So- the AVL (aluminium jug) is an interim / up-dated model with some improved bits. The E-start system is made almost useless because it was added on- not designed in. The problem is a bit called the sprag gear , or clutch, with is basically what you turn when you pull the rope on your lawn mower. If the engine back-fires or stalls out and reverses a tiny bit, the sprag breaks and you no longer have E-start.
The there are the new UCE (Unit Construction Engine) that has gotten favorable write-ups in the mags. The first year has had some teething problems- especially with the transmission- so I would not get a used one made in '09. From everything I've heard otherwise- the people who have them love them. They seem to be an amazing engine. Almost (dare I say it?) "Bullet proof...". Yes kids- you read that here first.
Frankly, I would not buy a used bike because break-in is quite critical on the older models.
All the bits for a vintage trials, clubman, and cafe are available from the Royal Enfield importer. An amazing array of parts. You can buy kits or just parts- which is what I did. Idian parts in general are indeed cheaper, but you usually end up paying for the initial savings. You generally get what you pay for, I'm afraid.
Someone here in the 'States is playhing with a V-twin made for 2 350 jugs, and of ciourse there's the Carberry 1000 from Australia.
Otherwise, Japanese-made singles are definitely FASTER and probably less maintenance intensive. These are bikes made for commuting on English roads of the 40's and 50's.
The Interceptor leaks oil... Has anyone ever heard od any English bike that didn't? (Actually, my AVL is still tight after 6500 miles).
Last- only the 500 is imported to the USA. The Indians like the 350 because it has almost the same power and gets around 100mpg.
