Benelli to launch Leoncino during festive season, TRK 502 in early 2018, but no TNT 135 in India

DSK Benelli, the Indian subsidiary of Italian bike maker Benelli, had plans to launch at least three bikes in the first quarter of 2017. For reasons unknown, the launch plans failed to fall into place. However, the company has finally started accepting bookings for the Tornado 302R ahead of its tentative May launch.

Also read: Benelli BX 250 Motard confirmed for India launch in 2017

It looks like there are many changes in the launch plans. After the launch of Tornado 302R, the company will shift focus to the launch of the Leoncino scrambler expected in the festive season, reports Bikewale. The Leoncino bears resemblance to the Ducati Scrambler range in terms of design. The motorcycle comes with a low exhaust position, chunky wheels, USD front forks with 50mm diameter and Alcantara leather seat topped with LED light.

The Leoncino will be powered by a brand new 499.6cc, twin-cylinder engine with liquid cooling developing 46.9bhp at 8,500rpm and 45Nm torque at 4,500rpm combined with a six-speed gearbox. The estimated price range is Rs. 6-7 lakh.

The TRK 502 adventure was unveiled at the 2015 EICMA show in Milan. The dual purpose motorcycle was supposed to enter Indian market in Q1. The launch date has been pushed back to early 2018, according to Bikewale. The motorcycle is powered by a twin-cylinder, four-stroke liquid-cooled 499.6cc engine that belts out 47bhp and 45Nm torque mated to a six-speed gearbox with hydraulic clutch. The motorcycle will be pitted against premium adventure bikes like Kawasaki Versys 650 and Triumph Tiger range. The TRK 502's price is expected to start at Rs. 6 lakh.

The TNT Naked T-135 also made an appearance at the Auto Expo 2016. The bike was spotted while testing in India recently. Though Benelli's feasibility study has identified customer interest inTNT 135, it will be difficult for the company to price the bike competitively. Hence, DSK Benelli won't launch TNT 135 in India.