Classic meets modern in the new 2013 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500. The motorcycle features an old school design language which draws inspiration from the 1950s. Among the most important style details there are the big headlight, the fluid fuel tank and the robust exhaust pipes. We also like the comfortable seat which offers enough space for two people and the old school handlebars.

At the heart of the bike beats a powerful single cylinder, 4 stroke, twinspark, air cooled 500 cc engine. The engine has a displacement of 499 cc and cranks out 27.2 bhp 5250 rpm and 41.3 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.

Other features worthy of being mentioned are the 20 litre fuel tank, digital meter console and LED tail lights. The motorcycle is offered in a distinctive "black" styling, which gives it a pretty aggressive look.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2013 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500.

2013 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500
  • Engine/Motor: Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, Twinspark, Air cooled
  • Horsepower: 27 @ 5250
  • Torque: 30 @ 4000
  • Transmission: 5 Speed Constant Mesh
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Overview

The all new Royal Enfield Thunderbird now with a powerful 500 cc engine, a 20 litre tank, digital meter console, LED tail lamps and in three striking shades of black gives a new definition to Highway cruising.

Perhaps one of the most anticipated models from the Royal Enfield stable, Thunderbird 500 is poised to enhance the pleasure of leisure motorcycling amongst the touring enthusiasts. Coming soon from Royal Enfield this motorcycle with its distinctive "black" styling, this motorcycle is all set to make a distinct statement on the roads.

Features

-Unique ‘Black’ styling and the 3D motifs

-A head lamp console with the projector and LED light guide Halo ring

-The futuristic instrument console with the digital LCD display with the 2 independent trip meters

-Split seats with a removable rear seat that can be used as a luggage carrier

-A rear disc brake & retractable foot pegs

-LED lamp with light guides

-4 stroke, air cooled, all black 500cc engine.

Specifications

Engine Type

Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, Twinspark, Air cooled

Displacement

499cc

Bore x stroke

84mm x 90mm

Compression Ratio

8.5:1

Maximum Power

27.2 bhp @ 5250 rpm

Maximum Torque

41.3 Nm @ 4000 rpm

Ignition System

Digital Electronic Ignition

Clutch

Wet, multi-plate

Gearbox

5 Speed Constant Mesh

Lubrication

Wet sump

Engine Oil

15 W 50 API, SL Grade JASO MA

Fuel Supply

Keihin Electronic Fuel Injection

Air Cleaner

Paper Element

Engine Start

Electric/Kick

Chassis Type

Single downtube, using engine as stressed member

Front suspension

Telescopic, 41mm forks, 130mm travel

Rear suspension

Twin gas charged shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload, 80mm travel

Wheelbase

1350mm

Ground Clearance

140 mm

Length

2060mm

Width

790mm ( Without Mirrors)

Height

1205mm ( Without Mirrors)

Seat Height

775mm

Kerb Weight

195 Kgs

Fuel Capacity

20 Ltrs

Tyres Fr.

90/90-19, 52P MRF Zapper FM

Tyres Rr.

120/80-18, 62P MRF Zapper C

Brakes Front

280mm Disc, 2-Piston caliper

Brakes Rear

240mm Disc, Single piston caliper

Electrical System

12 volt - DC

Battery

12 volt, 14 Ah

Head Lamp

Projection type headlamp, H7 55 / 55 W

Tail Lamp

LED lamp with position light guides

Turn Signal Lamp

Hazard Light featured for the first time on an Indian motorcycle


Quotes

zigwheels ---- "The last big jump we saw what the appropriately named Classic 500 – a bike that looks like a 1950s Bullet, but is powered by a modern aluminium-block 500cc electronic fuel injected engine which shot to flagship status in the company’s line-up. And we absolutely loved it in every way. So you can imagine then that when RE announced that a new flagship was coming out in the form of the Thunderbird, it left us a little stumped."

Maxabout ---- "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."

hindustantimes ---- "The latest Thunderbird borrows its 499cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled and four-stroke engine from the Classic 500. The large capacity engine belts out a trademark Royal Enfield thump. There’s ample low and mid-range power, but peak power output at 27.2bhp could be more, given such a large capacity engine. The T’bird 500 is good for a top speed of 130kph, but feels best when cruising at speeds of between 80-100kph. A five-speed gearbox shifts in the one-down, four-up pattern."