Benelli TNT 135 Launch Officially Cancelled in India

The Italian beauty- Benelli TNT 135 has never missed out the headlines since its debut at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo. last month, when we talked about this super-cool mini bike, the Indian arm of giant superbikes manufacturer was in dilemma about its introduction in the country and has postponed launch further in coming months. But now, after an extensive market research, DSK-Benelli’s top honcho has officially confirmed that the TNT 135 will not be a part of brand's Indian lineup.

From the research report, it has been found that due to bike's expensive price sticker it has not been accepted by the audience. It's not like it that customers do not find it appealing, but its design language make them compare it with the monkey bike- Honda Navi and price expectations also arouse in the same range that draws people back to accept bike at price more than one lakh. But, it's also not possible from company's perspective to offer bike in Navi price range as manufacturer has furnished it with top end components such as trellis frame, promising brakes and suspension setup and the fuel injection technology. The fuel injection feature not only helps in extensive power generation but also improves fuel economy of the vehicle.

"We did market research and a lot of people loved the product, especially the North Eastern market. The consumers found the engine capacity, the cycle parts and the overall design quite appealing. But when it comes to the price point, the product isn't there yet. People started comparing it with the Honda Navi and it is not possible to launch this product at that price. Even if the TNT 135 is made in India, it is very difficult to price it aggressively." said Shirish Kulkarni, chairman, DSK Motowheels.

If talked about the mechanicals of the TNT135 or T135, it is powered by a 134.7 cc, single cylinder 4-valve oil cooled powertrain with dual-spark plug. Complying stringent BS-IV emission norms, the mill is capable of churning out 13bhp of power at 9000 rpm and 10.8Nm at 7000rpm. While, the power transmission takes place from an integrated 5-speed gearbox. Suspension setup comprises robust upside-down front forks and lateral shock absorbers with preload adjustability at rear. The braking power comes from 220mm dual disc with two piston calipers at front wheel and 190mm single disc with a caliper at rear wheel.