Royal Enfield launches Thunderbird 500

Royal Enfield has launched its Thunderbird 500, which, it says, would enhance the pleasure of leisure motorcycling.

The Thunderbird 500 is equipped with innovative features that ensure safety of both the rider and the bike. The motorcycle has a powerful 500cc Unit Construction Engine and 27.2 bhp power output being fed through an electronic fuel injection system. The main ignition lock also functions as a central steering lock.

"The Thunderbird brand has built its own cult following amongst Royal Enfield customers, as a comfortable touring motorcycle," said Siddhartha Lal, CEO of Eicher Motors, of which Royal Enfield is a division.

With an overall black theme, the Thunderbird 500 comes in three distinct shades - Stone, understated matte finish and rugged texture capturing the effortless strength of the legend; Flicker, blackest of blacks which stays pure forever and is a fitting tribute to the rider's spirit; and Twilight, an inspired blue-black finish that stands for the rider who stays steady under the changing skies.

"We hope that with Thunderbird 500, our customers will see affirmation of the fact that Royal Enfield is a company bent on listening, imagining and delivering," said Venki Padmanabhan, CEO, Royal Enfield.

The inclusion of hazard lamps in the switch gear is a first for a motorcycle manufactured in India. To complete the package, stopping power has been aided with the addition of a disc brake at the rear, mounted on the new improved oval section swing arm.

Thunderbird 500 is available at Rs. 1,82,571 (on road price for Mumbai).