New Benelli models could be incoming
Teaser images seem to show new Benelli models and also a four-cylinder powerplant that could power a sports bike
BENELLI could be about to launch a raft of new bikes after teaser images from China seem to show new adventure models, an all-new sports bike, or super naked and a new four-cylinder engine.
Since falling into Chinese ownership in 2005, Benelli’s new models have been frequently ‘leaked’ out prior to launch. In many cases, the images landing in our inbox have been of bikes branded under the parent company Qianjiang Motor’s name and badged up as ‘QJ Motor’ models. While that is still true of these latest images, it’s clear the new models could easily slip into the Benelli range of bikes.
The first bike is the SRT500 (top of page) which could easily pick up where the Benelli TRK 502 left off. It’s an adventure machine that would be launching into the mid-weight ADV arena to compete with bikes like the Honda CB500X Kawasaki Versys-X 300. While there is no official word from within that the bike will become a Benelli, it does carry the letters ‘TRK’ on the hand-guards and wing mirrors – that has to be more than just coincidence!
The next model is the SRB 750 (as seen above), which if taken on by the Benelli brand could morph into a TRK 800. That machine features much more rugged styling, looking similar to the Triumph Tiger 900 in both proportions and styling.
There are also two new naked machines shown, both using a new parallel twin-cylinder engine but seemingly using different frame designs. One is a modern looking machine, with aggressive styling and a front end that wouldn’t look out of place on a Kawasaki – seen above. The other is a classier looking machine (below), with a front end and headlight that wouldn’t look out of place on an MV Agusta!
And while we’re on the subject of MV Agusta, Benelli and parent firm QJ Motor have also teased a new powerplant, and fans of the Varese-based motorcycle artists may recognise the unit.
The Benelli engine that is being teased on the Benelli China website prior to CIMA is very similar to the previous generation MV Agusta Brutale 1000 engine that can be seen below
The casings, barrel, and layout of the engine looks to be identical to that of the older generation MV Agusta Brutale 1000. The unit was recently updated by MV for the latest range of super naked motorcycles, it feasible that MV has sold the licence and tooling for this engine to the Chinese manufacturer.
Could Benelli be building a sports bike or super naked?
The biggest question mark regarding the above-mentioned engine is, what will it slot into? Well, It looks like we won’t have to wait long to find out, as Benelli has released a teaser image of a new model swathed in a green silk sheet just waiting to have the covers pulled off.
The profile is long and low, pointing to either a sports bike or possibly a super naked from the Chinese Italian concern.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
