2021 Benelli 1200GT Launched In China
Highlights
- 1,200 cc inline three-cylinder engine makes 134 bhp, 120 Nm
- The Benelli 1200 GT is so far the largest made-in-China motorcycle
- It will rival the soon-to-be-launched CFMoto 1250TR-G tourer
The Benelli 1200GT, a big-capacity touring bike, has been launched in China at a price which is considered quite competitive, compared to similar European rivals in the segment. The Benelli 1200GT is the first big capacity touring machine to be launched by the Italian origin brand, since its ownership moved to China's Qianjiang Group in 2005. Although officially unveiled in prototype form last year, the production-spec version has some equipment changes, along with the price announcement. The 1200 GT is priced at 99,800 Yuan (approximately Rs. 11.43 lakh) in China.
Also Read: Benelli 1200GT Unveiled In China
The Benelli 1200 GT is powered by a 1,200 cc inline three-cylinder engine, which is an evolution of the 898 cc Tornado Tre, as well as the 1,130 cc engine of the TNT 1130 R. The 1200 GT's engine makes 134 bhp at 9,000 rpm and 120 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. In China, the Benelli 1200 GT will become the largest made-in-China motorcycle to go on sale, at least till its main rival, also made in China, the CFMoto 1250 TR-G is launched. The CFMoto will have an engine derived from the KTM LC8 v-twin.
Also Read: Benelli 1200 cc Touring Motorcycle Type Approved In China
The production model of the Benelli 1200 GT though will get some minor cosmetic and feature changes from the prototype unveiled last year. The production model features a much-larger TFT, around 15-inch to replace the part analogue, part digital console shown in the prototype. The new console includes a wide range of information, including tyre pressure, and an updated electronics suite, with keyless ignition and even front and rear-facing cameras.
To accommodate the new and bigger instrument console, Benelli has redesigned the front fairing as well. Benelli India is slowly expanding its range in India, focussing on the Imperiale 400, the Leoncino and the TRK 502 mids-size adventure tourer. It's still not clear if the 1200 GT will be introduced in India, and if it is, an attractive price tag may attract takers for this tourer, even in India.