Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500
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Ex-Showroom Price
| 2-Wheeler Type | Cruiser |
| Engine cc (Displacement) | 499 cc |
| Maximum Power | 27.2 HP @ 5250 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 41.3 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Number of Cylinders | 1 |
| Number of Gears | 5 |
| Ground Clearance | 135 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 199 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 litres |
Pros
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Good Looks
(324 of 378 agree)
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Powerful Engine
(283 of 320 agree)
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Vast Service Network
(192 of 259 agree)
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Efficient Braking System
(56 of 73 agree)
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Feature Rich
(57 of 73 agree)
Cons
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Lack of 6th Gear
(220 of 312 agree)
Colour Options and Price in India | |
| Bike Variant | 2019 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 ABS |
| Availability Status in India | Discontinued |
| 2-Wheeler Type | Cruiser |
| Latest Price in India | 2019 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 price was Rs 2.07 lakh before being discontinued. |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Colour Options | Marine, Stone, Flicker |
| Official Tagline | New Definition to Highway Cruising |
ENGINE AND GEARBOX | |
| Engine Details | 499cc, Single Cylinder, Air Cooled, 4 Stroke |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Cooling | Air Cooling |
| Engine cc (Displacement) | 499 cc |
| Maximum Power | 27.2 HP @ 5250 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 41.3 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Number of Cylinders | 1 |
| Emission Norms | BS4-Compliant |
| Ignition | Digital Electronic Ignition |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Bore | 84 mm |
| Stroke | 90 mm |
| Oil Grade | 15 W 50 API, SL Grade & Above, JASO MA 2 |
| Air Cleaner | Paper Element |
| Number of Gears | 5 |
| Clutch | Wet, Multi-Plate |
BRAKES AND TYRES | |
| Front Brake | 280mm Disc, 2 Piston Caliper |
| Rear Brake | 240mm Disc, Single Piston Caliper |
| ABS | Yes, (Dual Channel) |
| Front Tyre | 90/90-19 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/80-18 |
| Wheel Type | Spoke |
KEY FEATURES AND COMPETITORS | |
| Braking System | Anti-lock Braking System |
SUSPENSION AND CHASSIS | |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Gas Charged Shock Absorbers with 5-Step Adjustable Preload |
| Frame (Chassis) | Single Downtube, Using Engine as Stressed Member |
| Front Wheel Travel | 130mm travel |
| Rear Wheel Travel | 80mm travel |
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT | |
| Overall Length | 2060 mm |
| Overall Width | 790 mm |
| Overall Height | 1205 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 135 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1350 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 199 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 litres |
INSTRUMENT CONSOLE FEATURES | |
| Speedometer | Analogue |
| Tachometer | Analogue |
| Trip Meter | Digital-2 |
| Fuel Gauge | Digital |
BATTERY AND LIGHTING | |
| Pass Light | |
| Battery Type | Maintenance Free |
| Capacity | 14Ah |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Head Light | Projection Type Headlamp, H7 55 / 55W |
| Tail Light | LED Lamp with Position Light Guides |
| Turn Signal Light (Front) | 12V, 10W x 4nos |
| Turn Signal Light (Rear) | 12V, 10W x 4nos |
| Automatic Headlamp On (AHO) | |
COMFORT FEATURES | |
| Electric Start | |
| Pillion Footrest | |
| Step-up Seat/Split Seat | |
| Pillion Backrest | |
| Pillion Grabrail | |
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 Review
Quick Review by Maxabout Team
Royal Enfield Thunderbird is exclusively crafted for Indians. The bike has been a huge hit ever since its launch. Royal Enfield displayed the 500cc variant of this bike for the first time at Delhi Auto Expo 2012. Now, they have officially launched this variant and expect the brand Thunderbird to reach new heights of success.
Design and Style
The original design of Thunderbird remains the same. Royal Enfield has made minor changes in this bike which are hard to notice at first glance. The bike lacks visor and cowl and with its upraised handlebar, it looks like a true cruiser bike when seen from the front. It has a circular LED projector type headlight which has never been seen before in any Enfield bike. Tiny round shaped side indicators are placed on the both sides of this headlight. Its hand levers and naked instrument dials are chrome finished. This new variant has beefy front forks which along with its short front fender makes it look macho and aggressive.
