One of the oldest European motorcycle factories, Benelli, is celebrating its centenary this year with the unveiling of two special edition models: the TnT 899 and TnT 1130 Century Racers.
The TnT 899 is powered by a compact three-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed gearbox, high-spec suspension components from Marzocchi and Sachs, and Brembo brakes with radial-mount calipers. It delivers a total of 120 HP at 9,500 rpm and 64 lb-ft of torque at 8000 rpm. The TnT 1130 carries the same engine and components, but is a bit more powerful, delivering 129 HP at 8500 rpm and 81 lb-ft of torque at 5250 rpm. This added power was achieved thanks to engine mapping, a fully adjustable spring preload, and hydraulic compression and rebound.
The Century Racers will feature a modern design with added luxuries such as Alcantara seats, a compact tail, and a special paint job inspired by Renzo Pasolini’s Benelli racebikes of the 1960s.
Benelli launches yet another bomb with their R160 Café Racer wearing the “TNT” initials. While the “bomb” range is already famous for its performance, the new model represents the apogee for the naked line of products of the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Benelli as this is the most powerful TNT model bragging with as much as 155 horsepower developed by the 1130 inline triple engine.
This, together with the bike’s aggressive design characterized by stylish lines and carbon fiber parts, makes the new Benelli quite a competitor for the Ducati Streetfighter.
Rumors say the thing will start at $17,000, but there’s no official word on that yet.