Loving The Open Road: Royal Enfield Classic 500

It was July 1, 2015 and my world stopped. I mean, it literally stopped. A severe allergic reaction to something I ate almost flat-lined my heart, and I realize how truly blessed I am to be given a second life by God. If not for a miracle, my love story with two wheels wouldn’t be here. The truth is, I’ve always loved motorcycles. Since I was a teenager, I’ve been riding them. The freedom to ride and the its thrills it promises continuously inspire me to aspire for ownership. I’ve always dreamed that someday, I would ride with my own two wheels on the highway. You know that person who sticks his head out of the window car window (a bad idea, actually) when he hears the roar of a big bike—whether a sporty Ducati or Harley Davidson? Yup, that’s me. Today, I still can’t believe that I own a Royal Enfield Classic 500 cc. It’s really a dream come true! After I bought Drogo—my Royal Enfield 500-cc motorcycle—it has been a partner to me and my wife as we go on riding adventures. I purchased my Royal Enfield for five main reasons. Royal Enfield is the oldest motorcycle brand in the world, which was established in 1901. The sense of history is unmatched, of course. Two, the engine powering the Bullet and Classic served the British army in World War II (another source of pride). Three, I got envious upon seeing the videos of REAPers (Royal Enfield Association of the Philippines) coaxing their bikes through in mud, river crossings and long journeys. Four, the fuel consumption is about 40 to 45 kilometers per liter! Lastly, nothing beats the sound and classic look of Royal Enfield! As I rode my Royal Enfield, my wife aboard, out of the showroom, we made our way to Batlag Falls in Tanay, Rizal. I remember the beauty of picturesque Marilaque (Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon) Highway, and how dependable our Royal Enfield is on the twisty road. Admittedly, the motorcycle grabbed bystanders’ attention with its striking one-color style and hand-painted pinstripes with vintage authenticity. The finely crafted tank with post war-era graphics and thigh pads added to that theme. Meanwhile, its potent fuel-injected 500-cc engine provides a wellspring of power and acceleration on demand. I appreciate how my Royal Enfield handles so consistent on both twisty and straight roads. The comfy “classic” ride is courtesy of telescopic forks at front and twin gas-filled shock absorbers at the rear. During bumpy rides, the shock absorbers take good care of you. As we embrace the road with the Royal Enfield, we realize the journey we traveled together as husband and wife. I would say it’s priceless! The ride becomes our bonding moment as a couple. We ride, laugh, learn, and see all the beautiful places that we’ve never been to. Our journey with Drogo never stops. Whenever I sit on the Royal Enfield, it feels like another adventure awaits.   Text and Photos by: Raemin Reyes