2011 Benelli Motorcycles
Not sure why, but I’ve always been a fan of less known and more exotic motorcycle brands. When I was racing motocross in the 70s I leaned toward the underdog brands like Bultaco and CZ (after their heyday that is). I still retain a certain admiration for the smaller, less popular motorcycle manufacturers.
Maybe it’s a matter of sentimentality, maybe it’s the inherent exclusivity they afford by being built in smaller numbers. One motorcycle brand that fits the criteria of possessing a rich heritage that never translated into mega stardom and industry is Benelli.
In 2011 the Italian motorcycle company (founded by five brothers in 1911) celebrates 100 years of producing motorcycles.
Benelli, through a major reorganization of the company, is making a noble gambit to reinstate itself with the motorcycling public, intent on reclaiming its position as a designer of exceptional, performance-driven motorcycles.
The primary tact for the company is the introduction of a full slate of new motorcycles as well as updated classics that earned the company its status.
First and foremost, to commemorate Benelli’s centenary, are two models that possess a significant relevance for the company; the TNT 899 Century racer and the TNT 1130 Century Racer (both available March 2011).
Both motorcycles pay homage to the racing legend of Pasolini in a modern interpretation via a Centenary Green paint scheme.
The 2011 Benelli motorcycle line-up presents a number of stunning color schemes, including a TNT R160 (in red with either a white or red frame), a TRE 899 K (in white), the TRE 1130 K (gray with mat titanium frame), and a traditional version TNT 899 (in white).
Celebrating their motorcycle racing past, Benelli presents two versions of their Cafe Racer, in both a 899 and 1130 configuration. Both sportbikes are presented in stunning gold paint scheme.
Accommodating the demand for a broader range of scooters to fulfill ever-increasing expectations and applications by the public for convenient, yet style-conscious mobility, Benelli introduces a full range of upgraded and all-new scooters.
At the forefront of this line is the new MACIS 125 and 150, two aggressive, sporty scooters that reflect the racing DNA of Benelli.
Coming in February of 2011 Benelli re-launches their famous MOTOBI under the CaffeNero name. The 125 and 150cc scooter platforms are positioned for practicality at a low price point.
Returning smodels in the 2011 scooter line-up include the Velvet 125 and 150, the Pepe 50, and the Pepe 50 Classic. Finally, there is the on-road or off-road versions of the 49X.