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Thunder power

Photo: Bijoy Ghosh

Zoom ahead With TBTS

The use of an external clutch and gearbox has been a defining feature of every Royal Enfield engine. But not any more. With its Thunderbird Twinspark (TBTS), the motorcycle major leaves a well-scuffed path and enters the bright, new world of Unit Con struction Engines (UCEs). TBTS is the first in a series of Enfield models expected to be built on the UCE platform.

As an integrated engine makes for reduced friction and considerably checks the deterioration of engine parts, this technology is going to be part of Royal Enfield’s new strategy for the domestic as well as export markets. In the models that are on the anvil, Royal Enfield seeks to improve reliability and efficiency without interfering with features that have lent its products a touch of class.

The 350cc single cylinder, four-stroke TBTS (launched for the domestic market) features a dual spark ignition technology for fuel efficiency. TBTS is expected is run at about 45km to a litre.

At the TBTS launch at Taj Coramandel recently, R.L. Ravinchandran, Royal Enfield, said that by 2010 his company will launch other twinspark models in the domestic market, including the Machismo, Electra and the Bullet 350.

The company has ambitious plans for the international market too. By the end of this year, the wraps will be off the UCE 500cc Electra EFI. Expected to be seen first at the auto shows in Cologne and Birmingham, this motorcycle will be Euro-III compliant.

Beginning with the TBTS, Royal Enfield is trying to counter a belief that its bikes are for the middle-aged and establish a more comfortable position in the leisure motorcycle market.

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