The projector headlamp, the detachable saddle bags and a considerably larger 27-litre fuel tank bolster the GT’s touring credentials.
Pics and text: BBC TopGear India; www. topgear.com/india
By Devesh Shobha Benelli’s new sport-tourer, the TNT 600 GT, shares its vital organs with the 600i. And, although they seem quite similar on paper, it’s a different story out in this crazy world. For starters, the GT isn’t as attractive to look at as the 600i, but sports-touring body panels lend it a unique identity. The projector headlamp, the detachable saddle bags and a considerably larger 27-litre fuel tank bolster the GT’s touring credentials.
What’s also special on this Benelli are the spot-on ergonomics — the well-positioned handlebar and seat allow for a relaxed time in the saddle. And, the combination of a supple seat and a pliant suspension setup makes sure you can ride for hours without ending up with a numb backside. What makes this GT an admirable touring machine is the mechanical package, which consists of a silky smooth six-speed gearbox, an in-line four, 600cc, liquid-cooled unit with 80.8 horses and 55 Newtons on tap. That’s 3Nm of torque more than the 600i, which weighs 15kg less, and lugs around 12 litres less fuel.
Fine-tuned for touring, the GT’s 600cc motor is surprisingly tractable. Whether lumbering along at 30kph or doing speeds in excess of 185kph, the engine does it all without any signs of stress, all in sixth gear. If there’s an urge to up the pace, simply shift down a couple of cogs, wring the throttle and you’ll experience a decent rush of power.
Thankfully, this exercise isn’t erratic, as there’s enough juice right from 2500rpm to the redline at 11000rpm, with a bit of a jolt at around 7000rpm. But here’s the catch — the dual disc brakes upfront and the single disc at the rear aren’t really the best we’ve seen of late. They lack bite. Plus, the added weight does make itself felt around a series of tight corners where, for obvious reasons, the GT doesn’t feel as agile as its skimpilydressed sibling.
But at the end, the TNT 600 GT fares better than the 600i. With its commendable ride quality, and sound mechanicals as well as dynamics, it’s a motorcycle that could conquer twisty back roads nearly as well as a sportsbike, and yet make open-road travel as enjoyable and comfortable as a full-blown tourer.
