Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500X ABS

What’s Good

The 2018 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500X is a contemporary iteration of the standard Thunderbird model. With alterations that have been made to give the motorcycle a modern appeal with the crisp of sportier stance take over the older Thunderbird. The Thunderbird now is an upmarket model that is ready to lock its horns with available offerings in the segment such as the UM Renegade Sport S. Here is the list of changes which not only distinguishes the Thunderbird X from the regular one but also are capable of drawing good volume for the automaker.

• Flat Wider Handler
• Short Matte Black Exhaust Setup
• Thin, Flat Single Piece Seat
• Upright Riding Posture
• Tinier LED Tail Lamp
• No Pillion Backrest
• Blacked Out Cycle Parts and Colour Schemes

Power and Mileage

Mechanically, the 500X did not witness any changes from the standard Thunderbird. It continues with the identical 499cc, air-cooled fuel-injected single cylinder engine, to propel this modern classic. The power transmission will be handled by the similar five-speed gearbox sourced from the regular Thunderbird model. The generated power and torque figures are 27.5PS and 41.3Nm.

Nothing is new at powertrain front so the performance and mileage will also be as of the Thunderbird 500. The Thunderbird 500 as per its road test, can reach up to the top speed of 119.32 kmph and returns the fuel efficiency of 33.20kmpl in the city and 37.41kmpl on highway conditions. The similar results are expected with this Thunderbird 500X model too.

Engine Specs

• 499cc, Single-Cylinder Engine
• Fuel Injection System
• Power: 27.5PS
• Torque: 41.3Nm
• Five Speed Gearbox
• Mileage: 33.20kmpl (Approx.)

Handling and Riding

The RE Thunderbird 500X gets a new flatter handlebar instead of pullback unit of the Thunderbird 500 model. In association with redesigned seat, this new handlebar offers an easier approach, more control and better response for the rider in heavy traffic conditions too.

Thanks to promising suspension setup, the pot holes and bumpy surfaces not been able to hamper your ride quality. Also, it ensures easy handling and confident feel on the bike with the introduction of disc brakes on both wheels. However, the ABS is not on offer even as an optional extra.

Safety

Based on single downtube chassis, the Thunderbird 500X is not only a safe to ride tourer not only for the rider but also for the pillion with the fitments such as 41mm telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers with the 5-step adjustable setup. To decelerate the bike, 280mm front disc with 2-piston calliper and 240mm rear disc with single-piston calliper are on work that tame the motorcycle in less distance travelled.

Verdict

Available at the price sticker of INR 1.98 lakh (ex-showroom) that is INR 8,000 premium over the Thunderbird 500, the 500X is a good deal. It now offers you a set of new alloy wheels, an aftermarket appeal with new bright colours that are in amalgamation with the blackout theme and upgraded seating position well suited for urban conditions. A worth option to purchase in segment and pricing.