BRIXTON CROSSFIRE 500XC BIKE OVERVIEW & PRICE
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC is powered by a robust engine with the following specifications:
- Engine Type: In-line, 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, water-cooled engine
- Displacement: 486 cc
- Maximum Power: 46.9 bhp at 8500 rpm/li>
- Peak Torque: 43 Nm at 6750 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox
- Top Speed: 160 km/h
The motorcycle’s engine is designed to balance power and efficiency, making it suitable for city riding and highway cruising. The water-cooling system helps maintain optimal engine temperature, potentially contributing to better performance and longevity.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC boasts impressive fuel efficiency figures:
- Claimed Mileage: 25 kilometres per liter (kmpl)
- Real-World Testing: In actual test rides, the motorcycle achieved a mileage of 21-24km/l, slightly lower than the claimed figure but still respectable
With a fuel tank capacity of 13.5 litres, the Crossfire 500XC offers an estimated range of approximately 337 kilometres on a full tank. This combination of efficiency and range makes it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.
FEATURES
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC comes well-equipped with a range of features:
-
Suspension System:
Front: Upside-down shock absorber with adjustable preload, compression damping, and rebound damping
Rear: Single shock absorber with adjustable preload and rebound damping
-
Braking System:
Dual-channel ABS (Bosch version 9.1)
Front: 320 mm disc with a 4-piston caliper
Rear: 240 mm disc with a 2-piston caliper
-
Wheels and tyres:
Front: 19-inch wheel with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyre
Rear: 17-inch wheel with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyre
Spoke wheels for enhanced off-road capability
-
Lighting:
Full LED system, including daytime running lights, high beams, and turn indicators
-
Display:
Inverted LC display showing comprehensive information including speedometer, RPM, gear indicator, fuel gauge, and various warning lights
-
Safety Features:
Crash bars for protection during falls
Skid plate to protect the engine
Radiator grille and headlight guard for protection against stone impacts
-
Exhaust System:
Stainless steel construction with a flat front silencer and brushed conical-oval-shaped rear silencer
These features collectively contribute to the Crossfire 500XC’s versatility, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road use.
HANDLING
The premium KYB suspension setup, with fully adjustable front forks and a semi-adjustable rear mono shock, provides superior ride quality compared to its street-focused counterparts. This suspension system offers better travel than competitors, enhancing its capability on varied terrains.Despite having a giant 19-inch front wheel, the Crossfire 500XC is described as an enthusiastic handler with an eager front end. Its relatively low weight of 195kg for a parallel-twin adventure motorcycle contributes to its nimble handling.
The 320mm front and 240mm rear disc brake setup offers a linear but strong bite, providing confident stopping power. However, it’s worth noting that the bike lacks switchable ABS, which might be a consideration for some riders.Reviewers have noted smooth and precise gear changes, which enhance overall control and riding experience. The upright riding position and high-set handlebar are designed to provide comfort during stand-up riding, which benefits off-road sections.Overall, the Crossfire 500XC’s handling characteristics are well-regarded. It offers a balanced combination of agility, stability, and comfort that makes it suitable for both urban environments and countryside adventures.
COMFORT AND ERGONOMICS
The motorcycle offers a comfortable seating position with a seat height of 839 mm. This provides a commanding view of the road while still being accessible to a wide range of riders. The Crossfire 500XC features an adjustable brake and clutch levers, allowing riders to customize the controls to their hand size and preferences. This adjustability is crucial for reducing hand fatigue during long rides. The adjustable suspension system, featuring components from Kayaba/KYB, offers 150 mm of travel at the front and 130 mm at the rear. This setup allows riders to fine-tune the suspension for different riding conditions, enhancing overall comfort.
BUILD QUALITY AND STYLING
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC is a testament to superior craftsmanship and engineering. It features high-quality suspension components, including fully adjustable KYB upside-down forks at the front and a rear mono-shock with preload and rebound adjustability. The braking system consists of a 320mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc with J.Juan callipers, complemented by dual-channel ABS from Bosch.
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC’s design is a captivating blend of modern-retro scrambler aesthetics and practical elements. It features a high-set beak fender, stubby visor, headlamp guard, radiator guard, and racing number plates on the side panels.The motorcycle boasts all-LED lighting, enhancing both its modern appeal and visibility. Unique design elements include:
A boxy fuel tank.
A flat seat.
Aesthetic updates like a well-integrated headlamp cover and tank grips are etched with the Union Jack.
COLORS AND VARIANTS
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC is offered in a single variant in India with two distinct colour options:
- Desert Gold Matt
- Backstage Black
This limited range of options allows you to choose a subdued, classic look and a bold, modern aesthetic.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC, priced at ₹5.19 lakh (ex-showroom), stands out in the premium segment of mid-size motorcycles. It offers a better kit and is lighter than its main competitor, the Royal Enfield Bear 650. However, it is priced higher than popular alternatives like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (₹3.2 lakh approx.).The Crossfire 500XC’s closest competitor in terms of price and features is the Honda CB500X (₹5.8 lakh approx.). Its unique selling points include its premium build quality, energetic midrange performance, agile handling, high-quality suspension and braking components, comfortable ergonomics and riding position, and genuine off-road capabilities with rugged tyres and more extended suspension travel.
