Dec 22, 2016 12:31 PM
7171 Views
(Updated Dec 22, 2016 12:33 PM)
Hello friends.
In riding bull form 2003 onwards. Basically use this machine for touring. So far owned and sold bulls are
1) std350
2) Thunderbird 350 TwinSpark
3) std350
4) machismo avl 500
5) Electra 350 twinspark
And now
6) Thunderbird 500
I loved this machine because I am an admirer of Royal Enfield. But the new version disappoints me a bit because the experience of old Thunderbird 350(I say the steel feel) Versus the new TB 500(Fibre feel) having a vast difference in its basic instinct.
An immediately visible change is a new headlight featuring a projector lamp. Stylish new instruments display an analogue speedometer and tachometer, with a digital display including a clock also in place. The new grips feel decent and both control levers have a solid, meaty feel to them. A hazard warning switch is standard, making for a Royal Enfield first.
The fuel tank is larger, well-proportioned with its filler lid offset at the top. And you now have the option of removing the pillion seat to increase luggage room. The 500 also gets a revised exhaust, LED tail-lamp and RE logos for its foot pegs.
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.
The riding saddle is comfortable, and the rider’s footpegs have been shifted forward, making for a more comfortable cruising experience.
The T’bird 500 employs a single downtube frame, with an oval-section swingarm used at rear. There’s also a 240mm disc brake at rear, working with a 280mm single front disc for improved stopping power.
Royal Enfield has priced the new Thunderbird 500 at Rs 1, 82, 571(on-road, Mumbai).
At last my overall conclusion is that although this black beauty is sexy but fail to give that power feel in your hands as the old is gold TB 350 gives. I say its a bike not the classy Bullet fell(as we say in India).
