It’s been a while since Benelli has not introduced any fully faired bike in India. Earlier, it was the last generation 302R that was present in the Indian market. However, that bike was soon discontinued due to the introduction of stricter emission norms.
History does repeat itself. But, this time in a sportier manner. Yes, the Chinese bike manufacturer has finally revealed the 2021 Benelli 302R globally. And, mind you, the bike now looks sharper than ever. Another major update on the new 302R is the Euro 5 compliant engine. Does the all-new bike poses threat to the Kawasaki Ninja 300? Heading straightaway to answer that.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Benelli has revealed the 2021 Benelli 302R with a Euro 5 compliant engine.
- The updated bike now looks sportier when compared to the outgoing model.
- It is a 35PS, 302cc twin-cylinder engine that powers the updated Benelli 302R.
2021 Benelli 302R
First thing first, is the updated powertrain. To begin with, the 2021 Benelli 302R now comes with a Euro-5 compliant 302cc twin-cylinder engine. Talking in number, it is capable of producing 35PS of power and 27Nm of torque. To recall, it is 3.5PS less and 0.5Nm more when compared to its outgoing Euro-4 counterpart.
Further, the updated engine comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox. To retain the performance of the all-new bike, Benelli has worked on the weight. It is now lighter by 22kgs. Therefore, the overall weight of the new 302R now stands at 182kgs (kerb).
Another important update on the 2021 302R is the reworked design language. The front fascia of the bike not only looks sharper than ever. But, it is now also the house for the new LED projector headlamp setup. The older analogue instrument cluster is replaced by the all-digital unit. It is available with multiple numbers of information such as odometer, gear position indicator, fuel level, etc. just to name a few.
Further, the all-new 302R continues to use the same 41mm USD fork at the front. But, this time, it is available with preload adjustments. Braking duties still rely on dual disc brakes upfront. Meanwhile, there is a single disc at the rear end. For an enhanced braking experience, the company has now introduced a dual-channel ABS setup.
Currently, the 2021 Benelli 302R is available in China against a price tag of CNY 29,800.
Alternatives
When launched in India, Benelli 302R will go head-on against the likes of KTM RC 390, TVS Apache 310 RR and Kawasaki Ninja 300. For now, let us compare it with the Ninja 300 just to answer your question.
Kawasaki Ninja 300
Kawasaki has introduced the updated Ninja 300 in India last month. The all-new bike looks absolutely modern and packs several features. The BS6 compliant engine that now powers the 2021 Ninja 300 is a 296ccc twin-cylinder unit. Interestingly, while updating this engine, Kawasaki has managed to obtain the same power figures that were available with the BS4 counterpart as well.
Specifications
| Kawasaki Ninja 300 | |
| Engine | 296cc twin-cylinder |
| Power | 38.4BHP |
| Torque | 27Nm |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs.3.18 Lakhs |