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Explosively Flashy
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Benelli Café Racer and Sport TNTs
Jeff Buchanan
05/01/2006
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Photography by Kevin Wing
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The Benelli TNT utilizes a unique frame
design. A steel tube trellis forward section is glued and bolted to a boxed
aluminum-cast mid section, then augmented with an aluminum sub-frame tailpiece.
A twin beam, large diameter trellis swingarm with large eccentric axle adjusters
maintains the design continuity of the chassis.
 RIDING STYLE
Helmet: Shoei RF1000
Leathers: Kushitani Mega Spark
suit
Gloves: Joe Rocket Speedmaster
Boots: Sidi Vertigo Corsa. (Click image to enlarge)
Building revs quickly, the
Benelli can be ridden either by short-shifting and utilizing the triple’s
abundant torque, or by continuing to roll on the throttle well past where
the engine sounds as if it is peaking, even though the redline is still in the
distance. A look at the tachometer reveals plenty of room before maximum, with
the sweet spot coming between 8,000 and 9,000 rpm. When there is enough road to
hold the revs in that range, the TNT remains stable; despite the unleashing of
all those horses, there is no unsettling flex of the chassis, while the
suspension keeps the bike firmly planted and on track.
 The
Café Racer and Sport models come equipped with your choice of two front ends:
43mm Paioli inverted forks with traditionally-mounted Brembo brakes, or hefty
50mm Marzocchi units and radial-mounted Brembos. In either configuration, both
machines exuded confident manners in regard to handling with graceful,
predictable turn-in, rock solid stability in corners, and smooth, controlled
transitions when getting back on the throttle, exiting turns. The rider can
trail-brake deep into corners without the bike wanting to stand up or exhibiting
even the slightest hint of uncertainty or anxiety. (Click image to enlarge)
The 6-speed transmission
is tight and positive; shifts are perfectly syncopated to the crisp snap of the
TNT’s triple powerplant, as well as the smooth action and light feel of the
clutch. A precise balance of power, response, handling, and braking makes the
TNT such a pleasure to ride.
Attention to detail is prevalent in every aspect
of the Benellis. Beautiful forged aluminum linkages and levers, plus intricate
engine castings supplemented by aircraft quality fasteners, clearly define these
as connoisseur’s motorcycles. The addition of top-of-the-line components, such
as Marchesini rims and Brembo brake systems, contributes to make the TNT
an incredibly functional machine with a meticulous presence. The intricate
design flow and aggressive aesthetics, married to an equally aggressive
powerplant and superlative handling, make the TNTs a formidable reentry into the
American market for Benelli.
It has been said that 20 percent of all the art
ever created originated in Italy. In a country that has produced Stradivari,
Michelangelo and Verdi, it seems only fitting that the Benelli TNT should be
born there. I believe Mama Benelli would have been proud.
Benelli Americas | 724.593.6208
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