Updated Benda Greystone BD300 Cruiser Unveiled, Rivals Honda Rebel 300

The new iteration features a split-exhaust system and a more comfortable riding position than its predecessor

• The Benda BD300-16 makes the same power and torque as before, but now gets a slipper clutch.
• It also features a larger rear wheel and a meatier front tyre. 
• Expect it to be priced at around Rs 10,000 - Rs 15,000 more than its predecessor.

Apart from launching the Benda LFC700 cruiser, the Chinese bike maker has also unveiled the updated 2021 Benda ‘Greystone’ BD300-16 in the country. Unlike its predecessor, the Benda BD300-15, this 300cc cruiser comes with a split-type exhaust layout along with tweaks to its ergonomics and underpinnings.

The earlier model used a twin-exhaust system stacked on the right, whereas this version gets one on each side. Additionally, the handlebar is wider and is now raised for a more upright stance. The tank design, fenders, and wheel design have also been tweaked.

The motorcycle is powered by the same 298cc V-twin liquid-cooled engine churning out 30.5PS and 25.3Nm as before. That said, the six-speed transmission with belt drive is now enhanced with a slipper clutch. The motorcycle rides on the same 16-inch front wheel as before but wrapped in a meatier 130-section tyre, unlike the 120mm unit in the older version. The rear wheel is now a 16-inch unit (as opposed to the 15 inches on its predecessor), wrapped in the same 150-section tyre as before. That said, these tyres look like Michelin Scorcher units as opposed to Timsun tyres in the older model.

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Features that have been retained include the all-LED lighting system, disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, and the TFT instrument cluster. The previous-generation Benda 300cc cruiser was launched at an equivalent of Rs 2.30 lakh. Considering the amount of changes in the 2021 iteration, expect the new bike to command a premium of around Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. 

The bike will primarily go up against the Honda Rebel 300. In related development, Harley-Davidson is also working on a 300cc cruiser, and you can read all about it here.

Image Credit: newmotor.com.cn