The fuel-tank stores up to 27 litres of fuel and enhances the touring capability of the bike by giving it a range of over 400 km, considering the average fuel efficiency of 15 km/l. The 600GT derives its stopping power from a pair of 320-mm floating discs on the front wheel and a single 260-mm disc brake on the rear one. The brakes need more force but have a progressive feel and the chunky Pirelli tyres provide all the traction you need, which feels reassuring under hard braking. However, like the rest of the Benelli range, the 600 GT does not get an ABS or any other electronic aids.
It handles quite well in corners for a 223-kg bike but feels bulky and prefers cruising on straight open roads. No surprises there. The mild bottom end of the engine makes it a docile runabout in the city as well, but you need to be careful with the panniers while weaving through traffic and though at five feet 10 inches, I was able to place my feet firmly on the ground while sitting on the bike, tight U-turns can get tricky due to its long turning radius and top-heavy nature. The suspension system of the 600GT features 50-mm upside down (USD) front forks and a monoshock spring with preload adjuster at the rear. The suspension absorbs any kind of undulation on the road efficiently and keeps the bike rock-steady, giving one the confidence to ride at high speeds comfortably.
So if you are out looking for a middle-weight bike for long rides on the highways, the TnT 600GT would be a smart choice, provided it is priced reasonably. The bike will come from China via the CKD (completely knocked down) route and DSK Benelli will assemble it here in India. It will face a stiff resistance from the well-established Kawasaki Ninja 650 and must be priced in the Rs 6-6.5 lakh range to make sense for the buyer.
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