hope it goes away. i know it's frustrating, but you should really take it in. from the sounds of it, it looks like the clutch cable is too long or the clutch itself is misaligned. i would take it in for a look asap, otherwise, you may end up having to double clutch everywhere.

BRGreen · « **Reply #44 on:** July 26, 2009, 05:13:59 PM »

My G5 came back from the shop a week ago. No scratches, dings or marks of any kind. Orange goop they use came off with a rag. Transmission still clunks as usual and there seems to be the same number of surprise neutrals between gears. This is the best handling bike I have ever owned or ridden.

ren · « **Reply #45 on:** July 27, 2009, 03:19:04 AM »

Not so ren, my dealer's entire stock of unsold UCE bikes will be going back to have the recall work done, he can't sell any yet and is not pleased. The engine number range of affected bikes is on here somewhere, if you do decide to go for it best to check the engine number of your potential purchase...

Indeed, that's what I meant Rusty when I referred to those buying new bikes now, ie. those after the relevant VIN which don't require recall and not to purchase from old stock of course. I can't see that any buyer who is aware of all this is going to buy a new model with a recall VIN so I'm not surprised the dealer is worried.

It is unacceptable that bikes were returned to you and James in a damaged condition and in James' case not even running correctly. It really shows a contemptuous attitude by Watsonian towards customers and has put me off buying one for the time being, at least until the post recall VINs are available and a little longer time has elapsed to see if any other major faults develop. I'd be worried that if some further recall is required, they might fix it but in doing so would return my bike all beat up. No thanks.

thefieldworker · « **Reply #46 on:** July 27, 2009, 10:59:08 PM »

Sorry about the difficulties that some of you posted. I'm a US customer who received his G5 Deluxe about 10 days ago, in time for a trip that I had planned (from the western part of NC where I live to the coast - a Marine Lab at Beaufort for work - then up the coast to New Jersey via the Cape May-Lewes ferry). I'm still on my way back, in Virginia, and will be home tomorrow. In total, the trip was a little over 1,000 miles.

First, I was happy that my dealer (Carl at Union Cycle) made the effort to get my bike back in time for the trip. He told me to keep an eye out for oil, just in case, but there were no leaks. I had to change the oil in NJ; there was a little more grey gunk in the filter in the bottom, and some very small shreds of fabric or paper near the oil filter - but nothing alarming. I have some of the shifting problems that an earlier person mentioned (but not at 3 to 4; for me it is 4 to 5), but I think I'm not pulling up hard enough or releasing the clutch at a bad time - I'm "learning" how to avoid the slipping, and it seems to be getting better. No scratches on any part of the engine either. I did lose a couple of bolts (from the seat), but a quick stop at a hardware store somewhere in Maryland did the trick (I added lock washers, so they shouldn't vibrate off as easily now). This last bit of course has nothing to do with the recall (and is probably my fault, from my installation of brackets).

So overall I am happy with the recall experience, and even happier that I was able to do the trip that I had planned. If only work didn't get in the way.

UK-Classics · « **Reply #47 on:** July 28, 2009, 03:33:11 AM »

Sorry to hear about the UK guys troubles post recall & the damage to a couple of the bikes.
A slight defence of Watsonion – they are only a very small company, they did not have the capacity to do this recall work & (as I understand it) had to draft in a fair number of temporary bike mechanics to do this recall work – I guess that’s where some of these quality issues could be from!

I do agree that they haven’t handled the PR side of things well (other than bury there heads in the sand) – I have checked their web site regularly & there is not one word about the recall issues - very poor! I even asked one of their guys at the open day in June & he said he didn’t know.

The guys over in the states are in a much better position – Kevin is on here constantly answering questions & giving out updates & looking after the customers. The UK importers should be directed to this web site & could hopefully pick up a few tips on customer service!

JamesC5 · « **Reply #48 on:** July 28, 2009, 03:59:30 AM »

I agree. I'm sure the chaps at WS are all good blokes, but when people buy a new bike and weeks later find out theres a fault that could cause death, that isn't a typical recall covering a leaky coolant tank or dodgy hoses. Extra PR is needed to put customers' minds at ease that yes this is a serious fault but we're going to put it right. Not silence or having to hunt down someone to ask a question etc.

I'm not too concerned with the marks I have, sure it sucks but I'll live. I AM worried about the need to double clutch more and more and this sound. I was told to come back after more miles were put on the bike if it still persists. I don't want my bike opened up again and to be without it again but it looks like I will be, but not much choice.

