Benelli BN302

Benelli has unveiled the new BN302 entry-level nakedbike, with the 300cc parallel twin set to provide another option for riders in the increasingly competitive 300-500cc roadbike space.

The BN302, set to go on sale in Australia in August, 2014, has claimed power and torque figures of 37hp (27kW) at 11,500rpm and 27Nm at 9000rpm, which compares very favourably with the biggest selling roadbike in Australia – Kawasaki’s Ninja 300,which produces 39hp at 11,000rpm and 27Nm at 10,000rpm.

The BN302 has been designed and engineered in Italy, but will be manufactured in China at the factory of Benelli’s giant parent company, QJ – a reflection of the critical price point nature of the machine as Benelli attempts to entice a younger audience to its brand.

The Australian importer of Benelli, Urban Moto Imports (UMI), is targeting a $5990 ride away price for the BN302.

“Benelli has to reach a larger network of consumers, and to do that we must have a competitive price,” said UMI principal Joe Elasmar. “The BN302 gives us this possibility, alongside high-level production. Ww are confident he BN302 will be a successful model.”

The machine has a steel trellis frame, and other chassis componentry includes a 41mm upside-down fork, side-mounted shock adjustable for rebound and preload, tubular swingarm, twin 260 discs gripped by four-piston calipers, and 17-inch wheels carrying 120/70 and 160/60 rubber.

Other features include LED blinkers and an underslung muffler, while the fuel capacity and seat height are 16 litres and 795mm respectively. Wet weight is up there, though – 196kg.  Colours will be white or orange.

The BN302 will join the BN600RS and BN600S in Benelli’s LAMS stable when it goes on sale just before spring, with other opposition in the 300-5000cc LAMS territory including the KTM 390 Duke, Honda CBR300R (on sale in July, 2014) and Honda CBR500R/CB500F.