Hey guys! If you're in the market for a new bike and eyeing the Benelli TNT 249S in Malaysia, you've come to the right place. This review dives deep into everything you need to know before making a decision. We're talking performance, handling, looks, and whether it's the right fit for Malaysian roads. Let’s get started and explore the Benelli TNT 249S!

Overview of the Benelli TNT 249S

The Benelli TNT 249S is a naked streetfighter that's been making waves in the Malaysian motorcycle scene. It's positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, targeting riders who want a stylish and capable bike without breaking the bank. Benelli, an Italian brand now owned by a Chinese company, has been focusing on delivering value-packed motorcycles, and the TNT 249S is a prime example of this strategy. This bike has been designed to provide an exhilarating riding experience, blending performance with affordability.

The TNT 249S is powered by a 249cc parallel-twin engine, which is quite impressive for its class. This engine configuration is known for delivering a good balance of low-end torque and high-end power, making it suitable for both city commuting and weekend getaways. The engine is liquid-cooled, ensuring consistent performance even in Malaysia's hot and humid climate. The bike features a six-speed gearbox, allowing for smooth and precise gear changes. Benelli has equipped the TNT 249S with features that enhance its appeal to younger riders. The sharp and aggressive styling, highlighted by its exposed frame and muscular fuel tank, gives it a distinctive streetfighter look. The bike also comes with modern touches like LED lighting and a digital instrument cluster, adding to its contemporary feel. The Benelli TNT 249S isn't just about looks; it’s designed to offer a fun and engaging riding experience.

One of the key selling points of the TNT 249S is its affordability. It offers a lot of bang for your buck, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious riders. However, it's essential to consider the bike's overall value proposition, including factors like reliability, maintenance costs, and resale value. In this review, we'll delve deeper into these aspects to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore the engine's performance, the bike's handling and braking capabilities, and the overall comfort and ergonomics. We’ll also take a look at the common issues and maintenance requirements to give you a complete picture of what it’s like to own and ride the Benelli TNT 249S in Malaysia. So, whether you’re a new rider or an experienced enthusiast, stick around as we uncover everything this bike has to offer.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the nitty-gritty details of the Benelli TNT 249S. Knowing the specifications and features is crucial to understanding what this bike brings to the table. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

Engine and Performance

The heart of the Benelli TNT 249S is its 249cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This engine produces around 38 horsepower and 23.5 Nm of torque. For a quarter-liter bike, that's a decent amount of power. The parallel-twin configuration ensures smooth power delivery, making it manageable for new riders while still offering enough punch for experienced ones. The engine is designed to provide a good balance between low-end torque and high-end power, making it versatile for both city commuting and highway riding. The TNT 249S features a six-speed gearbox, which allows for precise and smooth gear changes. This helps in optimizing the engine's performance and fuel efficiency. The liquid-cooling system ensures that the engine maintains a consistent temperature, even under demanding conditions. This is particularly important in Malaysia's hot climate, where overheating can be a concern. The engine is also fuel-injected, which provides better fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions compared to carbureted engines. The fuel injection system ensures that the engine runs smoothly and consistently, regardless of the weather conditions. Overall, the engine of the Benelli TNT 249S is well-engineered and provides a reliable and enjoyable riding experience.

Chassis and Suspension

The Benelli TNT 249S features a trellis frame, which not only looks great but also provides excellent rigidity and handling. The suspension setup includes upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. This combination offers a comfortable and controlled ride, absorbing bumps and providing stability in corners. The upside-down forks are a premium feature that enhances the bike's handling and provides better feedback to the rider. The monoshock at the rear is adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension to their preferences and riding conditions. The trellis frame is lightweight yet strong, contributing to the bike's agile handling. The combination of the trellis frame and the well-tuned suspension makes the TNT 249S a joy to ride on twisty roads. The bike feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence in the rider. The suspension is also well-suited for urban environments, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. Overall, the chassis and suspension of the Benelli TNT 249S are well-designed and contribute to a comfortable and engaging riding experience.

Brakes and Safety

When it comes to stopping power, the Benelli TNT 249S is equipped with disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. Some variants also come with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which is a great safety feature, especially for new riders. The disc brakes provide strong and consistent stopping power, giving riders confidence in various riding conditions. The ABS system prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, which can help prevent accidents. The bike also features LED lighting, which enhances visibility and improves safety, especially at night. The bright LED headlight and taillight make the bike more visible to other road users. The TNT 249S also comes with a digital instrument cluster, which provides essential information such as speed, RPM, fuel level, and gear position. This helps riders stay informed and focused on the road. Overall, the brakes and safety features of the Benelli TNT 249S are well-designed and contribute to a safe and confident riding experience. The inclusion of ABS on some variants is a welcome addition, especially for riders who prioritize safety.