Move to the side of this bike and you will notice the familiar long and heavy chrome silencer. Its huge fuel tank sports a 3D logo and classic black styling on it. This new variant features split seat and backrest for the rear passenger. Side panel of this bike features its name while the tool box is chrome finished which is placed just next to the rear suspension. Thunderbird 500 became the first Enfield bike to get rear disk brake and LED tail light. The chain drive is placed on the right side while the disc brake is placed on the left side which is a unique characteristic of this bike. Its rear fender is compact and wide and sports hazard light and big side indicators on it.
Instrument Console
Commendable changes are made in this department. This is the only bike in Royal Enfield family which features a combined analogue-digital meter console. The twin circular dials are surrounded by chrome rings and uses blue color for illumination. It has an analogue speedometer and tachometer while it has LCD for its digital odometer, clock, 2-tripmeter, and fuel gauge. The dial which houses tachometer also features other LED indicators.
Engine and Gearbox
The bike shares its engine with the recently launched Classic 500. It’s a single-cylinder, 4-stroke 500cc engine. This Twin spark, air cooled engine churns out a power output of 27.2 bhp at 5250 rpm. The torque output arrives at 4000 rpm which is of 41.3 Nm. The five-speed manual gearbox of Classic 500 makes its way to this bike and works on a one gear down and four gears up-shift pattern.
Acceleration and Performance
Undoubtedly, this is the most powerful variant of Thunderbird. The bike feels far impressive than ever before. With this engine, we feel the cruising abilities of this bike have taken a big leap forward. It’s a very responsive bike especially at slow speeds. The heavy amount of torque helps it to move easily in city traffic. The gear ratios are well matched with this bike and you need less gear shifts than before. It constantly urges you to take it on highways as it feels best when you push it hard. The high speed cruising comes without any vibrations and harshness. The refinement level of this engine is commendable. Overtaking is also very easy with this bike and it can easily cross the speed mark of 130km/hr. The only complaint we have is its heavy weight. In city traffic and with a pillion rider, sometime you will feel the actual weight of this bike. Otherwise, there are no major concerns related to its performance.
Mileage
The bike isn’t impressive when it comes to fuel economy. Expect it to return a mileage of around 30km/ltr on highways while these figures get reduced in city traffic.
Comfort while Driving
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a highly cushioned seat which even offers nice under-thigh support. The split seat and rear backrest for pillion rider makes it the most comfortable bike for two people. Thunderbird is equipped with a vibration free wide and angled handlebar. It gives the most important, cruising feel to the rider. You also get a firm palm grip with high quality of plastic buttons and engine kill switch on its handlebar. Its front-set foot pegs adds to the comfort ability of this bike. The knees always stay free and relaxed.
Storage Space and Safety Features
There is almost no storage space apart from its tool box. Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 comes fitted with front leg guard, pass button and powerful halogen headlight for your safety.
Suspension and Brakes
The suspension and braking system of Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 is specially designed keeping its heavyweight (195kgs) in mind. It sports front telescopic forks of 41mm and twin gas charged rear shock absorbers. As far as its braking is concerned, this new variant features disc brakes on its both wheels. It has a front disc brake of 280mm while it has a rear disc brake of 240mm.
Ride and Handling
The new braking and suspension system has improved its ride and handling significantly. This heavy machine now feels more stable and under control at high speeds. Its suspension and rear wide tyre gives you a good grip of roads. Its wheelbase (1350mm) and ground clearance of 140mm helps it to turn easily. However in city traffic, you can’t move frequently as it lacks stability while turning at slow speeds. The bike remains grounded at high speeds and steers as per your need.
Tyre Size, Shades and Variants
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 has spoke wheels of different sizes. It has a 19inch spoke wheel at its front and 18inch wheel at the back. The only variant of this bike is available in 5 different shades - Stone, Marine, Lightning, Flickr, and Asphalt..
Verdict
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 is priced at INR 1.63 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi (approx., may vary)) which makes it almost 30K costlier than its regular variant. This bike has its own league and it’s not meant for every other bike rider. Yes, it certainly feels overpriced but to compensate, company has stuffed this bike with many new features and a powerful engine. It’s a complete value for money bike for those who are hard-core fans of Thunderbird and loves comfortable and high speed cruising.
