I don't have any idea what RE intends with the Electra G 5 model line, but I do think the Thunderbird is the way forward. And I don't really see any good reason that it would not do well here. It is modern with heritage, very practical, has astounding fuel economy and range, front and rear disc brakes on a light and nimble frame and a host of other practical features for the modern rider /commuter. I happen to think it looks pretty good too, without in any way being eiher a Harley Clone or a plastic Darth Vader transformer toy lookalike. I would buy one over a G 5 (and I would buy a G 5 over C 5 ).
I think a new era of practical motorcyling is dawning driven by fuel costs, not unlike the golden era of workingman practical motorcyling that spawned all the 500 singles in the first place. And the bikes that thrived back then were the best, most modern and fully featured (practical featuresn not gimmicks) of their time. No reason to expect it to be different now. Factor in insurance costs per displacement, the market wide downsizing in dispaclement and the appearance of a lot of mid and small bikes with escellent features but devoid of character, and I believe the stage is set for a new era for RE . Just my opinion Nigel