The chassis of the new bike is similar to its predecessors, as is the styling. Unintimidating and user friendly, even with the new engine it should be easy to maintain for the average DIYer. Despite the provision of a kickstart, our test bike fired on the button and quickly settled down to the familiar clack of a big single. The new clutch is super smooth, allowing gear-changes to be made with precision, providing you are not in any rush.

Still, this is not — and never was — a machine to encourage anything other than a leisurely pace. The extra power means 70mph isn’t a strain, but the bike is happier — and a lot smoother and quieter — at 55mph. The rudimentary (by today’s standards) suspension copes well with most roads, as does the tubular steel frame.

The single 280mm front disc and rear drum are well matched, and easily deal with the combined weight of bike and rider without giving any cause for concern even under heavy braking.

Light and flickable, it felt well balanced and slipped through traffic with ease. Enfield has managed to get the balance right, and at times it is hard to tell that it is not carbureted or for that matter a bike from the past!

All told, Enfield has done an excellent job retaining the bike’s period feel and looks, while getting it up to modern standards. They have also managed to retain its frugal nature (80mpg is claimed), which in the current economic crunch will certainly enhance its appeal.

On sale in Europe now, the new fuelie is scheduled to be available in the U.S. in June 2009. No word yet on pricing, but expect a premium over the current $5,745 for a 500 Electra. www.enfieldmotorcycles.com