Infographic
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500: All You Need to Know
Shades
Questions and Answers
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 Media Resources
User Reviews for Royal Enfield Thunderbird (2019)
I have got 60km/l from my thunderbird and i have the proof for it
My thunderbird gave 56km/l for 279km, I have taken a snapshot of my instrument panel... Nobody believes it ... But believe me, its royal Enfield don't just buy ..feel it
Best Features: Mrf zapper best for indian roads
Pros: Cruising posture
Cons: Tubeless tyres
Warning. D.O.N.T. B.U.Y
It starts with 2 years of experience. Do check out my 6th review 1. Fuel tap was not working. Had to push the bike in the first month of purchase. 2. Went for free service and made a complaint which was ignored 3. Again fuel tap issue. 4. I had to fight with service person(velavan motors) to get it replaced. 5. Chrome plating of front wheel came off after 3 months for which the wheel was replaced. 6. Major issues was with clutch. I have 6 bills of clutch cable which gets cut very easily. This was very painful during emergencies or middle of the nights twice. 7. Rear disk failures. Which is the main reason for me to sell the bike at a cheap rate. Beware it will come day like a cancer in this bike 8. Suspension lasts well only for an year after that say bye bye to your conformating spines. 9. The service engineer, sales engineer are the worst of them all. False promises, ignoring the old customers, money is all they are obsessed about rather than delivering the qualify.. 10. Oh! The chain . I have changed it 4 times in 2 years. Why they get noise inspite of using chain spray once in a month. 11. I service my bike very often, change oil filter , brake oil etc . Still it was let down. Selling my bike with all disappointment. Don't get fooled by its comfort. It doesn't last long. 12. Lastly the fuel gauge, the digital timer all those are just fancy. They don't work.
Best Features: Handling, nothing else
Pros: The bike is comfortable. Dot
Cons: Everything except comfort which lasted for 1 year max
Best Decision I have ever made..
Royal Enfield was my childhood love as I used to get amaze by its powerful sound. So when I got enrolled to college, I bought Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350. Its looks and sound is the main reason I bought it. Its seating position is comfortable but it is not suitable for short riders. Back rest for the pillion rider allow pain free ride on long distance to the back passenger. Yeah, handling in city traffic is a bit tiring but its braking system is really good. Suspension is smooth and it gives me 35 kmpl average on city which is okay for me. As fuel mileage is never a issue for me I just want to own my dream Royal Enfield.
Best Features: Appearance and Seating Posture
Pros: Style, Performance, Comfortable Ride
Cons: Mileage...
Truly Royal
It is a very stylish bike and it has got a dominating style which seems to have a bold look on the road compared to other bikes. It offers a pretty good riding position thanks to the ergonomically designed handlebar. The huge 20 litres fuel tank, LED tail lamps, digital meter console and retractable foot pegs are the other impressive features which proves to be a good competitor for other bikes. The only drawback is that it has fragile indicator lights. Overall the bike is very good. It may not have a huge followers like for Pulsar but is liked by people who want a classic vintage ride experience.
Best Features: Fuel efficient & Stylish
Pros: Huge fuel tank, comfortable seat for pillion and rider, fuel efficient, stylish
Cons: Fragile indicator lights
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 Comments
friends i will buy the enfield but i confused because of selection . which one is better re classic 350/500 or thunder bird 350/500 but i will need minimum 30kmpl milege and more comfort and engine efficiency
Best Classy powerful two wheeler in the segment.
Totally agree with you @Bulleteer
guys can any one tell me what are negative thing about this bike?
whats the diff b/w Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 & 350 regarding to fuel consuption ?
hey i want to knw about the tyres ..why they havnt put tubeless tyres in it..
astala vista baby
In delhi its around 1,80,000 on road without leg guard and other accessories.
If i change back side wheel & Tire then how much money require?
튜브 레스로 갈 생각은 없는지요.
Royal enfield is a UK company. It is in India, that doesnt mean the bike is made by an Indian. Some have commented like, "all royal enfield bike owners are like Indian Patriots". Well if you have a Royal enfield bike, then u pay some part of the profit to the UK Govt. Read the History..
Have any of you noticed the profile of the Company
Royal Enfield Bikes
Founded: 1893
Country: UK
Owner: Royal Enfield Motors
Headquarters: Redditch, Worcestershire, England
this bike is best.
The high speed cruising comes without any vibrations and harshness. Really great.
love the bike....
Awesome .....Bike With Many of Good Features
looking so awesome
sucessful bike
very good bike
nic byk.......
real royal bike
very classic bike
i alreary sold my cbr 250r. for this manly machine. can somebody tell me the feegbk of thunderbird 500?
what is d actual milage and speed . and what u think dat is it a right decession?
See guys first think what u want? ...... if u want speed dont buy a cruiser buy a cbr 250r instead....
if u want a fast as well as kind of touring bike buy a ktm duke 200 or wait for some more time and buy a ktm duke 390 ,it will cost the same anyways....
if u want a very good milege dont even think of any of the bikes i meantioned.....
