Benelli TNT 200

Overview

Benelli TNT 200: My Personal Take

When Benelli announced that it would have TNT 200 it just sounded too good to be true, *A 200cc from Benelli. That’s interesting."* Benelli, it should be noted, is a brand known for its bold styling and performance, though, and its entry into the 200cc segment felt a lot like watching an action hero rolling up to a neighborhood pickup game—you just know it’s going to be fun.The question that’s been on my mind is this: Let us know what is the Benelli TNT 200 all about. How will it live up to the brand's reputation, or will it blend in with the rest of the 200cc sea? Let’s break it down.

Benelli TNT 200 – Buzz?

So much chatter about the TNT 200 and I get it. Benelli is making a lot of noise about moving into the entry level naked bike segment, which is great news for those selling in that market especially. We’ve always felt that the 200cc class has been that sweet spot for daily commuting, without the intimidation factor of larger bikes.

And Benelli isn’t just jumping on the bandwagon here, they’re injecting that trademark Italian touch into the segment. The TNT 200 is not just a bike you ride; there’s a strong possibility that your peers will notice when you do, if the bike has its obligatory *loud* livery applied. This one will turn heads slipping between city traffic or parked in front of your favourite café.

The TNT 200 oozes attitude, and it is a bike I’ve always loved. When compared to other cars in its class, with a smaller engine, you would think it’s only smaller, but you can’t help but feel like you’re riding something bigger, bolder, and something cooler.

 Design and Styling: Compact Aggression

Aggressive stance was the first thing I noticed upon seeing the TNT 200. In 200cc it looks way meaner than most bikes. Benelli was clearly not cheap on design, it’s sharp, muscular and full of character. I just know that the tank looks beefy, the exposed frame adds some rugged, and the sharp lines say *"I’m fast.”* The TNT 200 looks to be ready to pounce just sitting still.

And hey, aesthetics are never a small matter to me. Having grown up in Birmingham, I’m one of those that think we bikes should look as good as they ride and the TNT 200 looks good. The front end is aggressive, the rear is minimalistic, but purposeful. Benelli squeezed a fiendish amount of attitude into a tiny frame, it’s like.

The design aside, it is functional too. With wide handlebars, city rides aren't too bad, and the oleaginous headlamps are for straight show after all. In safety, and for enjoyment, they turn night rides into a spotlight that illuminates the road.

Engine and Performance: What’s Under the Hood?

Let’s now discuss what’s really significant—engine. It has a 21 horsepower 199cc single cylinder liquid cooled engine on the rear!! Don’t get me wrong, that’s not a lot for bigger bikes, but trust me, for a 200cc, that’s just ample to have some fun.

I love that Benelli didn’t skimp on performance either. There should be enough low end torque to be quick off the line and that’s a good thing. Ideal for having a big smile on your face and zooming through city traffic. It’ll easily cruise the highway, and besides that, it has enough juice to handle highway speeds.

I love the liquid cooling system as I know the temps the engine is getting. When I can already imagine myself on a spirited weekend ride, and can already know that the bike will not overheat, even when I am pushing the bike hard in the summer heat.

Handling and Ride Quality: Nimble and Fun

The TNT 200 is where the TNT 200 really shines. The chassis is lightweight, the frame is balanced and it’s easy to throw around in tight traffic, or on winding roads. Front up front and rear monoshock provide a smooth ride regardless of road conditions; the (USD) forks up front and monoshock at the rear.

I’m the most excited by how flickable this bike is going to be. On my daily commute weaving through traffic, or even on the weekend carving up some open twisties, I already know that the bike is going to be a lot of fun to ride. I always look for bike with upright seating position and wide handlebars so you could have full control. Right? As long as it doesn’t handle well, it makes the bike bad.

Features and Technology: What’s Inside?

A bike of this size is not meant to be stuffed with as many features as the TNT 200 has; that’s for sure. It has an all digital instrument cluster that displays everything from speed to fuel in a legible, plain spoken format. The TNT 200 is a simple useful thing, exactly what I’m all about these days.

Furthermore, we know the bike is also likely to have ABS, which is essentially a must have in today’s world of unpredictable, city traffic. Such a feature that you don’t think of it until you *really* need it, so I’m happy that Benelli aren’t cutting corners.

That can be then underbelly exhaust. Not only does it make the bike look aggressive but, with the weight centralized, it should improve handling. Who doesn't love a good exhaust note plus? I really pray the TNT 200 has that Benelli sound.

For Whom is the Benelli TNT 200?

But who would I recommend this TNT 200 suit to? To be honest if you are a new rider and looking for a fun and manageable bike to begin with, the TNT 200 might be the perfect bike for you. Enough power to suffice, but not overpower, it’s perfect for the amateur.

As such, the TNT 200 would also be enjoyed by experienced riders in search of a light and fun second bike. It’s great for hitting the asphalt during the week and backroads on the weekend. Riding a Benelli is stylish, performance driven and a little bit exclusive.

What to Keep in Mind

But the TNT 200 sounds as good as good gets and, as good as it gets, there’s a couple of things to consider. First off, the price. Benelli bikes usually come out a bit more pricier than most of the competition so you are going to have to be willing to spend a bit more for that Italian flare.

Plus, the 200cc engine is great for city riders, but if you’re coming from bigger bikes it will feel a little light on power. This isn’t a rocket ship, but this isn’t the point. It’s not about speed records and smashing records. It’s more of a ride enjoyment!

Final Thoughts: Is the Benelli TNT 200 Really Worth It?

So, what’s my final take? The Benelli TNT 200 is a pretty classy, performance conscious bike with something a little different in the 200cc bang for buck bracket. It’s a fun ride, looks aggressive, and carries the Benelli badge, which makes it marginally cooler, if only marginally, on the street.

The TNT 200 is the perfect bike for anyone that wants their bike to be practical for everyday use and exciting enough for the weekends. But what do you think? Or, is the TNT 200 your go to bike in the segment that you’re leaning towards something else? I’d love to hear what you think so drop your thoughts in the comments!