2008 Benelli Sei-Six-cylinder MotoGP engine!
I spoke to Gianluca Galasso at the Benelli factory today regarding 2008 developments. Good news are that the 756 midrange naked sportsbike is in the finishing stages and we'll hopefully be able to ride one this Autumn. The factory are currently waiting for frames.
The MX 449 project moves on and Benelli plans to move on and make an Enduro and supermotard version too.
But what excites us all is the prospect of a 6-cylinder Benelli again. Benelli Sei is a beauty from the seventies and Benelli have now developed a new 6-cylinder engine based on two current triples. First we thought this would be for a roadbike, perhaps a cruiser to brake through in the American motorcycle market. But today Benelli told me that their 6-cylinder engine is not planned for road-use! Which can only mean one thing, MotoGP. With Chinese financial backing Benelli certainly are looking to make a big impact in racing again soon. Words: Tor Sagen
How are you doing with the 756?
THE FIRST PARTS OF THE ENGINE ARE NOW IN OUR WAREHOUSE, AND WE ARE
ASSEMBLING THE FEW FIRST ENGINES,
THE FRAME SHOULD BE HERE IN THE EXPERIENCE DEPT. JUST AFTER SUMMER BREAK,
WE ARE POSITIVE TO USE THE PROTOTYPE DURING SEPTEMBER.
Are you still planning a 6-cylinder Benelli based on two triple engines?
YES, BUT FOR A DIFFERENT USE, NOT FOR ROAD USE..........!
What else can we expect from Benelli this next year?
SCOOTERS, ENDURO VERSION OF BX449 AND PROBABLY A SUPERMOTARD.
WE WILL BE AT THE PARIS SHOW AND OBVIOUSLY TO MILAN.
Benelli Tre-K 1130 test
