The Benelli Tornado 302R is back—and it’s sharper, sleeker, and more refined than ever. With its aggressive styling, upgraded engine, and race-inspired ergonomics, the 302R is poised to reclaim its place in the entry-level sportbike segment. As Benelli prepares for its much-anticipated 2025 launch in India, the Tornado 302R is already generating buzz among enthusiasts who crave Italian flair without breaking the bank.
🔥 A Design That Screams Speed
The first thing you notice about the new Tornado 302R is its striking design. The bike features a full fairing with aerodynamic contours, twin LED projector headlamps, and a sharp tail section that gives it a proper supersport silhouette. The updated bodywork is not just for show—it’s designed to reduce drag and improve high-speed stability.
Benelli offers the 302R in three bold color options: White, Green, and Black, each accented with racing stripes and premium decals. The bike’s split seat setup, clip-on handlebars, and rear-set footpegs complete the aggressive look, making it clear that this machine means business.
⚙️ Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Tornado 302R is a 300cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that produces:
- 38.79 PS at 11,500 rpm
- 26.5 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm
This BS6-compliant engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox, offering smooth shifts and a linear powerband. While the power figures are slightly detuned compared to the previous BS4 version, the engine remains lively and responsive, especially in the mid to high rev range.
The 302R is built for spirited riding, whether you’re carving corners on a weekend ride or navigating city traffic. Its twin-cylinder configuration ensures a smoother ride and a more refined exhaust note compared to single-cylinder rivals.
🛠️ Chassis and Handling
Benelli has equipped the 302R with a trellis frame that offers excellent rigidity and balance. The suspension setup includes:
- Upside-down front forks for better damping and front-end feel
- Mono-shock rear suspension tuned for comfort and control
Braking duties are handled by dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS for added safety. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in tubeless radial tyres, offering good grip and stability.
🧠 Features and Tech
The Tornado 302R isn’t just about looks and performance—it also packs a decent tech suite:
- Fully digital instrument cluster with gear position indicator
- LED lighting all around
- Backlit switchgear
- Engine kill switch and hazard lights
While it may not have smartphone connectivity or ride modes, the 302R focuses on delivering a pure, analog riding experience with just enough modern touches to keep things convenient.
🪑 Comfort and Ergonomics
Despite its sporty stance, the 302R offers a relatively comfortable riding position. The seat height is accessible for most riders, and the ergonomics strike a balance between aggressive and practical. The fairing provides decent wind protection, making it suitable for longer rides as well.
💰 Pricing and Competition
Benelli is expected to price the 302R at around ₹3.60 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. This places it in direct competition with:
- Kawasaki Ninja 300
- Yamaha R3
- KTM RC 390
- TVS Apache RR 310
While some of these rivals offer more power or advanced features, the 302R stands out with its twin-cylinder refinement, Italian styling, and distinctive road presence.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Stylish Comeback
The Benelli Tornado 302R is a welcome return to the entry-level sportbike scene. It offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and character, making it a great choice for riders who want something different from the usual Japanese offerings.
Whether you’re a new rider looking to step into the world of sportbikes or a seasoned enthusiast seeking a stylish commuter with weekend potential, the 302R delivers a satisfying blend of form and function.