Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Benda has revealed the Rock 707, the latest addition to its Rock cruiser family, ahead of its European market launch in mid-September. The bike combines a 692cc V-twin engine with two interesting pieces of tech – an electronically controlled adaptive air rear suspension system and an electronic clutch.
- 692cc V-twin produces 73hp at 9,000rpm and 68Nm at 6,500rpm
- Gets electronically controlled dual-chamber air rear suspension
- Electronic clutch allows clutchless gear changes; manual clutch control remains available
Benda Rock 707 details
Air suspension automatically lowers the bike at a standstill and returns to full height on the move
The most distinctive feature on the Rock 707 is its rear suspension. A dual-chamber adaptive air system responds electronically to rider and passenger load and road conditions, automatically lowering the bike by up to 30mm when coming to a stop and raising it again once the rider pulls away. The system enables a seat height adjustable between 690mm and 720mm, which should make it notably easier to manoeuvre, especially for shorter riders.
The Rock 707 also features the brand's BEC MK-III electronic clutch, which is similar to Honda's E-Clutch technology in application. It allows the rider to pull away, shift gears and come to a stop without operating the clutch lever, while retaining full manual clutch control at any time.
Powering the motorcycle is a 692cc V-twin that produces peak output figures of 73hp at 9,000rpm and 68Nm at 6,500rpm. Benda says it is tuned for accessible low- and mid-range performance suited to the bike's cruiser character. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a belt drive.
The chassis comprises a USD fork and the aforementioned electronically controlled rear air suspension. Front braking is handled by a 320mm single disc, while the rear gets a 260mm disc, and the motorcycle has a kerb weight of 235kg. Other notable features include cruise control, traction control and a 3.6-inch TFT display.
Benda has a close relationship with Keeway, with both brands sharing ownership under the same Chinese parent company, Qianjiang Group, which also owns Benelli. There are no signs indicating that Benda products will reach India through Keeway's existing distributor network here.