2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird - IAB Rendering

Royal Enfield is rigorously testing its BS-VI range, and we have seen several test mules of the 2020 models in the past via spy photographs.

Also Read: Modified Royal Enfield Classic 350 gets a subtle upgrade from Eimor Customs

Based on the styling information revealed through the spy images, our in-house artist has created a digital renders of the next generation Royal Enfield motorcycles. We have already presented the renders for the 2020 Thunderbird X in the past and this time around, we have come up with a digitally imagined image of the 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird.

Styling cues on the BS-VI compliant models will not be drastically different from the current range. However, while the Royal Enfield motorcycles will retain their retro-looks, they will witness a major overhaul to the engine. As seen in the past, the BS-VI compliant models will use a re-positioned drive-chain, which will now sit on the left side of the vehicle instead of right. The rear disc brake will occupy the left side of the wheel.

All BS-VI compliant bikes, including 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird, will use a fuel-injection system, among other hardware upgrades to adhere to the more stringent emission norms. The power output is not likely to be very different from the current models. For reference, the current 499 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine makes 27.57 PS at 5,250 rpm and 41.3 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The 346 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor that powers the 350 range produces 20.07 PS at 5,250 rpm and 28 Nm at 4,000 rpm.

Most of the styling, as mentioned above, will remain identical to the current range. But we would see a few tweaks that would distinguish the 2020 model range from the existing motorcycles. The tail section, for example, will receive a redesigned stop-light and repositioned blinkers. The switchgear is likely to carry the rotary style dials that we saw on a 2020 Royal Enfield Classic test mule in the past.

The standard Thunderbird will most likely retain the wire-spoke wheels while the Thunderbird X series will continue to use alloy units. The wire-spoke wheels add a retro-look but use tube tyres that are difficult to fix as compared to tubeless units. Royal Enfield will also add a cruiser style variant to the Thunderbird range in 2020, and we shall present a rendered vehicle very soon. Check out the 2020 Royal Enfield Thunderbird X in action in the video below:

Also Read: Revised prices of the Royal Enfield 650 Twins revealed

Meanwhile, the Chennai-based two-wheeler brand can run into trouble with the BS-VI launch if it fails to get a decision in its favour in a patent infringement lawsuit against New-Delhi based Flash Electronics.