There are moments in life when the urge to break free from routine becomes irresistible. That’s exactly what this ride was about—a journey into the unknown, an adventure filled with discovery, and a relentless drive to push both machine and rider to the limits. My companion for this escapade? The Brixton Crossfire 500 XC. The setting? The stunning yet challenging coastal roads of Maharashtra, stretching from Ratnagiri to Mumbai.
The adventure began in the dead of night, rolling out of Kolhapur under a blanket of stars. The air was crisp, colder than expected, but the powerful headlight of the Brixton Crossfire 500 XC cut through the darkness with ease. The first real test of the ride came sooner than expected—Anuskura Ghat, a winding road known for its thrilling twists and turns. By day, it’s a stunning ride. By night, it’s a whole different beast. The challenge of navigating these roads in pitch darkness made for an exhilarating start to the journey.
As the ride continued, the temperature gradually rose with the approaching dawn, and so did my anticipation. The road ahead promised a mix of treachery and beauty, making it the perfect proving ground for the Brixton Crossfire 500 XC. But this wasn’t just about testing a motorcycle; it was about finding a deeper connection with exploration itself.
Coastal rides are always rewarding, but I wanted more than just smooth highways and picturesque landscapes. This ride demanded something tougher—an unrelenting test of endurance and capability. So, I took the Brixton Crossfire 500 XC off the beaten path, onto rough, gravel-strewn trails and unpredictable terrain. And this is where the motorcycle truly shined.
The Brixton Crossfire 500 XC is powered by a 486cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 46.36 BHP at 8500 RPM and 43 Nm of torque at 6750 RPM. These numbers translate into a ride that is both exciting and predictable. The power delivery is smooth, with a refined grunt that makes for effortless overtakes and an engaging riding experience.
The suspension setup—comprising a 150mm travel KYB USD fork up front and a 130mm travel monoshock at the rear—handled the rough patches with impressive ease. The Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires gripped onto the trickiest surfaces, offering confidence on both tarmac and dirt. Complementing this setup were the J.Juan brakes, delivering strong, predictable stopping power when needed the most.
The best part? Despite its retro-inspired aesthetics, the Crossfire 500 XC didn’t just look the part—it backed it up with serious performance.
Every great motorcycle has a story, and curiosity got the better of me. I wanted to know more about Brixton, the brand, and the people behind the Crossfire 500 XC. That’s when I met Tushar Shelke, Managing Director of KVMPL (MotoHaus), the brand responsible for bringing Brixton to India.
Hearing him speak about his passion for motorcycles, his love for exploration, and his dedication to crafting something unique only deepened my appreciation for the Crossfire 500 XC. This wasn’t just a machine—it was a labor of love, built by people who truly understand the thrill of riding.
Before hitting the coastline, I got to experiment with the Beeline Moto II, a compact yet incredibly useful navigation device. Its anti-glare display, intuitive interface, and compass mode made navigation seamless, ensuring I never lost my way—even on the most obscure trails. The best part? Its universal design meant that it could be mounted onto any motorcycle, making it an essential gadget for riders who love to explore.
One of the most surreal moments of the trip came while riding on pristine beach tarmac. The Brixton Crossfire 500 XC hummed along effortlessly, its engine perfectly tuned to the rhythm of the ride. Despite hours on the road, fatigue never set in. The lack of unnecessary electronics meant that I was always connected with the motorcycle, making for an honest, unfiltered riding experience.
The chassis, while slightly on the heavier side, had a raw authenticity to it. It wasn’t trying to be the fastest or the lightest. Instead, it was a well-balanced machine that simply did what it was designed to do—deliver an incredible ride.
Before heading home, I had one last question—where was this motorcycle actually being built? This curiosity led me on another detour, this time to a manufacturing facility where the Crossfire 500 XC takes shape. Seeing the craftsmanship and attention to detail firsthand only reaffirmed my belief that this motorcycle was built with passion, by people who understand the essence of exploration.
As the sun began to set, the roads became more demanding. Fatigue started to creep in, but the Brixton showed no signs of slowing down. After nearly 600 kilometers, it had taken everything I threw at it and emerged unscathed.
What stood out the most was the sheer honesty of the machine. It didn’t try to be the most technologically advanced or the most aggressive. Instead, it embraced its role as a reliable, adventure-ready companion. The engine’s tractability made shifting gears an effortless task, while the tires provided unwavering grip.
As I finally rolled back home, exhausted yet exhilarated, I reflected on everything this journey had given me. This wasn’t just about a motorcycle. It was about the thrill of discovery, the joy of taking the roads less traveled, and the satisfaction of knowing that no matter where I go, the spirit of exploration will always be my guide.
