Verdict
Since its rebirth just over a decade ago, Benelli has come a long way with its products. And none has come longer than the BN600i. It is a far-removed machine than the initial crop of offerings, and we mean that in the best way possible. There’s very little of the electronic and fueling glitches that has plagued Benelli’s initial run of middleweights here. The BN is a thoroughly refined machine than can hold its own against the best from the Far East or the UK.
Which brings us to the competition. Expect there isn’t many, really. There’s the Triumph Speed Triple with its slightly larger engine and more power, at INR 7.65 lakh. Then there’s the even bigger Kawasaki Z800 that retails for 8.05 lakh (bothex-showroom, Delhi).
The BN600i is probably the easiest Italian exotic to live with everyday. Like the full-blooded folks from the country it comes from, it can be temperamental at times, and will demand your full care and attention. But you can do that, it will reward you with oodles of fun and the happiness of possessing something that others can only covet. Wherever you take it, the Benelli BN600i will be the cynosure of all eyes, and the envy of your friends.
In this age of desensitized machines that efficiently but lifelessly go about their business, the Benelli BN600i stands apart for its ability to touch your primal being. It is a muse, a stunningly good-looking mistress, a characterful being with a living, throbbing heart and soul. You may not need, need it, but you know you definitely want it. And just for that alone, it gets our vote.
Photography: Chirag Mondal
TECHINCAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Engine type: | 4 cylinders in line, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, 4 valves per cylinder DOHC |
| Displacement: | 600cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 65 x 45.2 mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Power: | 83 PS @ 11500 rpm |
| Torque: | 52 Nm @ 10500 rpm |
| Fuel Injection: | Delphi Electronic injection with four 38 mm throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet Clutch |
| Gearbox: | 6-speed |
| Frame: | Front steel trestle, rear aluminium alloy |
| Front Suspension: | 50 mm upside-down forks |
| Front suspension Stroke: | 120 mm |
| Rear Suspension: | Rear shock absorber with adjustable rebound and spring preload |
| Rear Suspension Stroke: | 123 mm |
| Front Brake: | Twin floating discs ø320 mm with radial mounted 4 piston calipers |
| Rear Brake: | Single disc ø260 mm with twin piston caliper |
| Front wheel: | Aluminium alloy with Metzeler Sportec 120/70-ZR17 58W |
| Rear wheel: | Aluminium alloy with Metzeler Sportec 180/55-ZR17 73W |
| Overall Dimensions: | 2160 x 800 x 1180 mm |
| Seat Height: | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 1430 mm |
| Wet Weight (without fuel): | 208 kg |
| Fuel Tank: | 15L |
Great review , but what’s up with no ABS or Slipper Clutch or did I miss something?
Good job guys and envy your luck… Will it be the cheapest four cylinder in India? Will it be priced below 6 lakh on road or under cut the CBR650F?