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Classic · 2014

Thunderbird 500

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MotoLibrary Score
40 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.14 hp/kg
Torque
41 Nm
Engine
499 ccm

2014 Enfield Thunderbird 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 2014 Enfield Thunderbird 500 classic motorcycle, Enfield features a 499 cc (30.5 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 27.2 HP (19.9 kW) at 5,250 rpm while maximum torque reaches 41.3 Nm (30.5 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 54.5 HP per liter and a 1,250 rpm working window between peak torque (4,000 rpm) and peak power (5,250 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the Thunderbird 500 measures 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.14 HP/kg (7.17 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,350 mm (53.1 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 20-liter (5.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Within MotoLibrary's Enfield archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 2012 to 2019, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
54.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.14 HP/kg (7.17 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,000–5,250 rpm
Engine
Displacement 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke
Engine Details Twin spark
Power 27.2 HP (19.9 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
Torque 41.3 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.5 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Compression 8.5:1
Bore x Stroke 84.0 x 90.0 mm (3.3 x 3.5 inches)
Fuel System Injection. Keihin Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Ignition Digital Electronic Ignition
Lubrication Wet sump
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Wet mulitiplate
Chassis
Frame Type Single downtube, using engine as stressed member
Front Suspension Telescopic fork
Front Travel 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear Suspension Twin gas charged shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload
Rear Travel 80 mm (3.1 inches)
Wheelbase 1350 mm (53.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 90/90-19
Rear Tyre 120/80-18
Front Brakes Single disc. 2-piston calipers
Front Brake Ø 280 mm (11.0 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Single-piston
Rear Brake Ø 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Wheels MRF Zapper FM
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 195.0 kg (429.9 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1395 HP/kg
Overall Height 1300 mm (51.2 inches)
Overall Length 2060 mm (81.1 inches)
Overall Width 895 mm (35.2 inches)
Fuel Capacity 20.00 litres (5.28 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric & kick
Color Options Blue, gray, silver
Electrical 12 volt, 14 Ah
Light Projection type headlamp, H7 55 / 55 W
Notes

Royal Enfield bikes are made in India.

More from Enfield
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏍️
Best For
General Purpose
⚖️
Handling
Medium weight — some experience needed
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