Benelli 302 R 2019

The 302 R is still in the Benelli Italy catalog. For France, it seems more complicated. After the episode of the big Tornado, in three cylinders 900, then in 1130, the sport is more modest at the Sino-Italian manufacturer. But this Benelli no longer has much of the transalpine country. Neither flamboyant! This rebirth takes place via a twin-cylinder of 300 cm3. With 38 horses, the memory falls from its pedestal.
This machine should therefore not be seen as the offspring of the 900/1130 Tornado but as a Sino-strategic foray into the medium-displacement sector with a sporting aspect. The YZF-R3, RC 390, Ninja 400 and GSX 250 R clan; little valued and active with us but a mass market in emerging countries.

It is not bad this 302 R. Even rewarding with its inverted fork, its elongated silhouette, its bright colors and its petal discs. It makes us easily forget that it shares the mechanics of the BN 302 roadster. The sporting illusion may still appeal to many young people allowed, the power of its twin being clearly below the requirements of the A2. Built around a steel trellis frame and swingarm different from the BN, the bike is equipped with 2 front brake discs clamped by axially mounted 4 piston calipers, 1 240mm disc at the rear, slim 110 and 150 mm wheels, a 14 liter tank, and ABS. With 180 kilos dry and a handful of horses less than its rivals, this 302 R will make you want to play but will have a hard time being vindictive to them..
A concept to discover, keeping in mind that the Benelli are now Chinese motorcycles where only the badge keeps the colors of the brand.