Thunder Motorcycle was exhibited at the Nagoya MC Show for the first time. The attraction is that visitors can easily ride a new, ultra-realistic bobber-style cruiser that does not look like it is in the 250cc class.
Interviewed by: Thunder Motorcycle
Air-cooled V2 engine is similar to XV250 Virago
Thunder Motorcycle's Thunder 250, which began shipping in spring 2022, is a project by Japanese and Chinese custom builders and is a 250cc cruiser that uses a rigid frame with 74 Springer forks used in Harley aftermarket parts.
It is equipped with an air-cooled V-twin engine derived from Yamaha's XV250 Virago in a style similar to the road hoppers of Zero Engineering, represented by Mr. Shinya Kimura. The rigid frame is the ultimate form of cruiser customization, and it can now be enjoyed on a simple 250cc class machine.
At (approx.) 6713 USD, the price is higher than other cruisers in the same class, such as the Rebel 250, but if customization costs are included, the price should not be very high. Another attraction of this model is that it can be ridden with a standard motorcycle license. With dealers expanding from Tohoku to Kyushu, this model is expected to be a breakout hit in the future.
THUNDER250 [THUNDER MOTORCYCLES] A 250cc cruiser that will begin shipping in Japan in spring 2022. It was exhibited for the first time at the Nagoya Motorcycle Show in preparation for full-scale popularization.
The engine is an air-cooled V-twin 249cc with a bore x stroke of 49 x 66 mm, the same as the XV250 Virago. However, while the Virago series had a carburetor, this one has been converted to an FI engine.
It has a seating capacity for one passenger and a seat height of 650 mm, 40 mm lower than that of the Rebel 250. It is rigid with no rear suspension, but a spring under the seat absorbs some of the weight.
The 74 springer fork is a part derived from the springer forks used on prewar 74 cubic inch Harleys and is still produced and used by various manufacturers.
The front is equipped with 300mm-diameter disc brakes, both front and rear with ABS. The tires are the classic style, jagged-pattern type.
The peanut tank has a capacity of only 7 liters. It is a small amount because style is a priority, but since it is 250 cc, the cruising range is likely to be adequate.
The bar handle is flat and leans forward somewhat. The switches are cool and rugged. The meter is an analog tachometer with a single LCD display.
Thunder 250 Main Specifications
Overall Length x Overall Width x Overall Height: 2210 x 750 x 980mm
Wheelbase: 1540mm
Seat height: 650mm
Weight: 175 kg (dry)
Engine: Air-cooled 4-stroke V-Twin cylinder SOHC 2-valve 249cc
Maximum output: 17.6 PS at 8000 rpm
Maximum torque: 1.9 kg-m at 6000 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 7 liters
Transmission: 5-speed return
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tires: F=5.0-16, R=5.0-16
Price (approx.): 6713 USD