BUT if u want a bike which speaks for itself ... then buy a thunderbird ... I mean the torque ,the sound, the looks , i mean each day i wake up and the first thing i think about is when do i get to sit on that bike........
can any 1 tell me how much will a royal enfield open face(Brodie) helmet cost
king of cruisers below 500cc
Can i put tubeless tyres on this 500cc thunderbird?
Alright my comment is for the sane people who want some real info: I think some people deserve to know the real facts and things. The 500cc Thunderbird's engine is the same as Classic 500. I own one and can tell you for a fact that the maximum mileage you get is 28-30kmpl in city and 32-34kmpl on highways. For top speed you can go till 130kmph without straining the engine. As for your requests for alloys is a correct one. But maybe RE doesn't agree with you. Also those who say alloys don't bend..dude you are wrong. Alloys bend more than other rims with spokes. And once an alloy rim bends or gets a dent its spoiled. You can get it corrected but its never fully repaired.
@7455d57c6c577dd82445f0efbc3a1f0f:disqus Dude if everyone had the money to buy a Rocket, everyone would have already got it.
@6b1b848df64af9b721039cb26671017c:disqus A bullet does bring respect. try buying a bike for yourself and not to impress girls. Also not every superbike owner is a rich dad's kid. Some earn their own money and buy a superbike. Its called having a passion for bikes.
@43ed6a1dae71c888b6ac34543c1cc002:disqus Buddy Hayabusa is not meant for our Indian small roads. Its meant for highways and speedways.
Comparing Hayabusa to a bullet is crazy. A hayabusa is almost 200Bhp bike compared to a 28bhp Bullet. You get what you pay for.
Any1 who thinks Super Bike is better than ThunderBird 500 remember ,it's a muscle bike nor any fancy bike and brings respect like, traffic police normally never stops a enfield bike while they come and stops any fast or sports bike . Don't u believe then try in delhi / Ncr and apart from that girls likes man not any rich daddy's kid
guyz m going to take triumph rocket 3 u guys are still in enfield.....?? feel so pitty on u guy's come onn grow up ......!!!
twinsaprk 500cc and 350 cc me sirf me cc ka diffrence h aur hazard light ka aur kuch naya nahi h ..
agree with narendra and umesh
IAM WAITING TO BUY THIS BIKE BUT AT ANY COST THIS BIKE SHOULD LAUNCH ONLY WITH ALLOY WHEELS AND TUBELESS TYRES BECAUSE OF ITS WEIGHT AND SECONDLY IN ALLOYS THE WHEEL DOSENT BEND OR GETS OUT. IT EVEN ENHANCES THE LOOKS OF THE BIKE.
this bike is best... but in this time 2012 tubeless tyar,rear disk break, alloys wheel, digital meter is very importent for bike looks and comfort... and rs. 1,40,000 is very high price.. without this feature.
Looks are not gud , old thunder bird looks gud , thunder bird font is worst and fuel tank also looks bad ...... Disappointing thing from Royal Enfield ....
I WANT THIS BIKE .... IF 41 BHP MEANS TOP SPEED WILL BE ABOVE 160 KMPH....
If it release then I will buy this one GR8 Royal Enfield..
That i got know how the world going end by 2012 because RE is going to launch this beast by dec end of 2012 and when it launches and will haul the indian roads its gonna surely fuc*in will become the end of 2012 for other superbikes,Do you hear it hayabusa just wait and watch.
Are yaar mileage gaya bhad mai,its better to buy a king of bikes like this its better to buy this rather than to buy 15 lakhs rs hayabusa, so its better to give 1,65,000 Rs for this desi beast
guyzzz...can anyone letme know when will it be arriving in the market at what cost ???????Eagerly waiting for it!!!!
Thunderbird 500 is a good choice,,,can go for it rather than p220,ZMR and R15,,though it cant acheive its topspeed in short time as P220,ZMR,R15,it can do it in 4sec which is equal to them,and topspeed of about more than 140kmph ,,it has better Comfort,Long life royal enfield engine,,better looks,,Amazing riding Experience which is Unforgotable to many,,,,,,,Can any bike give pride to owners like Royal Enfield.....???
WHAT IS THE MILEAGE OF THIS BEAST? Does any1 know?
wow...it has got a rear disk & the seat looks comfortable even for the pillion rider....No idea about it's technicalities...but still I am impressed
mast bike hai.but milege ka pata nahi....wait for it,,
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