Benelli TNT 600i LE first look

Benelli, along with DSK Motowheels, already offer a comprehensive fleet of premium bikes in India, with engines in the capacity range of 300cc to 1130cc. There's a pair of popular, well-priced 600s – the TNT 600i and 600 GT, both deploying desirable in-line four-cylinder engines, in different states of tune. The 600i is a sportier naked bike, with sharper handling and an exciting exhaust note, while the 600 GT is a more comfortable, softer sounding and better-suited to touring motorcycle, even available with panniers.

The in-line four-engine powered 600cc space is a segment only recently on the move in India, with Honda having just brought in their CBR 650F, an excellent but overpriced motorcycle. The Benelli TNT 600i LE offers altered cosmetics with new gold colours, matching clutch and front brake levers, other than which it will continue to with the same engine and chassis as the 600i. It's a four-stroke, in-line four motor packing in liquid-cooling, fuel-injection, four-valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts. The gearbox is six-speed.

The Benelli TNT 600i LE makes 80.5bhp at 11,500rpm, with 5.3kgm of torque stepping in at 10,500rpm. Twin underseat exhausts give this 600 a distinctive, sporty look. The limited-edition bike uses a tubular steel frame that meets a beefy alloy swingarm at the rear. Braking is via a twin 320mm disc setup in the front, and single disc at the rear.

The Benelli TNT 600i LE has been priced at Rs 5.66 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune) with 60 bikes to be sold.