Malaysian Motor Works

I received several emails concerning the Benelli TnT600 Tornado. Actually, I waited for a long time to have a chance testing TnT600 as it is the cheapest ever 4-cylinder inline in Malaysian shore. At last, a friend from Benelli Keeway Motocycles Sdn. Bhd. arranged a demo bike for me – thanks friend!

Benelli Motorcycles actually one of the most experienced manufacturers in Italy. Maybe Malaysian not too familiar, but the new entry builds good branding efforts due to pricing strategies.

The Italian manufacturer started with repairing cars and motorcycles garage since 1911 in Pesaro Italy. A widow, Teresa Benelli investment repaid as won several titles in motorcycle racing championship in Italy.

Having tough time when Japanese machinery entered to European market in the late 70s, the company forced to stop their production. Benelli started breathing again in 2005 after Qianjiang Group Co. Ltd. acquired the prestigious manufacturer. Although Benelli occupied by China gigantic, the Italian designation heritage is still remains.

Having test-session in rainy weather condition is not something fun. While collecting demo units at Benelli service centre Jalan Ipoh, the first thing I take into consideration is the tires condition. Standard units receive Pirelli 120/70 at front and 180/55 at rear.

The Italian naked model appears vigorous at the first glance. From a distance, it seemed as Aprillia Shiver and the size not far as Ducati Monster. After I turned on the engine, under seat exhaust hauled the engine combustion really attracting me.

I opted Mahameru Highway in cloudy conditions with full of hope, I could avoid the falling rains. In terms of power-plant output, Tornado is capable producing maximum power of 82 hp at 11,500 rpm and maximum torque of 52 Nm at 10,500 rpm. For me, power induction such insufficient throughout the initial acceleration. It needs a momentum, and can be felt after reaching speeds of 80 km/h even I twisted the throttle aggressively. The highest speed that I can reach is around 220 km/h.

The engine condition is good enough and smooth along the operation. TnT600 requires a lot of revving to hit the torque peak. Seriously, the sounds produced vigorous sound, but unfortunately, the bike does not have the speeds equivalent to the sound.

Tornado TnT600 get a pair of upside-down fork 50mm and comes with monoshock absorber with adjustable spring at the rear. The suspension system performance just at a moderate level, but it is adequate for city streets use. Personally, Tornado handling aspects could not compete with other naked bikes in the current market.

The most I like with TnT600, it is about the riding position and thick comfortable seats. Thick and width seat padding supports my rides, as well as the pillion’s seat. But, the gearshift lever position needs to be improved to provide a perfect ergonomic riding position.

Overall, the intermediate naked machine is still able to compete in the market. Looking at the design and the four inline power-plant, Tornado TnT600 is worth due to the affordable price tag – a good budget bike!

MMW Rating:

Performance: 6/10

Handling: 7/10

Comfort: 7/10

Design: 7/10

Features: 6/10

Fuel Consumption: 7/10

Value: 7/10