Next-generation Royal Enfield Thunderbird spotted in India

After updating its complete product portfolio to comply with the upcoming safety norms, Royal Enfield is gearing up for the next significant change – BS-VI.

Also read: Royal Enfield Bullet Trials 350 & 500 launched in India

Yesterday, we came across the first spy images of the next-generation Royal Enfield Classic series motorcycle. Now, we stumbled upon another test mule from the Chennai based manufacturer – the next-generation, BS-VI compliant Thunderbird X. The test mule of the upcoming motorcycle revealed several changes that the next-generation model would receive – the biggest being the repositioned chain and disc brake at the back which hints at serious changes that the engine has received. The exhaust has received minor tweaks too.

The tail light setup is seen with additional garnishing around to give the next-generation model a refreshed look while the rear number plate has been repositioned and it now sits at the end of the back fender. The twin sided suspension continue to perform the shock absorption tasks at the rear although the spring cover is larger than the current model. The front continues to use conventional telescopic forks. Stopping power comes from disc brakes on both wheels while the safety net includes dual-channel ABS as standard.

The saddle area has also received an upgrade as the test mule of the Thunderbird X uses split seats instead of single piece unit on the current model. The pillion grab rails retain the styling, split design.

The cockpit is partially visible, and we could see twin analogue dials displaying ride related information. The left side dial should continue to hold the digital screen that shows odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge and a clock.

In terms of mechanical specifications, the next-generation Thunderbird X 350 would drop the carburettor setup for fuel injection tech. The Thunderbird X 500, as regular followers would know, already uses a fuel injector. The power output should not be very different from the current generation models. The 499 cc, single cylinder, twin-spark, air-cooled engine is tuned to deliver 27.2 bhp of power at 5,250 rpm and peak torque of 41.3 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The 346 cc, single cylinder, twin-spark, air-cooled motor, on the other hand, makes 19.8 bhp at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.

Also read: Royal Enfield Classic & Thunderbird range get optional alloy wheels

Prices are likely to carry a marginal premium over the current models. For reference, the Thunderbird X 500 is sold for INR 2.14 lakh while the Thunderbird X 350 could be purchased for INR 1.63 lakh – both ex-showroom Delhi.

[Image source: Facebook.com]