Thunderbird 500

The Royal Enfield India is all set to launch all new Thunderbird 500. "The new Thunderbird 500cc will be sold along with Thunderbird 350cc." Expect the Thunderbird 500 to be on Indian roads by first half of 2012.

The new Thunderbird 500 is powered by a new Fuel Injected 500cc Unit Construction Engine (USE) with 27.2 PS of power @ 5250 rpm and 41.3 NM of torque @ 4000 rpm.

The new cruiser also features re-designed seat. The pillion seat, which is separately mounted, can be removed to make way for additional luggages. Long distance travelers can now use the bungee hooks to tie down their luggage.

The "Thunderbird 500" now incorporates analog gauges which display speed, rpm and trip meters. The 500cc cruiser has a twin digital trip meters and a separate switch for the hazard lamp, a first for locally manufactured bike. The main ignition lock does double time as a steering lock as well.

The foot pegs have been re-positioned to give the rider better position. The mirrors and turn indicators are also a new unit. The bike now features 41 mm forks in front and an oval section swing arm at the rear to enhance its handling.

The Royal Enfield has revamped the Thunderbird 500's suspension package, boosting its fork size to 41mm and equipping the rear with an oval section swing arm.

The new Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500cc will be available in shades of midnight black, matte metallic black and arctic winter black.

After unveiling the Thunderbird 500 at the 2012 Auto Expo, Siddhartha Lal, MD & CEO Eicher Motors Ltd., said, "When we launched Thunderbird in 2002, it was a one-of-its kind model on the Indian roads that redefined the cruiser segment. With the long running success of Thunderbird 350, the Thunderbird brand has built its own cult following amongst the Royal Enfield customers, as a comfortable touring motorcycle. Today, with the launch of the Thunderbird 500, fitted with the UCE and a host of design enhancements, Royal Enfield has again upped the ante in leisure motorcycling which we have been pioneering for over half a century in India. With touring enthusiasts forming the core of our customer base, the Thunderbird 500 gives them more power, comfort and style for long-distance riding."  

As stated, the new Thunderbird 500 will not replace its sibling 350. However, changes may be applied to 350 cc as well based on the customer feedback. (As informed by Royal Enfield).

Thunderbird 500 Images