For some time, Chinese big bike models have remained mainly under 1,000 cc in size. Yet after forging partnerships with big name brands from the west and millions poured into research and development, that “1200cc barrier” is about to be broken.
Back in May, CF Moto has launched their biggest motorcycle to date with 1279cc of muscle. Unfortunately, it was only for police use for now. A civilian model has yet to be made available.
Benelli – which is wholly-owned by Chinese manufacturing giant, Quianjiang Motor Company (QJ) since 2005, has responded with its own 1200cc motorcycle: the 1200GT.
Revealed at the recent Chongqing Motor Show in China, the new Benelli 1200 GT packs some pretty promising features. Naturally, it will go against BMW’s R 1200 RT sport-touring bike and boasts of similar tech and features (like CF Moto’s CF1250J).
Underneath the fairings is a 1209cc liquid-cooled triple that packs about 136 Ps of power and 120 Nm of torque. By comparison, the outgoing R 1200 RT produces 110 Ps and 120 Nm of torque from its boxer twin. The 1200GT is claimed to be capable of reaching a top speed of 228 kilometers per hour.
The 1200GT also features all-LED lighting, a TFT color panel paired with an analog speedo and RPM gauge, Brembo braking system with ABS, push-button start, upside-down forks, electronically-adjustable side mirrors, and a pair of front and back cameras – possibly to aid in accident avoidance, similar to those found on Volvo cars. It's not a coincidence as Volvo is owned by Geely, which owns Benelli's parent company, Qianjiang.
The new 1200GT is expected to be available for the Asian market early in 2021 and the price has yet to be announced.