UK-Classics · « **Reply #49 on:** July 28, 2009, 04:34:04 AM »

James - i agree with what you say. The problem you describe may just be a simple clutch adjust or could be more severe. I wouldnt risk riding it too far without dealer checking set up etc! Cheers

Rusty · « **Reply #50 on:** July 28, 2009, 06:07:03 AM »

Yes James I'd also be inclined to get that looked at soon. Engine noises rarely go away and it might do more damage if you keep riding it.

csbdr · « **Reply #51 on:** July 30, 2009, 09:07:48 AM »

I am getting my C5 back today. Steve at M&S Cycles told me he found no problems in the gearbox, and upgraded it as planned. He DID find the main bearing was shot. He said RE asked him to look at main bearings, and provided a replacement in the kits, but didn't tell him why. All his G5's and the other C5 were fine, leaving him puzzled until he opened mine and the bearing was falling apart, which apparently was the screaching noise I had intermittantly when I brought it in. I am looking forward to pick9ng it up and giving it a run to see what it's like. I'll report in on the results....

r80rt · « **Reply #52 on:** July 30, 2009, 04:51:57 PM »

It'll be fine when you get it back, You'll have a lot of fun with it.

Marrtyn · « **Reply #53 on:** August 07, 2009, 03:13:16 PM »

Actually now managed another 100 or so miles on my G5 after the recall.
Very happy with it. Just getting on with running it in now, with only just over 700 miles on the clock.("Sods Law"- the weather has been against me).
I can't fault the work Watsonians have done, I have even finished up with a chrome starter motor cover fitted, (these were only originally fitted to the C5's).
Sorry for all those that didn't have such a good "recall", but I would persevere, with your dealer etc.

Cabo Cruz · « **Reply #54 on:** August 07, 2009, 09:52:30 PM »

Glad to hear about your positive recall experince, Br. Marrtyn!

r80rt · « **Reply #55 on:** August 07, 2009, 10:07:54 PM »

Marrtyn I'm glad to hear you are happy. that's great!

mark · « **Reply #56 on:** August 12, 2009, 06:40:20 AM »

Hi guys,

I got my enfield back yesterday from the recall exercise.
My local dealer returned it having given it a service and changed those useless fly swatter mirrors for some bar end ones.

Wow!...what a difference with the new mirrors.
Not only do they give the bike an improved retro(better) look,they are absolutely fantastic.
The field of veiw is superb,I can see completely behind me with either mirror.
May I suggest those with stock mirrors get rid of them,as they are not fit for purpose.
Infact they are dangerous.

I have put some new pics on members rides.

Well I took the bike out for a four hour ride yesterday and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The bike sounds and runs superb,just as it has always done.
With the new bar ends on,it gets even more attention than it did before,it looks a different bike

For you guy's who havn't got a Royal Enfield.....you are missing OUT!
The most fun,head turning bike on the road.

BRGreen · « **Reply #57 on:** August 12, 2009, 08:48:27 AM »

Mark, Do you have an E5? I have been having trouble finding bar end mirrors that fit the E5.
Dave

mark · « **Reply #58 on:** August 12, 2009, 10:32:03 AM »

Mine is a G5.
My mirrors are just bolted on the end of the handlebars with the already existing bolt.

I would have thought with all the different types of bar end mirrors/fittings there would be something that would fit.

Maybe some of the other members,with far more knowledge than myself can help you!

BRGreen · « **Reply #59 on:** August 12, 2009, 04:36:41 PM »

Mark,
I tried that with Napoleon brand mirrors and it didn't work. Would you tell me what brand of mirror and where you bought them?

Thanks for the reply,
Dave

mark · « **Reply #60 on:** August 12, 2009, 05:12:17 PM »

Hi Dave,

As far as I know these mirrors came from watsonian and squires.
I think there are some pictures of them on the accessories page.

I am sure they are just the standard ones they use.
They are very well made and do the job as intended.

mark · « **Reply #61 on:** August 12, 2009, 05:18:23 PM »

Dave I have just checked,and they are from Watsies.

It says thet all accessories are genuine Royal enfield parts or parts developed by them with REs consent.

hope this helps.

Keith Cousins · « **Reply #62 on:** August 13, 2009, 01:47:06 PM »

JamesC5

After the recall my C5 was returned by Watsonian's in the same condition as it left me - no marks/scuffs on the casings. As I had not experienced any gearbox problems before the recall the bike to me rides the same as before - gear change is smooth with no clutch slippage/snagging.
Sorry to hear of your problems. - I am sure at the end of the day your local RE dealer can sort it out under the 2 year warranty.

REgards

Keith Cousins
REOC - Humberside Branch

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