Benelli 302R is expected to launch in India in October 2022 in the expected price range of ₹ 3,50,000 to ₹ 3,70,000. Currently available bikes which are similar to 302R are Kawasaki Ninja 300, Kawasaki Ninja 400 & KTM RC 390. Another bike similar to 302R is Benelli 302S which is launching in December 2022 in India.
The Benelli 302R is the brand’s only entry-level fully-faired motorcycle in the country. The company used to sell the BS4 variant but the BS6 model is yet to reach the Indian shores. The KTM RC 390 rival is currently on sale in other markets.
The latest iteration of the motorcycle, which is currently available in select markets globally, features an aggressive design. The styling cues include an MV Agusta F4-like LED headlamp along with sleek LED DRLs and spoilers for better channeling of air. Everything else looks similar to the discontinued version, and the motorcycle retains a sharp fairing, a muscular fuel tank, split-style seats, and a side-slung exhaust. While the styling is similar to the old model, the new 302R gets revised graphics.
The motorcycle also gets a colour TFT dash instead of the semi-digital unit on its predecessor, along with backlit switches and full-LED lighting. The mechanical specifications feature a 302cc, parallel-twin engine that is Euro5-compliant. Linked to a six-speed gearbox, the updated motor makes 34bhp and 27Nm. The maximum power output has dropped by approximately 3bhp. However, the 2021 model is nearly 22kg lighter than its predecessor.
The hardware on the international spec model includes upside-down telescopic front forks and a rear mono-shock to handle the suspension tasks. The anchoring department comprises twin rotors at the front and a single disc at the back.
The 302R is likely to make a comeback in the next few months. There’s a decent market for a motorcycle this size and right now KTM is enjoying most of it.