VERDICT
The Brixton Crossfire 500XC is a well-rounded and premium offering in the Indian mid-size motorcycle market. Its strengths lie in its robust build quality, distinctive styling, and versatile performance capabilities that cater to both on-road and off-road riding. The powerful engine, high-quality components, and thoughtful design elements make it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a unique scrambler experience.However, the Crossfire 500XC faces challenges in its higher price point compared to some established competitors and the absence of certain modern features that are becoming standard in this segment. Its success in the Indian market will likely depend on how well it can leverage its premium positioning and unique appeal against more affordable and familiar alternatives.For riders who prioritize build quality, off-road capability, and distinctive styling over price and brand familiarity, the Brixton Crossfire 500XC offers a compelling package. This niche product could appeal to those looking for something different in the mid-size scrambler category, blending retro charm with modern performance and versatility.
PROS
- Premium build quality and unique design elements.
- Energetic midrange performance and agile handling.
- High-quality suspension and braking components.
- Comfortable ergonomics and riding position.
- Genuine off-road capabilities with rugged tyres and more extended suspension travel.
CONS
- Lack of some modern features like ride-by-wire and ride modes.
- Dated switchgear and small LCD display.
- No switchable ABS.
- Higher price point compared to some established competitors.
- Limited colour options and variants.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL BRIXTON Motorcycles
About BRIXTON motorcycles
Brixton Motorcycles partnered with KAW Veloce Motors Pvt. Ltd. for manufacturing and distribution in India. The collaboration led to establishing a manufacturing unit in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Motorcycles are imported through the completely knocked down (CKD) route and assembled locally. Brixton introduced four models in the Indian market:
Market Postion and Strategy
Brixton positioned itself in the premium segment of mid-size motorcycles. With its diverse lineup, the company aimed to cater to urban riders and touring enthusiasts. Brixton’s strategy included local manufacturing, R&D investment, and aggressive dealership expansion.
Challenges and Competition
Brixton faces competition from established brands in the Indian market, including Royal Enfield and Honda. The company’s higher price point than some competitors poses a challenge in the price-sensitive Indian market.
Future Prospects
Brixton aims to leverage India as a strategic export hub for Southeast Asian and African markets. The company plans to expand its dealer network and market presence across major Indian cities.
Brixton Motorcycles has made a significant entry into the Indian market with a clear local manufacturing strategy, premium positioning, and a diverse product range.
While it’s too early to assess long-term market performance, the company’s aggressive expansion plans and focus on local production indicate a solid commitment to establishing a lasting presence in the Indian motorcycle market.
Brixton’s success in India will likely depend on its ability to differentiate itself from established competitors and effectively appeal to the premium segment of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts.
Timeline of BRIXTON Motorcycles in India
- April 22, 2024: Official Announcement
Brixton Motorcycles officially announced its entry into the Indian market.
The company revealed its partnership with KAW Veloce Motors Pvt. Ltd. for manufacturing and distribution in India.
- April 23, 2024: Detailed Plans Unveiled
Brixton announced plans to launch four motorcycle models in India within the year.
The company disclosed its intention to set up a research and development (R&D) centre in India to make the country a strategic export hub.
- June 2024: Initial Model Launches
Brixton introduced four motorcycle models in India: Crossfire 500X, Crossfire 500XC, Cromwell 1200, and Cromwell 1200X.
These models were developed at Brixton’s Austrian design centre and produced at a new facility in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
- Mid-2024: Manufacturing and R&D Facility Establishment
Brixton set up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
The company began work on establishing a research and development centre in India.
- Late 2024: Dealership Network Expansion
Brixton initiated plans to launch 15 dealerships by the end of 2024.
The company announced its goal to expand to 50 dealerships by 2025.
- October 2024: Booking Commencement
Brixton opened bookings for its motorcycles in India with an initial booking fee of ₹2,999.
- November 22, 2024: Official Market Launch
Brixton officially launched its four motorcycle models in the Indian market.
The launch included two 500 cc models (Crossfire 500X and 500XC) and two 1200 cc models (Cromwell 1200 and 1200X).
2025: Market Expansion and Delivery
- January 2025: Commencement of Deliveries
Deliveries of the newly launched models are scheduled to begin.
- Throughout 2025: Continued Expansion
Brixton aims to expand its footprint in India by targeting additional cities such as Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Pune, Thane, Kolhapur, Goa, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The company plans to expand its dealer network, aiming for 50 dealerships by the end of the year.
