Benelli Malaysia has officially launched the new TNT 135 today at the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Kuala Lumpur! Priced at an attractive RM7,990 (NSP excl. GST) the bike should be a strong contender in the market for those seeking a sporty and rugged daily-commuter.
The TNT 135 features a single-cylinder 134.7cc, 4-valve, fuel-injection, SOHC engine with oil-cooler capable of 13bhp @ 6,000rpm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox, with electric start and digital CDI ignition.
The frame features an attractive ‘terellis’ steel tube design, and even more attractive are the 41mm front upside-down forks with 120mm travel. The rear suspension features a spring preload-adjustable, laterally-mounted shock, with 50mm travel.
The TNT 135 rides on 120/70 ZR12 and 130/70 ZR12 front & rear tyres respectively. What’s impressive though is the huge wheelbase of 1,215mm! So despite the fact that it’s a small motard, it feels quite stable, thanks in part to its 160kg dry weight. A 7.2-litre fuel tank should be sufficient for town use.
Front and rear cross-drilled disc-brakes take care of stopping power very well. All in all, given the short test-ride, I reckon this might just be the commuter for those who want something a bit more sporty and rugged than a regular scooter or kapchai. It even looks good with a top box!