Benelli announce new LAMS model

Based on the BN 600 naked (of which a LAMS legal version is already available), the BN 302 uses 'half' the 600's transverse four engine to create a parallel twin - the '302' in the name refers to the 300cc 2-cylinder engine.

The first in a series of all-new Benellis under QJ ownership, the BN 302 produces a claimed 27kW @ 11,500rpm and 27Nm @ 9000rpm from its 300cc 8-valve DOHC powerplant, which also features electronic injection, twin 38mm throttle bodies and wet sump lubrication.

Appearance-wise, the BN 302 is broadly similar to the BN 600R, but runs its own steel trestle frame, swingarm, USD 41mm front forks, 17-inch alloy wheels, class-leading disc brakes, plastics and many, many more bespoke parts. Seat height is 795mm, with wet weight listed at 196kg, which should see it appeal to a number of potential customers.

The model presented in Melbourne was a pre-production machine, so lacked the high standard of finish the production machines are expected to have when they become available here in the second half of this year. Orange and white colour options will be available.

While styling, design and engineering was undertaken in Benelli's home base of Pesaro, Italy, the BN 302 will be manufactured in China at parent company QJ's factory, a factor deemed essential in keeping the retail price down to an estimated $6,000 + ORCs. If built in Italy, Urban Moto Imports said the price would rise by around $2,000.

The retail price will include a 2-year unlimited km warranty with premium roadside assist. New purchases will also come with a 10-percent discount voucher for advanced rider training with Peter Goddard of MotoDNA (Ts & Cs apply).

Benelli BN 302 specs

Engine
Type: In line 2 cylinders, 4-stroke,
liquid cooled, 4 valves per
cylinder DOHC
Displacement: 300cc.
Bore x Stroke: 65 x 45.2mm
Compression ratio: 12:1
Rate output: 27 kW (37 Hp) @ 11500 rpm
Max. torque: 27 Nm (2.75 kgm) @ 9000
rpm
Lubrication: Wet sump
Oil capacity N.D.
Fuel supply: Electronic injection with
two ø38 mm throttle bodies
Exhaust system: With two catalytic
converter and two oxygen
sensor
Ceritification: Euro 3

Transmission
Clutch: Wet clutch
Gearbox: 6 speed
Primary drive: 44/82
Gear ration: 1 - 13/37
2 - 19/37
3 - 18/28
4 - 24/32
5 - 21/25
6 - 24/26
Final drive
Chain drive ratio: 14:43

Electric Equipment
Ignition: DELPHI MT05
Spark plug: RG4HC
Starting: ELECTRIC

Chassis
Frame: Steel trestle
Front suspension: Inverted ø41mm forks
Front suspension stroke: 115mm
Rear suspension: Adjustable rear shock absorber
Rear suspension stroke: 120mm

Brakes
Front brake: Twin disk ø260mm
Rear brake: Single disk ø240mm

Wheels & Tyres
Front rim type: Aluminium alloy
Front rim dimensions: E 17"xMT3.5 DOT-D
Rear rim type: Aluminium alloy
Rear rim dimension: E 17"xMT4.5 DOT-D
Front tyre: 120/70R17/C
Rear tyre: 160/60R17/C

Dimensions
Length: 2115mm
Width excluding mirrors: 800mm
Height excluding mirrors: 1130mm
Seat height: 795mm
Wheelbase: 1405mm
Ground clearance:** 180mm
Trail: N.D.
Steering pipe angle: N.D.
Wet weight:* 185kg
Fuel tank: 16L

* without fluids
** According to guideline 93/93/CEE with all fluids,
fuelled with at least 90% of usable tank volume

Watch this space for more on the Benelli BN 302 as local release draws nearer, or go to www.benelli.com.au