Only about a week ago we saw spy shots of the 2020 Thunderbird X 350/500 which was being tested sans camouflage but the spyshots showed very little detail of the motorcycle and now a video of a test mule with camouflage stickers has surfaced the internet which shows some major changes slated to come with the new 2020 model.
The video is likely to be shot on a highway in Tamil Nadu close to the brand’s manufacturing base and the new 2020 model could get a completely revised styling starting with a new fuel tank which has been redesigned along with revised side panels and lower handlebar which gives the bike a low squatted stance. The seat appears to be split type and the tail section gets new tail lamps, round signal lamps, rear cowl integrated pillion grab handles and shorter rear fender.
Upon closer inspection, the bike seems to get a lot of changes in the mechanical hardware. The 2020 Thunderbird X 350/500 is likely to receive a redesigned chassis with new improved dynamics and a new suspension setup on both the ends. The brake setup on the front and rear appears to be changed as it is seen on the right side of the test mule as opposed to the current Thunderbird X, which has the disc brakes on the left side of the bike.
In its current form the Thunderbird X 350 is powered by a 346cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, twin-spark motor producing 19.8 BHP of power @ 5250 RPM and 28 Nm of torque @ 4000 RPM coupled to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox with a 29mm diameter constant vacuum carburetor and the Thunderbird X 500 is powered by a 499cc single cylinder, 4-stroke, twin-spark, air-cooled engine that produces 27.2 BHP of power @ 5250 RPM and 41.3 Nm of torque @ 4000 RPM coupled to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox and an electronic fuel injection system. On the 2020 model, we expect these numbers to change and also the new bike could be lighter than what it weighs now. Knowing Royal Enfield, the bike will still be heavy.
The 2020 variant is likely to get a BSVI update and is expected to get a bump in price. The new model is likely to be introduced around the 2020 Auto Expo or at Rider Mania 2019.
Does this new riding stance, and overall body style look very Harley-Davidson inspired?