BSA has reignited a legendary name from its past, unveiling the all-new Thunderbolt 350 cc adventure motorcycle at the EICMA 2025 show. This modern interpretation marks a bold departure from the classic road bike that last bore the Thunderbolt badge in 1972, signaling a clear direction for the revived British brand under the Mahindra-owned Classic Legends umbrella.
Scheduled to hit international dealerships by mid-2026, the Thunderbolt enters the fray as a practical, go-anywhere companion designed for riders who value versatility. It’s built for the daily commute that might end with a detour down a gravel path, combining functional elements like a short rally-style beak, a sturdy rear rack, and protective knuckle guards. Its high ground clearance and prominent bash plate confirm its adventure-ready intentions, while a thoughtfully low seat and wide handlebars aim to inspire confidence in both new and experienced riders.
Performance and Capability
Powering the Thunderbolt is a modern 334 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. Built to meet stringent Euro 5+ emissions standards, the bike is equipped with a generous 15.5-litre fuel tank, making it a promising candidate for longer journeys. Practicality for adventure riding is further emphasized by a high-mounted exhaust, a design choice that enhances its ability to traverse shallow water without issue.
The chassis is built to handle varied terrain, with upside-down forks at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. Safety and control are paramount, with the bike featuring a trio of selectable ABS modes (Road, Rain, and Off-Road) and traction control to manage slippery or loose surfaces. A slip-assist clutch will also come as standard, reducing lever effort and preventing rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
Rider-Focused Features
BSA has focused on creating a customizable riding experience. The windscreen is adjustable, and even the instrument panel can be moved to ensure perfect visibility whether you’re seated or standing on the footpegs. Modern conveniences are also present, including Bluetooth connectivity, navigation capabilities, and a USB charging port.
The Thunderbolt’s debut is a key part of BSA’s ambitious comeback strategy. Since its revival in 2022 with the Gold Star 650, the brand has been steadily building a new portfolio, including the Scrambler 650 and the Bantam 350. Now, the Thunderbolt 350 aims to carve out a space in the competitive middleweight adventure segment, where it will face established rivals like Royal Enfield and Triumph. For riders waiting for a blend of classic heritage and modern adventure capability, the new BSA Thunderbolt presents a compelling new option.
