The adventure motorcycle segment has grown rapidly in India and globally and now another legacy name has joined the game. Under BSA, Classic Legends Pvt. Ltd. Ltd. has unveiled its first adventure bike – the BSA Thunderbolt – at EICMA 2025. The new Thunderbolt revives the iconic name from the brand’s history, but this time with a strong, modern identity and a true off-road focus. Its natural rival? The proven Royal Enfield Himalayan, which remains the benchmark in the middleweight ADV category. Here’s a quick comparison between the two motorcycles.
BSA Thunderbolt vs Royal Enfield Himalayan: Spec Comparison
| Social class | bsa thunderbolt | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Timeline | Expected in mid-2026 | on sale now |
| engine | 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC | 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| power output | Not yet revealed (expected ~30 ps) | 40 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque: | Expected to be around 28-30nm | 40 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with slip and assist clutch | 6-speed with slip and assist clutch |
| fuel tank capacity | 15.5 liters | 17 liters |
| Kerb weight | to be announced | 196 kg |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | USD Forks / Preload-Adjustable Monoshock | USD Forks/Linked Monoshock |
| brakes and abs | Disc brake with 3 ABS modes (rain, road, off-road) | Dual-channel ABS (rear switchable) |
| traction control | Yes | No |
| wheels and tires | 21-inch front/17-inch rear spoke setup | 21-inch front/17-inch rear spoke setup |
| Features and Technology | Bluetooth, Navigation, Traction Control, USB Charging, Adjustable Windscreen | TFT Screen, Ride Mode, Bluetooth, Navigation, Ride-by-Wire |
| Design Highlights | Rally-style beak, exoskeleton frame, bash plate, knuckle guards | Functional ADV design, high windscreen, luggage mount |
| seat height | 815 mm | 825mm(Adjustable) |
| ideal for | New adventure riders in search of style, technology and heritage | Experienced riders want proven off-road performance |
Design and character
The BSA Thunderbolt is distinctly modern yet deeply rooted in its past. Its upright stance, rally-style beak and exoskeleton frame project a rugged adventure personality. Designed for mixed terrain, it features a reinforced bash plate, wide handlebars, high ground clearance, and a preload-adjustable monoshock – all wrapped in a classic silhouette that echoes the original 1970s Thunderbolt spirit.
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Himalayan continues its purposeful design philosophy. Its minimalist, utilitarian frame, round LED headlamps, 21-inch front wheel and tall windscreen emphasize adventure-readiness. The Himalayan has always been about functionality more than size – and its latest 450cc version has refined that approach with sharper ergonomics and better aerodynamics.
(Also Read: TVS Apache RTX 300 vs Yezdi Adventure: Which ADV should you take?)
Engine and Performance
The BSA Thunderbolt is powered by a 334cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC single-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. It is Euro 5+ compliant and built for versatility while balancing power delivery with fuel efficiency. This is the same engine that powers the Yezdi Adventure, where it produces 29 bhp and 29 Nm.
Meanwhile, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 gets a more powerful 452cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces around 40 PS and 40 Nm, mated to a slick 6-speed transmission. The Himalayan is clearly the leader in outright performance, but the Thunderbolt promises a more linear and more accessible setup for new riders.
Technology and Equipment
BSA has equipped the Thunderbolt generously – three ABS modes (Rain, Road, Off-Road), traction control, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and USB charging all come standard. Its adjustable windscreen and digital console also improve comfort on long rides. The Himalayan, on the other hand, has a modern TFT display with smartphone connectivity, ride mode, USB C charging port and switchable ABS, but retains its simple, adventure-first approach.
