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 & SUSPENSION
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
BRAKES AND TYRES
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
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
DIMENSIONS
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
Finally i got my brand new Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 on November 25th after a wait of slightly more than a month. I must thank Mr. Rishi Babbar of ASCO Motors, Patparganj, Delhi for putting up with my persistent queries during this waiting period. The dealership experience during bike delivery was binice and staff was helpful and courteous. Took delivery of my bike at 6:30 PM and rode home. Have ridden 78 KMS so far. Here are initial impressions:
1. Very good pickup ... though have not gone beyond 60 KMPH due to running in period of first 500 KMS
2. Very stable and comfortable ride.
3. A head turner on the road. A lot of people driving their cars start to look out of their windows. At time i have a few bikes following my TBTS 500 just to figure out which motorcycle it is.

4. Braking is a big improvement due to disc brakes both front and rear
5. Very strong head light in both high and low beam due to projector head lamp
6. LED lamps in the rear look really stunning during the night
7. Very nice instrument panel providing a lot of information...hazard light is a nice touch
Issues faced so far:
1. Starting using kick has been an issue. Have been told by ASC that this problem will be addressed after first service.
2. Had a faulty front brake light switch which was promptly saved by ASCO motors.
These are just initial impressions. Will come back with a detailed review and pictures soon.
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