As Royal Enfield continues to test its next-gen, BS-VI compliant models, new spy shots of the 2020 Thunderbird X have surfaced online. The future model was spotted undergoing road testing in Tamil Nadu.
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The new spy photographs revealed the refreshed tail section of the motorcycle. The updated design features a new stop light that comes in a round shape, along with a chrome surround. Do note that the previous sighting of the Thunderbird revealed a completely different tail section. The rear blinkers sit closer to the number plate. The split-style pillion grab rail adds a modern touch to the motorcycle. Moreover, unlike the current model, the next-gen Thunderbird will use a split-seat setup. The test mule features alloy wheels, which are also available on the current generation Thunderbird X range.
Apart from the rear, not many details are visible in the spy photographs. However, the sighting of test mules in the past had revealed the visual and mechanical upgrades on the BS-VI compliant Thunderbird. The revisions to the motor will take the drive chain to the left side of the motorcycle, while the disc brake at the back will sit on the right side of the wheel.
The engine displacement is not likely to change, and we expect to see 346 cc and 499 cc motors on the next generation Thunderbird range. The 346 cc single cylinder, air-cooled power mill uses a carburettor system and delivers 20.07 PS at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The 499 cc single cylinder, air-cooled engine, on the other hand, uses a fuel injection system and churns out 27.57 PS at 5,250 rpm and 41.3 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
The Royal Enfield Thunderbird will retain the twin-pod instrument console, although the cockpit may see revision in the form of adjustable brake and clutch levers. Recent spy shots of the BS-VI Classic range had revealed adjustable levers on the motorcycle.
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The hardware specification is not likely to be much different from the existing Thunderbird range and we expect to see conventional, right side up telescopic forks at the front and twin-sided springs at the back perform the shock absorption tasks. Braking hardware will include disc brakes governed by the safety net of dual-channel ABS. The next-gen Thunderbird range will use Royal Enfield's new J architecture.
[Image Source: Rushlane.com]
