Sexy new Italian model

**Hitcher** · 24th November 2004, 20:45

Powered by a new 1131cc three-cylinder engine the TNT should grunt hard. The Italian manufacturer claims their new long-stroke engine produces 118 N-m of torque at 6750rpm and over 101kw (135hp) at 9250rpm. A sophisticated electronic fuel injection system with 53mm throttle bodies delivers the unleaded to the Nikasil coated sleeveless cylinders via four-valve combustion chambers. The 2005 model of the TNT also offers a dash mounted button that restricts the power a little to suit slippery conditions or where fuel economy is important.

While the radiator of the Tornado machine occupies a space under the seat, Benelli have chosen the side-mount radiator option for the TNT. Similar to that seen in some of Honda’s V engined sportsbikes.

The three-into-one exhaust system is made of stainless steel and comes together into a 60mm pipe before it snakes its way up under the seat and terminates in an oval shaped muffler. Electronically controlled flap valves are found in both the exhaust and the airbox to boost mid-range torque. Brembo provide the brakes while Marzocchi supplies the beefy 50mm inverted forks.

The first shipment of the TNT landed a few weeks ago and they were all snapped up by eastern states buyers. The second shipment is expected shortly and some machines are expected to make it to WA. The price of admission for this muscular exotic is $24500.

SPECS - Benelli TNT

Engine: 1131cc, three-cylinder, liquid-cooled four-stroke 12-valve DOHC

Bore x Stroke: 88 x 62mm

Compression: 11.5:1

Induction: Electronic fuel injection

Starter: Electric

Transmission: Six speed

Final Drive: Chain

Wheelbase: 1,419mm

Seat Height: 780mm

Dry Weight: 199kg

Fuel Capacity: 17 litres

Tyres: Front _ 120/70ZR17; Rear _ 190/50ZR17

Suspension: Front _ 50mm inverted forks, preload adjustable; Rear _ Single shock with an Ergal body

Brakes: Front _ 320mm discs with four-piston calipers; Rear _ 240mm single disc, twin-piston caliper

Price: A$24500

Warranty: Two years, unlimited kilometres

**guzzi_nz** · 24th November 2004, 21:32

got to love the Italian they make cool bikes and guzzi

**Blakamin** · 25th November 2004, 07:05

hmmmm... not too bad... a bit "pointy" for me...

**750Y** · 25th November 2004, 08:54

bugger i thought it was gonna be a sexy italian model! lol.
nice bike tho, waaaay to busy looking for my taste tho.

**Ghost Lemur** · 26th November 2004, 20:33

That's a very sexy bike.

IMHO much sexier than the buell.

*ducks from WT and co*

**stevedee** · 26th November 2004, 20:35

I'm selling the house............

**DebK** · 26th November 2004, 21:21

Like the Buell, that's a 4 figure cc rating that I'd struggle to hold onto in an upright postition! Wylie Coyote thinking he can sit atop Acme Dynamite, kind of scene.

There's talk often in here about 1K sportsbikes being under-utilised unless you're on the track... but these streetfighter style bikes in excess of 1K are maniac machines, right?!

MD · 30th November 2004, 22:26

First pics I've seen of any in that green, like it. Like it lots. Wonder if any TNTs have made it to our shores yet? MotoItalia advertise that they CAN get you one if you order. Probably top of my naked bike shopping list but its close with the 05 Triumph triple thingy lookin hot- and no doubt cheaper and more reliable.
MD