Benelli TNT 300

Benelli has launched the TNT 300 with ABS at Rs 3.29 lakh (ex-showroom, India), a premium of Rs 19,000 over the non-ABS TNT 300 it replaces. The ABS unit is a dual-channel one and is switchable. The TNT 300 ABS gets a steel trestle frame which holds a 300cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder motor. The motor makes 37PS at 11,500 rpm and 26.5Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm and is mated to a six-speed gearbox. The instrument console has an analog tachometer and digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel level. 

The suspension system consists of a 41mm upside down fork and a side mounted rear hydraulic monoshock. Braking is via dual 260mm discs upfront and a single 240mm disc at the rear with ABS. Tyres are 120/70-R17 at the front and 160/60-R17 at the rear. 

The TNT 300 ABS faces competition from the KTM 390 Duke and Kawasaki Z250. Of these bikes, the Kawasaki Z250 does not get ABS.

The TNT 300 is Benelli's most affordable multi-cylinder bike on sale today. The bike has generous proportions with the frame painted in a contrasting colour to the bodywork. The trellis frame is a standout feature of the design. The bodywork is minimalistic and even the exhaust is a small, stubby unit. Overall the design feels dated now and is in need of a refresh. The bike has good quality panels with high spec suspension bits like upside down forks and twin front disc brakes. 

The TNT 300 is 2130 mm in length, 800 mm in width and 1120 mm in height. Wheelbase is 1410 mm and ground clearance is 160 mm. Fuel tank capacity is 16 literes The instrument console is pretty informative and includes an analogue tachometer, digital speedometer, trip meter, odometer, clock and fuel gauge.

Power is courtesy a 300cc liquid-cooled and fuel-injected parallel twin-cylinder engine that is mated to a six-speed gearbox. Power output is 37PS at 11,500 rpm and 26.5Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm. It has a refined engine. 0 to 60kmph comes up in 3.41 seconds and top speed is 154 kmph. The USP of this motor is its exhaust note, The bike sounds like an in-line four-cylinder motor.

The suspension system consists of a 41mm upside down fork and a side mounted rear hydraulic monoshock. Braking is via dual 260mm discs upfront and a single 240mm disc at the rear with ABS. Tyres are 120/70-R17 at the front and 160/60-R17 at the rear. 

The bike now gets a dual-channel ABS which should reduce stopping times and distance.