I first rode a Royal Enfield TBTS(Thunderbird Twinspark) when I rented one to make the Trip from Delhi to the Highest Motor-able pass in the world - KhardungLa. A bit of a risk one could say, since I didn’t know how to ride a bike, let alone a Royal Enfield. And in just ONE DAY I knew this was a good decision, even a novice like me had no trouble at all, the bike was immensely stable and even at Highway speeds of a 100kmph with a over 180 Kg’s on the Bike, it was right at home. And Oh, the terrain It covered in Laddakh, I do not believe anything other than a Royal Enfield could cover.
I knew that this had to be my first bike. So the first thing that I got myself when I joined my First Job was a Brand Spanking New Royal Enfield Thunderbird Twinspark, and its been my prized possession since. Excellent seating position means long rides are a breeze, and ive done 400+Kms in a day quite a few times on it now. The powerful beat of the engine makes you feel so good, its actually relaxing, a nice way to de-stress.
You don’t expect economy when you go for a 350cc monster, but this baby easily gives me an economy in excess of 35kmpl even in city conditions. And this, with a custom silencer which is supposed to reduce efficiency by around 4-5kmpl.
And let me tell you guys, this Bike is quite a chick magnet. Its as much a pleasure for the pillion as it is for the rider, so they will want to get on. No matter what you get it for, you cannot go wrong with this Beast. Although the lowest Maintenance Royal Enfield out there, it still needs more care than a regular bike, but then again, this is no regular bike folks. Take care of it, and it shall take care of you. :)
Don’t be intimidated by its size, its a very easy ride. Highly Recommended.