
Enfield Thunderbird 500
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 2018 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500, a motorcycle that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern engineering, making it a quintessential choice for enthusiasts who crave both nostalgia and performance. Positioned in the classic motorcycle category, the Thunderbird 500 is an emblem of Royal Enfield’s rich heritage, appealing to riders who appreciate a timeless design while enjoying the benefits of contemporary technology. With its robust build and striking presence, this bike is perfect for both urban commuting and long highway rides, encouraging riders to embrace adventure in style. At the heart of the Thunderbird 500 lies a potent 499cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine, delivering an impressive 27.2 HP at 5250 RPM and a torque output of 41.3 Nm at just 4000 RPM. This engine is engineered for a smooth, responsive riding experience, allowing riders to effortlessly navigate through city traffic or cruise along open roads. The 5-speed gearbox, coupled with a wet multi-plate clutch, provides seamless shifting, while the air-cooled system ensures reliability even in hot conditions. The motorcycle's sturdy frame, utilizing the engine as a stressed member, contributes to its stability and comfort, making every ride a pleasure. The Thunderbird 500 is packed with features that enhance both comfort and performance. Its suspension system, featuring a telescopic fork at the front and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear, offers adjustable preload for personalized riding dynamics. Coupled with a generous 20-liter fuel tank, the motorcycle is designed for long-distance journeys without frequent stops. Safety is not overlooked, thanks to the responsive braking system that includes a 280 mm disc at the front and a 240 mm disc at the rear. With both electric and kick-start options, the Thunderbird 500 caters to a variety of rider preferences, making it an accessible and versatile choice. Riders can also choose from an array of color options, including striking blue, gray, silver, black, and asphalt, ensuring that their motorcycle reflects their personal style. **
Pros
- Classic Aesthetics with Modern Features: The Thunderbird 500 captures the charm of vintage motorcycles while incorporating contemporary technology for a balanced ride.
- Comfortable Riding Position: With a seat height of 775 mm and an ergonomically designed frame, this motorcycle offers comfort for both short commutes and long journeys.
- Strong Torque and Performance: The engine’s torque delivery at low RPMs provides a robust response, making it ideal for city riding and highway cruising.
Cons
- Weight: At 197 kg (434 lbs), the Thunderbird 500 is on the heavier side, which may be challenging for less experienced riders to maneuver.
- Limited High RPM Performance: While the torque is excellent, the horsepower peaks at higher RPMs, making it less suited for aggressive high-speed riding.
- Suspension Travel: With only 130 mm of front travel and 80 mm at the rear, the suspension may not absorb larger bumps as effectively as some competitors, affecting comfort on rougher terrain.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Enfield
- Model
- Thunderbird 500
- Category
- Classic
- Light
- Projection type headlamp, H7 55 / 55 W
- Starter
- Electric & kick
- Comments
- Royal Enfield bikes are made in India.
- Electrical
- 12 volt, 14 Ah
- Instruments
- Analogue and digital
- Color Options
- Blue, gray, silver, black, asphalt
- Power
- 27.20 HP (19.9 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
- Clutch
- Wet mulitiplate
- Torque
- 41.30 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.5 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Ignition
- Digital electronic ignition
- Engine Type
- Twin spark
- Fuel System
- Injection. Digital
- Bore X Stroke
- 84.0 x 90.0 mm (3.3 x 3.5 inches)
- Compression
- 8.5:1
- Displacement
- 499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Air
- Engine Details
- Single cylinder, four-stroke
- Lubrication System
- Wet sump
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Chain
- Seat Height
- 775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Fuel Capacity
- 20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)
- Overall Width
- 895 mm (35.2 inches)
- Overall Height
- 1,300 mm (51.2 inches)
- Overall Length
- 2,060 mm (81.1 inches)
- Weight Incl Oil Gas Etc
- 197.0 kg (434.3 pounds)
- Rear Tyre
- 120/80-18
- Frame Type
- Single downtube, using engine as stressed member
- Front Tyre
- 90/90-19
- Rear Brakes
- Single disc. Single-piston
- Front Brakes
- Single disc. 2-piston calipers
- Rear Suspension
- Twin gas charged shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Wheel Travel
- 80 mm (3.1 inches)
- Front Wheel Travel
- 130 mm (5.1 inches)
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 240 mm (9.4 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 280 mm (11.0 inches)