BENELLI is working up a host of new engines to power a range of interesting future models from the Chinese-owned Italian marque.
The units in development is a range of inline four-cylinder engines, of 650 and 1000cc in displacement.
Benelli’s parent company Qianjiang Motors has just launched the SRG600 faired motorcycle. It’s widely expected that at some point in the future this machine will be rebranded as the Benelli 600RR and sold globally. It’s not all badge engineering and rebranded QJ motorcycles though. Benelli could also launch its mid-capacity naked and faired motorcycle with the new Euro 5-compliant 650cc inline-four motor. This could herald the introduction of a TNT 650 naked and 650RR sports bike.
With the 1000cc engine in development too, it seems highly likely that the firm will look at getting back into the naked and sports bike markets. While a sporty touring machine along the lines of the Versys 1000 wouldn’t be off the cards either.
The engine that will power them will have some serious pedigree too, as Qianjiang has recently bought the rights to MV Agusta’s 1,078cc unit that previously powered the older generation Brutale 1000. If the unit stayed true to the MV’s spec it’ll be producing around 160bhp and 75lb-ft of torque.
While many of the new models won’t be worrying the major players in the motorcycle market, it’s likely that China and Europe are not in Benelli’s sights. The bike will likely come to the UK through the established network, it’s more likely that the Asian market is going to be primary stomping ground for the brand.
