Cruisers
2012Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500
36 fields on record
The 2012 Enfield Thunderbird 500 is a classic air-cooled cruiser that appeals to riders seeking affordable, reliable retro styling with modern fuel injection. Its 499cc single-cylinder engine delivers smooth, manageable power ideal for commuting and casual riding. Known for its iconic British-inspired design and low-maintenance character, it suits both experienced riders and those new to motorcycling.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 195.0 kg
- Seat height
- 775 mm
- Power
- 27.2 HP (20.0 kW) @ 5250 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's built for relaxed cruising and classic-style commuting rather than outright speed or sport riding.
- Built for
- It has an old-school single-cylinder thumper charm, prioritizing steady torque and classic looks over performance.
- Not ideal for
- It's not for riders seeking high-speed thrills, aggressive cornering, or serious off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Power
- 27.2 HP (20.0 kW) @ 5250 RPM
- Torque
- 41.3 Nm (4.2 kgf-m) @ 4000 RPM
- Engine type
- Single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1395 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 84.0 x 90.0 mm
- Compression
- 8.5:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric & kick
- Ignition
- Digital Electronic Ignition
- Lubrication system
- Wet sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet mulitiplate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1350 mm
- Overall length
- 2060 mm
- Overall width
- 895 mm
- Overall height
- 1300 mm
- Seat height
- 775 mm
- Wet weight
- 195.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 20.00 litres
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Single downtube, using engine as stressed member
- Front suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear suspension
- Twin gas charged shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload
- Front wheel travel
- 130 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 80 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 280 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 240 mm
- Front tyre
- 90/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 120/80-18
Other
- Color options
- Black, red, silver
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2012 | 2014 | 2015 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Dry weight | — | — | — | — | 195 kg |
| Seat height | 775 mm | 775 mm | 775 mm | 775 mm | 775 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 20 L | 20 L | 20 L | 20 L | 20 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 have?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a Power of 27.2 HP (20.0 kW) @ 5250 RPM.
How many gears does the Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 have?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a Torque of 41.3 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.5 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM.
How much does the Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 weigh?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Enfield Thunderbird 500 has a Wet weight of 195.0 kg (429.9 pounds).
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