Auto Expo 2016: Benelli Unveils New Bikes in India

After a positive 2015 in the Indian market, DSK Benelli has just showcased its lineup for the new year at the 13th Auto Expo in Delhi. The Italian automaker has revealed four new products for the Indian market, which include the TNT Naked T-135, BX 250 Motord, Tornado 300 full-faired motorcycle, and the TRK 502 adventure tourer. The new motorcycles join the existing line-up at Benelli in the country and will be launched throughout the course of the current calendar year.

Quite a surprise and a very interesting offering, the Benelli TNT Naked T-135 has been showcased at the expo. Puny in dimensions, the T-135 uses an equally small 135cc single-cylinder engine tuned for 12.6hp at 9000rpm and 10.8Nm of torque at 7000rpm. The bike uses a 5-speed gearbox and has a fuel capacity of 7.2-litres, while a seat height of 780mm makes it easily accessible for young adults. Interestingly, the design is heavily inspired from the bigger Benellis and definitely adds to the stubby looks of the motorcycle.

Keenly watched by supersport lovers, the Benelli Tornado 300 is based on the TNT 300 currently on sale in the country and uses same 300cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine tuned for 35hp at 12,000rpm and 26Nm of torque, while paired to a 6-speed gearbox. Visually, the Tornado 300 is mix of modern bits and old school styling with the wraparound front fender, twin headlamps in a single cluster, while the exposed frame adds a nice touch to the side profile. Expect the Tornado to be priced at a Rs. 30,000 - 40,000 premium over the TNT 300.

The Benelli TRK 502 adventure tourer is powered by a 499.6cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine equipped with fuel injection that produces 48PS at 8500rpm and peak torque of 45Nm at 4500rpm. Power is sent to the wheel using a 6-speed gearbox with a hydraulic clutch. Underpinned by a Trellis frame, the bike gets long travel front suspension and an adjustable monoshock setup at the rear. The large 20-litre fuel tank is accommodated under the seat.

First in the segment, Benelli has showcased the Motord 250 or BX 250 dirt bike targeted towards young riders and will also attract quite a few dirt wading enthusiasts. The slender looking bike is powered by a 250cc single-cylinder engine that churns out 25hp of power at 9000rpm and 21Nm of torque at 7000rpm with a 6-speed gearbox sending power to the rear wheel.

Also in attendance at the Benelli pavilion are the Tornado Tre 1130, TNT 300 and TNT 25. In addition, DSK Benelli has also showcased the ABS equipped versions of the TNT 600i and 600 GT bikes at the expo, which will be launched later this year. The bike maker currently operates from 15 dealerships spread across the country and will open 5 more by the end of 2016.