Cruisers
2001Royal Enfield Lightning 500
10 fields on record
The 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500 is a lightweight cruiser powered by a simple 499cc single-cylinder engine delivering 22 horsepower. Its low 760mm seat height and relaxed riding position make it ideal for newer and shorter riders seeking an accessible, manageable bike. Known for its affordability and classic styling, it excels as a beginner-friendly commuter with genuine character.
- Capacity
- 499.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Dry weight
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Seat height
- 760 mm
- Power
- 22.0 HP (16.2 kW) @ 5400 RPM
What’s new for the 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500
vs the 2000| Spec | 2000 | 2001 |
|---|---|---|
| Front brakes | Dual disc | Expanding brake |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Expanding brake |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- This is a classic-styled cruiser meant for relaxed, low-speed rides and cultivating character rather than covering ground quickly.
- Built for
- It has old-world charm with thumping single-cylinder vibration, simple mechanicals, and a leisurely, unhurried riding experience.
- Not ideal for
- This is not the bike for riders wanting strong acceleration, long-distance touring comfort, or any 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
- 22.0 HP (16.2 kW) @ 5400 RPM
- Torque
- 34.0 Nm (3.5 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- Single
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Expanding brake
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
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 | 2000 | 2001 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc |
| Seat height | 760 mm | 760 mm |
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 Lightning 500?
The 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500 has a Capacity of 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Royal Enfield Lightning 500 have?
The 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500 has a Power of 22.0 HP (16.2 kW) @ 5400 RPM.
How many gears does the Royal Enfield Lightning 500 have?
The 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500 has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
What is the torque of the Royal Enfield Lightning 500?
The 2001 Royal Enfield Lightning 500 has a Torque of 34.0 Nm (3.5 kgf-m or 25.1 ft.lbs).
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