Discussions and Questions - Royal Enfield Thunderbird Royal Enfield Thunderbird
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
I ride my Thunderbird 500X everyday for commutes and it’s been great. With its upright seating you can see traffic, and the torquey engine makes it easy to zip through gaps when needed.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
No way, too heavy and unwieldy for city traffic. I gave it a go for a bit and was always stressed about dropping it in tight spots. Also, stop-and-go traffic fuel efficiency sucks.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
It's not perfect but if you feel confident on the bike you can do it. The trick is to plan your routes so you avoid the worst traffic and the tight spaces. It’s actually pretty nimble once you get used to the weight.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
It depends on your city I think. It’s fine in smaller towns with wider roads. Yet, what about in places like Mumbai or Delhi? Forget it. You'll be sweating buckets every time you make a U turn.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
Honestly, I am a big fan of commuting on my Thunderbird 500X. Cars give you more space because of that commanding presence, and it's comfortable in heavy traffic. For peace of mind, just invest in some crash guards.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
Although it's not the most practical, it's fun. Even if it’s not the most efficient way to get around, there’s something satisfying about cruising through the city on a big bike.
Can the Thunderbird 500X be a practical commuter in urban traffic, serving as a daily commuter?
13 January 2025 10:06
I'd say it's possible, but not the best case. Parking is the biggest problem I have found, it’s hard to find parking spaces big enough. If you've got secure parking at work, it's doable.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
You can really make a Thunderbird 500X mod. The right exhaust and air filter combo will wake up the engine and make it sound much better. So be careful not to overdo it or you will ruin the reliability of the bike.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
I’m a purist and I believe these bikes should be kept stock. It was designed that way for a reason and mods are more often than not just creating problems. Plus, it hurts resale value.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
The way to go is subtle mods. Even somewhat moderate upgrades to things like a slightly louder exhaust, better tires, and possibly even upgraded brakes can really make the machine a nicer thing to ride without throwing the character of the bike much out of whack.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
Half the fun of owning a Thunderbird 500X is Modding! It has so much potential to be customized exactly how you would like it to be. I’ve seen some amazing cafe racer and scrambler builds that totally change the bike.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
It depends on your goals. Targeted mods can make a big overall difference if your looking to address specific issues like comfort or performance. If you're happy with the stock bike, then don't change anything.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
I believe the most worthwhile mod for the Thunderbird 500X is suspension upgrades. Better shocks and fork internals can improve ride quality and handling by a lot without changing what the bike is.
What does changing a Thunderbird 500X do to its character and performance?
13 January 2025 10:06
Modding is a slippery slope. So you begin with a simple exhaust, and the next thing you know you’re doing engine work and spending more on mods than the bike is worth. Proceed with caution!
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
The Thunderbird 500X is a great touring platform! With its comfortable riding position and torquey engine it’s perfect for eating up miles. You just need to add some saddlebags and a windscreen.
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
It works well for short tours, but for big long distance riding there are better options out there. Cruising is very tiring due to the lack of wind protection and modern features like cruise control.
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
I've done several multi day trips on my Thunderbird 500X and loved it. The thing is to enjoy the journey and take your time. It's not the fastest or the most high tech but it's got character and reliability.
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
I’ve always felt that it’s overrated as a tourer. After a few hours the vibrations get tiring and the seat isn’t the most comfortable for all day riding. And, with the small fuel tank you have to stop more often.
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
If you’re into a more old school experience, it’s a great touring bike. It’s simple and thus can’t go wrong, and if it does, it’s easy to work on. But you won't find modern conveniences.
Is the Thunderbird 500X a good platform for long distance touring?
13 January 2025 10:06
I'd say it's a good platform for light touring, but not for hardcore cross country trips. For weekend getaways or backroad exploration, it’s perfect, but you’d need something more substantial if weeks on the road are on the agenda.
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