I have a GB500 and it's one of the most fun bikes you can ride. Not as fast as a SR500, not a comfortable distance bike, but it has a flat power curve, it's light, looks good, and it handles like a razor up here in the mountains. Parked next to my 400/4. I have to make some tough choices in my life.
The Japanese seem able to out-do the British on British machines. Add the W650 as a better Triumph. Speaking of which, rode a new one finally and was bitterly disappointed. The Thruxton LOOKS very interesting, and they have created a place for them in AHRMA...
Did a LOT of research on trhe Royal Enfield. It's for 3 people; 1)Newbies who don't know better. Some of them become pretty good mechanics, though. 2) Old farts who only ride them to Dairy Queen to lend an air of danger/intrigue to possible dates. 3) Racers with sponsors who immediately put thousands of $$$ into them right away.