Design and Features

The Benelli TNT 249S boasts an aggressive and modern design. The exposed frame, muscular fuel tank, and sharp lines give it a streetfighter look. Other features include LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and comfortable seating. The aggressive styling of the TNT 249S is one of its main selling points. The bike looks fast and sporty, attracting attention wherever it goes. The exposed frame adds to the bike's raw and edgy appeal. The muscular fuel tank is not only visually appealing but also provides a comfortable place for riders to grip the bike with their knees. The LED lighting enhances the bike's modern look and improves visibility. The digital instrument cluster provides essential information in a clear and easy-to-read format. The comfortable seating ensures that riders can enjoy long rides without feeling fatigued. Overall, the design and features of the Benelli TNT 249S are well-executed and contribute to its overall appeal. The bike looks great and offers a comfortable and convenient riding experience.

Riding Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually ride the Benelli TNT 249S. Is it fun? Is it comfortable? Does it handle well? Here’s the lowdown:

On the Road

Hopping on the TNT 249S, you'll immediately notice the upright riding position. It's comfortable for both city commutes and longer rides. The seat is well-padded, and the handlebars are positioned to provide a relaxed and natural riding posture. The bike feels nimble and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for navigating through traffic. The engine is responsive and provides ample power for overtaking and accelerating. The six-speed gearbox is smooth and precise, allowing for seamless gear changes. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride on uneven surfaces. The bike feels stable and planted, inspiring confidence in the rider. Overall, the riding experience on the Benelli TNT 249S is enjoyable and engaging. The bike is well-suited for both city commuting and weekend getaways.

Handling and Performance

The TNT 249S handles like a dream. The trellis frame and well-tuned suspension provide excellent stability and control. The bike corners confidently and feels planted, even at higher speeds. The upside-down forks offer precise steering and feedback, allowing riders to feel connected to the road. The bike is lightweight and agile, making it easy to flick through corners. The brakes provide strong and consistent stopping power, giving riders confidence in various riding conditions. The engine delivers smooth and predictable power, making it easy to control. Overall, the handling and performance of the Benelli TNT 249S are impressive. The bike is well-balanced and provides a fun and engaging riding experience.

Comfort and Ergonomics

For a naked streetfighter, the TNT 249S is surprisingly comfortable. The seat is well-padded, and the riding position is upright and relaxed. The handlebars are positioned to provide a natural and comfortable grip. The footpegs are placed in a neutral position, allowing for a comfortable leg position. The bike is also relatively narrow, making it easy to reach the ground. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride on uneven surfaces. Overall, the comfort and ergonomics of the Benelli TNT 249S are well-designed. The bike is comfortable for both short and long rides, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Pros and Cons

Every bike has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Benelli TNT 249S:

Pros

• Affordable Price: Offers great value for money.
• Stylish Design: Aggressive and modern streetfighter look.
• Good Performance: Decent power and handling for its class.
• Comfortable Riding Position: Suitable for both city and highway riding.

Cons

• Reliability Concerns: Some owners have reported issues.
• Resale Value: May not hold its value as well as other brands.
• Build Quality: Some components may not be as durable as higher-end bikes.

Common Issues and Maintenance

Like any motorcycle, the Benelli TNT 249S has its share of common issues. Some owners have reported problems with the electrical system, fuel pump, and cooling system. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the bike running smoothly. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and chain lubrication. It's also important to check the coolant level and brake fluid regularly. If you're not comfortable performing maintenance yourself, it's best to take the bike to a qualified mechanic. Regular maintenance can help prevent major problems and extend the life of the bike.

Final Verdict

So, is the Benelli TNT 249S worth buying in Malaysia? If you're looking for an affordable, stylish, and fun-to-ride bike, it's definitely worth considering. It offers a lot of bang for your buck and is a great option for new riders or those on a budget. However, it's important to be aware of the potential reliability issues and maintenance requirements. If you're willing to do your homework and take care of the bike, the TNT 249S can be a rewarding and enjoyable motorcycle to own. Just remember to weigh the pros and cons and consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision. Happy riding, guys!