Naked Motorcycles
2012Royal Enfield Bullet 500
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The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 is a classic single-cylinder motorcycle that appeals to riders seeking simplicity, reliability, and vintage charm. Known for its straightforward 499cc air-cooled engine and lightweight construction, it excels as an affordable commuter and weekend cruiser. The Bullet delivers genuine character and ease of maintenance over outright performance.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 159.7 kg
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Power
- 36.8 HP (27.1 kW) @ 5500 RPM
What’s new for the 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500
vs the 2011| Spec | 2011 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 22.0 HP (16.2 kW) | 36.8 HP (27.1 kW) @ 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm (3.6 kgf-m or 25.8 ft.lbs) | 41.3 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.5 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM |
| Top speed | 119.1 km/h (74.0 mph) | not listed |
| Seat height | 760 mm (29.9 inches) | 780 mm (30.7 inches) |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Single disc. 2-piston calipers |
| Compression | 6.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
Other years
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
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2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed, classic-style cruising and short commutes rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- A charming, old-school single-cylinder machine that prioritizes character and simplicity over speed or modern refinement.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking quick acceleration, high-speed touring, 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
- 36.8 HP (27.1 kW) @ 5500 RPM
- Torque
- 41.3 Nm (4.2 kgf-m) @ 4000 RPM
- Engine type
- Single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2304 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 84.0 x 90.0 mm
- Compression
- 8.4:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric & kick
- Ignition
- Digital Electronic Ignition
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Lubrication system
- Wet sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet, manual multiple discs
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1370 mm
- Overall length
- 2200 mm
- Overall width
- 800 mm
- Overall height
- 1120 mm
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Dry weight
- 159.7 kg
- Wet weight
- 187.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 14.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 135 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Single downtube
- 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. 2-piston calipers
- Front brakes diameter
- 280 mm
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Rear brakes diameter
- 153 mm
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 3.50-19
Other
- Color options
- Black
- Warranty
- 24
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 1996 | 2002 | 2008 | 2012 | 2013 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Dry weight | 155 kg | 168 kg | 160 kg | 160 kg | 160 kg | 160 kg |
| Seat height | 780 mm | 780 mm | 780 mm | 780 mm | 780 mm | 800 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 13.5 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 Bullet 500?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 have?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 has a Power of 36.8 HP (27.1 kW) @ 5500 RPM.
How many gears does the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 have?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Royal Enfield Bullet 500?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 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 Bullet 500 weigh?
The 2012 Royal Enfield Bullet 500 has a Dry weight of 159.7 kg (352.1 pounds).
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